Steven J. Quam

Steven J. Quam is a shareholder at Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. in Minneapolis whose practice focuses on eminent domain and the land acquisition process. He represents both landowners and taking authorities in condemnation matters tied to major transmission and pipeline projects. His work often begins during regulatory planning and continues through acquisition, valuation, commissioners’ proceedings, jury trials, or other steps needed to secure or defend property rights.

Steven earned a JD, cum laude, from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1994. He graduated magna cum laude from Saint John’s University in 1989. His education supports a practice that requires careful analysis of property rights, valuation issues, regulatory considerations, and litigation strategy. That foundation helps him evaluate land acquisition issues, prepare condemnation matters, and explain the legal process to clients on either side of a taking.

His experience includes serving as land rights counsel for the CapX2020 transmission projects and as co-land rights counsel for the MinnCan Pipeline. Steven has also represented property owners in condemnation cases involving road projects, commercial property, and other partial or total takings. He works through pre-petition negotiations, commissioners’ hearings, jury trials, and appeals, helping clients address compensation, easement, valuation, and project-development questions at each stage.

Steven J. Quam has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America for Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law and has also been named a North Star Lawyer by the Minnesota State Bar Association. His long-running focus on land rights gives clients practical guidance when infrastructure needs intersect with private property interests. He helps clients organize complex acquisition issues, assess valuation and litigation risk, and move condemnation matters toward well-supported resolutions.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Fredrikson & Byron P.A.
• Member, Minnesota State Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Hennepin County Bar Association, Eminent Domain Section
• Member, Volunteer Lawyers Network

Licensed State

• Minnesota

Education

• University of Minnesota Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)

Awards & Badges