Susan E. Johnson-Drenth

Susan E. Johnson-Drenth is a highly accomplished attorney licensed in North Dakota and Minnesota, specializing in elder law, estate planning, probate, guardianships, asset protection, real estate, mineral rights, and trust law. With a reputation for excellence, Susan has been recognized as a Great Plains Super Lawyer every year since 2015. She is a Fellow of the prestigious American College of Trust and Estate Counsel, where she previously served as North Dakota State Chair.

Susan is the only Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) in North Dakota and the Moorhead, Minnesota region, a distinction certified by the National Elder Law Foundation. Her expertise includes taxable estate planning, special needs trusts, and complex elder law issues. She provides clients with tailored strategies to protect their assets, ensure long-term care, and navigate estate and trust law intricacies. Her work in probate litigation and guardianship has helped countless clients achieve resolutions in often emotionally challenging circumstances.

A leader in the legal community, Susan serves as Chair of the Elder Law Section of the State Bar Association of North Dakota, further demonstrating her dedication to advancing elder law practices. She also brings a unique perspective to her legal career as a licensed registered nurse in North Dakota, enabling her to provide compassionate and informed counsel to clients dealing with healthcare-related legal matters.

Susan holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and an Associate Degree in Nursing from North Dakota State University. She later earned her Juris Doctor from the University of North Dakota School of Law, giving her a strong, multidisciplinary background that supports her diverse and client-focused legal practice.

Through her extensive knowledge, leadership, and dedication to her clients, Susan E. Johnson-Drenth provides comprehensive legal solutions that address the unique needs of individuals and families. Her work empowers clients to protect their futures and achieve peace of mind.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, JD Legal Planning PLLC
• Chair, North Dakota State Bar Association, Elder Law Section
• Member, Minnesota State Bar Association, Elder Law Section
• Member, Cass County Bar Association
• Member, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys
• Fellow, American College of Trust and Estate Counsel

Licensed State

• North Dakota

Education

• University of North Dakota School of Law
  Juris Degree (JD)
• North Dakota State University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)
• North Dakota State University
  Associate Degree in Nursing (RN)

Awards & Badges