Tatum O’Brien

Tatum O’Brien is a dedicated trial lawyer known for her tenacity and skill in the courtroom. She has built her reputation by representing clients in both criminal and personal injury matters, handling cases ranging from serious felonies and misdemeanors to wrongful death and catastrophic injury claims. Her strong advocacy ensures clients receive effective representation in high-stakes, complex legal disputes.

Tatum earned a B.A. in Sociology with a focus on criminal justice from North Dakota State University. She went on to earn her J.D. with distinction from the University of North Dakota School of Law. During law school, she worked as a law clerk at Morley Law Firm and externed at the U.S. Attorney’s Office. She later clerked for all eight judges in the East Central Judicial District.

With years of litigation experience, Tatum has successfully guided clients through criminal defense cases involving drug charges, property crimes, DUIs, juvenile matters, and violent offenses. In addition, she has handled personal injury claims involving medical malpractice, trucking accidents, defective products, and wrongful death. Her work has led to significant outcomes, and she continues to be recognized for excellence by her peers and professional organizations nationwide.

Tatum O’Brien also takes on leadership roles in professional associations. She is a past president of the North Dakota Association for Justice and has served on its executive committee. She was appointed to the Board of Governors of the American Association for Justice and is active in the Injury Board. Her awards include recognition as a Super Lawyer and Top 100 Trial Lawyer, reflecting her strong dedication to clients and the legal profession.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner / Attorney, O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Attorneys
• Member, State Bar Association of North Dakota
• Member, South Dakota State Bar Association
• Member, Minnesota State Bar Association
• Member, Cass County Bar Association
• Member, Clay County Bar Association
• Member, Minnesota Association for Justice
• Member, Criminal Justice Act Panel for Federal Appointments
• Past President, North Dakota Association for Justice, Executive Board
• Past President, North Dakota Association for Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, American Association for Justice, Revitalization Governor, Board of Governors Injury Board

Licensed State

• North Dakota
• South Dakota
• Minnesota

Education

• University of North Dakota School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• North Dakota State University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges