Paul A. Melchert
Leadership
"I want our law firm to be respected for our abilities and our attorneys to be respected for their humanity. I believe we have a tradition of excellence that is professional, knowledgeable and honest. I want to be able to look you in the eye and know I did right by you."
Growing up as a pastor's son, Paul Melchert's values have always guided his interactions with others and set a tone of integrity for Melchert Hubert Sjodin. As one of the senior partners who has led the firm since 1959, Paul has sought talented and well-rounded attorneys who do the best possible job for their clients, their families and their community.
"We believe we have a tradition of visibility in our community and that we are thought of as good people as well as good attorneys," he says.
Now practicing in the areas of estate planning, elder law, probate and trust administration, Paul uses his problem-solving skills and community focus to build upon a third generation of clients at the law firm. Two of his three sons – all attorneys – also work as attorneys at the law firm.
A retired Colonel in the Army Reserve and Minnesota Army National Guard and a family man (he has five children and 10 grandchildren), Paul is dedicated to his church and the community in which he lives. He has modeled a culture of structured professionalism, competence and fairness at the growing law firm, which is the largest in the western metro area. With its roots in the agricultural community, Melchert Hubert Sjodin has expanded its legal practice in the area of real estate, probate and trust administration, business law, municipal law, estate planning, employment law and personal injury.
"We've identified the strengths that make sense for our market," Paul says. "We're like the lamppost on the corner. We've been there forever, and any client we have will be well represented."
Practice Areas
Estate Planning, Elder Law, Probate, Real Estate
Education B.A., Political Science, Valparaiso University; L.L.B., Valparaiso University School of Law
Career Notes
- Practiced in Waconia since 1959
- Former City Attorney of Waconia, Chaska, Watertown, Cologne, St. Boniface and other communities
- Retired Col. in Army Reserve and Minnesota Army National Guard, 31 years, and State Judge Advocate
- Member of the American Bar Association, Minnesota State Bar Association, Eighth District Bar Association, and American Judicature Society
- Board of Governors, Minnesota State Bar Association, 1994-2000
Personal Notes
- Waconia Lions Club Member
- Red Cross and Boy Scout Volunteer (Three sons are Eagle Scouts.)
- President of the Waconia Heritage Association and Past President of the Carver County Historical Society
- Member of Ethics Committee and Planned Giving Committee, Ridgeview Medical Center
- Various church and civic leadership positions and community service awards
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