Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.

Serving our Community for over 100 years. A tradition of Service. A History of Trust.

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.

Serving our Community for over 100 years. A tradition of Service. A History of Trust.

Firm Overview

The Law Firm of Johnson, Larson & Peterson provides comprehensive counsel to businesses and individuals in the areas of business law, criminal defense, personal injury, family law, real estate law, and a number of other areas. Since 1905, our Buffalo, Minnesota law office has provided a wide range of legal services to clients in Wright County and throughout the Wright County, Minneapolis and St. Paul areas. We don't just specialize in one area of the law, but multiple areas so that we can assist our clients in the multiple legal matters that may come about in their lifetime. We also assist businesses with lawsuits they may be facing, as well as ensuring that documentation, such as contracts, are legally sound so that litigation can be avoided.

Legal matters involving family are very difficult. They are more difficult than litigation involving non-family. We understand this and we take a sensitive approach to your case, while finding the best possible solution. The solution sought is one that is in your best interest and adheres to your wishes.

Family law matters can involve adoption, child custody, paternity, child support, spousal support, divorce, guardianship, juvenile law, and much more. These matters are handled with the utmost sensitivity, while also ensuring that the required aggressiveness is used to obtain the ideal result in the case.

We also handle criminal defense matters, such as DUI and DWI. DUI and DWI are very serious crimes that can result in high fines and time in jail. In addition, a person can have their car forfeited by the state, have their license suspended or revoked, and could have a felony conviction on their record if there are certain aggravating factors present at the time of arrest.

Many individuals feel that they need to submit to the charges, but there are times in which the charges can be reduced or dismissed. There may be details within your case that make the charges against you invalid.

We are also experienced personal injury attorneys, helping individuals claim what is rightfully theirs in the way of compensation for injuries. This compensation can include punitive damages, medical expenses, lost income, childcare costs, and much more. What compensation is sought depends upon the exact expenses that have been incurred because of the accident and what future financial damage will be done as a result.

Real estate matters sometimes require the assistance of an attorney. These matters can include foreclosures, Homeowners Association law, construction, property rights, mortgage law, property taxes, and a variety of other areas.

And when it comes to wills and estates, it is best that an attorney be involved. An attorney can help you draft your will so that there are not any loopholes that could result in disputes amongst your family members after your death. You can also have your attorney set up your estate so that it is divided the way that you want it divided as per your will. You may also wish to opt for asset protection, arranging for the guardianship of your children, or you may wish to set up trusts.

Main Office

Main Office
908 Commercial Drive
Buffalo, MN 55313

Phone

(763) 682-4550

Fax

(763) 682-4465

Websites

www.jlplawmn.com

Estate Planning

Divorce

Real Estate

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Jan C. Larson

Buffalo native, Jan Larson graduated from Buffalo High School in 1978. He furthered his studies and received a degree from the University of Minnesota in 1982, and his Juris Doctorate from William Mitchell College of Law in 1986. Jan was admitted to practice law in Minnesota State and Federal Courts in 1986, and began his practice of law with a Minneapolis law firm that same year. In 1987 Jan had the opportunity to return to practice in his hometown of Buffalo, and has been with the firm since that time.

As a Real Property Law Specialist certified by the Minnesota State Bar Association since 1994, Jan has counseled clients through a wide variety of real estate transactions, ranging from large commercial and residential development projects to assisting clients with the purchase or sale of a home.

In the areas of Estate Planning, Jan has been recognized as a Five Star Wealth Manager by Twin Cities Business Magazine and Mpls. St. Paul Magazine. He is experienced in counseling clients with a wide range of needs from drafting complex Wills and Trusts for large estates to save estate taxes upon death, to planning for young couples and individuals with minor children. Jan values practical and efficient planning to achieve successful results, and works diligently to achieve these goals for his clients.

Jan Larson is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association and the 18th District Bar Association. Community service is important to Jan, and he volunteers his time to serve on the Minnesota Department of Health Newborn Screening Advisory Committee, Elim Care Foundation, Buffalo Hospital Ethics Committee, Boy Scouts, and various positions and committees at his church.

In his free time, Jan enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and two boys, especially skiing and hiking.

Education

William Mitchell College of Law
J.D., 1986

University of Minnesota
B.A., 1982

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Jan C. Larson

Buffalo native, Jan Larson graduated from Buffalo High School in 1978. He furthered his studies and received a degree from the University of Minnesota in 1982, and his Juris Doctorate from William Mitchell College of Law in 1986. Jan was admitted to practice law in Minnesota State and Federal Courts in 1986, and began his practice of law with a Minneapolis law firm that same year. In 1987 Jan had the opportunity to return to practice in his hometown of Buffalo, and has been with the firm since that time.

As a Real Property Law Specialist certified by the Minnesota State Bar Association since 1994, Jan has counseled clients through a wide variety of real estate transactions, ranging from large commercial and residential development projects to assisting clients with the purchase or sale of a home.

In the areas of Estate Planning, Jan has been recognized as a Five Star Wealth Manager by Twin Cities Business Magazine and Mpls. St. Paul Magazine. He is experienced in counseling clients with a wide range of needs from drafting complex Wills and Trusts for large estates to save estate taxes upon death, to planning for young couples and individuals with minor children. Jan values practical and efficient planning to achieve successful results, and works diligently to achieve these goals for his clients.

Jan Larson is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association and the 18th District Bar Association. Community service is important to Jan, and he volunteers his time to serve on the Minnesota Department of Health Newborn Screening Advisory Committee, Elim Care Foundation, Buffalo Hospital Ethics Committee, Boy Scouts, and various positions and committees at his church.

In his free time, Jan enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and two boys, especially skiing and hiking.

Education

William Mitchell College of Law J.D., 1986


University of Minnesota B.A., 1982


Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
John T. Peterson

John T. Peterson has been, with the exception of the first three years of his life, a lifelong resident of Wright County. The Peterson family itself has deep roots in Wright County, with John M. Peterson and Erick Kelstrum (John's great-grandfather's on both his father's and mother's sides) having homesteaded family farms north of Waverly, in Marysville Township, in the 1870's. John co-owns the Peterson farm today with his younger brother, Wallace H. Peterson, Jr.

The Peterson family has a steeped history of public service in Wright County, with John's great-uncle, Oscar J. Peterson serving as Wright County Treasurer from 1926-1936; and John's great-uncle Earnest J. Anderson serving as Wright County Auditor from 1918 to 1940. John also has two siblings, a sister-in-law and other relatives employed by Wright County at the Wright County Government Center and serving in various capacities.

John joined the firm in 1992. He graduated from St. John's University, Collegeville, Minnesota in 1985, and William Mitchell College of Law in 1988, being admitted to the Minnesota State and Federal Bars in that same year. Upon receiving his juris doctorate, he entered active duty as a Judge Advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving on active duty until June 1992. Upon completion of active service, John continued his service in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve where he presently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. During the summer of 2008, John was recalled to active duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and served with 3rd Marine Air Wing in Al Asad, Iraq, where he was deployed until February of 2009.

John's areas of practice are concentrated in real estate, estate planning, elder law, business/corporate/partnership law and civil litigation, with an emphasis on real estate related causes of action. He has represented numerous clients in resolving all types of issues from rectifying title issues, to successfully negotiating purchase agreements for the sale/purchase of properties ranging from the tens of thousands to millions of dollars in value. His probate practice has involved representation of clients from the smallest estates to estates in excess of ten million dollars. John's insightful, no nonsense approach to identifying the issues and reaching a timely, well balanced resolution, have impressed both clients and the courts.

He is also a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association and is Certified as a Specialist in Real Property Law. He has received Martindale-Hubbell's highest peer review rating for the last ten plus years based upon his high level of legal/professional excellence.

His personal affiliations include membership in the Waverly Knights of Columbus, Waverly American Legion and Parish Council, St. Mary's Catholic Church, Waverly, MN.
For hobbies, John enjoys hunting, hiking, raising poultry and farm animals on his farm in Marysville Township north of Waverly, and engaging in numerous other outdoor activities with his four sons and daughter.

Education

William Mitchell College of Law
J.D., 1988

St. John's University
B.A., 1985

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
John T. Peterson

John T. Peterson has been, with the exception of the first three years of his life, a lifelong resident of Wright County. The Peterson family itself has deep roots in Wright County, with John M. Peterson and Erick Kelstrum (John's great-grandfather's on both his father's and mother's sides) having homesteaded family farms north of Waverly, in Marysville Township, in the 1870's. John co-owns the Peterson farm today with his younger brother, Wallace H. Peterson, Jr.

The Peterson family has a steeped history of public service in Wright County, with John's great-uncle, Oscar J. Peterson serving as Wright County Treasurer from 1926-1936; and John's great-uncle Earnest J. Anderson serving as Wright County Auditor from 1918 to 1940. John also has two siblings, a sister-in-law and other relatives employed by Wright County at the Wright County Government Center and serving in various capacities.

John joined the firm in 1992. He graduated from St. John's University, Collegeville, Minnesota in 1985, and William Mitchell College of Law in 1988, being admitted to the Minnesota State and Federal Bars in that same year. Upon receiving his juris doctorate, he entered active duty as a Judge Advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving on active duty until June 1992. Upon completion of active service, John continued his service in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve where he presently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. During the summer of 2008, John was recalled to active duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and served with 3rd Marine Air Wing in Al Asad, Iraq, where he was deployed until February of 2009.

John's areas of practice are concentrated in real estate, estate planning, elder law, business/corporate/partnership law and civil litigation, with an emphasis on real estate related causes of action. He has represented numerous clients in resolving all types of issues from rectifying title issues, to successfully negotiating purchase agreements for the sale/purchase of properties ranging from the tens of thousands to millions of dollars in value. His probate practice has involved representation of clients from the smallest estates to estates in excess of ten million dollars. John's insightful, no nonsense approach to identifying the issues and reaching a timely, well balanced resolution, have impressed both clients and the courts.

He is also a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association and is Certified as a Specialist in Real Property Law. He has received Martindale-Hubbell's highest peer review rating for the last ten plus years based upon his high level of legal/professional excellence.

His personal affiliations include membership in the Waverly Knights of Columbus, Waverly American Legion and Parish Council, St. Mary's Catholic Church, Waverly, MN.
For hobbies, John enjoys hunting, hiking, raising poultry and farm animals on his farm in Marysville Township north of Waverly, and engaging in numerous other outdoor activities with his four sons and daughter.

Education

William Mitchell College of Law J.D., 1988


St. John's University B.A., 1985


Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Stephen J. Berg

A Wright County native, Steve Berg graduated from Monticello High School in 1981. He completed his undergraduate studies with honors at St. John's University, Collegeville, Minnesota and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1985. Continuing his education, Steve obtained his Juris Doctorate with honors from Hamline University School of Law in 1988, was admitted to practice to the Minnesota State Bar and entered active duty in the Army as a Judge Advocate.

A litigation specialist, Steve spent his first ten years on active duty practicing in the areas of criminal prosecution, criminal defense and civil litigation. He successfully defended the Department of the Army against numerous Title VII discrimination claims and Personal Injury lawsuits in Washington DC. He was also admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, among numerous other federal bars.

Steve attained the rank of Colonel and is also a Paratrooper and master-rated Jumpmaster that served as the senior Judge Advocate in both the 82nd Airborne Division and the XVIII Airborne Corps. Among his many military awards are the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star Medals. Steve deployed with the 82nd Airborne in support of the Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief. He also served in Iraq on three occasions, most recently during the entire year of 2011America's final year in Iraq. Following the completion of this successful and legally complex combat tour, Colonel Berg opted to return to the natural beauty and friendly people of Minnesota rather than serve a third tour in Washington DC. Thus, Steve retired from the Army in June 2012, capping a 27 year career, and moved back to Wright County where he joined the firm to specialize in family law, criminal law and civil litigation.

Steve is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association, American Bar Association, Association of the United States Army and the 82nd Airborne Paratroopers Association. Steve is also active in the church and is an officer for the Indian Lake Improvement District.

In his spare time Steve enjoys fishing, hunting, skiing, home improvement and vacations with his wife and three children.

Education

Hamline University
J.D., 1988

St. John's University
B.S., 1985

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Stephen J. Berg

A Wright County native, Steve Berg graduated from Monticello High School in 1981. He completed his undergraduate studies with honors at St. John's University, Collegeville, Minnesota and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1985. Continuing his education, Steve obtained his Juris Doctorate with honors from Hamline University School of Law in 1988, was admitted to practice to the Minnesota State Bar and entered active duty in the Army as a Judge Advocate.

A litigation specialist, Steve spent his first ten years on active duty practicing in the areas of criminal prosecution, criminal defense and civil litigation. He successfully defended the Department of the Army against numerous Title VII discrimination claims and Personal Injury lawsuits in Washington DC. He was also admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, among numerous other federal bars.

Steve attained the rank of Colonel and is also a Paratrooper and master-rated Jumpmaster that served as the senior Judge Advocate in both the 82nd Airborne Division and the XVIII Airborne Corps. Among his many military awards are the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star Medals. Steve deployed with the 82nd Airborne in support of the Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief. He also served in Iraq on three occasions, most recently during the entire year of 2011America's final year in Iraq. Following the completion of this successful and legally complex combat tour, Colonel Berg opted to return to the natural beauty and friendly people of Minnesota rather than serve a third tour in Washington DC. Thus, Steve retired from the Army in June 2012, capping a 27 year career, and moved back to Wright County where he joined the firm to specialize in family law, criminal law and civil litigation.

Steve is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association, American Bar Association, Association of the United States Army and the 82nd Airborne Paratroopers Association. Steve is also active in the church and is an officer for the Indian Lake Improvement District.

In his spare time Steve enjoys fishing, hunting, skiing, home improvement and vacations with his wife and three children.

Education

Hamline University J.D., 1988


St. John's University B.S., 1985


Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Thomas W. Richards

Tom has been practicing law in Buffalo since 1985.

He primarily specializes in criminal, probate, and juvenile court litigation being certified to represent parents in C.H.I.P.s matters.

Tom has tried hundreds of cases and acted both as a prosecutor and defense attorney. He also is skilled in mediation and can utilize those skills for his clients in all matters.

Tom has years of experience working on difficult cases including murder cases.

In his leisure time Tom has coached and volunteered with the Buffalo Lacrosse team and assisted in Mock trial. Tom enjoys golfing and instructing at the Buffalo and Monticello health clubs.

Education

Hamline University
J.D., 1984

St. John's University at Collegeville
B.S., 1980

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Thomas W. Richards

Tom has been practicing law in Buffalo since 1985.

He primarily specializes in criminal, probate, and juvenile court litigation being certified to represent parents in C.H.I.P.s matters.

Tom has tried hundreds of cases and acted both as a prosecutor and defense attorney. He also is skilled in mediation and can utilize those skills for his clients in all matters.

Tom has years of experience working on difficult cases including murder cases.

In his leisure time Tom has coached and volunteered with the Buffalo Lacrosse team and assisted in Mock trial. Tom enjoys golfing and instructing at the Buffalo and Monticello health clubs.

Education

Hamline University J.D., 1984


St. John's University at Collegeville B.S., 1980


Firm Overview

The Law Firm of Johnson, Larson & Peterson provides comprehensive counsel to businesses and individuals in the areas of business law, criminal defense, personal injury, family law, real estate law, and a number of other areas. Since 1905, our Buffalo, Minnesota law office has provided a wide range of legal services to clients in Wright County and throughout the Wright County, Minneapolis and St. Paul areas. We don't just specialize in one area of the law, but multiple areas so that we can assist our clients in the multiple legal matters that may come about in their lifetime. We also assist businesses with lawsuits they may be facing, as well as ensuring that documentation, such as contracts, are legally sound so that litigation can be avoided.

Legal matters involving family are very difficult. They are more difficult than litigation involving non-family. We understand this and we take a sensitive approach to your case, while finding the best possible solution. The solution sought is one that is in your best interest and adheres to your wishes.

Family law matters can involve adoption, child custody, paternity, child support, spousal support, divorce, guardianship, juvenile law, and much more. These matters are handled with the utmost sensitivity, while also ensuring that the required aggressiveness is used to obtain the ideal result in the case.

We also handle criminal defense matters, such as DUI and DWI. DUI and DWI are very serious crimes that can result in high fines and time in jail. In addition, a person can have their car forfeited by the state, have their license suspended or revoked, and could have a felony conviction on their record if there are certain aggravating factors present at the time of arrest.

Many individuals feel that they need to submit to the charges, but there are times in which the charges can be reduced or dismissed. There may be details within your case that make the charges against you invalid.

We are also experienced personal injury attorneys, helping individuals claim what is rightfully theirs in the way of compensation for injuries. This compensation can include punitive damages, medical expenses, lost income, childcare costs, and much more. What compensation is sought depends upon the exact expenses that have been incurred because of the accident and what future financial damage will be done as a result.

Real estate matters sometimes require the assistance of an attorney. These matters can include foreclosures, Homeowners Association law, construction, property rights, mortgage law, property taxes, and a variety of other areas.

And when it comes to wills and estates, it is best that an attorney be involved. An attorney can help you draft your will so that there are not any loopholes that could result in disputes amongst your family members after your death. You can also have your attorney set up your estate so that it is divided the way that you want it divided as per your will. You may also wish to opt for asset protection, arranging for the guardianship of your children, or you may wish to set up trusts.

Main Office

Main Office
908 Commercial Drive
Buffalo, MN 55313

Phone

(763) 682-4550

Fax

(763) 682-4465

Websites

www.jlplawmn.com

Estate Planning

Divorce

Real Estate

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Jan C. Larson

Buffalo native, Jan Larson graduated from Buffalo High School in 1978. He furthered his studies and received a degree from the University of Minnesota in 1982, and his Juris Doctorate from William Mitchell College of Law in 1986. Jan was admitted to practice law in Minnesota State and Federal Courts in 1986, and began his practice of law with a Minneapolis law firm that same year. In 1987 Jan had the opportunity to return to practice in his hometown of Buffalo, and has been with the firm since that time.

As a Real Property Law Specialist certified by the Minnesota State Bar Association since 1994, Jan has counseled clients through a wide variety of real estate transactions, ranging from large commercial and residential development projects to assisting clients with the purchase or sale of a home.

In the areas of Estate Planning, Jan has been recognized as a Five Star Wealth Manager by Twin Cities Business Magazine and Mpls. St. Paul Magazine. He is experienced in counseling clients with a wide range of needs from drafting complex Wills and Trusts for large estates to save estate taxes upon death, to planning for young couples and individuals with minor children. Jan values practical and efficient planning to achieve successful results, and works diligently to achieve these goals for his clients.

Jan Larson is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association and the 18th District Bar Association. Community service is important to Jan, and he volunteers his time to serve on the Minnesota Department of Health Newborn Screening Advisory Committee, Elim Care Foundation, Buffalo Hospital Ethics Committee, Boy Scouts, and various positions and committees at his church.

In his free time, Jan enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and two boys, especially skiing and hiking.

Education

William Mitchell College of Law
J.D., 1986

University of Minnesota
B.A., 1982

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Jan C. Larson

Buffalo native, Jan Larson graduated from Buffalo High School in 1978. He furthered his studies and received a degree from the University of Minnesota in 1982, and his Juris Doctorate from William Mitchell College of Law in 1986. Jan was admitted to practice law in Minnesota State and Federal Courts in 1986, and began his practice of law with a Minneapolis law firm that same year. In 1987 Jan had the opportunity to return to practice in his hometown of Buffalo, and has been with the firm since that time.

As a Real Property Law Specialist certified by the Minnesota State Bar Association since 1994, Jan has counseled clients through a wide variety of real estate transactions, ranging from large commercial and residential development projects to assisting clients with the purchase or sale of a home.

In the areas of Estate Planning, Jan has been recognized as a Five Star Wealth Manager by Twin Cities Business Magazine and Mpls. St. Paul Magazine. He is experienced in counseling clients with a wide range of needs from drafting complex Wills and Trusts for large estates to save estate taxes upon death, to planning for young couples and individuals with minor children. Jan values practical and efficient planning to achieve successful results, and works diligently to achieve these goals for his clients.

Jan Larson is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association and the 18th District Bar Association. Community service is important to Jan, and he volunteers his time to serve on the Minnesota Department of Health Newborn Screening Advisory Committee, Elim Care Foundation, Buffalo Hospital Ethics Committee, Boy Scouts, and various positions and committees at his church.

In his free time, Jan enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and two boys, especially skiing and hiking.

Education

William Mitchell College of Law J.D., 1986


University of Minnesota B.A., 1982


Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
John T. Peterson

John T. Peterson has been, with the exception of the first three years of his life, a lifelong resident of Wright County. The Peterson family itself has deep roots in Wright County, with John M. Peterson and Erick Kelstrum (John's great-grandfather's on both his father's and mother's sides) having homesteaded family farms north of Waverly, in Marysville Township, in the 1870's. John co-owns the Peterson farm today with his younger brother, Wallace H. Peterson, Jr.

The Peterson family has a steeped history of public service in Wright County, with John's great-uncle, Oscar J. Peterson serving as Wright County Treasurer from 1926-1936; and John's great-uncle Earnest J. Anderson serving as Wright County Auditor from 1918 to 1940. John also has two siblings, a sister-in-law and other relatives employed by Wright County at the Wright County Government Center and serving in various capacities.

John joined the firm in 1992. He graduated from St. John's University, Collegeville, Minnesota in 1985, and William Mitchell College of Law in 1988, being admitted to the Minnesota State and Federal Bars in that same year. Upon receiving his juris doctorate, he entered active duty as a Judge Advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving on active duty until June 1992. Upon completion of active service, John continued his service in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve where he presently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. During the summer of 2008, John was recalled to active duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and served with 3rd Marine Air Wing in Al Asad, Iraq, where he was deployed until February of 2009.

John's areas of practice are concentrated in real estate, estate planning, elder law, business/corporate/partnership law and civil litigation, with an emphasis on real estate related causes of action. He has represented numerous clients in resolving all types of issues from rectifying title issues, to successfully negotiating purchase agreements for the sale/purchase of properties ranging from the tens of thousands to millions of dollars in value. His probate practice has involved representation of clients from the smallest estates to estates in excess of ten million dollars. John's insightful, no nonsense approach to identifying the issues and reaching a timely, well balanced resolution, have impressed both clients and the courts.

He is also a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association and is Certified as a Specialist in Real Property Law. He has received Martindale-Hubbell's highest peer review rating for the last ten plus years based upon his high level of legal/professional excellence.

His personal affiliations include membership in the Waverly Knights of Columbus, Waverly American Legion and Parish Council, St. Mary's Catholic Church, Waverly, MN.
For hobbies, John enjoys hunting, hiking, raising poultry and farm animals on his farm in Marysville Township north of Waverly, and engaging in numerous other outdoor activities with his four sons and daughter.

Education

William Mitchell College of Law
J.D., 1988

St. John's University
B.A., 1985

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
John T. Peterson

John T. Peterson has been, with the exception of the first three years of his life, a lifelong resident of Wright County. The Peterson family itself has deep roots in Wright County, with John M. Peterson and Erick Kelstrum (John's great-grandfather's on both his father's and mother's sides) having homesteaded family farms north of Waverly, in Marysville Township, in the 1870's. John co-owns the Peterson farm today with his younger brother, Wallace H. Peterson, Jr.

The Peterson family has a steeped history of public service in Wright County, with John's great-uncle, Oscar J. Peterson serving as Wright County Treasurer from 1926-1936; and John's great-uncle Earnest J. Anderson serving as Wright County Auditor from 1918 to 1940. John also has two siblings, a sister-in-law and other relatives employed by Wright County at the Wright County Government Center and serving in various capacities.

John joined the firm in 1992. He graduated from St. John's University, Collegeville, Minnesota in 1985, and William Mitchell College of Law in 1988, being admitted to the Minnesota State and Federal Bars in that same year. Upon receiving his juris doctorate, he entered active duty as a Judge Advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving on active duty until June 1992. Upon completion of active service, John continued his service in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve where he presently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. During the summer of 2008, John was recalled to active duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and served with 3rd Marine Air Wing in Al Asad, Iraq, where he was deployed until February of 2009.

John's areas of practice are concentrated in real estate, estate planning, elder law, business/corporate/partnership law and civil litigation, with an emphasis on real estate related causes of action. He has represented numerous clients in resolving all types of issues from rectifying title issues, to successfully negotiating purchase agreements for the sale/purchase of properties ranging from the tens of thousands to millions of dollars in value. His probate practice has involved representation of clients from the smallest estates to estates in excess of ten million dollars. John's insightful, no nonsense approach to identifying the issues and reaching a timely, well balanced resolution, have impressed both clients and the courts.

He is also a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association and is Certified as a Specialist in Real Property Law. He has received Martindale-Hubbell's highest peer review rating for the last ten plus years based upon his high level of legal/professional excellence.

His personal affiliations include membership in the Waverly Knights of Columbus, Waverly American Legion and Parish Council, St. Mary's Catholic Church, Waverly, MN.
For hobbies, John enjoys hunting, hiking, raising poultry and farm animals on his farm in Marysville Township north of Waverly, and engaging in numerous other outdoor activities with his four sons and daughter.

Education

William Mitchell College of Law J.D., 1988


St. John's University B.A., 1985


Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Stephen J. Berg

A Wright County native, Steve Berg graduated from Monticello High School in 1981. He completed his undergraduate studies with honors at St. John's University, Collegeville, Minnesota and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1985. Continuing his education, Steve obtained his Juris Doctorate with honors from Hamline University School of Law in 1988, was admitted to practice to the Minnesota State Bar and entered active duty in the Army as a Judge Advocate.

A litigation specialist, Steve spent his first ten years on active duty practicing in the areas of criminal prosecution, criminal defense and civil litigation. He successfully defended the Department of the Army against numerous Title VII discrimination claims and Personal Injury lawsuits in Washington DC. He was also admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, among numerous other federal bars.

Steve attained the rank of Colonel and is also a Paratrooper and master-rated Jumpmaster that served as the senior Judge Advocate in both the 82nd Airborne Division and the XVIII Airborne Corps. Among his many military awards are the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star Medals. Steve deployed with the 82nd Airborne in support of the Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief. He also served in Iraq on three occasions, most recently during the entire year of 2011America's final year in Iraq. Following the completion of this successful and legally complex combat tour, Colonel Berg opted to return to the natural beauty and friendly people of Minnesota rather than serve a third tour in Washington DC. Thus, Steve retired from the Army in June 2012, capping a 27 year career, and moved back to Wright County where he joined the firm to specialize in family law, criminal law and civil litigation.

Steve is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association, American Bar Association, Association of the United States Army and the 82nd Airborne Paratroopers Association. Steve is also active in the church and is an officer for the Indian Lake Improvement District.

In his spare time Steve enjoys fishing, hunting, skiing, home improvement and vacations with his wife and three children.

Education

Hamline University
J.D., 1988

St. John's University
B.S., 1985

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Stephen J. Berg

A Wright County native, Steve Berg graduated from Monticello High School in 1981. He completed his undergraduate studies with honors at St. John's University, Collegeville, Minnesota and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1985. Continuing his education, Steve obtained his Juris Doctorate with honors from Hamline University School of Law in 1988, was admitted to practice to the Minnesota State Bar and entered active duty in the Army as a Judge Advocate.

A litigation specialist, Steve spent his first ten years on active duty practicing in the areas of criminal prosecution, criminal defense and civil litigation. He successfully defended the Department of the Army against numerous Title VII discrimination claims and Personal Injury lawsuits in Washington DC. He was also admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, among numerous other federal bars.

Steve attained the rank of Colonel and is also a Paratrooper and master-rated Jumpmaster that served as the senior Judge Advocate in both the 82nd Airborne Division and the XVIII Airborne Corps. Among his many military awards are the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star Medals. Steve deployed with the 82nd Airborne in support of the Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief. He also served in Iraq on three occasions, most recently during the entire year of 2011America's final year in Iraq. Following the completion of this successful and legally complex combat tour, Colonel Berg opted to return to the natural beauty and friendly people of Minnesota rather than serve a third tour in Washington DC. Thus, Steve retired from the Army in June 2012, capping a 27 year career, and moved back to Wright County where he joined the firm to specialize in family law, criminal law and civil litigation.

Steve is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association, American Bar Association, Association of the United States Army and the 82nd Airborne Paratroopers Association. Steve is also active in the church and is an officer for the Indian Lake Improvement District.

In his spare time Steve enjoys fishing, hunting, skiing, home improvement and vacations with his wife and three children.

Education

Hamline University J.D., 1988


St. John's University B.S., 1985


Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Thomas W. Richards

Tom has been practicing law in Buffalo since 1985.

He primarily specializes in criminal, probate, and juvenile court litigation being certified to represent parents in C.H.I.P.s matters.

Tom has tried hundreds of cases and acted both as a prosecutor and defense attorney. He also is skilled in mediation and can utilize those skills for his clients in all matters.

Tom has years of experience working on difficult cases including murder cases.

In his leisure time Tom has coached and volunteered with the Buffalo Lacrosse team and assisted in Mock trial. Tom enjoys golfing and instructing at the Buffalo and Monticello health clubs.

Education

Hamline University
J.D., 1984

St. John's University at Collegeville
B.S., 1980

Johnson, Larson & Peterson, P.A.
Thomas W. Richards

Tom has been practicing law in Buffalo since 1985.

He primarily specializes in criminal, probate, and juvenile court litigation being certified to represent parents in C.H.I.P.s matters.

Tom has tried hundreds of cases and acted both as a prosecutor and defense attorney. He also is skilled in mediation and can utilize those skills for his clients in all matters.

Tom has years of experience working on difficult cases including murder cases.

In his leisure time Tom has coached and volunteered with the Buffalo Lacrosse team and assisted in Mock trial. Tom enjoys golfing and instructing at the Buffalo and Monticello health clubs.

Education

Hamline University J.D., 1984


St. John's University at Collegeville B.S., 1980


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