About
Trusting and caring for the injured since 1957.
At Pappenfus Law Firm, we bring the caring and compassion of a family together with the strength of a big firm.
We understand that being injured is overwhelming, and our representation is driven by empathy for what our clients are going through. Guided by our core values—Ethics, Expertise, and Passion—we hold ourselves to the highest standards, provide trusted knowledge of personal injury law, and advocate with determination for the best possible outcomes.
When you choose Pappenfus Law Firm, you are more than just a case—you are an individual with a story that matters.
Rooted in Minnesota's rural communities, we value relationships, trust, and quality of life. That's why we take pride in guiding clients through the complex insurance and legal process with personal attention, integrity, and unwavering dedication.
Benefits of Choosing the Pappenfus Law Firm
Accessible
We travel to you and are always available to call.
Representation
We represent clients statewide and are located centrally in Alexandria, MN.
Empathy
Compassion guides every step of our representation.
Experienced
A legacy of experience, serving Minnesota since 1957.
Education and Affiliations
Thomas J. Pappenfus
B.S., J.D.
St. John's University, Collegeville, MN
Hamline University, St. Paul, MN
Minnesota Supreme Court
U.S. District Court
Minnesota District Court
Arbitrator - American Arbitration Association (past)
Minnesota State Bar Association
Douglas County Bar Association
Minnesota Association for Justice
Commercial Instrument Rated Pilot/Federal Aviation Administration
Eagle Scout/Boy Scouts of America
Fraternal Order of Eagles
Fraternal Order of Elks
Meet Our Team
Lynette
Legal Assistant
33 years
Tracy
Legal Assistant
15 years
Chris
Administration
15 years
Jeryn
Intern
The History of the Pappenfus Law Firm
The Pappenfus Law Firm has been a family owned and operated law firm since 1957. Founded by Robert H. Pappenfus, who served as a Municipal Court Judge, Arbitrator, and Mediator with many different types of cases. Robert also worked in private practice serving local clients with a wide variety of legal problems.
Robert H. Pappenfus
B.A., B.S.L., L.L. B., J.D.
St. John's University, Collegeville, MN
Minnesota College of Law, St. Paul, MN
William Mitchell College of Law, St. Paul, MN
Former Reserve Officer, Navy Law Unit
Former Special Municipal Judge
Minnesota Supreme Court
U.S. District Court
U.S. Court of Military Appeals
Minnesota District Court
Arbitrator – American Arbitration Association
Minnesota State Bar Association
Douglas County Bar Association
Certified ADR – Neutral, MN Supreme Court
American Legion Member
Veterans of Foreign War
Knights of Columbus
Fraternal Order of Eagles
Robert's wife, Marian, played a very important role in the law firm from its very beginning. Marian was a joyful and calming presence in the office and with clients. Marian had the talent to put clients at ease. Marian did much of the business' administration. Everything from making sure the bills were paid to making sure the coffee was on. Marian was well respected in the community and a faithful member of the Catholic Church. Marian was active in numerous clubs, organizations, and civic activities. Marian was the consummate team player and she was always ready to perform!
In 1991, Thomas J. Pappenfus joined the practice. Thomas specializes in representing auto accident victims. He has worked against many insurance companies on behalf of his clients, and when fair compensation has not been offered by an insurance company, has tried many cases to jury. Thomas is an active member with the Minnesota Association for Justice.
In April 2015, Robert H. Pappenfus passed away. In September of 2023, Marian passed away. However, Robert's and Marian's ethics, expertise and passion are ever present at the Pappenfus Law Firm.