About Us

A Legacy of Legal Excellence Since 1887

Welcome to Our Firm

Serving Minnesota Since 1887

For 138 years, Adams, Rizzi & Sween P.A. has stood as a pillar of legal advocacy in Austin, Minnesota, weaving itself into the fabric of regional commerce, agriculture, and community life. From our early days providing counsel to George A. Hormel and the region's growing industries to our present role as a comprehensive legal practice, our firm has maintained an unwavering commitment to excellence while serving individuals, families, and businesses throughout Minnesota and surrounding states.

Our History

A Legacy of Trust Since 1887

1887

Founding of the Firm

Nathan Kingsley and R.C. Shepherd relocated their legal practice from Chatfield to Austin, positioning themselves at the heart of Mower County's developing legal landscape. This strategic move coincided with Austin's emergence as an agricultural and industrial hub.

1891

Partnership with Hormel Begins

Samuel Doak Catherwood joined the firm, beginning what would become a 61-year representation of George A. Hormel. His involvement in the formal incorporation of Hormel Foods this same year marked the start of a relationship that would significantly shape regional economic development.

1910s

Agricultural Law Expansion

Following R.C. Shepherd's move to Billings, Montana, Jacob W. Nicholsen joined the firm and expanded its agricultural law services during Minnesota's farm consolidation era, strengthening our connection to the region's agricultural community.

1930s

Depression & Post-War Recovery

Burton E. Hughes and R.C. Alderson guided the firm through challenging times, addressing Depression-era bankruptcy cases and supporting postwar business formations that helped rebuild the local economy.

1963

Technological Transition

Gary E. Leonard's joining marked a significant modernization period, with the firm adopting cutting-edge office technologies as evidenced in Mower County Bar Association exhibits, bridging traditional and modern legal practices.

1967

Supreme Court Legacy

Glenn E. Kelley's distinguished career with the firm led to his appointment to the Minnesota Supreme Court (1967-1973), where his service influenced state jurisprudence and enhanced our firm's legacy in Minnesota's legal community.

1972

Agricultural Law Pioneer

Paul Sween joins the firm, initiating a 53-year and counting dominance in agricultural law, setting new standards for farm-related legal services in the region.

1983

Corporate Practice Expansion

Steve Rizzi joins the firm, becoming the architect of our modern corporate practice and expanding our business law capabilities.

1987

Centennial Milestone

The firm celebrated its centennial anniversary, marking 100 years of legal service to the Austin community and surrounding regions. This milestone reflected a century of growth from a frontier law practice to a cornerstone institution of Southern Minnesota's legal landscape.

1990

Litigation Practice Growth

Dean Adams joins the firm, significantly expanding our personal injury litigation practice and strengthening our advocacy capabilities.

1995

Community Infrastructure

The groundbreaking of the Mower County Law Library marked our commitment to expanding legal resources for the community, demonstrating our legacy beyond client service.

2012

125th Anniversary

The firm celebrated its 125th Anniversary, marking a century and a quarter of dedicated service to the Austin community and surrounding regions.

2012

Adam Houck Joins the Firm

Adam Houck joins the firm, expanding our practice to include criminal law and bringing additional expertise in business and real estate law. Adam’s arrival marked a new era of comprehensive legal services for our clients.

2022

Wisconsin Services Expansion

Emily Toland joins the firm, bringing expertise in estate planning and elder law while expanding our services into Wisconsin, marking a significant step in our regional growth.

2024

Legacy of Excellence

Paul Sween receives the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his 53-year and counting contribution to agricultural law and the legal community.

2025

Three-State Expansion

Emily Toland's admission to the Iowa Bar extends our firm's reach to three states, solidifying our position as a leading regional law practice serving Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa.

Although our firm's members and names have changed over the years, the traditions of legal excellence that began over 130 years ago continue today. Adams, Rizzi & Sween, P.A. maintains the high standards for professionalism and quality legal service established by our founders.

Our Approach

Comprehensive Legal Solutions

We understand that modern legal challenges require both deep expertise and a comprehensive approach. Our team maintains the traditions of excellence established by our founders while embracing contemporary legal practices. We provide thorough, personalized representation that considers every aspect of your legal matter, from immediate concerns to long-term implications. Whether you need assistance with agricultural law, business planning, estate matters, or litigation, our attorneys bring generations of experience to serve your needs.

Areas of Practice

Legal Expertise You Can Trust

Community Commitment

Making a Difference in Austin

Our dedication to the Austin community extends beyond legal services, reflecting a deep commitment to regional prosperity and growth. Our attorneys actively serve and support key community organizations including:

The Hormel Foundation
Austin Area Foundation
Salvation Army
Austin Kiwanis
YMCA

Our attorneys have held leadership positions in the Chamber of Commerce, supported educational initiatives through the Austin Public Education Foundation, and contributed to environmental conservation efforts. Through active participation in these organizations and community development initiatives, we continue to help shape the future of our region while honoring the trust placed in us by generations of clients.