Samuel Stephen Rufer

I am the third generation of Rufer attorneys to work at Pemberton Law and I am currently a partner in the Detroit Lakes office.  I practice civil litigation, working mainly in the areas of personal injury, products liability, real estate and business disputes.  I represent a wide range of clients, from Fortune 500 companies to small business owners, non-profit organizations, municipalities and individuals.  Minnesota Law and Politics Magazine recognized me as a Minnesota “Rising Star” for many years, and recently a "Super Laywer" for 2021.   In addition, I have been recognized as a "North Star" Lawyer for my commitment to Pro Bono clients. 

I was raised in Fergus Falls, Minnesota and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN and a Juris Doctorate, cum laude, from William Mitchell College of Law in St. Paul, MN.  

Professionally, I am a Past President of the Becker County Bar Association, Past Chair of the Minnesota State Bar Association Outstate Practice Council, and a member of the Minnesota Association for Justice. Lecturing at legal seminars and authoring continuing legal education articles are examples of how I volunteers within the law community.

Within the community I volunteer at a number of organizations, including the Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, Detroit Lakes Area College Foundation, Lakes Curling Club, Detroit Lakes Breakfast Rotary Club, and the Detroit Country Club. I was awarded the Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce 2011 "Rising Star" award for his dedication to the community and his professionalism.