From Art to Advocacy: Local Lawyer Jenna Weir-Riedel Applies Creativity to Bankruptcy Law

Jenna Weir-Riedel, a lawyer with a background in arts, is applying her creative skills to bankruptcy law. After earning her bachelor's degree in integrated studio arts from Iowa State University in 2011, she worked in interior design and real estate. Later, she decided to pursue a law degree from the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law. She sees the potential for creativity in the legal field.

Weir-Riedel initially sought a job that offered flexibility and family time. She took a part-time legal assistant/paralegal role in consumer bankruptcy in Sioux Falls. This job allowed her to use her creativity in a new context. She found her legal work more personally impactful than expected, and enjoyed collaborating with her former boss to benefit their clients.

Moving from an arts-focused undergraduate degree to law school was challenging for Weir-Riedel. She faced hurdles like exam preparation, formal lectures, and stress management. However, she excelled in law school and took advantage of experiential learning opportunities. One such opportunity was presenting a bill to the state government. As part of an independent study project, she proposed a bill during the South Dakota Legislature’s 99th session. The bill aimed to exempt one motor vehicle from levy by creditors for South Dakota residents.

Although the bill did not pass the judiciary committee, Weir-Riedel found the experience valuable. She gained insights into politics, legislative research, communication, and speaking confidently on a topic. She recognizes the importance of understanding opposition and promoting advocacy in law.

Weir-Riedel's interest in bankruptcy law is not limited to her own career. In her second year of law school, she founded the Debtor-Creditor Club to make bankruptcy law more accessible to young lawyers. The club, which started with four members, now has over 30 members and organizes events for the law school. Through this club, Weir-Riedel has helped students connect and created new learning opportunities.

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