Firm History

At the end of World War II, Horace R. Hansen became chief prosecutor at the Dachau Concentration Camp. He prosecuted Nazis and witnessed other war-crimes trials.

On his staff were five of Hitler’s non-Nazi recorders who gave Hansen “insight into and information (some of it never reported elsewhere) about how Hitler rose to power, established dictatorship, and directed his war.”

Hansen prosecuted some GIs for multiple rape against German women and received a Bronze Star for his “outstanding service in the case, the solution of which appeared impossible. This pattern of proof laid a foundation for other prosecutions.”

Source: University of Minnesota

Hansen returned to St. Paul and joined forces with attorney Larry Hazen, whom he had known before the war, and three others to form Hansen, Robins, Davis, Lyons & Hazen. Later that year, Hansen and Hazen formed their own partnership. They soon became known as tough and innovative litigators. The firm they created remained in downtown St. Paul for the next 50 years before moving to its current location in Arden Hills.

Wayne “Tim” Dordell joins the firm. Later that year he persuades his law school classmate and friend Gene Bradt to take a position with the firm.

James Lynch, who had joined the firm several years earlier, left to become a Ramsey County municipal judge and then, in 1971, a district court judge where he served with distinction for the next 20 years.

Dave Odlaug joins the firm and 46 years later continues to serve his clients in an “of counsel” position.

Bill Bradt, brother of Gene Bradt, joins Hansen, Hazen, Dordell and Bradt, the firm name at the time.

Hazen retires after 28 years of leadership within the firm, profession, and community.

With the retirement of Hazen, the firm becomes Hansen, Dordell & Bradt.

Darrell Hart joins the firm and practices until his retirement in 2002.

Mark Catron joins the firm. After 40 years, he continues to represent clients and mediate cases in an “of counsel” position.

Mark Suby joins the firm where he practices until his retirement in 2004.

John Guthmann joins the firm.

Current partner Randall Sayers joins the firm. Learn more about Randy and his practice.

The firm changes its name to Hansen Dordell Bradt Odlaug & Bradt, PLLP.

Current partner James Schaps joins the firm. Learn more about Jamie and his practice.

Current partner Craig Nichols joins the firm. Learn more about Craig and his practice.

Hansen Dordell Bradt Odlaug & Bradt moves to its current location in St. Paul, MN.

Current partner Joseph Twomey joins the firm. Learn more about Joe and his practice.

After 37 years, Tim Dordell retires.

Horace R. Hansen publishes Witness to Barbarism via Thousand Pinetree Press: “My story comprises an eyewitness report (including personal photos) of my journey across Europe with the liberating forces, the testimony of trial witnesses heard firsthand, and personal interview with intimate observers of Hitler in action. I tell it as here and now.”

“A chilling insight into the thoughts and behavior of Hitler and his followers…”

— St. Paul Pioneer Press

Current partner Frederick Kaiser joins the firm after a lengthy career at The Hartford. Learn more about Fred and his practice.

41 years after joining his friend and the firm, Gene Bradt formally retires.

Current partner Colleen Kaufenberg joins the firm. Learn more about Colleen and her practice.

The firm undergoes rebranding.

John Guthmann is appointed a Ramsey County District Court Judge by Governor Pawlenty.

Following a successful 38 year career with the firm, Bill Bradt retires.

Hansen Dordell rebrands in 2015 with a new name, new website and new visual identity.

Hansen Dordell celebrates 70 years of excellence

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Nathanial A. Dahl is named partner. View Nate’s Biography >