The law firm was established by merger of two firms on October 1, 1999. One of the prior firms, Lenaburg, Fitzner & Hooper was founded in 1890 by Herman and Edward Winterer. The other firm, Carol S. Nelson Law Office, was founded in 1897 by A.P. Paulson.

The firms have had numerous partners and associates over the years including, Earl R. Pomeroy III, current U.S. Congressman for North Dakota, William L. (Bill) Paulson, former North Dakota Supreme Court Justice, John T. (Jack) Paulson and Mikal Simonson, currently District Judges, Glenn Pomeroy, former N.D. Insurance Commissioner, and Bradley Cruff, current States’ Attorney.

Dean E. Lenaburg became a member of the firm in 1968, and prior to his death in 2006 engaged in the general practice of law concentrating in the areas of real estate, estate planning and probate and family law. Lenaburg was elected a fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel.

R. Jon Fitzner joined the firm in 1967 and is engaged in the general practice of law, concentrating in the areas of real estate, commercial law, estate planning and probate and municipal law. Fitzner is City Attorney for Valley City, a position which he has held since 1972.

Carol S. Nelson joined the firm in 1981 and was Barnes County States Attorney from 1986 to 1990. In addition to her general practice, Carol concentrates in the areas of estate planning and probate, individual tax preparation, real estate and elder law.

Ralph E. Hooper served as Valley City Municipal Judge from 1982 to 1996 and merged his solo practice with the firm in 1996. In addition to general law, his practice concentrates on the areas of banking, real estate, estate planning and probate and business planning. Ralph, is also a certified public accountant and continues his tax practice. He is also an associate Professor of Business at Valley City State University where he teaches federal tax, finance and accounting courses.

Kenneth L. Beach joined the firm in 2008 and serves as an Assistant City Attorney for Valley City in charge of criminal prosecution. Ken is practicing in the areas of criminal law, municipal law, family law, real estate and estate planning. Prior to joining the firm Ken practiced at Williston, ND. He is also an adjunct instructor at Valley City State University where he teaches business law.