Thornton, Reif, Dolan, Bowen & Klecker, P.A., has been providing legal services to Northwest Minnesota since 1914. After studying the law under Knute Nelson, Ralph S. Thornton, also known as “Bulldog Thornton” (1892 - 1960), opened his law office in Alexandria in 1914.

In 1949 Ralph was joined in practice by his son, Joseph G. Thornton (1923-1996). “Gentleman Joe,” as he was known, was a vital and active part of the firm until his death in 1996.

In 1970 Robert M. Hegg joined Keith L. Wallace in the practice of law. In 1973 Thomas J. Reif joined them to form Wallace, Hegg & Reif. Keith died in 1974. Shortly thereafter, Joe, Bob and Tom merged to form Thornton, Hegg & Reif.

In 1986 Michael J. Dolan joined the firm. In 1996 Lisa J. Bowen joined the practice and it took on its current name. Robert M. Hegg retired in 2002 and Thomas P. Klecker joined the firm in 2004.

Our firm has been named as an “A-rated” firm by Martindale Hubbell Law Directories and two of the principals of our firm have also been chosen as “A” rated lawyers. This rating is reserved for attorneys and firms demonstrating very high or preeminent legal ability. Our firm was also chosen as a Leading Minnesota Firm by American Research Corporation, with two of its attorneys being recognized as Leading Minnesota Lawyers. Fewer than six percent of all attorneys in Minnesota have been recognized as Leading Minnesota Lawyers. Two of the firms lawyers have also been designated by Law and Politics magazine as “Super Lawyers.”

At Thornton, Reif, Dolan, Bowen & Klecker, P.A., we are proud of our long tradition of legal service, and strive everyday to uphold that tradition.