Bakke Norman has been named the best business law firm in the Chippewa Valley. The firm also secured second-place honors as the best criminal law firm, the best personal injury law firm, and the best real estate law firm in the 2026 Best of the Chippewa Valley reader poll. The results were announced on February 27, 2026.
The recognition comes from a community-driven survey conducted by Volume One magazine that invites input from readers across the region. Placement in multiple categories demonstrates the scope of the firm’s work serving individuals, businesses, and municipalities in Northwest Wisconsin. Bakke Norman maintains offices in New Richmond, Baldwin, Menomonie, and Eau Claire to provide local access to legal services.
Founded in 1985 by Gary Bakke, George Norman, and Tom Schumacher, the firm began operations in the historic New Richmond Heritage Center. It later expanded to a dedicated building in New Richmond and added locations in Baldwin and Menomonie. The Eau Claire office opened in January 2021 to meet growing demand in the eastern portion of the service area. Over four decades, the firm has developed capabilities across civil litigation, business transactions, debtor-creditor relations, criminal defense, employment law, municipal law, tax law, estate planning, and probate.
In business law matters, attorneys assist with entity formation, contract preparation, negotiations, and the resolution of commercial disputes. The practice supports clients in industries that characterize the local economy, including manufacturing, agriculture, retail, and professional services. Criminal defense representation addresses charges in both state and federal courts, while personal injury work involves claims arising from motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, and other incidents. Real estate services encompass transactions, title examinations, and related property issues.
The firm’s attorneys collaborate on cases that intersect multiple practice areas. A business sale, for instance, may require coordination on tax implications, employment transitions, and financing arrangements. This integrated approach allows clients to address interconnected legal needs through a single team. Several attorneys have also received individual recognition, including selection to the Wisconsin Super Lawyers list.
“This recognition from the Chippewa Valley community highlights the dedication of our attorneys to handling matters with care and thoroughness,” said Deanne Koll, shareholder at Bakke Norman. “It reflects the trust placed in the firm by clients who rely on experienced counsel for their business, criminal, personal injury, and real estate needs.”
Bakke Norman has earned additional distinctions, including ranking among the Best Law Firms in America by U.S. News and World Report. The firm continues to monitor legislative and regulatory developments that affect its practice areas. Updates to Wisconsin statutes on business operations, criminal procedures, and estate administration inform the guidance provided to clients.
The multi-office structure enables the firm to respond promptly to client needs throughout Northwest Wisconsin. Attorneys travel as necessary to court appearances, meetings, and site visits while maintaining centralized support from the main New Richmond location. This presence has allowed the firm to build relationships with local governments, businesses, and families over many years.
“Clients value having access to comprehensive legal resources without leaving the region,” added Blake Fischer, Associate Attorney at Bakke Norman. “Our team focuses on practical outcomes that account for the specific circumstances of each matter, whether it involves business planning, defense of charges, resolution of injury claims, or property transfers.”
The Best of the Chippewa Valley poll serves as one measure of local preferences among service providers. Bakke Norman’s results across four categories underscore consistent community support. The firm remains committed to the standards that have supported its growth since 1985.
Today, Bakke Norman operates as a full-service law firm with a stable team of attorneys and staff. Its history of expansion and adaptation to regional needs positions it to continue serving Northwest Wisconsin through changing legal landscapes. The firm provides representation grounded in established practices and current knowledge of applicable law.
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For more information about Bakke Norman, contact the company here:
Bakke Norman
Tom Schumacher
715-246-3800
info@bakkenorman.com
1200 Heritage Dr, New Richmond, WI 54017
