Meet the Team

Sarah received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. After a career in sales and marketing, she attended Hamline University School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota, and obtained her Juris Doctorate and a Certificate in Advocacy and Problem-Solving at Hamline’s top-ranked Dispute Resolution Institute. At Pepperdine, Sarah was honored to be selected as the commencement speaker for graduation. There she was also inducted into the Phi Theta Alpha history honor society. She was on the Dean’s List twice at Hamline University School of Law. See Sarah’s full bio.

A native of Hector, MN, Zach received his Bachelor of Science in Environmental Policy and Planning from Bemidji State and his J.D. from Hamline University School of Law in St. Paul. He then practiced at a small firm in Fargo, ND representing clients in a wide range of litigation matters in both Minnesota and North Dakota. Zach returned to central Minnesota in 2019 and continued to represent landowners and producers in both Minnesota and North Dakota in litigation and regulatory matters. Zach joined River Valley Law in 2024. Outside of the office, Zach enjoys fishing, golfing, and live music.

Deana is a transplant from the West Coast.  She attended MN School of Business where she received her AAS in Business Administration. She has experience in the legal field both as a staff member in a local law office and also in a local court system.  Deana loves to travel and some of her most notable trips have been to Aruba, Hong Kong, Amsterdam, Hawaii, Germany, Portugal, Dominican Republic and Mexico. Deana enjoys meeting new people and also enjoys baking, cooking, and putting a new twist on her favorite recipes. Deana treasures time spent with family and friends and looks forward to assisting the clients of River Valley Law.

Julie has an AAS Paralegal Degree from Rasmussen University and a Business Administration Certificate from St. Cloud Business College. She has been in the legal profession as a Paralegal since 2011. She has an extensive background in civil litigation, family law, housing/eviction, expungement, protective orders, and criminal law matters. Julie is an avid bowler and a member of the local bowling hall of fame. She also enjoys spending time with her family/friends and selling her beautiful one-of-a-kind wreaths at local craft shows.