Deputy state's attorney in Brookings County resigns for health reasons

Ben Kleinjan served area for more than a decade

Brookings County State's Attorney Office
Posted 1/22/24

The Brookings County State’s Attorney Office announces the medical retirement of Ben Kleinjan, a respected and accomplished trial attorney who has served the Brookings community for more than 10 years, including several years as deputy state’s attorney.

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

Log in

Deputy state's attorney in Brookings County resigns for health reasons

Ben Kleinjan served area for more than a decade

Posted

BROOKINGS — The Brookings County State’s Attorney Office announces the medical retirement of Ben Kleinjan, a respected and accomplished trial attorney who has served the Brookings community for more than 10 years, including several years as deputy state’s attorney.

"I am honored and humbled by the support of my friends in Brookings and the legal profession. It’s been a privilege to work with so many talented and dedicated individuals and serve the people of Brookings and beyond,” Kleinjan said. “I am proud of what we’ve achieved in our united pursuit of justice and protection of the rights that we all enjoy. We don’t always have to agree, but our mutual love and respect for the rule of law must prevail.”

Kleinjan has been a valued member of both the South Dakota and Iowa legal communities since 2011. He handled various civil and criminal trials, representing plaintiffs and defendants with good humor, professionalism and integrity. He earned the trust and admiration of clients, colleagues and judges for his tenacity, attention to detail and creativity.

 “On behalf of myself and everyone who had the privilege to see him in action, I want to wish Ben the best in many future accomplishments. (Ben) is a great attorney and a good friend to many, including myself. He is a champion of the law and the rights of all South Dakotans,” State’s Attorney Dan Nelson said.

Kleinjan will relocate to Sioux Falls to focus his time and energy on his family and his health. As an occasional writer, mentor and adviser to students and other professionals, he will remain involved in the South Dakota legal community. He hopes his experience and knowledge will continue to help people in need and advance the interests of disabled individuals.

Anyone who wishes to contact Kleinjan may send their regards to blkleinjan@gmail.com. He welcomes notes and appreciates all the kind words and support.

The State's Attorney's Office expresses gratitude and appreciation to Kleinjan for his outstanding contributions to the public. For further inquiries, please get in touch with Nelson at dnelson@brookingscountysd.gov or by calling 605-692-8606.