Claire E. Wilka
Claire, a Sioux Falls native, joined the Cadwell Law Firm in August 2019 and became a Partner in 2023. Her practice focuses on civil and commercial litigation, and she has appeared frequently in both state and federal courts in a wide range of litigation disputes. She also has experience with employment disputes and negotiations, assisting clients with corporate and business transactions, and providing advice on compliance issues. In addition, Claire serves as a Criminal Justice Act attorney for the United States District Court for the District of South Dakota.
Claire graduated summa cum laude from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, in 2014. She received her law degree from Creighton University School of Law in 2017, where she served as the Editor in Chief of Volume 50 of the Creighton Law Review and Problem Director on the Moot Court Executive Board. Prior to joining the firm, Claire served as a law clerk to the Honorable Karen E. Schreier, United States District Court for the District of South Dakota, for two years.
Claire is licensed to practice law in the State of South Dakota, the State of Iowa, the United States District Court for the District of South Dakota, and the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Claire and her husband, Ryan, have three young children, Kennedy, Declan, and Alice. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, reading, and baking.
Practice focus
Areas this attorney works in — with links to each practice overview.
Education
Juris Doctor (J.D.)
Creighton University School of Law (J.D., 2017)
Undergraduate
Creighton University (B.A. in Political Science, summa cum laude, 2014)
Memberships & affiliations
South Dakota bar since 2017 — good standing and active involvement with the groups below.