Joseph A. Wetch Jr.
Saint Paul
651-389-5012
Joseph Wetch is a trial lawyer focusing his practice on employment, commercial, construction, and contractual law. With experience litigating in federal and state courts, he handles complex construction disputes involving defects, contract claims, indemnity, and workplace incidents.
Joseph has resolved arbitration and administrative law cases. He is committed to helping construction firms and insurers navigate litigation efficiently and effectively.
Joseph is a veteran of the United States Army, with two years of reserve service and nearly seven years of active duty. He served as a combat medic and a licensed practical nurse. His character and work ethic were heavily influenced by his military service in Texas, Georgia, Colorado, and Germany.
He is known for personal discipline, attention to detail, teamwork, motivating others toward a common goal, and selfless leadership. He holds a private pilot certificate, is a triathlete, and studies linguistics in his spare time.
Background
Joseph hosted a podcast called Midwest Law Talk with Joseph Wetch, which covers current legal issues and judicial perspectives. He recently interviewed U.S. Rep. Kelly Armstrong (R-ND) and North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley.
Representative Experience
Successfully defended landowners in a farm lease jury trial
Juliuson v. Johnson
Represented subrogation interest worth $120 million
Whatley v. Canadian Pacific
Defended oilfield injury claim; jury verdict $7 million
Simmons v. Tillman Consulting, Inc.
AAA arbitration, $11 million faulty construction dispute; procured coverage and settled for $5.5 million
Lexstar Construction v. Bullinger Enterprises
Litigation over $1 million pre-cast panel installation
Midwest Precast v. Gage Bros.
Defended debtor in $5.7 million foreclosure action
United Community Bank v. Craft
Professional Recognition
Listed for General Commercial Litigation
Rated AV Preeminent
Ranked Band 3 for Litigation: General Commercial
Future Star
Fellow
Fellow
Related Services
Publications & Speaking Engagements
Education, Admissions & Activities
Education
University of North Dakota
J.D. with distinction, 2001
University of North Dakota
B.A., magna cum laude, 1998
Bar Admissions
Wisconsin
2023
South Dakota
2014
Minnesota
2002
North Dakota
2001
Court Admissions
United States District Court of Minnesota
United States District Court of North Dakota
United States District Court of Wisconsin
Eastern and Western
United States District Court of Appeals
Eighth Circuit and Federal Circuit
Professional and Community Activities
American Law Institute
Minnesota Defense Lawyers Association
Defense Research Institute (DRI)
State Bar Association of North Dakota, President
2015-2016
Board of Governors of the State Bar Association of North Dakota
2011-2017