Lommen Abdo is pleased to introduce Susan Bullard, an estate planning and business succession attorney dedicated to helping individuals and business owners protect their assets and plan for the future. Licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin, Susan works with clients on wills, trusts, probate, and business transitions, ensuring tailored solutions that fit their unique needs.
Describe major career and life decisions that led you to your current position. How have these experiences shaped the way you engage with clients?
Like many law students, I had an idea of what I wanted to do when I started law school—but that changed with experience. I initially aspired to be a criminal defense attorney and spent time working as a prosecutor for Anoka County and the City of Minneapolis. However, I quickly realized that public sector work wasn’t the right fit for me.
After transitioning to private practice, I was hired as a litigator, but over time, I discovered that my true strengths lay in planning and strategy rather than litigation. I gravitated toward estate planning and business succession planning, areas of law that allow me to work proactively with clients to create solutions rather than react to disputes. That shift in focus has shaped how I approach my work—helping clients navigate complex decisions in a way that minimizes risk and sets them up for long-term success.
What motivates you as a lawyer?
For me, my work is like a puzzle—each client presents a unique set of circumstances, and I enjoy figuring out how all the pieces fit together to create the best outcome. Estate planning and business succession are not just about drafting documents; they require understanding family dynamics, business structures, and financial considerations. I thrive on helping clients align their legal strategies with their personal and business goals, ensuring their plans protect what matters most to them.
Tell us about a few of your biggest successes as a lawyer.
Some of the most rewarding cases I’ve handled involve resolving estate and financial disputes without costly litigation. One particularly memorable case involved securing a financial recovery for a client after a financial institution mishandled a transfer-on-death designation. Initially, the client’s inheritance was wrongly denied due to an administrative mistake, but after navigating probate and working through arbitration, we successfully recovered full compensation.
While legal victories are rewarding, my biggest successes are the moments when I bring peace of mind to my clients—whether it’s finalizing an estate plan, protecting a family business, or guiding clients through a difficult probate process.
What unique perspectives do you bring to your practice?
Because I started my career in litigation, I have firsthand knowledge of how legal disputes unfold. This experience gives me a strategic perspective on risk mitigation—I help my clients avoid legal pitfalls before they become expensive problems. Many people assume that litigation will be their best recourse, but I always educate my clients on the realities of court proceedings and explore preventative solutions that can save time, money, and stress.
What is your client philosophy?
I believe in being direct and honest with my clients. Estate planning and business succession often involve difficult conversations, and it’s my job to ensure my clients understand their options and make informed decisions. I take a practical approach—helping clients balance control, financial benefits, and family dynamics in a way that truly works for them.
What are you most proud of?
I am incredibly proud of building a successful career in private practice. Early in my career, I was hesitant about the business development side of law, but over time, I learned how to promote my skills and build strong client relationships. Many professionals—especially women—are taught to keep their heads down and work hard, assuming recognition will follow. The reality is that advocating for yourself and your capabilities is just as important as doing excellent work. Developing that confidence and growing a fulfilling career is something I’m very proud of.
What is a little-known fact about you?
I was born in Canada and didn’t become a U.S. citizen until 1992. My family moved to Bemidji, Minnesota, when I was a baby, and I grew up between Winona and the Iron Range before settling in the Twin Cities.
Looking Ahead
Susan brings decades of estate planning and business succession experience to Lommen Abdo and is excited to continue helping clients build secure futures.
Lommen Abdo President Marc Johannsen welcomes Susan, stating:
“Susan’s depth of experience and strategic approach make her a tremendous asset to our estate planning and business law teams. We are excited to have her on board and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our clients.”