A longtime Albert Lea lawyer has opened a new law office on East Main Street.

Donald Savelkoul, formerly a partner in Peterson, Savelkoul, Kolker, Haedt and Benda law firm in downtown Albert Lea, is a 1986 graduate of Albert Lea High School.

He plans on expanding his office in his location to fill the whole building at 2302 E. Main St. He also plans on hiring an associate attorney.

“I felt the timing was right to run my own practice and focus on areas of law that I want to spend time practicing,” Savelkoul said.

His practice focuses in civil litigation and business. He represents local businesses and farmers.

Savelkoul attended law school at the University of Minnesota and was an undergraduate at St. John’s University in Collegeville.

He has practiced law with his father, Henry Savelkoul, since 1993. His father now serves as counsel to him. “It’s been a great opportunity,” Donald Savelkoul said of working with his father.

“He’s been a wonderful instructor in how to conduct the legal process.”

He plans on making some improvements to the building over the next couple months.

“We have had a great start,” he said.

“I am looking forward to this opportunity to expand my practice and better serve the community,” Donald Savelkoul said in a press release. “I have proudly represented hundreds of businesses and individuals in this area over the last 21-plus years, and I look forward to many more productive years to come.” He spoke glowingly of his staff, saying he has three skilled team members that help him represent his clients.

He said being a lawyer is a fulfilling profession.

“I like being able to help clients achieve their goals,” he said. “That really motivates me.”