Jacob L. Zylstra

"I empower my clients by providing thoughtful, practical advice tailored to their unique needs, ensuring they have the clarity and confidence to make informed decisions." - Jacob Zylstra

Jacob Zylstra’s legal practice focuses on trust and estate litigation, commercial real estate transactions, and energy law—specifically oil and gas. His diverse background spans both in-house legal counsel and private practice roles. Before law school, Jacob accumulated over a decade of hands-on experience managing oil and gas operations, real estate title matters, asset management, and finance.

Focusing on trust and estate litigation, Jacob brings a deep understanding of probate, estate administration, and testamentary disputes to his legal practice. His ability to manage sensitive matters with precision and compassion makes him a trusted advocate for clients facing what is often their most challenging times.

With a background in the energy sector and real estate, Jacob brings enhanced expertise in negotiating contracts, managing acquisitions, and providing regulatory and operational counsel. His practical experience ensures clients benefit from his comprehensive knowledge and business-focused approach.

Whether navigating complex litigation or facilitating high-value transactions, Jacob ensures his clients receive clear guidance and effective advocacy. As a practicing attorney and landman, Jacob’s notable achievements included:

• In private practice, Jacob successfully defended a client in a complex case involving a $5 million apartment building and intricate partnership and probate issues stemming from claims against a decedent unable to defend themselves.
• As in-house legal counsel to a private equity firm, Jacob administered a portfolio of real estate assets valued at $115 million and counseled his firm, and facilitated over $68 million in real estate transactions.

Jacob obtained his Juris Doctorate at Mitchell Hamline in St Paul, Minnesota. Outside the office, he enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, taking his daughter to air shows, and playing with the family’s three dogs.