Natalia Stys

Born and raised in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, my roots run deep in this community and so does my commitment to the people who call it home.

I attended Holy Spirit Elementary and graduated from Sioux Falls Christian in 2017. From there, I earned my degree in Psychology (Major) and Health Administration and Policy (Minor) from Creighton University in 2021, before returning home to pursue my law degree at the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, graduating in 2024.

During law school, I had the privilege of serving as a legal intern for Sanford Health's in-house counsel, where I gained valuable insight into complex legal systems and professional advocacy. I also interned in Washington D.C., for U.S. Senator John Thune, an incredible experience that deepened my personal understanding of leadership, responsibility and the power of a well-used voice.

In my third year of law school, before I had even graduated or sat for the bar, I was hired by this firm.

I went to law school, with one guiding purpose: to give power to my voice.

My practice primarily focuses on family law and criminal defense.

• Guardianships and Conservatorships
• Custody proceedings
• Paternity actions
• High conflict and contested divorces
• Adoptions (minor child and stepparent)
• Name changes
• Pardons
• Wills and Powers of Attorney
• Felony and misdemeanor criminal matters

I approach every matter with clarity, strategy, and compassion. I believe the best outcomes are achieved when disputes are addressed directly and efficiently. I am solution focused, communicative, and professional in my dealings with opposing counsel and the Court.

My work ethic and responsibility were shaped long before law school. My parents, Drs. Maria and Adam Stys, immigrated from Poland to the United States in 1992 with faith, education and determination for a better life. While they completed their residency and fellowship training, my maternal grandparents moved from Poland and lived with us for nearly a decade, helping raise my siblings and me.

In our Polish household, we spoke Polish daily and remained fluent. We still visit family in Poland whenever we can. My grandparents taught us discipline, humility, respect and the importance of using our talents for something bigger than ourselves. I have often been described as an "old soul"- a reflection of growing up surrounded by sacrifice, wisdom and unwavering love.

My siblings and I each have chosen paths rooted in service. My older sister, Julia, is a general surgeon in Detroit. My younger sister, Veronica, is pursuing pediatrics in medical school. Our perfect little brother, Jacob, is preparing to attend medical school. We were raised to heal, to serve and to give back.

Outside of the courtroom, I value a balanced life. I enjoy spin classes, Pilates, walks, prayer, and time with people who I love. I have a 14 year old chihuahua named Gucci, he is beloved.

I believe strength and softness can coexist. Strategy and compassion are not opposites. And the practice of law- especially in family and criminal matters requires both.

If you place your trust in me, know this: I will treat your case with the same care, intensity and dedication I would give my own family. Because to me, there is no greater honor than being entrusted with what matters most to you.