Learn More About One of Pocatello’s Oldest and Most Experienced Law Firms

fountainSince the time when A.L. Merrill first became a partner with the firm in 1916, the law firm now known as Merrill & Merrill has been one of the most distinguished law firms in southeast Idaho, with a rich history of legal excellence. The firm is conveniently located in the top floor of the historic Spaulding Building at the corner of Center Street and Arthur Street in Old Town Pocatello.

The firm’s current attorneys offer decades of experience to their clients, both small and large, in a wide range of legal matters, including: commercial transaction, commercial litigation, insurance defense, construction defect litigation, health care law, legal work involving the formation and operation of business entities, contracts, estate planning with wills and trusts, probate, personal injury, Workers’ Compensation, family law, adoption, criminal law, Social Security disability, bankruptcy, education law, and immigration law.

The firm offers its clients an experienced and skilled team of legal professionals, associates, and staff who are prepared and equipped to handle the diverse and challenging aspects of today’s legal climate. The firm has attorneys licensed in both Idaho and Utah. Attorneys with the firm have the highest ratings for professional and ethical standards by Martindale-Hubbell, by Best’s Directory of Recommended Insurance Lawyers, and are listed in the prestigious Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers.

Originally organized under the name of Deitrich & Clark, the firm operated under that name until Frank S. Deitrich was appointed U.S. District Judge for the District of Idaho in 1907. The firm then became known as Clark & Budge. Then, in 1916, when A.L. Merrill became a member of the firm, it became known as Budge & Merrill. R.D. Merrill later became associated with the firm in 1921 and in 1923 the firm became known by its current name of Merrill & Merrill. A.L. Merrill’s son, W.F. Merrill, joined the firm in 1948 and continued as a partner with the firm until his retirement in 1995.

The current managing partner of the firm, Dave Gallafent, joined the firm in 1975 and became managing partner in 1996, upon W.F. Merrill’s retirement. Continuing the rich legacy set by the firm’s first partner, Frank S. Deitrich, former partners of the firm currently sit as judges on various federal and state court benches, including: the Honorable Randy N. Smith, who sits on the 9th Circuit Court of appeals; the Honorable David C. Nye and the Honorable Steven S. Dunn, who sit as district judges for the Sixth Judicial District of the State of Idaho; and, the Honorable Thomas W. Clark, who sits as a magistrate judge for the Sixth Judicial District for the State of Idaho.