Ashley Blake, JD

Ashley Blake is President and General Counsel of Bridgeford Trust Company and a member of the Board of Managers and Trust Administrative Committee. In her role, Ashley leads Bridgeford Trust Company’s South Dakota operations, overseeing the company’s trust administration and compliance teams in Pierre and Sioux Falls. She also plays a significant role in strategic plan implementation and supports the company’s growth, business development, and legal initiatives.

A trust and trust company attorney with extensive experience in South Dakota trust law, trust administration, and regulatory compliance, Ashley works closely with families, attorneys, and advisors on complex trust planning matters. Her legal and fiduciary experience provides a unique perspective in helping navigate the operational, regulatory, and South Dakota law considerations involved in sophisticated trust planning.

Professional Experience

Prior to joining Bridgeford Trust Company, Ashley practiced at Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith LLP, one of the largest law firms in South Dakota, where she specialized in South Dakota trust and trust company law. She worked with ultra-high-net-worth clients and their attorneys and advisors across the country and internationally on a wide range of trust administration matters.

Ashley regularly reviewed trusts drafted by out-of-state attorneys for validity under South Dakota law and advised trust administration clients on the requirements of South Dakota trust law. She also worked extensively with public and private trust companies on regulatory compliance matters.

Awards & Recognition

Ashley has been recognized for her professional excellence, leadership, and contributions to the legal profession, including:

• 2022 South Dakota Young Lawyer of the Year — Presented by the State Bar of South Dakota in recognition of professional excellence, dedication to the legal profession and the Bar, community service, and commitment to legal ethics and professional responsibility.

Education

University of South Dakota School of Law
Juris Doctor, Sterling Honors
Graduated first in her class

Harvard University
Bachelor’s degree, with Honors
Double Major