Personal Experience
Mike’s practice focus is civil litigation, with special interest in representing people injured in automobile and truck crashes and by defective products. Mike also handles litigation involving banks, school districts and the health care and construction industries. He is admitted in both state and federal courts where he has tried dozens of cases over 35 years of practice. Mike routinely practices throughout South Dakota and surrounding states. Mike and his wife Catherine have a blended family including six children and eight grandchildren. He enjoys outdoor activities including golfing and hunting.
Membership & Activities
Mike is a member of several professional and civic organizations. He served on the board and as president of the South Dakota Trial Lawyers Association (SDTLA) and is a long-time member of the American Association for Justice (AAJ). He is Past President of the Yankton Area United Way and Volunteer Services. He served on the Boys and Girls Club Corporate Board and many other civic organizations. Mike also served as an adjunct professor at the University of South Dakota School of Law and is a regular speaker at various law-related programs. He was selected for inclusion in the 2009 – 2023 editions of The Best Lawyers in America.
Education
Mike, a South Dakota native, was born and raised in Rapid City, South Dakota. He initially studied engineering at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology and ultimately obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus, in 1983. After working as an intern with the United States Senate, Mike returned to South Dakota and received his juris doctorate from the University of South Dakota School of Law in 1986. During law school, he served as the Lead Articles Editor for the South Dakota Law Review. Two of his articles were selected for publication. After law school, Mike served as the law clerk for South Dakota Supreme Court Justice Robert C. Morgan before joining his present firm in 1987. He continues his education by regularly attending Continuing Legal Education programs sponsored by AAJ and SDTLA.
