David J. Lenhardt

David J. Lenhardt is an attorney with Messerli Kramer in St. Michael, Minnesota, with more than four decades of legal experience. His practice focuses on municipal law, business litigation, commercial disputes, construction and real estate litigation, and related transactional matters. He advises public and private clients on issues involving development, property, business operations, contracts, construction, title, boundaries, and contested commercial matters.

David earned a J.D. cum laude from the University of Minnesota Law School and a B.A. magna cum laude from St. John’s University. His academic background provided a strong base for a career involving litigation, municipal representation, real estate, and business matters. That training supports his work analyzing complex records, interpreting legal requirements, evaluating disputes, and advising clients on decisions with significant public, property, or commercial consequences.

David has served as City Attorney for St. Michael since 1983. In that role, he advises the City Council, Planning Commission, Economic Development Authority, and city staff on planning and zoning, economic development, code enforcement, and related municipal issues. His private practice experience includes commercial and residential real estate transactions, title and boundary disputes, construction matters, mechanics’ liens, general business issues, and commercial litigation.

David J. Lenhardt combines long-term municipal service with extensive experience in real estate, construction, business, and civil disputes. His work requires attention to public processes, land use, contracts, property rights, and the practical effects of legal decisions. He helps clients evaluate risks, address contested issues, and move matters forward through advice, negotiation, transactional planning, and litigation when disputes cannot be resolved outside court.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Messerli | Kramer
• Member, Minnesota State Bar Association
• Member, 18th Judicial District Bar Association
• Member, Hennepin County Bar Association

Licensed State

• Minnesota

Education

• University of Minnesota Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD) Cum Laude
• St. John’s University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA) Magna Cum Laude

Awards & Badges