Manuel J. De Castro, Jr.

Manuel J. De Castro, Jr. is a South Dakota attorney with more than two decades of courtroom experience in criminal defense, appeals, habeas litigation, and complex civil disputes. His practice is built on direct attorney involvement, careful case preparation, and clear guidance for clients facing serious legal pressure, helping them navigate it with confidence and dignity.

Mr. Manuel earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Dakota in 1995 and an M.B.A. from the same university in 1997. He later received his J.D. from the University of South Dakota School of Law in 2000. After law school, he was admitted to the South Dakota Bar in 2000 and to the U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota in 2001. His practice includes defending clients against drug charges, murder allegations, sexual abuse accusations, and other serious criminal matters, along with appeals, habeas petitions, and civil litigation.

Over Mr. Manuel’s career, he has appeared in South Dakota state and federal courts, argued before the South Dakota Supreme Court, and handled matters reflected in reported decisions. His experience includes cases such as State v. Kessler, State v. Iversen, McDonough v. Weber, State v. Angle, and State v. Guziak. He approaches each case with personal preparation rather than a volume-based process. Clients work directly with him, receive candid explanations of risks and options, and benefit from practical advice tailored to their circumstances. His method emphasizes accessibility, accountability, and preparation from consultation through resolution throughout representation.

Manuel J. De Castro, Jr.’s legal career reflects a willingness to take difficult cases and challenge the government’s evidence when clients face life-changing consequences. By reviewing facts closely, developing trial strategy, and preserving appellate issues, he helps individuals understand the process and, when appropriate, pursue the strongest available defense under South Dakota and federal law. Through the de Castro Law Office in Madison, he assists clients with criminal charges, appeals, post-conviction matters, and civil disputes.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, De Castro Law Office PLLC
• Member, State Bar of South Dakota
• Member, Trial Lawyers College
• Member, Black Hills Criminal Defense Bar
• Member, Lawrence County Bar Associations
• Member, Pennington County Bar Associations
• Member, South Dakota Trial Lawyers Association
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Licensed State

• South Dakota

Education

• University of South Dakota School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of South Dakota
  Master of Business Administration
• University of South Dakota
  Bachelor of Science

Awards & Badges