Michael E. Tolbert

Michael E. Tolbert focuses his practice on complex civil litigation, bad faith insurance litigation, wrongful death actions, catastrophic personal injury cases, and employment related litigation. He represents many types of clients. His clients have included large insurance companies and small family run businesses. He is known for strong trial advocacy.

Michael earned his Juris Doctorate, cum laude, from Valparaiso University School of Law in 2000. While in law school, he received the International Academy of Trial Lawyers Award. His legal education supports his work in litigation, trial practice, client counseling, and complex dispute matters in Indiana and beyond today.

Michael was a partner at his prior firm. He chaired its Litigation Department from 2010 to 2013. During that time, the firm was voted Best Litigation Firm in Northwest Indiana. It was also named a 2013 Go-to Law Firm for the Top 500 Companies for contract litigation.

Michael has received many professional honors. These include the 20 Under 40 Award, Top 20 Under 40 Minority Lawyers in the Midwest, the ISBA Rabb Emison Award, the NAACP’s Hilbert Bradley Award, Super Lawyers selection, and the Katie Hall Foundation’s Merit of Distinction Award. He was inducted into the American Law Institute.

Michael is a frequent speaker at trial seminars. His topics include expert testimony, personal injury defense, and deposition strategy. He also speaks at Bridge the Gap, a seminar for new lawyers. He teaches Trial Practice as an adjunct professor at Valparaiso University School of Law. He has served in many bar leadership roles.

Michael E. Tolbert has served the Indiana legal profession through many leadership roles. He was appointed to Indiana’s Commission for Continuing Legal Education by the Indiana Supreme Court. He also served as chair. His service includes bar association leadership, board work, and continued support for legal and professional development.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Tolbert & Tolbert LLC
• Member, Indiana State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Indiana

Education

• Valparaiso University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)

Awards & Badges