Michael Strain

Michael Strain is a respected South Dakota trial lawyer known for strong courtroom advocacy in civil and criminal cases. His practice focuses on business litigation, civil rights, personal injury, medical malpractice, bad faith insurance, and criminal defense. He has tried more than 100 cases to verdict and resolved numerous others.

After earning Mr. Michael’s Juris Doctor from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, He clerked for the Eighth Judicial Circuit of South Dakota. He later continued his trial training at Gerry Spence’s Trial Lawyers College in Dubois, Wyoming, first as a student and later as a staff member. He also contributes to the legal profession through post-graduate trial education and seminar presentations nationwide. He began his practice with the Mormon Law Firm in Sturgis and built a litigation career serving clients in local, state, and national matters. Licensed in South Dakota and Wyoming, he also works through affiliations to represent clients effectively in federal and state courts nationwide.

Mr. Michael’s peers have recognized his trial skills throughout his career. In 1995, he was selected as South Dakota Trial Lawyer of the Year, and Great Plains Super Lawyers Magazine has named him a Super Lawyer. From 2002 to 2007, he won 19 consecutive civil jury trials in a row. He has achieved substantial results in civil rights, personal injury, business litigation, and insurance bad faith cases. His work includes multimillion-dollar verdicts and meaningful settlements for clients facing serious injuries, denied insurance benefits, retaliation, contract disputes, and other losses requiring determined trial advocacy, careful preparation, and persistent courtroom focus.

In criminal defense, Michael Strain has obtained numerous not guilty verdicts and handled serious felony matters, including murder trials. He applies detailed evidence review, constitutional analysis, and persuasive courtroom presentation to protect clients’ rights. His broad trial background allows him to prepare cases for negotiation, settlement, arbitration, or jury verdict. He has taught in multiple states and remains active in professional organizations, including the South Dakota Trial Lawyers Association and the American Association for Justice, while helping injured people seek justice through advocacy.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Strain Morman Law Firm
• Member, State Bar of South Dakota

Licensed State

• South Dakota

Awards & Badges