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Associate

Devon C. Holstad

A good lawyer can never stop learning. Every day is an opportunity to do better for clients.

My Approach

From my earliest days growing up on my family’s farm, one of the most important values instilled in me was a sense of responsibility and respect for the community. I carry these values with me every day in my representation of my clients, fully comprehending my role in helping them achieve their goals. I care about the outcome of the matters I work on, not just for the satisfaction of winning, but because of their vital importance to my clients.

I have a background in journalism, and in many ways it’s very similar to practicing law – gathering facts, perspectives, and context, and then weaving them all together to tell a story that is informative and convincing. This is one of the most overlooked aspects of litigation. You can’t change your facts or the law, so what makes or breaks a case is the ability to put together a compelling story. When I represent my clients, I always keep in mind their end goal, so when there are questions that arise, new information that comes to light, or quick decisions that need to be made, I can adapt quickly and weave it into the narrative to sway the decision to our side.

Outside of work, I enjoy teaching the next generation of lawyers by coaching high school and college mock trial and serving as a Director of the American Mock Trial Association. Competing in mock trial helped shape my drive to be a litigator and I am thrilled to give back to a community that got me where I am today. When I’m not coaching, I’m probably on the family farm saddling up for a horseback ride, at a Twins game, or hanging out with my dog, Bobby.

A GROUNDBREAKING MOMENT IN MY CAREER

When I was in law school, I worked with the Michigan Innocence Clinic, helping to exonerate people who were in prison for crimes they didn’t commit. My time there taught me a great deal about the legal process – the good and the bad – and reinforced the significance of the work we do as a lawyers. I saw firsthand the effort it takes to correct a mistake and the devastating impact on innocent lives when things aren’t done right the first time. The lessons I learned at the Innocence Clinic serve as a constant reminder of the burden of getting things done right and what good lawyers can do to make sure the system works for everyone.

Practice Areas

Honors & Awards

The Best Lawyers in America© Ones to Watch

Commercial Litigation, 2022-2025

MSBA North Star Lawyer

Pro Bono Service, 2021-2023

Associations & Memberships

American Mock Trial Association

Board of Directors

Moran Olsson Michigan Innocence Clinic Trust

Board of Trustees