Manuel J. De Castro, Jr.

Manuel “Manny” J. de Castro, Jr. earned his Juris Doctor in 2000 and was admitted to the South Dakota Bar in 2001. That same year, he was admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota and graduated from the Western Trial Advocacy Institute, beginning a career dedicated to defending individuals facing the most serious criminal charges.

Early in his career, Manny was selected to attend the prestigious Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College — one of the nation's most competitive trial advocacy programs, accepting only about 50 attorneys each year. He graduated from the Trial Lawyers College in 2006, completed the Gerry Spence Death Penalty College in 2010, and has continued to refine his courtroom skills through multiple Advanced Trial Lawyers College programs.

Over the course of his career, Manny has built a reputation as one of South Dakota's most accomplished criminal defense attorneys. He is the only criminal defense attorney in the state to achieve two successful appellate victories in a single day. He has also secured numerous Not Guilty verdicts in some of South Dakota's most serious felony cases, including Murder, Manslaughter, Attempted Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Rape.

Manny didn't build his practice by avoiding difficult cases — he built it by taking on the cases other lawyers wouldn't. He has argued before the South Dakota Supreme Court, briefed federal habeas corpus petitions, and litigated complex civil disputes through trial. His extensive courtroom experience, strategic advocacy, and relentless commitment to his clients have earned him respect throughout the legal community.

His work speaks for itself. The firm's Results page offers a limited selection of his successful case results and reported appellate decisions. These featured matters are intended to provide insight into his work and represent only a small fraction of the thousands of cases he has handled over the course of his career.

While his credentials and courtroom victories are significant, what clients consistently value most is his personal approach. When you hire Manny, you'll meet with Manny — but you also gain the support of an experienced legal team. He believes the best representation comes through collaboration, which is why clients work not only with him, but also with his Lead Paralegal and Legal Assistant throughout their case. Together, the team provides clear communication, honest assessments, and straightforward guidance about your options, potential outcomes, and costs. Every client receives direct attorney access backed by a dedicated team committed to providing a vigorous defense.

Outside the courtroom, Manny enjoys spending time with his family and his dogs. When he's not practicing law, you'll often find him antiquing, traveling, or exploring local shops and restaurants. He believes in supporting small businesses and takes pride in being an active member of the communities he serves.