Attorney Profile
Manuel J. De Castro, Jr.
A South Dakota lawyer like no other. Born in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, February 17, 1972. Practicing law in South Dakota since 2000. Two decades of courtroom experience — every case prepared personally, every client treated like the only client.
Background
Trial-tested in South Dakota state and federal court.
Manny built his practice the hard way — by taking cases other lawyers wouldn't, and winning the ones the State expected to win. He's argued before the South Dakota Supreme Court, briefed federal habeas petitions, and litigated complex civil disputes to verdict.
His work is on the public record. The Case Results page links to reported decisions you can read in full.
What clients tell us they appreciate most isn't the resume — it's the access. You call Manny, you get Manny. You sit down with him, not a paralegal. You hear straight answers about your odds, your options, and the cost.
Timeline
2000
Admitted to the South Dakota Bar
2001
Admitted to U.S. District Court, District of South Dakota
2009
Reported wins in S.D. Supreme Court — State v. Kessler, State v. Iversen
2015
McDonough v. Weber — appellate habeas litigation
2021
State v. Angle & State v. Guziak — S.D. Supreme Court
Credentials
- South Dakota Bar (2000)
- U.S. District Court, District of South Dakota (2001)
- University of South Dakota School of Law
- Solo practitioner, DeCastro Law Office, PLLC
- Reported decisions in S.D. Supreme Court and federal court
Personal
Born: St. Johnsbury, VT — Feb 17, 1972
Lives and practices law in South Dakota. Office hours by appointment in Sioux Falls and Madison.
Work with Manny
Want to talk through your case with the attorney himself?
Most consultations are free. Call either office or send a quick message.