Michael Litrenta is a litigator through and through, focusing his practice on commercial litigation, construction law and defects, general liability, governmental and municipality liability, premises liability, transportation and professional liability matters. His litigation background spans both prosecution and defense, bringing a comprehensive perspective to each case he handles.

Michael began his legal career as a prosecutor, where he gained significant courtroom experience conducting multiple jury trials. His ability to build and present cases in court led him to transition to criminal defense, where he effectively leveraged his trial skills and knowledge of evidence to defend his clients. This diverse background has equipped Michael with a deep understanding of both sides of the legal process, which he now applies to his civil litigation practice.

With trial experience in multiple states, Michael is committed to achieving favorable outcomes for his clients. He is known for his tireless work ethic and strategic approach to litigation. In addition to his practice, Michael is passionate about teaching and regularly presents on topics such as jury selection, evidentiary issues, and trial advocacy.

Michael earned his J.D. from Barry University and holds a B.S. in anthropology and history from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Professional & Civic Involvement

  • Advanced Appellate Practice Symposium
  • Advanced Trial Practice Symposium
  • Florida Bar Association
  • North Carolina Bar Association
  • South Carolina Bar Association
  • Wisconsin Bar Association
  • Mecklenburg Bar Association
  • University of Florida Prosecutor and Public Defender Trial Advocacy Program
  • Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers-Monroe County
    • President 2014 – 2016
    • Secretary 2012 – 2014
  • Former CJA Panel Attorney for the United States District Court Western District of NC

Practice Highlights

  • Acted as chief legal counsel to a major national fast-food restaurant defending against wrongful death claim asserted by plaintiff in Circuit Court of Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. The case settled before plaintiff closed her case due to the aggressive cross-examination and trial tactics employed.
  • Represented a national farming, home and outdoor needs retailer on allegations of malicious prosecution, negligent infliction of emotional distress and punitive damages. Two of plaintiff’s allegations were dismissed as a result of motions in limine and motion for directed verdict eliminating thousands of dollars of potential exposure to client.
  • Obtained defense verdict in less than 30 minutes in a case where there a vehicle accident involving a minor and a tractor trailer where causation was hotly contested.

News & Events

Publications

Publications

  • “Voir Dire and Jury Selection Strategies,” National Business Institute’s Advanced Trial Tactics, 2018,
  • “Opening Statements and Direct Examination,” National Business Institute’s Advanced Trial Tactics, 2018
  • “The “Big Six” Admissibility Questions,” National Business Institute’s North Carolina Rules of Evidence: A Practical Toolkit, 2018
  • “Understanding Hearsay,” co-author Carla Litrenta, National Business Institute’s North Carolina Rules of Evidence: A Practical Toolkit, 2018
  • “Witness Testimony and Reports,” National Business Institute’s North Carolina Rules of Evidence: A Practical Toolkit, 2018
  • “Voir Dire and Jury Selection Tactics,” National Business Institute’s North Carolina Civil Trial Skills, 2023
  • “Evidence Presentation, Objections, and Admissions,” National Business Institute’s North Carolina Civil Trial Skills, 2023

Speaking Engagements

  • “Advanced Trial Tactics,” National Business Institute, 2018
  • “North Carolina Rules of Evidence: A Practical Toolkit,” National Business Institute, 2018
  • “North Carolina Civil Trial Skills,” National Business Institute, 2023