MICHAEL KAUFFMAN
Michael joined the Drake Law Firm in 2009 after working as a Law Clerk for Justice Brian Morris of the Montana Supreme Court. Michael was attracted by the Drake Law Firm's reputation for quality, willingness to go to trial, and rarely matched success rate at trial. He appreciates the unique nature of the Drake Law Firm, including his ability as a member of a small firm to interact closely with clients, while still possessing the resources necessary to represent his clients at the highest level. Since joining the firm, Michael has played a key role in numerous successful trial court and Montana Supreme Court cases. He thrives on immersing himself in his cases and discovering the key factual details and legal theories that lead to success for his clients. Away from work, Michael enjoys spending time with his wife and young son, mountain-biking and running, and exploring Montana's mountains and rivers.
CASES
Patch v. Hillerich & Bradsby/Louisville Slugger, L&C County District Court 2009, MT Supreme Court 2011, 2011 MT 175 $850,000 verdict for family of American Legion pitcher killed by ball hit by aluminum baseball bat. Achieved Montana Supreme Court decision affirming the jury's verdict.
Chriske v. State of Montana Dept. of Correction, MT Supreme Court 2010, 357 Mont. 28 Successfully defended the State of Montana in Montana Supreme Court appeal of District Court order in favor of the State.
Holdren v. Falls Construction (Great Falls, MT 2010) $1.04 Million verdict for truck driver injured in construction accident.
Thain v. City of Great Falls (Cascade County 2010) Successfully defended City of Great Falls against claims of unconstitutional city ordinances
Tirums v. Town of Cascade (Cascade County 2011) Successfully defended Town of Cascade against claims of unconstitutional actions and ordinances
Anderson v. City of Deer Lodge (Powell County 2011) Successfully defended City of Deer Lodge against claims that the City improperly enacted and applied City ordinances
Houston v. City of East Helena (L&C County 2011) Successfully defended City of East Helena against claims that the City's negligence had damaged the Plaintiffs' home.
