About Me

David M. Stegall is a highly accomplished personal injury attorney and shareholder at Lawton & Cates, S.C. in Madison, Wisconsin, with over 19 years of experience securing favorable outcomes for  injured riders and others injured in car accidents, dog bites, and other incidents. Renowned for his strategic and client-focused approach, David has earned an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell (2025), reflecting peer recognition of his exceptional legal knowledge, communication skills, and ethical standards. His extensive trial experience and dedication to maximizing client recoveries make him a trusted advocate for those seeking justice.

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David also excels in workers’ compensation, helping injured workers navigate complex claims to secure the benefits they deserve. His ability to achieve settlements “above expectation,” as noted in client testimonials, underscores his skill in advocating for fair compensation in workplace injury cases. David’s active membership in the Wisconsin Association for Justice reinforces his commitment to advancing the rights of injured clients.

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While David primarily focuses on personal injury and workers’ compensation, he offers limited but exceptionally qualified criminal defense services as a National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) board-certified Criminal Trial Advocate, a distinction held by only ~3% of American lawyers. As a former Assistant District Attorney in Milwaukee County, he prosecuted over 40 jury trials, from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and now leverages this experience to secure not guilty verdicts in high-stakes cases, including Attempted First Degree Intentional Homicide, Sexual Assault, and OWI. His co-authorship of “The Defense of Alcohol-Related Driving Offenses, Traffic Law and Practice” for the Wisconsin State Bar establishes him as an authority in OWI defense.

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David’s accolades include the Avvo Client’s Choice Award, Avvo Top Contributor Award, and recognition as a Super Lawyer, reflecting his professional excellence and client satisfaction. Clients praise his empathy, responsiveness, and results, with reviews highlighting “the most favorable court determination possible” (Avvo) and his adeptness in negotiating settlements (Lawyers.com). Peers endorse him as “one of the best attorneys” they know, citing his professionalism and expertise (Avvo).

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A cum laude graduate of Marquette University Law School (2006), David is a member of the Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the American Inns of Court, showcasing his commitment to legal excellence.

His prior service as a Cavalry Officer in the United States Army brings leadership and discipline to his practice, while his passionate advocacy for military veterans reflects his dedication to community service. His educational blog on Miranda Rights further demonstrates his ability to guide clients through complex legal matters.

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David strives to be a “trusted legal advisor for life,” delivering strategic, client-centric representation. Contact David M. Stegall at Lawton & Cates, S.C. to benefit from his proven expertise in personal injury, workers’ compensation, and select criminal defense cases.