Experienced, Esteemed And Ready To Defend
Biography
Max Walter is a dedicated attorney who has been passionate about serving his clients since the beginning of his legal career. Born and raised in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Max’s deep ties to the community have shaped his approach to practicing law—an approach grounded in integrity, compassion, and relentless advocacy.
Max began his academic journey at the University of South Dakota, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in 2016. During law school, Max interned for his father in the summer of 2018, gaining early exposure to the legal profession. In the summer of 2019, he interned for the Minnehaha County Public Defender's Office, where he developed a passion for criminal defense work. He continued this internship into the fall while balancing the rigorous demands of attending law school courses. He distinguished himself by making the Dean’s List and honing his skills in legal research, writing, and advocacy. In 2020, Max earned his Juris Doctor and was admitted to practice law in South Dakota that same year.
Following law school, Max joined his father’s law firm, where he gained invaluable insights into the practice of law. During his time there, he managed his own felony, misdemeanor, and juvenile cases, while assisting his father on complex cases and legal issues. During his time practicing with his father, Max learned the importance of client-centered representation and the value of meticulous preparation. This experience laid a strong foundation for his career, combining mentorship with hands-on practice.
In September 2022, Max took on a new challenge as an attorney with the Minnehaha County Public Defender’s Office. Over the next two years, he handled a high volume of felony cases, demonstrating his ability to manage a demanding caseload while achieving favorable outcomes for his clients. His work included numerous court appearances, bond hearings, motion hearings, court trials, and an aggravated assault jury trial that resulted in an acquittal. Max also drafted an appeal to the South Dakota Supreme Court and numerous motions to suppress, showcasing his strong legal writing and analytical skills.
Max’s dedication to professional development led him to attend The Minnesota Board of Public Defense Trial Institute, where he earned a certificate in Trial Arts in June 2023. This intensive training enhanced his trial advocacy skills, further equipping him to deliver exceptional representation for his clients.
In October 2024, Max returned to his roots, rejoining his father’s firm. Now practicing alongside his father, Max combines the experience he gained as a public defender with the personalized service that defines their practice. His approach is grounded in clear and open communication, ensuring clients have the information they need to make well-informed decisions. Max fights tirelessly for favorable outcomes while maintaining a client-centered focus that prioritizes the unique needs and circumstances of each individual. When Max isn’t advocating for his clients, you can find him enjoying time outdoors, working on personal projects, or spending quality time with his dogs. Max’s passion for justice and unwavering commitment to his clients make him a trusted advocate and a valued member of the Walter Law Office.
Education
- University of South Dakota School of Law, Vermillion, South Dakota
- 2020
- Honors: Dean's List
- University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota
- B.S. - 2016
- Major: Criminal Justice
Bar Admissions
- South Dakota
- U.S. District Court District of South Dakota
Honors
- Certificate of Training in Trial Arts from The Minnesota Board of Public Defense Trial Institute
Past Positions
- Minnehaha County Public Defender's Office, Attorney, 2022 to 2024
Professional Associations
- State Bar of South Dakota, Member