For more than a decade, trial lawyer David E. Christensen has built a legal practice focused on representing people facing serious injuries and the lasting effects of accidents. Since founding Christensen Law in 2014, he has developed a reputation for trial advocacy in personal injury, auto accident, and traumatic brain injury cases. His career reflects a continued focus on courtroom work, professional recognition, and efforts to strengthen protections for injured individuals.
A Career Built Around Trial Advocacy
David E. Christensen brings decades of legal experience to complex injury cases. A California native, he earned his bachelor’s degree in international relations from San Francisco State University before completing both a master’s degree and law degree at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.
His legal career initially involved corporate matters before he moved toward personal injury litigation. After spending roughly two decades at a large law firm, he established Christensen Law – The Personal Injury Attorney in 2014.
The move reflected his preference for a more individualized approach to client representation. His practice emphasizes communication and direct attention to the circumstances surrounding each case. That approach has remained a defining part of his work as a trial lawyer.
Recognition Across Michigan’s Legal Community
Christensen has received several distinctions throughout his legal career. He holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, a recognition associated with high levels of legal ability and professional ethics.
He has also been repeatedly recognized by Best Lawyers for his work representing plaintiffs in personal injury litigation. He received the Lawyer of the Year distinction in Detroit for this practice area in 2019 and again in 2025.
His professional recognition also includes being selected as one of 25 attorneys named a Leader in the Law by Michigan Lawyers Weekly. He was also recognized among Michigan’s top lawyers and consumer lawyers and was inducted into the Michigan Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame in 2021.
Another notable milestone came with his induction into the American Board of Trial Advocates. The national organization focuses on preserving the constitutional right to civil jury trials and supporting an independent judiciary.
A Significant Jury Trial Result
One of the most notable cases in Christensen’s career involved a severe truck and car collision that caused a traumatic brain injury.
In 2014, he secured a $17.8 million jury award for the injured client. The result was reported as Michigan’s largest jury trial award at the time for a non-fatal traffic crash.
The case demonstrated the potential impact of serious injury litigation on a person’s future. The client later described the verdict as helping her move toward closure and begin a new stage of recovery.
The result also became an important example of the type of high-stakes trial work that has shaped Christensen’s career.
Leadership Beyond the Courtroom
Christensen’s involvement in the legal profession extends beyond individual cases. He has taken leadership roles within organizations focused on Michigan’s civil justice system.
He previously served as chairman of the State Bar of Michigan’s Negligence Law Section. He also served as an officer on the Executive Board of the Michigan Association for Justice and chaired its no-fault committee for several years.
His professional work has included speaking at state and national conferences about negligence and auto accident law. He has also testified before the Michigan legislature regarding proposed legislation affecting protections for injured motorists.
These activities have allowed him to contribute to broader discussions surrounding personal injury and negligence law in Michigan.
Community Involvement in Ann Arbor
Christensen’s work also includes involvement with community organizations in and around Ann Arbor. He has served with the Washtenaw Council on Alcoholism and on the board of directors for Spectrum Prevention Services in Ann Arbor.
He has also chaired the board of trustees for HelpSource Agency in Washtenaw County, a nonprofit organization supporting people dealing with substance abuse, teen mothers, and abused children.
More recently, he became a member of the University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center. The center, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, conducts research, education, and outreach focused on reducing injuries across Michigan and the Great Lakes region.
Continuing a Longstanding Legal Career
Trial lawyer David E. Christensen continues to combine courtroom advocacy with professional and community involvement. His career includes major trial results, leadership positions, industry recognition, and work aimed at addressing broader issues affecting injured people.
For this attorney, the legal profession has developed into more than courtroom representation. His work spans complex injury litigation, legal education, professional leadership, and community service. Together, these efforts have helped establish a longstanding presence in Michigan’s personal injury legal community.
Today, the firm continues the client-focused model Christensen established when he launched the firm in 2014, while his ongoing professional activities reflect his continued involvement in Michigan’s legal and injury-prevention communities.