David Racine
PEOPLE

David Racine

Associate
racine.david@dorsey.com

Overview

A strategic advocate for business success in high-stakes commercial disputes.

David is a trial lawyer who helps businesses resolve complex commercial disputes with strategy and focus. He represents companies across a range of industries in significant contract matters, as well as owners, contractors, subcontractors, and developers in high-stakes construction and real estate litigation, including major public-private partnership (P3) projects. His construction practice covers a wide range of claims, including delays, defects, payment disputes, and warranty issues. Whether in court or arbitration, David is known for developing tailored strategies that advance his clients’ business objectives.

Clients rely on David for his sharp legal insight, practical judgment, and steady hand under pressure. He believes the best litigation strategies begin with a deep understanding of the client’s goals. More than an advocate, David is a business-minded partner who delivers results.

Education & Admissions

University of Minnesota Law School (J.D., 2019), magna cum laude; Managing Editor, Minnesota Law Review; Student Director, Federal Immigration Litigation Clinic

Carleton College (B.A., Economics and Philosophy, 2016)

Admissions

  • Minnesota
  • U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota

Clerkships

  • U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, Judge Susan Richard Nelson, 2020-2021

Experience

Representative Work

  • Serving as P3 construction counsel for joint powers public authority in Minnesota and North Dakota on multi-billion-dollar flood diversion project.
  • Representing public authority in Minnesota charged with operating U.S. Bank Stadium.
  • Represent owners, contractors, and subcontractors in commercial and construction disputes.
  • Represent landowners in leasing, boundary, and easement disputes.
  • Represent businesses and individuals in breach of contract and business tort matters.
  • Defended large shopping mall against premises liability claims.
  • Represented Fortune 500 client in arbitration asserting breach of contract claims against former executive. 
  • Conducted internal investigation for Fortune 500 client regarding trade secret matters.
  • Served as a Special Assistant Public Defender at the Dakota County Public Defender’s Office.

Industries & Practices

  • Class Action Litigation
  • Commercial Litigation
  • Construction Litigation
  • Development & Infrastructure
  • Government Solutions & Investigations
  • Healthcare & Life Sciences
  • Healthcare Litigation
  • Public-Private Partnerships
  • Real Estate Litigation

Professional & Civic

Community Involvement

  • Section Council Member, Construction Section, Minnesota State Bar Association
  • Member, ABA Forum on Construction Law
  • Mock Trial Coach, Apple Valley High School

Accolades

     North Star LawyerPro Bono 50 Hours 2022

  • Best Lawyers® Ones to Watch in America, 2026
  • MSBA North Star Lawyer, 2019, 2022-2023
  • Contributed more than 50+ Challenge pro bono hours, 2022
David Racine