May 2026 Pacesetter Kara Weisman
Vahdat Weisman | Livonia

What motivated you to become a trial lawyer? Advocacy and justice have always been central to who I am. Over time, I’ve developed a niche representing victims of sexual assault, particularly those with disabilities and those who are most vulnerable. This work is deeply meaningful to me. There is no greater responsibility, or reward, than giving a voice to individuals who have been unheard and standing beside them and their families as they seek accountability and justice. 

When did you become a member of MAJ? Why did you decide to join? I first joined MAJ in March of 2018. I decided to join because I wanted to be part of a community of like-minded trial lawyers committed to collaboration, advocacy, and promoting justice. MAJ provided me with an opportunity to learn from others, share ideas, and collectively work toward protecting the rights of injured individuals across Michigan. The outreach and support I’ve received over the years has been invaluable. 

Why do you feel it is important for trial lawyers to be a part of MAJ? In this profession, there are moments- especially during trial or contentious hearings- when you need immediate guidance or support, and MAJ members consistently show up for one another. That sense of community and willingness to help is incredibly important. 

Please describe the extent of your MAJ participation (offices held, committees, AAJ, etc): I have remained actively engaged with the Michigan Association for Justice, including supporting the MAJ PAC over the past several years. 

You have made a strong commitment to the JUSTICE PAC. Why do you feel supporting the PAC is important? My partner and I view this as an important investment in the future of the plaintiff’s bar and in maintaining a strong civil justice system for injured individuals. 

What is distinctive about your practice, and your firm? We are a boutique firm with eight lawyers that focus on all aspects of personal injury law, allowing us to support clients through a wide range of matters from motor vehicle accidents to medical malpractice, premises liability, and wrongful death cases. Our team brings a diverse range of backgrounds, including experience in insurance defense, medical malpractice defense, and appellate work. This perspective allows us to anticipate challenges and approach cases strategically. We also have attorneys who speak multiple languages, which helps us better serve and connect with a broader range of clients. Being a boutique firm, it allows us to be closely involved with our clients and provide a more personalized experience throughout the process. 

A significant part of my practice today is dedicated to representing victims of sexual assault which has become one of the most meaningful aspects of what I do. 

What is your most memorable case? One of my most memorable cases was in 2023, when I represented an individual who was catastrophically injured in a motor vehicle collision through no fault of his own. He was in the prime of his life when everything changed in an instant. I worked closely with him and his family to help them navigate the uncertainty and challenges that followed. Ultimately, we secured a significant settlement, which was recognized as the second highest in Michigan that year. 

While the result was meaningful, what stands out most is the trust the family placed in us during such a difficult time and the opportunity to help them move forward. I feel incredibly fortunate to now call this former client a friend and to continue watching him make meaningful strides in his journey ahead. 

What was your most satisfying case? One of my most satisfying cases involved representing a student in Michigan who was a victim of sexual abuse by their special education teacher. Through discovery, exhaustive investigation, and depositions, we were able to uncover a pattern of abuse that had gone unaddressed in this school district. Most importantly, we were able to give children a voice and help hold those responsible accountable. Being part of that process and helping these students feel heard and supported was incredibly meaningful to me. 

Please provide a brief description of your interests outside the practice of law. Outside of the practice of law, my greatest joy is spending time with my family, especially my two young children. I also enjoy traveling and staying connected in my community. As a mom of a son with congenital heart disease, I also dedicate my time to serving on the parent advisory committee at the University of Michigan Mott Congenital Heart Center.