Walter McKee Attorney: The Unmatched Trial Lawyer of Maine
Walter McKee Attorney: The Unmatched Trial Lawyer of Maine
When it comes to legal brilliance in Maine, few names carry the weight and credibility of Walter McKee. With over 30 years of experience, McKee has become synonymous with courtroom excellence, fearless criminal defense, and unmatched legal intellect. As a founding member of McKee Morgan Attorneys, his legacy in both state and federal courtrooms is legendary.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Maine, Walter McKee developed an early interest in public service and justice. His academic journey began at Bowdoin College, one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the U.S., where he graduated with distinction. He later pursued his Juris Doctor degree at the University of Maine School of Law, setting the stage for a long and illustrious legal career.
Legal Career Overview
Walter McKee began practicing law in the mid-1990s and quickly earned a reputation as a dynamic and persuasive trial lawyer. His early career focused on criminal defense, but he soon expanded into:
- Personal injury
- Civil rights
- Appellate litigation
- Complex civil litigation
He has tried more than 200 jury trials in criminal and civil courts and has argued cases in the Maine Supreme Judicial Court, the U.S. District Court, and the First Circuit Court of Appeals.
Criminal Defense Expertise
McKee is best known for his prowess in criminal law. From misdemeanors to capital murder cases, he brings unmatched expertise. Some of the key defense areas include:
- Homicide and manslaughter
- Sexual assault defense
- Federal drug conspiracy cases
- Domestic violence
- White-collar crime
- Juvenile criminal defense
His client-first approach, in-depth knowledge of Maine law, and superior cross-examination skills have made him a formidable presence in any courtroom.
Civil Litigation & Personal Injury Success
While McKee shines in criminal law, he is also a powerful force in civil litigation. As a personal injury attorney, he has secured multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts for clients in:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Premises liability
- Wrongful death
- Workplace injuries
His ability to negotiate and litigate ensures maximum compensation for victims and their families.
Major High-Profile Cases
Over the decades, Walter McKee has handled several high-profile and media-sensitive cases:
- Andrea Balcer Case: Defended a transgender teenager accused of a double homicide. McKee’s strategic defense drew national attention.
- Multiple Murder Trials: Acted as lead counsel in various murder trials, receiving praise for courtroom finesse.
- Federal Drug Conspiracy Trials: Represented clients in multi-defendant drug trafficking operations, often achieving favorable plea bargains or acquittals.
These cases showcased McKee’s ability to navigate complex legal terrain under intense scrutiny.
Recognition & Awards
Walter McKee’s stellar performance hasn’t gone unnoticed. His accolades include:
- Best Lawyers in America (15 consecutive years)
- New England Super Lawyers (2008–2025)
- AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell
- Louis Scolnik Award from the ACLU of Maine for civil liberties advocacy
- Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers – a distinction limited to the top 1% of lawyers
These honors reflect not just technical skill but ethical leadership and community trust.
Leadership Roles & Legal Contributions
Walter McKee has served in several legal capacities:
- Past President of the Maine Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- President of the Maine Trial Lawyers Association (2025)
- Member of the Criminal Law Advisory Commission of Maine
- Contributor to Maine’s Sentencing Guidelines
He frequently testifies before the legislature on criminal justice reform, further amplifying his impact beyond the courtroom.
Teaching at Harvard and Legal Education
Since 2022, McKee has been a teaching faculty member at Harvard Law School, invited annually to train students in trial advocacy and litigation strategy. His teaching style combines real-life experience with pedagogical clarity.
He also lectures at:
- University of Maine School of Law
- Maine State Bar CLE events
- National legal education workshops
Community Involvement and Public Service
Outside the courtroom, McKee is deeply embedded in civic life:
- Former JAG officer (Judge Advocate General) in the U.S. military
- Youth soccer and basketball coach
- Former Hallowell City Council member
- Active with local bar associations and nonprofit initiatives
This connection to community keeps him grounded and further reinforces his commitment to justice.
Personal Life of Walter McKee
Despite his legal fame, McKee remains humble and balanced. He enjoys:
- Running and swimming
- Spending time with his family
- Flying (he’s a former pilot)
- Reading legal fiction and history
His Maine roots remain an essential part of his identity, shaping his professional values and ethical compass.
McKee Morgan Law Firm
Founded in 2012 and based in Augusta, Maine, McKee Morgan Attorneys represents clients across the state. The firm focuses on:
- Criminal defense
- Personal injury
- Civil rights
- Federal appeals
With McKee at the helm, the firm combines small-town attentiveness with big-city legal firepower.
Contact Info:
- Address: 133 State Street, Augusta, ME 04330
- Phone: (207) 620-8294
- Website: mckeemorgan.com
Notable Cases and Media Coverage
Media Appearances:
- CentralMaine.com
- Bangor Daily News
- WMTW Channel 8
- ABC affiliates in New England
- Getty Images (courtroom appearances)
Case Types Covered:
| Case Type | Approx. No. of Cases | Win Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Murder Trials | 30+ | 80% |
| Drug Conspiracy (Federal) | 50+ | 75% |
| Personal Injury | 100+ | 85% |
| Appeals | 40+ | 70% |
Walter McKee in Numbers (Biography)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Walter F. McKee |
| Current Firm | McKee Morgan Attorneys |
| Location | Augusta, Maine |
| Bar Admission | Maine, U.S. District Court, Supreme Court |
| Trials Conducted | Over 200 |
| Harvard Teaching Faculty | Since 2022 |
| Leadership Roles | 4+ Bar Associations |
| Awards | 10+ Major Legal Awards |
Final Thoughts
Walter McKee is not just a legal practitioner—he is a legal force. With unmatched skill in both trial and appellate courts, recognition from Harvard Law School, and dedication to civil rights, his legacy is both inspiring and enduring. For anyone seeking a top-tier attorney in Maine, whether for criminal defense or civil litigation, Walter McKee stands in a class of his own.
His professionalism, coupled with a deep commitment to community and justice, cements his status as one of the most influential legal figures in New England.
