Adam S. Akeel

Fascinated by the "mind behind the mask," Adam S. Akeel has been an avid student of psychology since 2011. His deep understanding of psychological dynamics provides him with a unique edge in litigation—allowing him to anticipate opposing strategies, distill complex motives, and craft compelling legal arguments rooted in human behavior. This intellectual curiosity has become a cornerstone of his legal practice.

In 2016, Adam joined Akeel & Valentine, PLC to pursue justice alongside his father, internationally recognized civil and human rights attorney Shereef H. Akeel. Since then, Adam has built a national reputation for his legal writing and litigation acumen. He was featured in USA Today and The Wall Street Journal as one of the Most Influential Attorneys of 2024 and 2025, respectively—an honor presented by Lawyers of Distinction. He was also named 2024 Litigator of the Year by the American Institute of Trial Lawyers and recognized as a Top 40 Under 40 Lawyer by The National Trial Lawyers. In 2025, he was inducted into Marquis Who’s Who for excellence in legal services.

Adam is a results-oriented legal strategist and litigator who believes that cases are often won on paper. He has authored hundreds of briefs in state and federal courts across the country, including filings before the United States Supreme Court. His written advocacy has resulted in numerous favorable outcomes against powerful institutional defendants—ranging from municipalities to Fortune 100 and 500 corporations. Known by peers and professors alike as an "intellectually curious genius," Adam is especially skilled at navigating dense case law and identifying legal theories that others overlook. His work and legal analyses are routinely adopted in judicial opinions issued by state and federal judges.

Adam is experienced in litigating complex cases, including class and collective actions, throughout the United States. His practice spans claims brought under the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, RICO, Antitrust statutes, constitutional laws, and Consumer Protection laws. He has also represented whistleblowers in False Claims Act or Qui Tam matters, as well as clients in employment discrimination and retaliation, franchise litigation, commercial disputes, and government forfeiture actions. His work in these areas has laid the foundation for positive change for individuals, employees, students, and those who have been victimized by corruption, abuse of power, discriminatory animus, or ill intent.

Adam has a profound appreciation for the legal system and its essential role in shaping a just and equitable society. He deeply respects the enduring wisdom of the judiciary since the founding of the Constitution, as well as the brilliance of the legislative process designed to uphold fairness, order, and the rule of law. As a modern advocate, Adam views his work as part of a long continuum—standing on the shoulders of the great legal minds who came before him. He is committed to carrying forward their legacy by advancing the law, particularly in areas where civil liberties are threatened, exploited, or quietly eroded. Through his advocacy, Adam strives to give voice to the voiceless and ensure that the law remains a living instrument for justice—not only for Americans, but for those around the world who look to the United States as a model of a fair and principled legal system.

A graduate of Albion College with a dual degree in Psychology and English, Adam earned his J.D. from Wayne State University Law School. He is admitted to practice in Michigan, the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth and Ninth Circuits. He has also been admitted to practice pro hac vice in various federal courts throughout the country.

Outside the courtroom, Adam is committed to continual learning and personal growth. He spends his free time swimming, reading across a wide range of disciplines—including philosophy, history, science, and business—and enjoying time with his family. He brings that same discipline, insight, and creativity to every case he litigates.