Michael Unti Obituary

Michael Unti
July 13, 1950 - July 24, 2023
Raleigh, North Carolina - Michael Lee Unti, formerly of Raleigh, North Carolina, died peacefully in his sleep on July 24, 2023 at the age of 73. Born in Seattle, Washington on July 13, 1950 to Francis Evans Peter Unti and Verna Elizabeth Unti, Mike was an Eagle Scout and completed high school at Shawnee Mission South in Kansas before going on to Washington and Lee University where he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa his senior year. After graduating with a B.A. in 1972 and then completing two master's degrees at Yale University he began active duty in the United States Army where he was commissioned as a Captain and proudly served overseas in the 101st Airborne Division. He served in REFORGER exercises in Germany and was in command of an anti-aircraft battery in Korea, receiving numerous commendations for his distinguished service.
Mike then attended law school at Washington and Lee, where he met wife, Brenda. Mike and Brenda moved to Atlanta where they welcomed son, James, before settling in Raleigh shortly before the arrival of son, Michael. Mike became a partner at the Hunton & Williams law firm, working in civil litigation and managing large cases. He specialized in the complex field of nuclear power plant construction and was involved in cases across the country during the late 1980's and early 1990's. He was a renowned litigator and achieved the highest possible distinction under the Martindale-Hubbell attorney ranking system.
In 1998, Mike formed his own law firm alongside partners; Margaret Lumsden and Sharon Smith. Mike continued to represent longtime civil clients, while taking on a capital appeal upon request of North Carolina's Center for Death Penalty Litigation. Mike formed a close relationship with his first client and, over the next twenty-five years, represented many more capital clients. He found the work meaningful and was beloved by his clients. He worked tirelessly in investigating the sometimes decades old cases and, through his efforts, was directly responsible for saving lives. He became a cherished member of North Carolina's capital bar.
Mike loved working with younger people. He was a patient and supportive mentor to many who still credit him as leaving an indelible mark on their lives. He is survived by his sons; James A. Unti of Phoenix, Arizona and Michael P. Unti of Sacramento, California; his brother, Steven F. Unti of Atlanta, Georgia; and four grandchildren. At a private service at a later date Mike's ashes will be spread in Anaconda, Montana, a place he cherished and returned to throughout his life to find peace and quiet contemplation.
Memorial donations may be made to either the Center for Death Penalty Litigation or the Anaconda Restoration Association.