Attorney Danielle M. Orait

Danielle M. Orait brings substantial trial experience and a deep commitment to justice to her role as an attorney at the firm’s eminent domain practice. She understands the profound impact eminent domain proceedings have on individuals’ lives and businesses and strives to ease the stress and worry for her clients.

A Passion for Justice

Growing up in a small town in Pennsylvania, Danielle developed a strong sense of right and wrong at an early age. Thrust into the juvenile justice system after having to pursue charges against a high school bully for continued harassment, Danielle was disappointed to find that she received little-to-no support from the Assistant District Attorney and local law enforcement. It was at this time that she decided to pursue a career where she could be the voice of those who needed legal assistance in their most vulnerable times.

Danielle was the first in her family to attend college and law school, graduating cum laude from La Roche University with a degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology. A pivotal class assignment – observing trials at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh – confirmed her calling. The moment she entered the courthouse, she knew the law would be her path to stand up for others. Danielle went on to earn her law degree from Thomas. M. Cooley Law School in Michigan.

Experience & Dedication

Danielle has an extensive background in public service which includes more than six years as an Assistant District Attorney at the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. There, she handled thousands of cases across the Gang Violence, Arson, and General Trial Units. Her responsibilities included prosecuting homicides, attempted homicides, aggravated assaults, violations of the Uniform Firearms Act, and arson cases from the preliminary hearing to trial.

Danielle moved to Raleigh, NC and spent nearly two years as an Assistant District Attorney for the Wake County District Attorney’s Office. In this role, she was assigned to the Drug Unit, prosecuting cases from District Court to Superior Court, including narcotics trafficking, homicide, embezzlement, possession of firearms by convicted felons, and various misdemeanor cases like sexual battery and DWI.

Throughout her years as an Assistant District Attorney, Danielle remained committed to her mission of being a voice for others in need and guiding them through difficult legal issues.

Transitioning to Eminent Domain

Prior to joining the firm, Danielle served as an Assistant Attorney General at the North Carolina Department of Justice, where she represented the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) in all stages of eminent domain litigation, including trial, mediation, depositions, and settlements. This direct experience working with the NCDOT provides her with an invaluable perspective on the complexities of eminent domain cases and the intricacies of the process. She also represented the state in criminal appeals to the North Carolina Court of Appeals.

Practicing eminent domain law allows Danielle to continue providing a needed service to the community. She now focuses exclusively on protecting property owners’ rights and helping people facing land condemnation seek maximum compensation for their property. Danielle listens closely to each client’s individual story and combines compassion with her desire to do the right thing as she helps people navigate the eminent domain process.

Outside the Office

Danielle enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time at the beach. Her personal motto, “The meaning of life is to live,” serves as a reminder to embrace experiences and find gratitude, even in challenging times.