Robert G. Manly Serving as President of SBAND Board of Governors

Vogel Law Firm is proud to announce that attorney and shareholder Robert G. Manly has assumed the role of President of the State Bar Association of North Dakota (SBAND) Board of Governors. During the 2027 SBAND Annual Meeting held June 10–12, outgoing President Debra Hoffarth officially welcomed Rob into the position.

The State Bar Association of North Dakota serves lawyers and the public by promoting professional competence, supporting the administration of justice, upholding the honor of the legal profession, and fostering collegiality among members of the North Dakota bar. As President of the Board of Governors, Rob will help guide the organization’s leadership and strategic direction.

“I’m honored to serve as President of the State Bar Association of North Dakota, ” said Manly. “Our legal profession plays a critical role in strengthening communities, protecting the rule of law, and ensuring access to justice. I look forward to working with my colleagues across the state to support and promote our profession.”

Rob brings nearly three decades of legal experience to the role. A shareholder at Vogel Law Firm, he maintains an active litigation practice representing clients in a wide range of matters, including estate ligation and personal injury claims. Before joining Vogel, Rob practiced law in Carrington and Grand Forks and served as an Assistant State’s Attorney for Cass County.

Since beginning his legal career in 1997, Rob has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership and service within the legal profession. At Vogel Law Firm, he has held several key management positions, including serving as Firm President for eight years. He has also played an important role in mentoring associate attorneys and previously chaired the firm’s recruiting and compensation committees.

Beyond his work at Vogel, Rob has remained actively involved in the legal community throughout his career. He is a member of the Cass County Bar Association and the Ronald N. Davies American Inn of Court and has served as a mentor through SBAND’s Lawyers Assistance Program. His commitment to service extends into the broader community as well, including 24 years of service on the Board of Directors for Legal Services of North Dakota.

A fourth-generation North Dakota attorney and native of New Rockford, Rob earned his undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College and his law degree from the University of North Dakota School of Law. He resides in north Fargo with his wife, Julie, and together they have three adult children.

“Rob’s dedication to the legal profession, his commitment to mentorship, and his history of leadership make him exceptionally well suited for this role,” said Andrew Smith, President of Vogel Law Firm. “We are proud to see him represent both our firm and the legal community of North Dakota as SBAND President.”

Our firm congratulates Rob and looks forward to his continued leadership and service to the legal profession throughout North Dakota.