Doug began practicing law in Fort Wayne in 1987 following three successive federal judicial
clerkships. His early practice focused on complex commercial litigation, including patent and trademark infringement. In 1995, Doug shifted his focus to employee benefits, and has been concentrating in this area of practice since then.
Doug joined the firm in 2010 and became Of Counsel in 2021. In that capacity, he continues to advise clients with complex benefits issues. Doug offers clear, unbiased advice in dealing with regulatory compliance issues and contractual relationships with third-party service providers. He has regularly represented clients before the Internal Revenue Service and the Department of Labor, and has extensive experience with both agencies’ correction programs. When disputes cannot be resolved short of litigation, Doug brings over 25 years of experience in handling complex ERISA issues in federal and state court.
Doug is a past President of the Allen County Bar Association, and has also served in that capacity on several local not-for-profit boards.
When he’s not otherwise engaged in legal work or community service, Doug manages Fairland Orchard that produces premium quality pure, unpasteurized cider. Doug is also a World Class Frisbee Master, an achievement that Bentley, his Labrador Retriever, sincerely appreciates.
community involvement
Doug has been active in several not-for-profit and civic organizations, including service on the boards of the Allen County Bar Association; Northeast Indiana Public Radio; Fort Wayne Center for Learning; Arts United of Fort Wayne; Family & Children’s Services; Fort Wayne Dance Collective; and Heartland Chamber Chorale.
education
Bachelor’s degree, Oberlin College
Master of Arts, Bowling Green State University
J.D., University of Toledo
court admissions
Admitted to the Indiana State Bar – 1983
U.S. Courts of Appeals for the 7th and 8th Circuits
U.S. District Courts for Indiana (Northern & Southern)
U.S. District Court for Alabama (Southern)
U.S. District Court for Georgia (Northern)
U.S District Court for Michigan (Eastern)
