For more than three decades, Joe litigated product liability lawsuits. He served on national product liability teams representing Fortune 500 companies and other businesses in litigation throughout the country. His clients included manufacturers and distributors of home appliances, kitchen appliances and utensils, manufacturing equipment and consumer goods.
Joe also represented owners, designers, general contractors and subcontractors in construction disputes and litigation. He handled matters involving manufacturing facilities, solar projects, hotels, dormitories, parking ramps, hospitals, healthcare facilities, and concrete. His experience included advising, negotiating and litigating the range of issues that can arise before, during and after actual construction. In addition, he litigated virtually all aspects of transportation law and also negotiates carrier and broker contracts. He also handled litigation disputes between healthcare entities and insurance coverage disputes regarding medical malpractice, professional liability and commercial general liability claims.
Joe focused on identifying the central issues of a claim that will affect the end result. He worked to understand each client’s non-legal goals early on, because those often determine the outcome of the dispute. After decades of practice, Joe remained committed to delivering honed skill in predicting possible case outcomes and adjusting his arguments and negotiation tactics accordingly. Judges, mediators and opposing counsel were known to comment on Joe’s calm demeanor, patience and preparation.
Professional and Community Involvement
Member, Board of Governors, Indiana State Bar Association
Registered Indiana Civil Mediator
Board secretary, St. Joseph County Bar Foundation
Board member, Volunteer Lawyer’s Network
District representative, Indiana State Bar Association Section of Litigation
Member and past president, Robert A. Grant Inn of Court
Former chair, St. Joseph County Bar Association Judicial Survey Committee
Member and past president, St. Joseph County Bar Association
Coach, Indiana State High School Mock Trial Competition
Former board member, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of St. Joseph County, Inc.
Former board member and president, Habitat for Humanity, St. Joseph County
Vice president, Saint Joseph High School Lacrosse Board
Former school board member, Saint Joseph Grade School
Honors
Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent
The Best Lawyers in America, 2008-2024
The Indiana Lawyer Distinguished Barrister, 2013
Fellow, Indiana Bar Foundation