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  3. David G. Palay

David Palay enjoys the daily challenges he must resolve as a shareholder in Reinhart’s Litigation Practice, bringing energy, creativity and straightforward solutions to his work in white collar criminal defense and complex commercial litigation. He often represents clients in cases involving fiduciary issues, contractual obligations and dealership law disputes as well as matters related to the ownership, governance and succession of family-controlled businesses.

David offers concrete, realistic advice to his clients and passionate advocacy to their issues. He works to see the world from their perspective, understand their goals and offer practical guidance where their objectives and the law intersect. He represents clients in all stages of litigation before trial and appellate courts at both the state and federal level, including successfully representing clients before state supreme courts. David has argued before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and is petitioning a matter for review by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Prior to joining Reinhart, David worked at an Am Law 100 firm in Chicago and served as a judicial law clerk to the Hon. John G. Koeltl of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. His experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases give him big-picture perspective and have honed his ability to act decisively and communicate effectively.

David regularly speaks to professional organizations and shares analysis of developments in family business law.

He serves on the Board of Directors for Neighborhood House Community Center, a nonprofit community center dedicated to urban youth, families and seniors. He enjoys practicing the martial art of Brazilian jiu jitsu and spending time with his dogs and family.

Education

  • J.D., with Honors, University of Chicago Law School (Thomas R. Mulroy Prize and Karl Llewellyn Memorial Cup recipient)
  • B.A., with High Distinction, University of Michigan

Bar Admissions

Illinois | Wisconsin

Court Admissions

  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois

Honors & Affiliations

Honors

  • Named as a "Rising Star" by Wisconsin Super Lawyers (Criminal Defense: White Collar, 2023)

Affiliations

  • Neighborhood House Community Center (Board Member)

News & Insights

Presentations

  • “Legal Developments for Small Businesses,” 7th Annual Family Business Update: Avoiding and Resolving Conflict, State Bar of Wisconsin (September 30, 2022)
  • “A Review of Legal Developments Relevant to Family Businesses, Including Business Law, Contracts, and Trusts & Estates,” 6th Annual Family Business Update: Hot Trends and Best Practices, State Bar of Wisconsin (October 20, 2021)
  • “Recent Developments in Family Business Law,” 5th Annual Family Business Update, State Bar of Wisconsin (December 9, 2020)