Douglas S. Heffer is a partner and litigation lawyer with Foley & Lardner LLP. Douglas’ practice is primarily focused on representing clients in complex commercial matters in both state and federal courts as well as in various modes of alternative dispute resolution. Douglas also assists clients in responding to governmental investigations. He is a member of the Business Litigation & Dispute Resolution and Construction Practices and the Health Care Industry Team.
Representative Experience
- Represented general contractors, suppliers, and owners in disputes regarding the construction of nuclear, wind, solar and natural gas power plants in the United States and Mexico.
- Represented large national health insurance company in a series of lawsuits brought by out-of-network medical providers alleging ERISA violations relating to the denial of claims for medical benefits.
- Represented lender in student loan investigations by the U.S. Congress, U.S. Department of Education and numerous state attorney general offices.
- Obtained dismissal of suit against insurance company alleging claims for employee piracy and corporate raiding.
- Obtained dismissal of numerous legal malpractice actions against prominent national law firm.
- Successfully negotiated favorable settlement on behalf of medical institution client relating to claims asserted by dozens of subcontractors for unpaid invoices.
- Obtained dismissal on summary judgment, and affirmance on appeal, of claim against insurance company by former shareholders seeking upwards of US$60m.
- Represented Fortune 500 company in defense of bankruptcy court action seeking over US$100m for alleged fraudulent transfers.
Awards and Recognition
- New York Super Lawyers – Rising Stars® (2013-2018)
- The Legal 500, Real Estate – Construction (2016)
Community Involvement
Douglas also devotes a considerable amount of time to various pro bono efforts. He has represented several individuals from Burma and The Gambia in both affirmative and defensive asylum applications. Douglas has also represented the parent of a child with Asperger’s Syndrome in proceedings before the New York City Department of Education to obtain funds for the child to attend a specialized private school for children with autism.