Douglas Novotny is an active litigator who has tried more than 85 jury cases to verdict and handled numerous non-jury trials, arbitrations, mediations and administrative proceedings. Having practiced law in New York for more than 30 years, Doug has a diverse civil defense practice in the areas of general casualty, medical and legal malpractice, construction, premises liability and product liability. He provides representation in all phases of adversarial proceedings from inception through trial and appeal. Clients rely on Doug for his keen judgment in determining when a lawsuit is ripe for resolution and for his willingness to take a case to verdict if an equitable settlement cannot be reached.

Prior to joining Wilson Elser, Doug was a Managing Attorney for American International Group (AIG), handling case management and trying its high-exposure matters in Upstate New York. He currently is an AIG/Chartis Supervisory Partner for the firm, handling cases in the same territory he had while a Managing Attorney at AIG. Doug is also approved counsel for the firm’s other major insurance carrier clients.

Doug has represented all manner of defendants from individuals to major corporations in all courts and forums including United States District Court, all New York state courts in many jurisdictions, including Supreme Court and the Court of Claims, and administrative forums ranging from the Department of Agriculture to the Department of Health to the New York State Division of Human Rights. He has represented clients in proceedings venued in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Florida and California pro hac vice as well.