A partner in the firm, Douglas R. Allen concentrates his practice in construction law, professional liability, and commercial litigation. He has extensive experience in defending design professionals from architectural, structural, mechanical, plumbing, civil, and acoustical defect claims. In a recent federal jury trial, Mr. Allen obtained a directed verdict in successfully defending an architect against claims for breach of contract, consumer fraud, and fraud. Mr. Allen is also experienced in insurance coverage, product liability, and premises liability matters. He is skilled in handling complex litigation matters from initial investigation through final disposition.

Education
Mr. Allen earned his B.A. degree in Political Science from Valparaiso University in 1999 and his J.D. degree from the Valparaiso University School of Law in 2002.

Bar Admissions
Mr. Allen is authorized to practice law in Illinois, the U.S. District Courts for the Northern and Central Districts of Illinois and in the U.S. Supreme Court.

Professional Associations

Mr. Allen is a member of the Chicago Bar Association and the Illinois State Bar Association.

Cited Cases

BB Syndicate Services, Inc. v. LM Consultants, Inc., 2011 WL 856646 (N.D. Ill); Brethren Home of Girard, Illinois v. OSM, Inc., 2008 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 10116 (C.D. Ill.); Monroe v. U.S., 2007 WL 839992 (N.D. Ill.).

Publications
Mr. Allen co-authored the chapter titled Claims Arising out of Construction Accidents, which will soon be published by the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education. He also authored the article “Indemnity Agreements – Mythological Risk Transfer” published in Metal Construction News, and he has frequently written on important issues raised by recent decisional law and legislation. Mr. Allen has also prepared presentations and lectured on construction related topics, including design professional liability law and risks associated with “green” design.

Honors
Mr. Allen was selected as an Illinois Rising Star attorney in the area of Construction Law for 2012 and 2013. Each year, the list of Rising Star attorneys is published in Illinois Super Lawyers magazine and the February issue of Chicago magazine. The Rising Star designation is an honor bestowed on no more than 2.5 percent of attorneys who are under the age of 40 or have less than 10 years of legal experience.