His Impact: Work & Accomplishments
Dan was known for the tenacity and conviction he brought to his craft. After just eleven years into his tenure at Habush, Dan had tried 100 jury trials and was the youngest fellow inducted to the International Academy of Trial Lawyers – a prestigious honor, as the organization’s membership is limited to 500 trial lawyers across the United States.
Although Dan primarily practiced in his home state of Wisconsin, his career took him across the nation. Over the span of his career, Dan resolved more than 90 cases valued at over one million dollars, twelve of which resulted in a recovery of over ten million dollars.
Alongside former firm President Robert Habush, Dan spent two years as a nearly full-time counsel for the state of Wisconsin – taking on the tobacco industry in the largest lawsuit ever prosecuted in the state, which resulted in a win that produced a settlement of over $5 billion. In 1991, Dan argued in front of the United States Supreme Court, successfully representing a Korean War veteran.
In 2009, Dan was invited to become a member of the Inner Circle of Advocates. This esteemed group is limited to the top 100 plaintiff trial lawyers in the country.
Dan was incredibly active in his community and in the industry. He served on a number of boards and foundations focused on bettering the legal community and preparing the industry’s next generation of leaders. As a result of his efforts and excellence in the field, he was named Trial Lawyer of the Year by the Wisconsin Association for Justice in both 2008 and 2019 – making him the first attorney to receive the honor twice.
As a mentor and professional in practice, Dan believed in sharing his knowledge with young aspiring attorneys. A true Wisconsin Badger, he returned to his alma mater and taught trial advocacy at the University of Wisconsin Law School for many years.
Dan’s colleagues remember him as dedicated, intelligent, and resilient. His legacy continues to live on through the knowledge, advice, and lasting impact he’s left on the hundreds of young professionals and attorneys he mentored, counseled, and practiced alongside.