Donna has practiced employment law and litigation since graduating with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law in 2000. She spent the first part of her career representing employers on topics such as wage and hour issues, termination considerations, and litigation strategies in a wide array of lawsuits.
Donna's practice then shifted in 2007 to representing primarily employees and their rights in the workplace. Donna has first chaired or co-chaired a number of jury trials in state and federal court and has earned multi-million dollar verdicts for her clients as a result.
Due to her wisdom acquired from representing both sides in litigation, Donna has also developed a successful mediation practice. She loves to help people find practical solutions for their employment dilemmas.
Donna grew up and attended college in Great Falls, Montana, earning a B.S. in Criminal Justice, summa cum laude. Donna went to law school at the University of Georgia, graduating magna cum laude and as a member of the Order of the Coif.
Donna's recent awards include:
• 2019 Lawyer of the Year- Litigation--Labor & Employment, Best Lawyers in America
• Rated AV, Preeminent, Martindale Hubbell
• Rising Star, Super Lawyers, 2014-present
• Client Rating 5.0 out of 5.0, Martindale Hubbell
• Federal Bar Association President's Award
Additionally, Donna has held the following offices:
• Chattanooga Chapter of the Federal Bar Association--President, Past President, Government Liaison, Civics Coordinator, Editor
• Chair of the Tennessee Bar Association Labor and Employment Council (2018-2019)
• Member, District Civics Committee, Eastern District of Tennessee
• Member, CJA Panel Selection Committee, U.S. District Court, Eastern District Tennessee, 2016-2019
• Barrister Member, The Justices Ray L. Brock Jr. Robert E. Cooper American Inn of Court
• Member, Tennessee Employment Lawyers Association
Although Donna's practice and professional life is thriving, she most enjoys spending time with her husband, Ryan, and her four children. Donna came from a long line of journalists and paid her way through college by waitressing and teaching dance lessons. She understands how to fight hard and work hard for one's goals. Donna also spent a period of time as a single mother while practicing law and appreciates the challenge that parents experience trying to juggle all responsibilities. If you want an attorney with an appreciation for real-life challenges and how to overcome them, then look no further.
