Faegre Drinker Strengthens Nationwide Product Liability & Mass Torts Practice, Adding Medical Device Litigator Dan Smulian in New York

Faegre Drinker announced today that Daniel Smulian has joined the firm’s product liability and mass torts practice as a partner in the New York office. Smulian joins from an international law firm.

Smulian’s arrival at Faegre Drinker follows the recent product liability group additions of Michael Stark and Tom Pack earlier this year and the expansion of the life sciences patent team in New York last month.

Smulian defends global companies in complex product liability litigation, with a focus on representing medical device and life science companies. He has defended clients in disputes involving a wide array of potential risk; those matters range from multidistrict litigations (MDLs) and other consolidated proceedings involving thousands of cases to single-plaintiff cases involving catastrophic injuries. His successes include numerous wins in cases that were venued in plaintiff friendly jurisdictions and involved extremely challenging facts.

“Dan’s track record of successfully navigating complex, high-stakes litigation and his extensive experience in the medical device industry makes him an invaluable addition to the team,” said Amy Fiterman, leader of the firm’s product liability and mass torts group. “His New York-based practice not only expands our team’s reach into a critical legal market but also enhances our ability to serve clients seamlessly across the country. We’re thrilled to welcome him aboard.”

Smulian has deep experience in all phases of litigation, from early motion practice and fact discovery through expert discovery, trials and appeals. In the mass tort context, he has overseen and managed simultaneous discovery in hundreds of active cases. Smulian has been a part of numerous trial teams, and he has spearheaded the successful appeal of trial court victories across the country. He also has secured the reversal of an adverse jury verdict where the client had been represented by other trial counsel.

“Dan consistently demonstrates strategic thinking and unwavering commitment to achieving favorable outcomes, even in the most challenging circumstances,” said Laura Appleby, New York office leader. “His arrival expands our product liability bench in New York, a key area of growth for the firm.”

Smulian has represented numerous pro bono clients in family law and related matters throughout the New York court system. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of VOLS (Volunteers of Legal Services), one of New York City’s preeminent pro bono service providers.

Smulian earned his Bachelor of Arts from Yale University and his Juris Doctor from Emory University School of Law. 

With its team of attorneys with backgrounds in chemistry, engineering, biology and other sciences, Faegre Drinker’s product liability trial team is deeply experienced in high-stakes multidistrict litigation and has defended clients in nearly every state, as well as in cross-border disputes.