April 24, 2013

Tanner and DeNeal Receive Leadership in Law Awards

Indiana Lawyer has named J. Joseph Tanner and Dustin R. DeNeal, both of Faegre Baker Daniels LLP, winners of 2013 Leadership in Law Awards for their outstanding legal work and community involvement.

Tanner, a partner and the leader of FaegreBD's national, 90-member product liability and environmental practice, was selected as a Distinguished Barrister. The award honors lawyers whose leadership in both the profession and the community has been exemplary over the course of their careers.

DeNeal, an associate in the firm's finance and restructuring practice, was named an Up and Coming Lawyer. The award honors attorneys early in their legal careers who have already demonstrated leadership and talent for making an impact.

"The lawyers highlighted in this publication are impressive, and it is a privilege to have the opportunity to honor them." Kelly Lucas, editor and publisher of Indiana Lawyer, wrote in announcing the 2013 winners. "The tenacity of the young lawyers nominated and the work ethic of their accomplished mentors is truly inspiring."

Tanner is recognized as a tactical leader in product liability litigation and has represented regional and global manufacturers in state, federal and appellate courts throughout the U.S. and Canada, Indiana Lawyer reported. He handles numerous international disputes and arbitrations in Canada, China and Europe. Tanner, who is active in Zionsville Youth Soccer Association and the Zionsville Rotary Club, told Indiana Lawyer that youth sports organizations and the mission of the International Center of Indianapolis are civic causes most important to him. He added that the advice he would give his 25-year-old self is "Thank your parents more and follow the same path. It's been a great one for me."

DeNeal is a fifth-year associate who has tackled more complex issues and difficult cases than some attorneys with many more years experience. Early in his career, DeNeal took on prominent roles in a Chapter 11 case involving a large U.S. cattle dealer and a converted Chapter 7 case involving a global musical instrument retailer. He has developed his own side practice advising colleges and universities on bankruptcy matters. DeNeal told Indiana Lawyer the most important thing he has learned from a mentor is "Precision of thought…Our clients call us with difficult, life-changing legal issues. We owe it to them to fully think through the situation and potential solutions before offering advice."

Winners were highlighted in a special supplement to Indiana Lawyer on April 24 and will be honored at a reception on May 2.