BRINKER & DOYEN, L. - Key Persons
I've been practicing law for over fifty years. My parents told me I was in fourth grade when I first said, "I want to be a lawyer." Since then, my enthusiasm for the profession has never waned. I've always been committed to excellence and am very proud of my career and the successes of the firm I've helped build."
Education
Washington University (A.B., 1953; J.D., 1955)
Practice Areas
• Construction Litigation
Job Titles:
- Partner
- New a Partner
- View Attorney
The only way to approach a case is as if it were your own. This means studying the facts intensely, understanding the issues thoroughly, and being fully prepared to go to trial if necessary. I help our clients choose their battles wisely, and treat their time and resources as if they are mine. I am fully invested in the work I do for our clients and am honored to help them achieve the outcomes they desire."
Education
University of Missouri Columbia
Bridgette N. Fu announced as new a partner of Brinker & Doyen
Following a lengthy jury trial, Jeff Brinker won a defense verdict in a medical malpractice trial on behalf of an emergency medicine physician and an urgent care clinic. Plaintiff had alleged Defendants treated her daughter negligently by failing to suspect, work up, and treat a pulmonary embolism, which ultimately led to her death several weeks
Jeffrey Brinker won a defense verdict in a medical malpractice trial in the Circuit Court of St. Louis County, successfully defending a dermatologist and her corporation which were alleged to have mistreated a minor patient with isotretinoin, an acne medication. Plaintiff alleged he had been improperly started on the drug, and that his dosage had
After extensive briefing and several days of oral argument, Jeffrey Brinker won the dismissal of a medical malpractice suit which had been filed as a breach of contract action. Plaintiff, a woman unsatisfied with the results of a cosmetic surgery, argued that she had contracted for a particular surgical outcome with Defendant, a plastic surgeon,
I believe there is no substitute for hard work when preparing a case. I strive to know the file inside and out-ready to face any challenges that may arise. The success of my clients is something I'm privileged to work hard for, and their trust and respect is something I'm privileged to earn."
Education
University of Missouri
Lawsuits are a very scary and sometimes daunting process. It is my job to ease that burden and assist our clients throughout their journey. Through hard work, perseverance and determination, I strive to provide our clients with zealous advocacy."
Stephen Fields won a defense verdict after a week-long medical malpractice trial in southern Illinois. Plaintiff alleged he had been intubated unnecessarily by an emergency department physician following respiratory collapse caused by combined alcohol and benzodiazepine intoxication. Medical records, experts, and fact witness testimony showed that, contrary to plaintiff's allegations, intubation had been necessary because
Gary Paul and Larry Smith obtained summary judgment in a legal malpractice case. The underlying case involved patent infringement. The Plaintiff alleged $30,000,000.00 in damages.
Through my years at Brinker & Doyen, I've come to believe that our firm's size is a real advantage to clients. We're large enough to have the experience and expertise to handle legal issues effectively, yet small enough to offer each case the same team and the same great service from start to finish. At a firm like ours, every partner, associate and staff member has to deliver on a daily basis; and that's an incredibly fulfilling challenge. Our clients benefit from our choice to grow better, not bigger. We are all invested in our commitment to provide both value and results."
Education
• Southern Illinois University
• Washington University (A.B., 1974; J.D., 1977)
Memberships
• Missouri Bar
• United States Supreme Court
• United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit
• United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri
• Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis
• Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
Practice Areas
• Appellate Practice
Gary Paul was selected by his peers for inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2022. Gary has been selected in the areas of Appellate Practice and Insurance Law.
Gary Paul and Larry Smith were selected by their peers for inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America 2015 (Copyright 2014 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Gary has been selected in the areas of Appellate Practice and Insurance Law. Larry has been selected in Personal Injury Litigation - Defense and Insurance Law. Larry was the
I take great pride in my years of representing health care providers. Unfortunate medical outcomes do not equate with poor care. I believe that the defendant in a medical negligence case is entitled to a fair assessment of the care provided. Criticisms of care based on the benefit of hindsight are not valid. It is my obligation, with the help of my client, to make the jury understand this as well."
Education
• Southwest Missouri State University (B.S., 1981)
• St. Louis University (J.D., 1984)
Memberships
• Bar Association of Metropolitan
Jim Thoele obtained a directed verdict for a hospital and the jury returned a nominal award against a nurse in a case wherein plaintiff alleged improper access of an electronic hospital record by a nurse that was not providing care to plaintiff. Inadvertent access of the electronic record was admitted when the nurse attempted to […]
As a person who is energized by new challenges, I enjoy the variety and pace of the practice of law. Every case deserves a fresh perspective, no matter how experienced the lawyer. At Brinker & Doyen, I am grateful to be backed by the firm's successful history and surrounded by a team of talented attorneys who work hard and smart to achieve the best outcomes for their clients."
Education
• Syracuse University (1996)
• The John Marshall Law School (2001)
Memberships
• Illinois Bar Association
• Missour Bar Association
• St. Louis Bar Association
• DRI
• Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
Practice Areas
• Auto Liability
Job Titles:
- Partner
- Regional Chair of CLM
- View Attorney
We recognize that clients have risk and litigation philosophies as varied as the types of claims they face. We have successfully defended hundreds of lawsuits, and I have tried a broad variety of those cases. A trial, however, is not the only way to successfully resolve a dispute. For our clients who prefer an alternative, I call on my 35 years of experience to craft creative, practical solutions, that keep our clients' brand protection and bottom line in mind."
Education
• Williams College (B.A., cum laude, 1979)
• University of Missouri at Columbia (J.D., 1982)
Memberships
• Missouri and Illinois Bar
• Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers (MODL)
• Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (CLM)
• St. Louis Chapter of Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS)
Practice Areas
• Auto Liability
Jeff Brinker won a motion to dismiss in the Circuit Court of St. Louis County in a case involving an employee who sued her employer's workers compensation carrier for allegedly failing to provide timely benefits. Brinker won the motion by arguing (1) that plaintiff failed to state a cause of action for civil relief against […]
Jeff Brinker participated as a speaker at The Judicial Conference on Advanced Trial Skills: Complex Litigation at the Lake of the Ozarks. Jeff was one of the presenters on trial problems/issues. Approximately 35 judges from around the state attended the event which was sponsored by the Trial Judge Education Committee of the Office of State […]
Jeff Brinker obtained a Defendant's verdict in a first party case against a carrier client brought by an insured who claimed that a significant loss to property sustained during a move was either covered by the insured's trip transit policy, or the agent had misrepresented the coverage available under the policy.
The St. Louis Chapter of the Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (formerly Council on Litigation Management) has been formed. CLM is a national organization of approximately 20,000 professionals in the claims and litigation management industries. Jeff Brinker is one of the Missouri state chairs, and a regional chair of CLM.
Job Titles:
- Partner
- New a Partner
- View Attorney
Having the ability to help people in a significant way was the key factor in my decision to become an attorney. I believe putting a client's welfare first is the key to success in our profession. I accomplish this by continually studying the law, actively advocating for my client, and engaging at the highest level of my ability at all times. Brinker & Doyen supports me in these goals with a network of outstanding attorneys and staff assistants."
Education
• Louisiana State University (B.A., 2005, summa cum laude)
• University of Missouri School of Law (J.D., 2009)
Memberships
• Missouri Bar
• Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis
• Illinois Bar
• Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
Practice Areas
• Civil Litigation
Jennifer L. Howell announced as new a partner of Brinker & Doyen
Jennifer is an LSU alum and an avid fan. She has great memories of beautiful Saturday afternoons spent cheering on her team in Baton Rouge.
I am convinced that thorough preparation and commitment to the truth are absolutely essential for being a seasoned, successful and accomplished trial lawyer. I believe that trying cases is comparable to running a marathon because it requires a lot of preparation with a firm commitment to crossing the finish line with a successful run. Throughout my 48 years of trial practice, I have built a solid reputation that I am proud of based on my professionalism with my clients, colleagues and the Judiciary."
Education
John G. Doyen was admitted to the Missouri Bar in 1964. He was graduated from Missouri State University (A.B. 1961); Washington University Law School (J.D. 1964).
Memberships
• Missouri Bar (inactive)
Practice Areas
• Appellate Practice
John Doyen and Bernard Brinker have been together in the practice of law for 48 years. John has practiced almost exclusively as an Insurance Defense Trial Lawyer along with the related Appellate Practice. He has taken voluminous trials to a verdict in a variety of Insurance Defense cases involving Medical Malpractice, Products Liability, Premises Liability, Insurance Coverage, and Fraud and Arson. John has been awarded a rating of AV Preeminent and has had the Highest Possible Peer Review Rating in Legal Ability and Ethical Standards for over 40 years. And Brinker & Doyen, L.L.P., has been accepted to the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers with the Highest Rating in Legal Ability and Ethical Standards.
Job Titles:
- Owner
- Partner
- View Attorney
I believe that preparation is the key to success, not only in litigation, but in life. I have recently become an avid runner and I have learned that training hard for a race is the key to realizing your goal. The same holds true for litigation and trial work. If you put in the time and effort in preparing a case for trial, success will follow. I pride myself on putting in the effort to obtain the best possible result for my clients."
Education
• St. Louis University (B.A., cum laude, 1984; J.D., 1987)
Memberships
• Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis
• Missouri Bar
• Illinois Bar
• Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
• Community Associations Institute
Practice Areas
• Automobile Litigation
Jon Sanner obtained a defense verdict in a case where his client rearended plaintiff's stopped vehicle. The defendant's fault was admitted in Sanner's opening statement and the jury was asked to decide whether plaintiff sustained any damages as a result of the accident. A treating chiropractor offered opinions on plaintiff's injuries but his ties to […]
Jon Sanner obtained summary judgment in a case wherein plaintiff alleged that she was sexually assaulted while attending a party in an apartment building owned and operated by defendant. The court found that defendant had no duty to protect plaintiff from the actions of another invitee to a party and there were no prior acts […]
Jon Sanner obtained a defendant's verdict in a case wherein plaintiff alleged that defendant driver was negligent for losing control of his vehicle when a tire on an equipment trailer he was pulling suffered a blowout. The company that rented the trailer to our client was also named as a defendant. Plaintiff presented evidence of […]
While it's not difficult to find an attorney, finding the "right" attorney with the right experience and track record isn't always easy. During my career, I have tried 140 jury trials to verdict and 40 bench trials to judgment. My cases have been consistently recognized by Missouri Lawyers Weekly in their listing of Top Defendant's Verdicts in the state. I've been selected by my peers for inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America, and Best Lawyers has awarded me with the 2015 and 2019 St. Louis Insurance Law "Lawyer of the Year." I'm honored to be recognized, but I'm most proud of the successes I've achieved for my clients and the relationships I've built while serving them."
Education
• Saint Louis University (B.S., 1981; J.D., cum laude, 1984)
Memberships
• American Board of Trial Attorneys-Advocate
• Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis
• Missouri Bar
• Illinois Bar
• Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
Practice Areas
• Insurance Defense
Larry Smith was selected by his peers for inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2022. Larry has been selected in the areas of Personal Injury Defense Litigation and Insurance Law.
Larry Smith was selected by his peers for inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America 2019 (Copyright 2018 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Larry has been selected in the areas of Personal Injury Litigation and Insurance Law. Larry was also recognized as the "Lawyer of the Year" in the practice area of Insurance Law; […]
Larry Smith obtained a defendant's verdict in a case where the plaintiff was a pedestrian in a parking lot and alleged that the defendant ran her over with her car while entering a parking space.
Larry Smith represented the City of Columbia in a case where the Plaintiff alleged that the mirror on a bus operated by the City struck her in the back of the head as she walked down the sidewalk. Plaintiff suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result of the incident and now suffers from migraine […]
Larry Smith obtained a defendant's verdict in an automobile accident case wherein plaintiff alleged that his client ran a red light causing significant personal injury to the plaintiff. Medical specials totaled over $75,000.00. Plaintiff's attorney had demanded the $100,000.00 policy limits and had setup Larry's client for bad faith.
One of the most important, yet underrated, skills of the legal profession is listening. By committing to listening first, I tailor my case strategies to my clients' needs and objectives and open the door to creative solutions and resolutions."
In litigation, I have a simple rule; give clients the same type of service I would expect myself. Clients deserve dedication, compassion and an attorney that understands the legal matters at hand. I am always mindful to keep the human element in focus because in the end, my job is about helping people. I guide clients through difficult situations and help them achieve the success they deserve."
Education
• Illinois Wesleyan University (B.A. 2002)
• Saint Louis University (J.D., Health Law Certificate, 2005).
Memberships
• Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis
• Illinois Bar
• Missouri Bar
• Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
Practice Areas
• Auto Liability
Michael Bowgren obtained a defendant's verdict for a hospital in a case wherein plaintiff alleged the hospital's shuttle driver failed to assist her in deboarding. Plaintiff sought damages for her injuries.
Job Titles:
- Partner
- New Partner
- View Attorney
I have spent the majority of my career in the courtroom where I have taken over 40 jury trials to verdict. First as a prosecutor, where I handled cases involving serious injuries and fatalities. Over the last several years I've applied those skills to medical malpractice defense. "
Education
Saint Louis University
Michael D. Griffith announced as a new Partner of Brinker & Doyen
I love being in the court room and am a zealous advocate, but I am also a problem-solver. I strive to achieve the best possible outcome for the client in the most efficient manner possible."
Education
• James Madison College at Michigan State University (B.A. 2009)
• Wayne State University School of Law (J.D. 2014)
Memberships
• State Bar of Michigan
• Missouri Bar
Practice Areas
• Civil Litigation
Demystifying the legal process is one of an attorney's most important jobs. Fear of the unknown can add unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation. My goal is to help clients understand how the law applies to the facts of the case, what the options are, and what the opposing party may do next. When we approach challenges as a well-informed team, we're in the best position to achieve the best results."
Jon Sanner defended an apartment complex owner and management company on a wrongful death claim arising from the death of an 20-month-old toddler. The parents of the deceased child claimed that their son died as a result of injuries suffered when the kitchen stove tipped over and suffocated the child as he was trapped beneath
Job Titles:
- Partner
- Insurance Professionals
- View Attorney
For every case, we work with the client from the very beginning to formulate a roadmap for resolution. This roadmap helps us stay focused and anticipate potential hazards along the way. We stress a team-oriented approach for each case with everyone on the team involved in the decision-making process. Every case has its own unique challenges, but having the proper roadmap and team in place working towards an effective resolution for our clients is our main goal."
Steve Fields obtained a defense verdict for a nursing home client in a jury trial in Scott County, MO. Plaintiff was visiting his mother when he claimed the nursing home staff asked him to assist in lifting his mother off the floor. Plaintiff claimed to have injured his back resulting in a lumbar fusion surgery. […]
Stephen Fields speaks to St. Louis Association of Healthcare Risk Managers
Stephen Fields spoke to representatives of Church Mutual Insurance Company on settlements of claims involving a minor. The presentation included when is court approval required, the process for obtaining court approval, structure settlements, and keeping confidentiality.
Solving your problems is what I find most rewarding. Understanding your needs, recognizing the legal risks you face, analyzing various paths to best minimize those risks, and consistently delivering favorable outcomes that exceed your expectations is not achieved by luck but instead, determination, hard work, using all available resources, and exploring multiple points of view. Thank you to my clients and peers for recognizing my tireless commitment to their goals, resulting in The National Black Lawyers honoring me as Top 40 under 40. I will not take lightly the trust you place in me if I am fortunate enough to have the opportunity to partner with you on your needs."
Education
• Southeast Missouri State University (B.A. 2010)
• Charlotte School of Law (J.D. 2014)
Memberships
• Missouri Bar
• BAMSL
• United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri
• United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri
Practice Areas
• Auto Liability