Goldenziel, Richard F.

Introduction

Attorney Douglas B. Dougherty ("Doug") has practiced law for approximately thirty years. He is certified as a Specialist in Family Relations Law by the Ohio State Bar Association. His practice is limited to cases involving divorce, dissolution, and other family law matters.

My Philosophy – Personal Notes from Doug

"Lawsuits and legal problems are frequently difficult. However, a good lawyer can make a huge difference."

"A good lawyer is a strong advocate for his or her client and a good person. I treat everyone with respect and courtesy. This includes my clients, the opposing parties, and the opposing attorneys."

"I work very hard to settle all of my cases without a trial. I probably settle approximately 95% of my cases. Regarding the cases that must go to trial, I work extremely hard to achieve a good result at a reasonable cost for my client."

Experience

Attorney Dougherty has argued and won in the Supreme Court of Ohio and in numerous Ohio courts of appeal. He has handled thousands of family law cases. He has successfully represented clients at trials and hearings in many counties throughout the State of Ohio.

Knowledge and Ethics

Doug's skills have been recognized by judges and other attorneys. In a private peer review survey, conducted by the nation’s leading lawyer ranking organization (LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell), Doug has repeatedly received the highest possible ranking regarding his knowledge of the law and his legal ethics. He has also repeatedly been named one of "Ohio's Top Lawyers" by Columbus CEO magazine and as a "Super Lawyer" by Ohio Super Lawyers magazine.

Articles and Presentations

He has written articles and given presentations for the Ohio State Bar Association, the Columbus Bar Association, the Columbus Legal Aid Society, and many other organizations. He is a frequent speaker at seminars for lawyers and non-lawyers. He has spoken and written on numerous family law topics. His articles and presentations are listed below.

Professional Leadership

Attorney Dougherty served as the Chairman of the Family Law Committee of the Columbus Bar Association. As the chairman, he was responsible for various lawyer education projects. He was recognized as the Columbus Bar Association's outstanding committee chairman and was given the President's Award for his "outstanding leadership" abilities.

Professional Organizations

Doug is a member of the American Bar Association, Ohio State Bar Association, and Columbus Bar Association.

Mediation Work

In addition to working as an attorney, Doug also works as a mediator. His mediation practice is limited to family law matters. As a mediator, he works with both parties to reach a quick and fair agreement and to avoid unnecessary expenses and litigation.

Expert Witness Work

Doug also works as an expert witness in legal malpractice cases involving family law matters. As an expert witness, Doug has worked for private parties and for a professional liability insurance company.

Charitable Work

Attorney Dougherty began his career as a legal aid attorney. He has continued to help the less fortunate by volunteering his services to assist the Ohio Poverty Law Center, the Columbus Legal Aid Society, and various private organizations.

Media Appearances

He has appeared on various television and radio programs to discuss family law issues. He recently was a guest on the National Public Radio program "On Point." His topic was "The Revolution in Alimony and Spousal Support Law."

Supreme Court Video

To view a video of Attorney Dougherty arguing a case in the Supreme Court of Ohio, click here.

Personal Information

Doug is married and has two sons. He is a lifelong resident of Upper Arlington, Ohio. He enjoys reading and various sports including scuba diving and snow skiing.