Shook’s Leading Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Litigation Practice Promotes Donahue and Strongman

Shook, Hardy & Bacon has tapped Partners Alicia Donahue and Jon Strongman to lead the firm’s national pharmaceutical and medical device practice dedicated to helping the world’s preeminent companies navigate complex science- and health-based litigation as well as the operational, technological and regulatory challenges of today’s business environment. “Highly recommended” by LMG Life Sciences, Shook has acted as national and regional counsel for clients in this sector for more than 40 years, during which time the firm has represented each of the top 10 pharmaceutical companies worldwide and nearly half of the nation’s top 50 pharmaceutical manufacturers in matters involving more than 60 products.

Donahue, based in San Francisco, will take over as practice chair from Shook Chair Madeleine McDonough, who previously oversaw the group’s growth into the largest practice of its kind.  Donahue currently serves as a relationship partner for Pfizer, Inc., Genentech and Hoffmann-La Roche. She has been recognized by Who’s Who Legal for her work in life sciences and has been named one of “California’s Top Women Litigators” by California Daily Journal. Before taking on this role, Donahue served as the vice-chair of Shook’s Diversity and Inclusion committee and previously as the managing partner of the San Francisco office.

Strongman, who will serve as the group’s vice-chair, is based in Kansas City and has worked with the drug and device industry for the entirety of his career. He has focused on complex litigation involving medical and scientific issues, handling both large-scale litigation and individual actions. His experience includes high-stakes cases, such as bellwether trials in nationwide MDL litigation. Strongman was recently named a “Rising Star” by Law360. Strongman has also served as vice-chair of Shook’s Professional Development Committee.

“Alicia and Jon bring exceptional leadership focused expertise to the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Litigation group,” said McDonough. “They will make an excellent team and we look forward to the innovative ideas and outstanding service they will provide to Shook and its clients.”