Douglas C. Emhoff

Douglas C. Emhoff represents companies, boards, senior executives and other prominent individuals in their most consequential disputes, investigations and crises.

A trial lawyer and strategic advisor with more than three decades of experience, Doug is frequently called upon when a matter extends beyond the courtroom—combining complex legal issues with significant business, regulatory, reputational and public-facing considerations. He helps clients assess the full landscape, anticipate what comes next and develop a strategy designed around their broader objectives.

Doug's practice focuses on complex commercial disputes, sensitive investigations, government and State Attorney General matters, and high-profile situations involving significant reputational risk. He has particular experience in the entertainment, media, sports, technology and consumer-facing sectors, including disputes involving major companies, executives, talent and other high-profile parties.

In crisis situations, decisions made in the first hours and days can have lasting consequences. Doug excels in these circumstances and swiftly advises clients on strategy across litigation, investigations, governance, regulatory exposure and communications, while helping clients coordinate the multiple constituencies that often become involved.

Before joining Willkie, Doug served as Second Gentleman of the United States. In that role, he represented the United States domestically and around the world and engaged with leaders in government, business and civil society on complex and highly visible issues.

He is also a Distinguished Visiting Professor at the University of Southern California Gould School of Law, where he teaches entertainment law and alternative dispute resolution.

Doug has been recognized by Forbes in America’s Top Lawyers 2026 and by Lawdragon among its 500 Leading Litigators for 2026–2027.