Douglas K. Burrell is a seasoned trial attorney with more than 30 years of experience handling high-stakes litigation in one of the most challenging jurisdictions in the country, as identified by the American Tort Reform Foundation. Known for his courtroom skill and judgment under pressure, Douglas is frequently brought in to take over demanding cases in difficult venues and see them through to trial.

His diverse practice includes wrongful death and catastrophic injury claims, sexual assault cases, construction defect litigation, premises liability, product liability, transportation and trucking matters, and claims involving rideshare and delivery service negligence. Douglas represents clients across a wide range of industries, including national retailers, manufacturers, hospitality and restaurant businesses, and transportation and delivery service providers.

Douglas is also frequently asked to assist in trials outside his primary areas of focus when clients believe his presence will add a valuable dimension to the case. He has tried more than 40 jury trials and over 100 bench trials, bringing a wealth of practical insight and a deep understanding of evolving legal trends. His ability to align litigation strategy with each client’s unique goals—paired with ongoing communication—ensures efficient, cost-effective, and results-driven representation.

In addition to his practice, Douglas is an active member of numerous professional legal organizations. A long-standing member of DRI – Lawyers Representing Business, he has held several leadership roles and served as the organization’s President from 2021 to 2022. He chaired the Georgia Defense Lawyers Association Trial & Mediation Academy in 2014 and 2015 and continues to serve as a faculty member, mentoring the next generation of trial attorneys. From 2010 to 2014, he also taught deposition skills as a faculty member for the National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA). Widely respected among peers and colleagues, Douglas is frequently recognized in legal publications as one of Atlanta’s top attorneys.

Douglas began his legal career in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, practicing civil litigation defense with a mid-sized firm. He later served as a prosecutor in the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office for three years before moving to the greater Atlanta area, where he joined a large civil defense firm and practiced until joining Chartwell Law.

A two-time letter winner for the University of Iowa football team, Douglas played in the 1986 Rose Bowl—a testament to his discipline and team-first mindset, both on and off the field.

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Atlanta Bar Association    

National Bar Association

Georgia Defense Lawyers Association, Executive Committee/Vice President

DRI, Past President

Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel

The Litigation Counsel of America, Fellow

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DRI Sheryl J. Willert Pioneer Diversity Award, June 2025

National Bar Association, Inaugural Power 50 Award, July 2022

DRI Richard H. Krochock Award, January 2016

University of Iowa College of Law Prominent 150 Alumni, January 2015

DRI Davis Carr Outstanding Committee Chair Award, January 2013

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