John J. (Jack) Phelan IV defends medical professionals and other insured clients in civil litigation, with a primary focus on medical malpractice. Drawing on experience as lead counsel, he works closely with insurance carriers and self-insured entities to assess liability and develop defense strategies suited to the unique circumstances of each case.

Jack handles all aspects of civil litigation and has tried multiple cases to verdict throughout New York State. He also has extensive experience in appellate proceedings. His work includes developing discovery strategies and handling complex motion practice, as well as preparing insurance coverage opinions. He has conducted and defended more than 300 depositions in matters involving medical malpractice and other civil claims.

His broader litigation experience encompasses premises and products liability, along with motor vehicle accidents and New York Labor Law claims. He has also handled pharmaceutical malpractice, risk transfer, and discrimination matters. Jack has appeared in state courts throughout New York and in the U.S. District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of New York, as well as the Appellate Division’s First and Second Departments.

Jack earned his Juris Doctor, magna cum laude, from Albany Law School, where he served as executive editor of the Albany Law Review and authored an article examining the federal assault weapons ban and the Second Amendment. While at Hartwick College, he was a two-time Division III Football All-American. He is also a member of the Hartwick College Athletic Hall of Fame.