Mr. Whitson concentrates his practice in general commercial litigation, professional liability, product liability, environmental litigation, appellate advocacy, and mediation.
Mr. Whitson represents corporations facing significant potential liabilities, including claims of environmental contamination, antitrust violations, misappropriation of trade secrets, unfair competition, breach of contract, and product liability. He regularly defends lawyers and law firms against professional negligence and breach of fiduciary duty claims, and also represents design professionals in actions involving construction defects or professional liability claims. He further represents companies of all sizes in shareholder disputes, allegations of breach of fiduciary duties and disputes stemming from acquisitions. He is an approved mediator and early neutral evaluator with the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania and serves in a variety of ADR roles, including settlement counsel.
Mr. Whitson also has substantial experience advising insurance companies with respect to insurance coverage questions and representing insurance companies in breach of contract, bad faith or declaratory judgment actions.
Recognitions
- The Best Lawyers in America,® Commercial Litigation (2018-2023); Product Liability Litigation-Defendants (2019-2023)
- Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® (2017-2023); "Rising Star" (2005)
- Certified as “Ally-Ready” by the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity & Inclusion Coalition (2021)
- Jewish Family & Community Services, Volunteer of the Year (2020)
- Who’s Who in Energy (2014-2017)
- Client Choice Guide - USA & Canada, Award for Product Liability in Pennsylvania (2014)
- Earl G. Harrison Pro Bono Award (2012)
- The Legal Intelligencer and Pennsylvania Law Weekly, “Lawyers on The Fast Track” (2008)
- Pennsylvania Bar Association Pro Bono Award (2008)
Memberships & Activities
- Member: Allegheny County Bar Association, Gender Equality Committee
- Board Member: Allegheny County Bar Foundation, President (2021-2023)
- Member: Pittsburgh Legal Diversity & Inclusion Coalition
- Member: Claims and Litigation Management Alliance
- Member: Professional Liability Defense Federation
- Member: Leadership Pittsburgh XXVI
- Member: 3rd Circuit Bar Association