D. Barry Stilz
Member

Simply put, the ability to help others is the primary reason that I became an attorney.

Practical Experience

Representing government officials and agencies in alleged civil rights deprivations. Representing numerous government officials and agencies in both federal and state courts in Kentucky involving a wide range of alleged civil rights deprivations including, but not limited to, excessive force claims, wrongful death claims, denial of medical services claims, and wrongful termination employment claims.

Navigating equine law. Recently defended a multi-million dollar fraud and breach of contract claim against a family-owned farm regarding the management of a thoroughbred stallion and sale of approximately 200 thoroughbred horses; obtained summary judgment in favor of my clients on all claims at the trial level and successfully defended the decision on appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit in Cincinnati.

Ensuring business litigation is pursued to success. Successfully prosecuted breach of contract claims against an international charity involving the improper use of a client’s charitable donation resulting in the complete return of a near million dollar donation to the client.

Employee litigation at the highest levels. Successfully defended a Fortune 500 client against claims of sexual and age discrimination resulting in a verdict of no liability against the client.

Guiding through business decisions. Assisted client in sale of historic farm in Central Kentucky; assisted another client in complex sale of multi-unit professional services practice; syndicated numerous thoroughbred race horses for stallion duty; assisted in the formation of numerous thoroughbred racing partnerships; provided critical assistance and advice to a perennial leading thoroughbred owner.

Proven Expertise

Education

JD, University of Kentucky, 1988
BS, Business Administration, University of Kentucky, 1985

 

Admitted to Practice

Kentucky
United States District Court for the Eastern and Western Districts
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit
U.S. Supreme Court

 

Professional Achievements

AV Preeminent Rating

 

Professional Memberships

Kentucky Bar Association
Fayette County Bar Association, Past Chairman of Equine Law Section
Recognized by Martindale-Hubbell as an AV Peer Review rated attorney

 

Speaking Engagements

Legal Ethics for Employees, 2018 Kinkead and Stilz Ethics and Tax Conference, presenter and co-author
Employment Law for County Attorneys, 2017 Kentucky County Attorneys Association Winter Meeting, presenter and co-author