Food and Agriculture

The national and international farmers, growers, distributors, manufacturers and restaurants we represent have often been in business for generations. They know the marketplace is competitive, with unique and intricate laws and regulations. Our attorneys and professionals leverage their expertise to navigate these challenges, giving our clients time to focus on their businesses.

Farming requires a working knowledge of everything from regulations governing pesticides and preservatives to bank loans and available government subsidies.  When faced with these issues it’s important to have an experienced firm like Dooley Gembala on your side. We can provide assistance ranging from protecting your investment in crops and livestock by bringing claims under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act and Packers and Stockyards Act, to navigating transportation issues when products are loaded in good condition but damaged during shipment. We offer guidance on other important long-term issues as well, such as farm and estate planning, land and energy leases, and agritourism.

For food manufacturers, Dooley Gembala actively manages its clients’ compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act and other laws and local regulations governing safe food handling, including food safety plans, allergen control plans, supplier verification programs, and product recall plans. Dooley Gembala regularly assists clients facing health inspections, FDA/USDA audits, and product certifications. At a higher level, Dooley Gembala helps its clients develop best practices for operational management, employee training, and appropriate recordkeeping.

In addition to our farm and food production clients, we also represent a broad spectrum of restaurant, bar, and food service clients who face issues ranging from contract disputes and wage/hour challenges to premises liability and insurance claims. Our clients are confident they can leave these issues in our hands so they have more time to focus on business operations.