Donnie M. King is called upon by general counsel and corporate leaders to handle their most critical matters. He has counseled major public companies, including a global semiconductor and technology company and a national specialty retailer, on the litigation exposure, governance, privilege, and discovery risks created by AI adoption. That advice spans emerging AI case law, board-level governance of AI agents, and compliance measures designed to reduce litigation exposure from AI use within the organization. With a national practice in complex commercial litigation and arbitration, he brings proven experience in disputes where the outcome defines both business and reputational stakes. Donnie has extensive first-chair trial experience in state and federal courts nationwide, including matters involving traumatic personal injury and wrongful death. He has guided clients through the successful pre-suit resolution of matters involving fatal injuries tied to premises and infrastructure conditions.
Recognized for blending courtroom advocacy with business acumen and sound judgment, Donnie is often engaged well before litigation is filed. Clients rely on him at the earliest inflection points — when strategy and discretion matter as much as advocacy. To sharpen this strategic oversight, Donnie works in close collaboration with his clients to integrate advanced technology and Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) throughout every phase of a dispute. His approach has led him to success as a first-chair trial lawyer across the country.
His practice focuses on complex business disputes, including litigation over commercial transactions, securities, and shareholder disputes such as Section 220 books-and-records demands, class actions, D&O matters, and investigations. He also tries significant product liability cases. He has represented clients across many of the world’s largest industries, including automotive and transportation, consumer goods, energy, financial services, healthcare, and technology. His work in these sectors has spanned disputes with high-stakes consequences, reinforcing his role as a trusted advocate in matters that shape the direction of leading companies.
Leading publications have recognized his work in complex litigation, and he is a frequent author and speaker on strategy and emerging legal issues, particularly AI-related litigation risks. His reputation rests on judgment, discretion, and results in disputes that determine the direction of companies and protect what matters most to their leadership.
Reflecting a deep commitment to leadership and excellence within the profession, Donnie currently serves as the Co-Chair of Akerman’s Unity & Inclusion Council. He is also a former fellow of the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity and previously served as the chair of the firm’s Black Bridge Network.