Dale Cathell

Partner

DLA Piper

Growing up, Dale Cathell recalls going to see his dad, then a Worcester County Circuit Court judge, at his office. When the courtroom was clear, Cathell would walk around inside and admire the podiums and pictures on the wall.

His dad later retired as a judge with the Maryland Court of Appeals. His grandfather, also a lawyer, practiced law well into his 90s. No surprise then that the legal field was a perfect fit for Cathell, who became a partner at DLA Piper in 2011.

Focusing his practice on commercial litigation and bankruptcy, Cathell said each case is different. “The benefit of being a litigator but being focused on bankruptcy is you get a good variety, so it keeps you fresh,” he said. “When I think about what drives me, it’s really wanting to provide the best level of service that I can to my clients and our firm’s clients. That really drives me to work as hard as I possibly can to get good results.”

His father, whom he remembers leaving for work at 5 a.m. every day, also inspires his dedicated work ethic. “There are many things in life that are out of one’s control, one’s willingness to work hard is something that can actually be controlled,” he said. “I have made it a point to work as hard as I possibly can regardless of what hurdles I face.”

Cathell is actively involved in DLA Piper’s pro bono programs, in particular the Combat Related Special Compensations programs for disabled veterans in need. He cherishes being able to help those who have served “and giving back (to them) because they have given so much to all of us,” he said.