Ernest Goodwin is a co-chair of Wilson Elser’s Product Liability, Prevention & Government Compliance Practice. He concentrates his practice specifically on defense of domestic and foreign manufacturers, distributors and retailers in the United States, Canada and Europe. Ernie also provides clients with innovative and timely strategic counsel to help them make better-informed decisions, resolve complex legal challenges and achieve specific business goals.
In addition, Ernie represents manufacturers in litigations and pre-suit investigations in claims involving property damage arising out of fires and water leaks. He also has experience in the defense of manufacturers, distributors and retailers of industrial products and equipment and defended corporations in construction, labor and employment, securities and commercial matters. Ernie prides himself on being responsive to clients and colleagues, regardless of the day or time, and thinks outside the box and in terms of the big picture when defending a claim or lawsuit.
Areas of Focus
Product Liability
Ernie defends a range of products, supervising local counsel when matters extend beyond one court or jurisdiction. These matters can include business effects on risk management, insurance coverage, brand image, financing, financial reporting, corporate governance, regulatory compliance, future corporate transactions and communications to shareholders. As a practice co-chair, Ernie employs state-of-the art computerized defense techniques in connection with product liability and mass tort cases. When appropriate, he calls on the skills of specialized investigators and forensic experts. Ernie’s clients include manufacturers of swimming pools, swimming pool component parts, water pumping systems; HVAC equipment; televisions; cosmetics; industrial equipment, including cargo-handling machinery, cranes, forklifts and liftgates; cellular phones; microwave ovens, toaster ovens, refrigerators; and other consumer electronics and appliances.
Commercial Litigation
Ernie represents large, well-established enterprises and small, entrepreneurial organizations effectively and is frequently called on by general counsel of corporations to provide innovative legal strategies or execute focused litigations within designated time frames and budgets. New companies with limited exposure to intense litigation rely on Ernie to supply critical legal experience to defend against a lawsuit or sharpen a contract. Also, when a company splits apart and disagreement about division of assets is highly contentious, he provides clear-headed advice and a range of options to help bridge the chasm so the parties can reach agreements and avoid protracted fights that can easily distract from running the new businesses successfully.