Joseph H. Langerak IV

Joe advises companies ranging from small businesses to large corporate clients on litigation arising from disputes and on various transactional matters. He also serves as outside general counsel for businesses throughout the Evansville region.  Joe is a former member of the SKO’s Board of Directors, its Executive Committee and Chair of the Firm’s Strategic Opportunities Committee. 

A thoughtful strategist who embraces complex legal challenges, Joe thrives when he has a novel issue to research, unravel and, ultimately, solve for his clients. He tried his first federal case while he was still in law school and has since brought multiple cases to jury verdict in several states. He has routinely appeared before state courts throughout the eastern U.S., as well as federal courts at the trial and appellate levels.

Outside General Counsel: For a number of companies in Evansville, Joe serves as a first point of contact whenever legal services are needed over the course of their regular business operations. He draws upon on his own understanding of each client's business, and gives careful consideration to the client's goals, to advise on an effective and timely resolution. Depending on the nature of the issue, he is able to gather expert support from different practice groups at SKO.

Business Litigation: Joe advises corporate clients large and small on litigation involving contracts, business dealings, real estate leasing agreements, issues concerning bankruptcy and creditor rights, and general finance matters. He frequently works with clients in commercial construction, including land owners, retail shopping center owners and operators, contractors and sub-contractors, and design-builders.

Bankruptcy & Financial Restructuring: Joe guides regional and multi-state banks and lenders on sound approaches to insolvency situations and serves as lead defense counsel when litigation is required. For every client he represents, he builds upon a strong track record of successfully handling cases relating to the liquidation of company assets, claims of breach of fiduciary duty, and defaulted loans.

Auto Dealer Services: Joe represents independent and franchised auto dealers in consumer fraud claims, regulatory proceedings, advertising compliance concerns and manufacturer issues.  He regularly advocates on behalf of dealers before federal and state agencies, and in state and federal courts.