David Rodkey

Overview

Clients rely on David A. Rodkey to solve difficult problems with steady judgment, strategic restraint, and clear-eyed analysis. Dave is known for serving clients in high-pressure disputes and guiding them toward positive outcomes that minimize harm and unnecessary escalation, and if necessary, guiding through the trial and appeal process.

David A. Rodkey represents a diverse group of clients in civil and criminal matters in state and federal courts. Over the course of his career, he has tried numerous cases ranging from short bench trials to multi-week federal jury trials, assuming both lead and supporting roles. Clients count on Dave for disciplined analysis and candid advice. When a dispute arises, he analyzes in light of the legal claims and defenses, conducts a practical cost-benefit assessment, and identifies potential x-factors before recommending a path forward.

Dave approaches both defense and plaintiff-side matters with the same disciplined focus on practical outcomes. He works to understand what is truly driving a dispute and how best to resolve it in a way that advances the client’s goals while minimizing unnecessary cost and disruption. In some situations, that means defending claims and limiting exposure. In others, it means pursuing recovery. In either posture, Dave evaluates the likely paths a case may take and advises clients not only on what positions are available, but which ones make the most sense strategically.

Rather than reflexively escalating conflict, Dave often begins by engaging directly with opposing counsel to understand what the other side is trying to accomplish and whether a resolution can be reached efficiently. When litigation is necessary, he approaches the matter with the same focus on careful analysis and disciplined strategy. Clients appreciate his ability to remain composed in contentious settings and to provide candid advice about risks, costs and potential outcomes.

Dave’s appellate experience includes published decisions in the Commonwealth Court, successful advocacy in the Superior Court, and significant federal appellate matters, including a successful settlement on behalf of a Plaintiff in the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, and most notably, in United States v. Walker, which proceeded to the United States Supreme Court and resulted in a meaningful sentencing reduction for the client. Clients benefit from his flexibility, his experience under pressure, and his focus on achieving outcomes that hold up both in court and on appeal.

Prior to becoming an attorney, Dave formed and managed his own film company and worked as an instructional assistant and in-home therapist with children with special needs.