Catherine S. Duval - Lawyer in Washington, DC

The best results in a government investigation or confidential settlement are frequently nowhere to be found: not on TV, in a newspaper, blogged about, or tweeted. Kate Duval represents clients in civil disputes and the highest profile government inquiries, often working to achieve the lowest possible profile for her clients. Her singular focus on clients goals and how best to achieve them defines her legal strategy and advice. Although shes been described as a top fixer (by former Speaker of the House John Boehner), Kate prefers to consider herself a zealous, principled advocate for her clients.

Kate Duval represents clients in civil disputes and the highest profile government inquiries, often working to achieve the lowest possible profile for her clients. Her singular focus on clients goals and how best to achieve them defines her legal strategy and advice. Although shes been described as a top fixer (by former Speaker of the House John Boehner), Kate prefers to consider herself a zealous, principled advocate for her clients.

In the Obama Administration, Kate led teams of lawyers responsible for investigations and oversight-related matters at two agencies, first as counselor to the commissioner of the IRS and later at the U.S. Department of State.In those positions, she dealt with congressional committees on investigations, including into the Benghazi attacks, the IRS 501©(4) nonprofit application process, and email issues. She also prepared State Department and IRS staff for congressional hearings and other testimony.

Kate began private practice at Williams Connolly LLP, where she represented companies and individuals in a range of litigation, including civil, professional liability, securities, and white collar matters. Before law school, Kate served as a legislative staffer for U.S. Senator James M. Jeffords (then-R-VT).

Kate teaches professional responsibility at Georgetown University Law Center as an adjunct professor. Her practice in professional liability and attorneys disciplinary matters is complemented by six years of service as a hearing committee member for the District of Columbia Court of Appeals Board of Professional Responsibility, where she helped resolve attorney ethics and discipline issues.