NEW ORLEANS – Former Louisiana Commissioner of Insurance Jim Donelon has joined the law firm McGlinchey Stafford.
“We are thrilled to have a regulatory authority and respected attorney of Commissioner Donelon’s stature join McGlinchey,” said Michael Ferachi, the firm’s managing member. “As a recognized leader for the insurance industry, McGlinchey has taken a strategic focus on growing our team to serve the industry’s needs in recent years, from regulatory compliance and corporate matters to coverage litigation and defense. Jim’s unique perspective and depth of knowledge will further our capabilities as we continue to address the full range of clients’ insurance needs.”
This addition comes on the heels of McGlinchey adding 50 attorneys to its roster in 2023 and more than 30 attorneys who touch the insurance industry in the past 18 months. The firm celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024.
“From litigation to inflation to global competition, from their view, the insurance industry is under siege. I don’t know another U.S. law firm that is better respected or offers more proficiency to the industry as they meet those challenges and grow to serve their consumers and policyholders than the one I’m honored to join,” Jim said. “My career has provided me with colleagues I’ve known and worked alongside for decades. I look forward to reengaging with those people to continue our important work with the firepower of McGlinchey’s credibility and resources behind me.”
Donelon became commissioner of insurance in 2006 and was subsequently elected to four consecutive terms, ending in January 2024. Prior to that position, he represented Jefferson Parish in the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1981-2001, where he served as chair of the insurance committee.
“Across the United States and from London to Bermuda, Jim Donelon is a respected voice with a seat at the insurance industry’s table. He has been at the forefront in advocating for everything from embracing emerging technologies to adopting a globally consistent industry model,” said Ronnie Johnson, who co-leads McGlinchey’s insurance regulatory work. “It is a personal privilege to call him a colleague once again.”
Earlier in his career, Donelon served the Louisiana Department of Insurance in several leadership positions. He also served as president of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. He served in the Louisiana Army National Guard for more than 30 years and retired with the rank of colonel. He is a native New Orleanian and a graduate of the University of New Orleans and Loyola University New Orleans College of Law.
