Taylor English Partner Michele Stumpe Honored as Crisis Leadership Trailblazer

Taylor English Duma LLP is pleased to announce that Michele Stumpe has been named a 2020 Crisis Leadership Trailblazer by the National Law Journal. The list features 30 “movers and shakers in the legal industry who have made an impact in their sector through new types of strategies or innovative court cases… [and] made significant marks on the practice, policy and technological advancements in their sector.”

Stumpe was recognized for her leadership and dedication to clients in the hospitality industries throughout the coronavirus pandemic. As COVID-19 infection rates began to climb, she recognized a need for more precise guidance for clients. Stumpe began sharing regular updates with her clients, distilling complex questions regarding PPP loans and changing regulations into an accessible, comprehensive format.

When Georgia Governor Brian Kemp unexpectedly approved the reopening of restaurants in late April, Stumpe created a checklist of mandatory items and best practices to comply with the order and CDC recommendations and Georgia Restaurant Association guidelines. She also designed a “Manager’s COVID To-Do List” app that resets each day and provided it free to industry professionals. As COVID-19 continues to spread, Stumpe plans to continue developing supporting programs, including online alcohol training.

Stumpe is a seasoned litigator with both plaintiff and defense experience and is a trusted adviser to clients in the hospitality and retail industries. She represents clients in premises liability, business litigation, hospitality and dram shop litigation, as well as alcohol licensing and consulting. Stumpe provides clients with a full range of services, including licensing compliance, training, policy implementation, risk management, and disciplinary and litigation representation.

She earned her undergraduate degree from University of Florida and her law degree from University of South Carolina School of Law.