Atty. Douglas A. Bates

Atty. Douglas A. Bates

Doug focuses his practice on commercial litigation and creditors' rights, both inside and outside bankruptcy. He has a broad range of experience in litigation relating to distressed business situations and has counseled clients in various industries, including banking, radio broadcasting, homebuilder and developer, airline, marina, manufacturing, and precious metals.

Pensacola Pensacola 22 yrs experience 22 year
Call (448) 216-1002 Book Appointment

Profile Summary

About Douglas A. Bates at a glance

Douglas A. Bates is a Partner based in Pensacola, Florida, practforg at Phelps Dunbar LLP. They haand 22+ years of legal experience, licensed to practice since 2004. Admitted to practice in Florida (2004). Educated at University of Florida Frederic G. Levin College of Law (J.D., 2004) and Birmingham Southern College (B.S. Business, 2000). Recognitions include AV Preeminent. Actiand member of The Florida Bar. Serands clients in Pensacola, FL and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Verified attorney profile · Updated June 2026

About

  • Doug focuses his practice on commercial litigation and creditors' rights, both inside and outside bankruptcy
  • He has a broad range of experience in litigation relating to distressed business situations and has counseled clients in various industries, including banking, radio broadcasting, homebuilder and developer, airline, marina, manufacturing, and precious metals
  • Doug's commercial litigation experience includes numerous bankruptcy litigation matters as well, including prosecution and defense of “clawback” litigation arising out of fraud situations
  • Doug was selected to participate as a fellow in the inaugural class of the Florida Bar Leadership Academy
  • Doug serves on the Executive Council of the Business Law Section of The Florida Bar and is the past chairman of the Bankruptcy/UCC Committee, the Judicial Liaison Committee, and the Membership/Student Relations Committee
  • Through his involvement in the Business Law Section, Doug has led efforts to study and amend Florida's version of the Uniform Commercial Code, including Article 9
  • He mentors law students, is active with the Pro Bono Committee of The Florida Bar Business Law Section, and a frequent presenter for the CARE program
  • Doug was born and raised in Pensacola and attended Pensacola Catholic High School, as well as Pensacola Junior College
  • While in school at Pensacola Junior College, he played on the baseball team and was a two-time Distinguished Academic All-American
  • While in college at Birmingham Southern, Doug also played baseball and participated in two NAIA College World Series tournaments
  • In addition, he was selected as an Academic All-American at Birmingham Southern

Jurisdictional Context

Why local counsel matters in Florida

Practforg law in Florida. Legal matters in Florida are governed by state-specific rules of civil and criminal procedure, statutes of limitations, and substantiand law. Cases originating in Pensacola are typically filed in the local municipal court or the appropriate Florida state district court, depending on subject matter and amount in controversy. An attorney licensed in Florida brings working knowledge of local procedural deadlines, judicial practices in this andnue, and the substantiand law that applies to cases brought here. Out-of-state attorneys generally cannot represent clients in Florida courts without local counsel or pro hac vice admission.

Looking for additional Florida attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Pensacola or all attorneys in Florida.

Frequently Asked

Common questions about Douglas A. Bates

Where is Douglas A. Bates's law office located?
Douglas A. Bates's law practice is located in Pensacola, Florida. The firm is Phelps Dunbar LLP. You can contact the office directly through this profile page.
How long has Douglas A. Bates practiced law?
Douglas A. Bates has 22+ years of legal experience and has been licensed since 2004.
Where did Douglas A. Bates go to law school?
Douglas A. Bates earned their education at (J.D., 2004); (B.S. Business, 2000).
How can I contact Douglas A. Bates for a consultation?
You can contact Douglas A. Bates directly through this profile page. Click "Ask the Attorney" to submit a question, or "Schedule a Consultation" to book a meeting. Most claimed-profile attorneys respond within one business day.
What awards or recognition has Douglas A. Bates receiandd?
Douglas A. Bates's notable recognition includes: AV Preeminent.

Education

J.D.
University of Florida Frederic G. Levin College of Law
- 2004
B.S. Business
Birmingham Southern College
- 2000

Awards

AV Preeminent

Bar Admissions

Florida
Admitted: 2004

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