Atty. Robert A. Dormer

Atty. Robert A. Dormer

Robert A. Dormer is one of three founding members of Hyman, Phelps & McNamara, P.C.

Call (202) 737-5600

Profile Summary

About Robert A. Dormer at a glance

Robert A. Dormer is an attorney based in Washington, District of Columbia, practicing at Hyman, Phelps & McNamara PC. Admitted to practice in District of Columbia, DC and United States, Federal. Educated at University of Virginia (JD, 1979) and Dartmouth College (BA). Recognitions include Best Lawyers in America — FDA Law (2026). Serves clients in Washington, DC and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Verified attorney profile · Updated June 2026

About

  • Robert A. Dormer is one of three founding members of Hyman, Phelps & McNamara, P.C
  • He has been an integral part of the firm’s growth and expansion in all areas of FDA law
  • He advises clients on a wide range of issues throughout the product lifecycle including development and approval, compliance, and enforcement
  • From 1976 to 1979, Mr. Dormer served in FDA’s Office of Chief Counsel
  • He was an Associate Chief Counsel for Enforcement and Associate Chief Counsel for Radiological Health
  • Mr. Dormer was responsible for counseling what was then known as the Bureau of Radiological Health, which is now part of FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health
  • He also represented the FDA in civil and criminal litigation throughout the country
  • Prior to joining the FDA, he served as an attorney for the White House Special Action Office on Drug Abuse Prevention
  • Mr. Dormer regularly counsels pharmaceutical clients on Hatch-Waxman patent and exclusivity issues, orphan drugs, and biosimilar regulation and policy
  • He also has extensive expertise with post-marketing issues such as advertising and promotion, and good manufacturing practices for drugs and medical devices
  • Mr. Dormer is the author of three book chapters on food and drug law as well as numerous published articles
  • He regularly speaks on food and drug law at legal and regulatory conferences and provides expert testimony

Jurisdictional Context

Why local counsel matters in District of Columbia

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

Looking for additional District of Columbia attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Washington or all attorneys in District of Columbia.

Frequently Asked

Common questions about Robert A. Dormer

Where is Robert A. Dormer's law office located?
Robert A. Dormer's law practice is located in Washington, District of Columbia. The firm is Hyman, Phelps & McNamara PC. You can contact the office directly through this profile page.
Where did Robert A. Dormer go to law school?
Robert A. Dormer earned their education at (JD, 1979); (BA).
How can I contact Robert A. Dormer for a consultation?
You can contact Robert A. Dormer 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 Robert A. Dormer received?
Robert A. Dormer's notable recognition includes: Best Lawyers in America — FDA Law.

Practice Areas

Education

JD
University of Virginia
- 1979
BA
Dartmouth College
- In Progress

Awards

Best Lawyers in America — FDA Law
- 2026

Bar Admissions

District of Columbia, DC
United States, Federal

Reviews

These reviews belong to platform users; they do not constitute advertisement or promotion for the attorney. Opinions are published for informational purposes only.

No reviews yet.