David R. Kerrigan

Director

David Kerrigan, a Director at Kenney & Sams, is a litigator with uniquely deep experience representing individuals and groups in challenges to state regulations and statutes, and defending and asserting civil rights claims. David has three decades of experience bringing and defending claims related to a range of business, construction and employment litigation.

As a former Chief of the Government Bureau of the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, David is one of few litigators in Massachusetts able to draw upon his many experiences defending state officials and agencies against these claims while now handling challenges to local and state government regulations and enforcement actions in a variety of contexts. He combines an insider’s knowledge of government defense strategy with deep trial experience and knowledge of regulatory process and statutes.

His administrative law practice includes representing individuals involved with a variety of trades – contractors, plumbers, electricians, engineers and designers – in disputes with professional licensing boards alleging violation of professional conduct standards. David also handles matters before the State Ethics Commission, among other state agencies.

As a general commercial litigator, David brings and defends claims involving construction issues, employment disputes and other business-to-business issues. His experience spans contract claims, employment discrimination, prevailing wage issues, independent contractor classification issues, breach of lease claims, franchise litigation and more.

David’s effectiveness in civil litigation is tied to his experience as a trial lawyer. He handles complex cases involving substantial criminal or financial penalties and significant media attention, and knows how to navigate the legal as well as reputational issues clients can face.

Practice Areas

Admissions

  • Massachusetts

  • United States District Court – Massachusetts

  • U.S. Court of Appeals, First Circuit

  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit

  • United States Tax Court

Education

  • Boston University School of Law, 1987, J.D. (cum laude)

  • Colby College, 1983, B.A. (cum laude)

Awards & Recognition 

  • Recognized by Best Lawyers in America® – 2024, 2025

  • Selected to the Massachusetts Super Lawyers list – 2023, 2024