Department Chair

Douglas J. Friednash

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Background

More than 30 years navigating complex legislative and public policy challenges at the state and federal level. Former chief of staff to Colorado governor, city attorney, assistant attorney general and state legislator. Respected political thought leader.

Doug Friednash provides strategic insights on government relations engagement throughout the lifecycle of an issue, opening channels of communication and collaboration in state capitols across the country and in Washington. As chair of the firm’s State Government Relations Group, he plays a vital role as a connector for his clients, bridging the gap between the private sector and all levels of government. Doug’s notable experience in the public sector—former chief of staff to Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, city attorney under Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, member of the state House of Representatives and assistant attorney general—allows him to help create a favorable working atmosphere for businesses looking to engage in state and local politics.

Using his deep relationships and first-hand understanding of the nuances of government, Doug creates successful strategies that incorporate a 50-state approach for clients. When action is required at the federal level, Doug draws on the national policy platform he’s built to get results.

Doug is a respected national, state and local media resource for his insight on legislative and political issues. He is also an opinion columnist for The Denver Post, covering political stories and trends. A Denver native, Doug is committed to enhancing the well-being of Colorado. He is actively involved in many political, charitable and community causes.

Practices:

Industries:

TRENDING ISSUES:

Insights & Publications

Insights & Publications

News

News

Credentials

Education

  • J.D., 1987, University of San Diego School of Law
  • B.A., 1984, University of California at Santa Barbara

Admissions

  • Colorado

Memberships

Colorado Bar Association

Denver Bar Association

Community Involvement

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Board of Directors, Denver Health Foundation

Board of Directors, Denver Health and Hospital Authority

Board of Directors, University of California Santa Barbara Alumni Association

Recognition

AWARDS

The Best Lawyers in America, 2026

Law Week Colorado, Barrister’s Best “Best Public Sector Lawyer,” 2021

5280 Top Lawyers, 2021-2025

Law Week Colorado, Barrister’s Best “Best Government Law Lawyer,” 2009-2010, 2019

Colorado Politics, Key Influencers at the Colorado Capitol, 2019

Outstanding Corporate Commitment Award – Denver City Attorney’s Office, Colorado Hispanic Bar Association

Power Book Award in the Category of Law, 2011, Denver Business Journal

Chamber Champion, Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, 2011

Chambers USA, America’s Leading Business Lawyers, 2010 2011

Finalist, Denver Business Journal Power Book Awards, 2009 2010

Lawyer of the Year, Law Week Colorado, 2009

Diversity and Inclusion Award, National Hispanic Bar Association, 2013

Pay It Forward Award, University of Colorado Law School, 2014 

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