Kenneth H. Inskeep

Ken is known for his drive and ability to work effectively with lawyers across multiple firms in either lead or supporting roles. Of particular note, Ken managed the defense of one of the largest multidistrict litigations in the country, involving more than 10,000 personal injury claims related to implanted medical devices.

As national counsel for one of the world’s largest orthopedic companies for more than 25 years, Ken developed a deep understanding of materials science, biomechanics, bioengineering and biological responses to implants both locally and systemically, as well as the applicable FDA regulatory framework. He also served as national counsel for a diabetes care company facing claims, lawsuits and multiple regulatory issues related to external insulin infusion pumps.

Ken identifies the tools, team, arguments and strategy needed to achieve his clients’ objectives, identifying any actual or perceived weakness quickly so that it can be overcome and minimized. Ken’s substantive competency lies at the crossroads of science, regulation and human health, which also has naturally led him into the environmental realm. He has handled a number of environmental claims and lawsuits pertaining to allegations of contamination of land, air and water, EPA enforcement actions and professional negligence claims.

Ken’s diverse practice also extended to the law of lawyering, including legal ethics and defense of professional liability claims. Besides representing a number of other law firms in these matters, Ken served as Barnes & Thornburg's general counsel from 1995 to 2015, and chair of the firm’s Professional Responsibility Committee from 1993 to 2001.

Ken was always heavily involved in diversity, inclusion and lawyer development at Barnes & Thornburg and was an active member of the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee. In recognition of his many contributions, the firm created the “Kenneth H. Inskeep Mentoring Award” which is conferred annually to one of the firm’s lawyers. 

Ken has been an active participant in many civic activities, including performing extensive pro bono work for The Nature Conservancy (for which he received its highest volunteer award). Ken and his wife are passionate about advocating for and providing support to the LGBTQ community, and particularly LGBTQ youth.