Since the mid-1980s, The Gary Law Group has successfully represented businesses from around the country that have faced fenestration claims, window and door defect claims, window and door performance claims, AAMA claims, and other manufacturer and product liability claims.
Our business is devoted to the Recognition, Response and Resolution of legal risks and issues arising from the design, sale and performance of windows and doors. The problems faced by fenestration manufacturers and re-sellers are common nationally which allows us to provide effective service to companies and their local attorneys throughout the U.S. and into Canada. Our attorneys collectively bring over 60 years of experience with the matters that are important to you.
Before fenestration became our exclusive endeavor, an omen was presented. Thousands of miles from home, a Medieval Age guild hall revealed the stone relief shown on this page which honored the craft of making windows. The course was then set and today continues to be travelled.
Our Team
Paul R. Gary
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An Illinois native, Paul received his law degree in 1976 from Northwestern University. He is the principal attorney with the firm and is a member of the Illinois State Bar, the Oregon State Bar, and the Washington State Bar.
Paul focuses on the management of legal issues in the window and door industry and the related defense of construction defect and product litigation. He has been involved in the defense of several hundred window and door related product claims, including class action litigation. From this, the firm has also developed an expertise in the creation of legal defense strategies, documentation, and “best practices” systems to protect manufacturers and re-sellers of fenestration products, as well as insurance coverage matters related to fenestration product claims.
A speaker and contributing author for the fenestration and related products industry, Paul is known for his contributions to Window and Door Magazine, the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, GANA and NW Builder Magazine.
He regularly assists attorneys with respect to the legal issues presented by product litigation relating to the business of manufacturing and selling windows and doors, including litigation strategy and management. Paul Gary works with manufacturers and distributors to minimize legal risks before litigation occurs and to evaluate serious existing claims.
Matthew A. Johnson
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Matthew A. Johnson devotes his practice to advising product manufacturers. Matt’s practice involves strategic consultation with executive level management concerning the spectrum of legal concerns impacting companies, including formation, acquisitions, documentation, claims, and compliance. A practice concentration with glazing and fenestration means that Matt’s experience with the variety of issues affecting all participants in these industries allows a broad and strategic perspective for realizing less-than-obvious opportunities. Matt is a regular contributor to Glass Magazine, Window and Door, and a presenter at GlassBuild and other industry trade associations where he offers insights and advice to the industry. Mr. Johnson is well suited to address the manufacturer’s legal and consulting needs in the increasingly sophisticated marketplace.
Susan MacKay
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Susan MacKay joined the Gary Law Group in 2004. Her practice initially concentrated on product liability and construction law, including the oversight of litigation across the country. In recent years, Susan’s focus has shifted towards more transactional work, such as writing warranties and contract negotiations. She has a keen understanding of window and door issues and enjoys using that knowledge to draft effective and concise documents. Susan is a member of the Oregon State Bar and the Washington State Bar and publishes several blogs and articles in Window + Door each year.
John Nolan
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John is a practicing attorney based in the Springfield, Illinois office of The Gary Law Group. For over 29 years John has handled cases for his clients in the trial and appellate courts and has assisted clients through administrative proceedings of governmental agencies. With The Gary Law Group John has focused on:
- Developing best practices for manufacturing, distributing, and servicing products;
- Identifying risks from manufacture to sale and later customer support of products in an effort to minimize claims relating to the fenestration industry;
- Defending, managing and bringing to resolution claims of alleged construction deficiencies related to fenestration;
- Participating with industry stakeholders and associations to update published international standards and practices applicable to the evaluation of fenestration products;
- Working with clients to navigate governmental administrative rules and regulations affecting the manufacture and distribution of products including fenestration.
Melanie Ann Scherer
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Melanie Ann Scherer focuses her practice on product liability and construction law. She manages litigation on behalf of manufacturers nationwide for effective and consistent product defense. Melanie is dedicated to working with her clients to navigate complex legal issues and provide guidance in the development of corporate best practices. With her background in strategic consulting and project management, Melanie ensures that implementation of legal and risk management objectives align with the business interests of her clients. She is also a regular contributor to industry publications including Window + Door.
Melanie completed her undergraduate education at the University of Georgia and received her law degree from Emory University School of Law. She is a member of the Oregon State Bar and is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).