About Douglas
Douglas D. Depew is the owner of Depew Law Firm, located at 620 Main Street in Neodesha, Kansas. He has been practicing law in Kansas since 1980, bringing over four decades of experience to his clients. The firm specializes in bankruptcy, municipal law, and general legal practice, providing essential services to individuals and small businesses in the region. Depew earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Washburn University in 1977, followed by a Juris Doctor from Washburn University School of Law in 1980. During his time in law school, Depew was recognized as an Outstanding Legal Intern in the Washburn Law School Clinic.
This early accolade set the foundation for his career, which has focused primarily on bankruptcy law. Since 1983, he has served as the Neodesha City Attorney, demonstrating his commitment to local governance. In 2015, he expanded his role by becoming the Buffalo City Attorney. His experience also includes serving as Acting Wilson County Attorney, Special Assistant Wilson County Attorney, and Special Prosecutor for Wilson County. Additionally, he has held the position of Municipal Judge pro tem for the City of Fredonia. Depew has been a member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA) since 1993, reflecting his dedication to staying current in the field of bankruptcy law.
In 2004, he was appointed by the bankruptcy judges in Kansas to serve on the inaugural Kansas Bankruptcy Bench-Bar Committee, a role that shows his standing in the legal community. He co-authored Chapter 3, "Exemptions and Prebankruptcy Estate Planning," in the Kansas Bar Association's Kansas Bankruptcy Handbook (Third Edition, 2009), contributing to the legal literature in this area. His leadership in the field is further evidenced by his tenure as President of the Kansas Bar Association's Bankruptcy and Insolvency Section from 2013 to 2014. Depew remains active on its Executive Committee, ensuring that he continues to influence the direction of bankruptcy law in Kansas. He has lectured on various bankruptcy topics for organizations such as the Allen County Bar Association and the Kansas Trial Lawyers Association, sharing his expertise with peers and aspiring attorneys alike. Recognition for his work has come in various forms.
Depew received the Client Champion Award from Martindale-Hubbell in both 2020 and 2021, as well as the Peer Review Rated designation during the same years. In 2012, he earned the Client Distinction Award from Martindale-Hubbell. His accolades also include the Best of CLE award from the Kansas Trial Lawyers Association in 1992 and the Outstanding Legal Intern award from Washburn University Law School in 1980. Fluent in English, Depew continues to serve clients throughout southeast Kansas, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to his community and the legal profession.
