Kenneth H. Inskeep
Defending and managing nationwide, complex litigation involving sophisticated medical, bioengineering and other scientific issues is the core of Ken Inskeep’s practice. By establishing fact-based, persuasive and actionable paths to resolution, Ken develops strategies to vigorously defend and reasonably resolve, when possible, high-stakes claims.
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 is managing 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 has 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 has 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 extends 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 chairman of the firm’s Professional Responsibility Committee from 1993 to 2001.
Ken has always been heavily involved in diversity, inclusion and lawyer development at Barnes & Thornburg. 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 is an active member of the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee.
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.
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204-3535