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Crews Townsend has a wide range of litigation experience concentrated primarily in the commercial and products liability areas. Presently, Mr. Townsend serves as national coordinating counsel for Chattem, Inc. in the phenylpropanolamine (PPA) products liability litigation. PPA was the active ingredient in many over-the-counter cough-cold medications, and in appetite suppressants such as Chattem's product Dexatrim®, until November, 2000. Federal cases are concentrated in MDL 1407 before Judge Barbara J. Rothstein in the Western District of Washington (Seattle). Mr. Townsend has opposed class action certification attempts by plaintiffs asserting a variety of theories as part of this litigation. In addition to his product liability experience, Mr. Townsend has construction litigation experience including his representation of a major subcontractor in litigation arising out of the Nashville Arena (now Gaylord Entertainment Center) and litigation arising out of construction of the Tennessee Aquarium. He has also represented financial institutions in lender liability claims, including the trial of a major lender liability lawsuit to jury verdict in favor of client. He has handled jury trials involving trade secrets, lender liability, trademarks, commercial breach of warranty, and insurance claims in U.S. District Courts and Tennessee state courts. He has also handled approximately 100 non-jury hearings and trials as varied as the enforceability of a city telecommunications franchise ordinance to court approval of debtor in possession financing that enabled a Chattanooga manufacturer to continue to operate its business over the objection of a consortium of lenders. He has also handled environmental matters, including claimed violations of Tennessee water quality and wetland laws. Practice Groups Construction Litigation Telecommunications & Utilities Complex Litigation & Mass Tort Pharmaceutical & Medical Devices Product Liability Education J.D., University of Tennessee College of Law, 1986 Member, Law Review Member, Moot Court Board B.A., Washington and Lee University, 1983 Professional Memberships Chattanooga Bar Association Tennessee Bar Association Board Member, Young Lawyers Division, American Bar Association, 1990 to 1991 American Bankruptcy Institute Defense Research Institute (DRI) International Association of Defense Counsel (IDAC) Civic and Charitable Activities Alumni Board Member, Baylor School, 1995 to 1998 . | 