Duane A. Kees (Dak), Associate

After acquiring the distinctive skills of a United States Army Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps Officer, Duane (Dak) Kees chose to return home to Arkansas to practice law. With almost nine years of serving his country both home and abroad, Dak continues to use the skills he has honed from dealing with issues of international law, complex litigation, and a wide range of intricate negotiations.

Upon graduating from law school, Dak practiced general litigation at the Bell Law Firm in Magnolia, Arkansas. He also served as the assistant city attorney for the City of Magnolia. While at the Bell Law Firm, Dak represented various local businesses, city agencies and their officials.

In 2001, Dak joined the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corp. During his time on active duty, Dak served as a legal assistance attorney (general practice) and served both as a prosecutor and a defense attorney.

As a legal assistance attorney, Dak advised and represented several thousand soldiers and family members on a wide range of legal issues from family law, wills and probate, to personal injury. During his tenure as a legal assistance attorney, he drafted hundreds of wills, powers of attorney, trusts and other essential documents. Dak routinely advocated on behalf of soldiers and their families on issues of child custody, spousal support and he regularly confronted businesses who had taken advantage of a member of the Armed Services.

As an Army prosecutor, Dak effectively prosecuted dozens of military felonies and federal court cases ranging from drug distribution and sexual assault to murder. He also prosecuted crimes involving international law.

As a defense attorney, Dak successfully represented soldiers stationed throughout the world. Many of his cases resulted in either acquittals or outcomes far better than his clients anticipated. One of his most successful victories involved a six-year-old aggravated sexual assault case which had been overturned by the appellate court. Dak was assigned as lead counsel to the new trial and after four days of intense litigation, the soldier received a full acquittal as well as a large settlement from the government. Dak’s cases have been aired on a variety of media outlets including CNN, Fox News, and The Army Times.

As a commissioned officer, Dak had the privilege of deploying to both Iraq and Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror. During both deployments, he was tasked not only with the mission of advising commanders in wartime scenarios but with addressing various diplomatic issues and negotiating on behalf of the US Army as well. To accomplish these types of assignments, Dak worked closely with members of the U.S. State Department, U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Defense. He also assumed responsibility for the drafting of agreements between the U.S. Army and our allies. During each deployment he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his performance.

EDUCATION

BAR ADMISSIONS

Professional and Community Organizations

Professional Accomplishments

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