Richard H. Deane Jr.

rick@finchmccranie.com

Rick is a former United States Attorney and federal judge who has been recognized by Chambers USA, The Best Lawyers in America, and Georgia Trend’s Legal Elite for his expertise in complex litigation, white-collar criminal defense, government investigations, and other consequential legal matters.

Before joining Finch McCranie, Rick served as a partner at Jones Day, where he acted as Partner-in-Charge of the firm’s Atlanta office and co-chair of the firm’s Investigations and White-Collar Defense practice. Over his career, Rick has represented businesses, executives, and individuals facing a variety of complex legal issues.

Before moving into private practice, Rick served as a United State Magistrate Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. He also previously served as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, where he oversaw federal criminal prosecutions and civil enforcement on behalf of the United States. In 2001, he was named by Time Magazine to the “Time 100 List of Innovators” for his creativity and determination in the application of the RICO statute to fight local crime involving sexual exploitation of children.

Rick has held prominent leadership positions within the legal profession. He served as the 75th President of the American College of Trial Lawyers, becoming the first African American to lead the organization. A Fellow of the College since 2008, he has been recognized throughout his career for his commitment to trial advocacy, professionalism, and the administration of justice.

He is a former president of the National Association of Former United States Attorneys and a recipient of the Chief Justice Thomas O. Marshall Professionalism Award from the State Bar of Georgia. He also received the Atlanta Bar Association, Criminal Law Section’s “Thomas J. Waldrop Truth & Justice Award” in recognition of his representation of Atlanta School Superintendent, Dr. Beverly Hall, during the Atlanta cheating scandal.

Rick brings an extraordinary combination of courtroom experience, judgment, and leadership to Finch McCranie. His practice complements the firm’s longstanding work in white-collar criminal defense, government investigations, and complex litigation.

Education

• University of Michigan, LL.M.
• University of Georgia, J.D.
• University of Georgia, B.A.