Douglas I Bayer

Douglas I Bayer’s first job was at a small litigation firm in Manhattan where He handled all aspects of litigation matters, from intake, discovery, depositions, settlement and, if settlement, was unsuccessful, trial.

While I never fashioned myself a litigator, I quickly came to appreciate two things that guide me to this day. First, litigation is the best training for new lawyers, even though the vast majority of attorneys will never set foot in a courtroom or handle a lawsuit.

In preparing for trials, I learned how decisions and lack of attention to detail, early in a transaction, could have significant implications years later.

Most importantly, I discovered I wanted to view my clients as more than just “cases” and have a practice where I had long-standing relationships with my clients. A practice where someone would call me, even with non-legal matters, because my judgment was trusted and my client needed a sounding board to reach a conclusion.

A practice where a call with a simple question would not result in a bill 30 days later. A practice where my relationships with my clients were based on a mutual respect and an underlying business and personal relationship.

So, in 1998, I returned to my native Connecticut to build the practice I envisioned. I took what I learned from litigation and applied it to my present practice areas: real estate, estate planning (wills and trusts), estate administration (probate) and all aspects of small business formation and representation. I chose these practice areas as they allow and facilitate the development of ongoing relationships with my clients.

I also chose to live in the town where I practice furthering interaction with clients. My wife and I raised our children here. I have coached multiple youth sports teams, most of which have included the children of clients.

I served on a variety of Town boards and commissions, including a six-year term on the Planning & Zoning Commission, as well as serving in the leadership of community organizations such as the Wilton Family Y, Wilton Chamber of Commerce and Star, Inc..

As a result, I have had the opportunity and great pleasure to develop relationships with clients outside of the office and many of my clients are now my friends as well.

Our philosophy at Bayer & Black, P.C. is to treat our clients the way we would like to be treated and to provide personal, practical, comprehensive services to our clients at a fair cost. If you are new to the Firm, I hope to have the opportunity to meet you and if you are already a client, I hope our paths cross soon.