Patrick Hughes

Managing Partner

As Managing Partner of DBL Law, Patrick leads the firm with a focus on delivering practical, business-minded legal counsel and a consistent client experience across the organization. He works closely with the firm’s attorneys and leadership team to support growth, develop talent, and keep DBL Law aligned around what matters most to its clients and communities.

In addition, Patrick practices in the areas of Banking & Commercial, Business & Transactional, Government Advocacy & Economic Development, and Real Estate. He is admitted to practice law in both Kentucky and Ohio and has successfully represented clients in a variety of matters involving public-private partnerships, banking and public financing, infrastructure development and construction, and healthcare and insurance regulation.

Prior to joining DBL Law, Patrick served as legal counsel to the Secretary of the Kentucky Finance and Administration Cabinet, where he oversaw capital projects, property management, procurement and financial management. In 2011 and 2012 Patrick served as Chief Deputy Attorney General to Kentucky Attorney General Jack Conway. As Chief Deputy, Patrick was responsible for daily operations, including criminal and civil investigations and enforcement actions.

Recently, Patrick Hughes was appointed to the Board of Directors for the Life Learning Center, a non-profit organization and United Way partner agency, working with multiple community partners to take individuals who demonstrate commitment to stable employment and prepare them for careers through education, training, and life coaching. Patrick also serves on the Board of Directors for Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky, as a member of the Learning Grove Capital Campaign Committee, and on the Board of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. He is a former member of the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure. 

Patrick, his wife Michelle, and their children reside in Covington, KY.

  • Real Estate Law –Best Lawyers in America (2024 – 2026)
  • Children in Action Award –The Children, Inc. (2016)
  • Kentucky Bar Association
  • Northern Kentucky Bar Association
  • Ohio State Bar Association
  • Member, Life Learning Center, Board of Directors
  • Member, Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky, Board of Directors
  • Member, Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors
  • Member, Kentucky Bankers Association Bank Counsel Division
  • Former Member, Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure
  • Member, Learning Grove Little Children. Big Impact. Capital Campaign
  • Co-Chair, Monica Hughes Children’s Fund benefiting Children Inc., Co-chair
  • Member, Leadership Kentucky Class of 2003
  • Former Member and Chair, Gateway Community and Technical College Nominating Commission
  • Former Trustee, Covington Latin Board of Education
  • Former Member, Senior Services of Northern Kentucky Board of Directors
  • Former Member, Family Services of Greater Cincinnati Board of Directors
  • Former Member, Kenton County Library Foundation Board of Directors
  • Former Chairman, Kentucky Democratic Party
  • Commonwealth of Kentucky
  • State of Ohio
  • J.D., University of Kentucky, 1994
  • B.B.A., University of Cincinnati, 1990

Recent Insights

  • First-Time Homebuyers Are Now 40: What That Means for Your Closing

    According to the National Association of Realtors, the median age of first-time homebuyers has climbed to 40 years old—a record high. The “starter home in your late twenties” picture is giving way to something new: first-time buyers who are mid-career, juggling kids, careers, and long-term financial planning. So what’s driving the shift, and how does it…

  • Commercial Real Estate Outlook: What’s Ahead?

    Key Trends Whether you’re an investor, tenant, or industry pro, now’s the time to stay informed and strategic. Curious how these trends impact your business or portfolio? Let’s talk! Our commercial real estate title department at Excel Title would be happy to discuss these industry changes. We are also able to connect you with an…

  • Navigating the NAR Settlement Amid New DOJ Scrutiny: Essential Insights for Realtors, Brokers, and Buyer

    U.S. District Judge Stephen Bough’s recent approval of the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) $418 million settlement in the Sitzer/Burnett antitrust case marks a significant shift in real estate commission structures. However, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has expressed concerns that certain provisions may still hinder competition, indicating that further scrutiny is likely. Key…

A DBL Law Company

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  • Cincinnati

    221 East Fourth Street, Suite 2500, Cincinnati, OH 45202

    (513) 241-4110
  • Covington

    109 East Fourth Street, Covington, KY 41011

    (859) 341-1881
  • Kettering

    580 Lincoln Park, Suite 333 Kettering, OH 45429

    (937) 294-0700
  • Louisville

    321 West Main Street, Suite 2100, Louisville, KY 40202

    (502) 572-2500
  • West Chester

    9100 West Chester Towne Centre Rd, Suite 235 West Chester Township, OH 45069

    (513) 639-7677
  • Wilmington

    2333 Rombach Avenue Wilmington, OH 45429

    (937) 382-5552