Profile photo of Kenneth Manning, Esq.

Kenneth Manning, Esq.

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Buffalo, NY, United States

About

With a legal career spanning over four decades, this neutral has extensive experience in high-stakes litigation and alternative dispute resolution. He spent 45 years at a prominent Buffalo-based firm, where he led the litigation department and served on the management committee. His practice has focused on navigating intricate commercial conflicts, environmental disputes, and complex class actions. He has presided over numerous cases as a mediator and arbitrator, bringing deep expertise in resolving multi-party and high-value legal matters.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Construction Education Employment & Labor Energy & Environment Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Partner
Phillips Lytle LLP
Leader of Litigation Practice Group
Phillips Lytle LLP
Member of Governing Management Committee
Phillips Lytle LLP
Adjunct Professor
University at Buffalo School of Law

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent lecturer on trial technique and civil procedure at the University at Buffalo School of Law
  • Author of various articles regarding commercial litigation strategies and environmental law compliance
  • Past President of the University at Buffalo Law Alumni Association
  • Former Director of the Minority Bar Association of Western New York Foundation

Positioning Takeaways

This neutral is established as a veteran trial attorney with 45 years of experience in complex commercial and environmental law. His background as a firm leader and adjunct professor supports his credibility in handling sophisticated multi-party disputes.

License & Certifications

  • New York State Bar
  • United States District Court
  • Western District of New York
  • United States District Court
  • Northern District of New York
  • United States Court of Appeals
  • Second Circuit
  • United States Supreme Court

Education

J.D.
University at Buffalo School of Law
1977
B.A.
State University of New York at Buffalo
1974

Distinction

He is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers and has spent nearly half a century handling the most complex litigation in Western New York.

Reputation

He is widely regarded by his peers for his analytical depth and his ability to facilitate resolutions in highly contentious commercial and environmental matters. Colleagues and clients frequently note his thorough preparation and fair-minded approach to dispute resolution.