DLA Piper adds former FDA pharmacologist and Industry Executive Jay Cormier to FDA Regulatory practice

DLA Piper has expanded its Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Regulatory practice with the addition of partner Jay Cormier, whose practice spans regulatory strategy, compliance, and regulatory policy. He is based in Washington, DC.

A former FDA pharmacologist and FDA reviewer, Cormier understands the technical and regulatory nuances of drugs, biologics, medical devices, and veterinary medicine. He has also held senior executive operational roles at life sciences companies and has significant experience in the development and commercialization of drugs for rare diseases.

His practice encompasses drug and biologic regulatory strategy, FDA crisis management, M&A regulatory due diligence, and Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) compliance. He is the recipient of several FDA awards, including the Scientific Achievement Award.

“Regulatory strategy shapes the commercial success of a product well before it reaches the market,” said Vernessa Pollard, Head of the firm’s FDA Regulatory practice. “The most effective regulatory counsel understand both how the FDA approaches an issue and the business implications of the path forward. Jay brings that perspective, particularly in rare disease, where regulatory strategy can be critical to a company’s development and commercialization plans.”

With more than 400 life sciences professionals worldwide, DLA Piper deliver seamless, tailored solutions across every stage of the business lifecycle. Our team includes medical doctors, PhDs, and industry veterans who bring extensive scientific and legal knowledge and experience to every challenge. We combine modern insights with an expansive geographic footprint to help clients anticipate risk, maximize opportunity, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape. Whether navigating complex regulations or defending innovation, we work as one – offering bold, agile strategies, and value-added counsel that keep science on your side.