Our Team

David Downard was born in Springfield, Tennessee; when he was just 12, years old, he lost his father and was raised by his grandparents. Social Security stepped in and awarded the young Downard benefits, helping with costs through the remainder of his childhood. He credited his success, in part, to the benefits he received,  something that allowed him to worry about school and success instead of how he would pay bills. He began his career as a service specialist with the SSA.​ During this time, his grandmother applied for, and was denied Social Security Disability benefits. After learning more stories like hers, he earned his law degree in 2002 so he could help people just like his beloved grandmother.​ Mr. Downard spent his entire career fighting for people who were unable to work and that same spirit of service continues at Downard today.

Brandon was born in Asheville, North Carolina, and later moved to Jackson, Tennessee. He graduated from Jackson State Community College with an Associate’s Degree before serving six years as a Combat Engineer in the Tennessee National Guard, including a tour of duty in Iraq. Brandon joined Downard in 2012 and has since become the first professional in the firm to achieve the status of Accredited Disability Representative (ADR), a distinction awarded by the National Association of Disability Representatives and the Social Security Administration. This honor reflects his commitment to rigorous coursework and testing to provide enhanced services for clients. Together with his wife, Karen, who also works in the Jackson office, Brandon enjoys traveling, following their favorite sports teams, playing golf and tennis, and being active in their local church.

Martha joined Downard & Associates in 2013, bringing over 41 years of diverse legal experience to our team. With expertise spanning social security disability, criminal, personal injury, insurance defense, and family law, Martha has contributed to law firms, Michigan’s Chief Criminal Court Judge, and Vanderbilt Legal Department. Originally from a small town in Northern Michigan, she moved to Tennessee in 2007 and remains active in her community, volunteering at local animal shelters and engaging in area events. Outside of work, Martha enjoys live music, sports, crafting, and exploring Tennessee’s parks and markets. She lives by her mother’s motto: “When things get tough, don’t quit – there is always a way.”

Karen serves as the Intake Department Manager and Senior Paralegal at Downard & Associates, bringing over 15 years of expertise in all phases of the Social Security Disability process. A native of Jackson, Tennessee, Karen graduated from Lambuth University with a Bachelor of Science Degree, where she also played college tennis. Before joining Downard, she gained valuable experience in the legal field and served as Assistant Registrar at Lambuth University. In her spare time, Karen enjoys spending quality moments with her husband, Brandon, who also works at Downard, as they follow their favorite sports teams, travel, and engage in tennis and golf. Both are active members of their local church.

Mike graduated from Gallatin High School in 1996 and Vol State in 2001 with an Associates Degree in University Studies. He also attended Middle Tennessee State University and Tennessee State University where he graduated with degrees in History and Political Science.​

Mike specializes in the Social Security Disability intake process and Document Management.

Katie joined our team in 2021 as a paralegal for Attorney J. Ray Akers Jr., focusing on hearing-level cases. A 2019 graduate of Volunteer State Community College with an Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies, Katie was recognized with the National Society of Leadership and Success award for her academic dedication. With prior experience in family law, she is committed to assisting clients with compassion and expertise. Outside of work, Katie enjoys camping, reading, and volunteering, with a memorable mission trip to Nicaragua as a highlight of her service efforts.

A native of Indiana, Taylor was raised in Hendersonville, TN and is proud to call middle Tennessee home. She continues her family’s legacy of rooting for the “underdog” and fighting to get clients the benefits they deserve. Taylor’s strong customer service and management skills are second nature to her, coming from years of watching and learning her family’s business.

When not at work, Taylor enjoys spending time with her family and friends.