The founder of the firm, David C. McDonald, came to Miami in the early 1920s after working his way through law school as an insurance adjuster for Continental Casualty Company, forming this firm in 1927. Because of his claims background and experience, the firm immediately developed an insurance defense practice. David McDonald joined his father in the firm in 1953. David M. McDonald joined his father in 1988 followed by his brother, Patrick McDonald, in 2001. The firm currently continues to practice in aviation, marine, and insurance related matters while also maintaining a general practice to assist its clients in a variety of legal matters. The firm assists clients in collection, real property, personal injury, family law and other areas. The firm has assisted companies and underwriters utilizing its services by handling special investigations, supervising files involving U.S. and Latin American claims and litigation, and assisting in the recovery of vessels and aircraft from outside the United States.

Where it has been of economical value to use small aircraft in getting to and from depositions or other business meetings on behalf of its clients, the firm has made use of rented or owned aircraft and presently utilizes its Piper Aztec (6 place, twin engine aircraft) for that purpose and to keep the members of the firm familiar with their specialty in aviation matters.