Our History

Trust Earned Through Time.

For more than twenty years, MDK has grown with purpose. We have expanded our reach, refined our structure, and invested in leadership, enabling clients to move forward with confidence.

MDK Fast Facts

Founded:

March 7, 2002

Founders and Early Leadership:

Ted Manley, Brian Deas, and Ed Kochalski

MDK HQ:

Columbus, Ohio

Additional Offices In:

Philadelphia, Chicago, Orlando, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Louisville

Mortgage Servicing Reach:

Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Florida

Vacation Ownership Presence:

Florida, California, Hawaii, South Carolina

Proprietary Platforms:

Casee Case Management System & The MDK Client CoLab

Milestone Timeline

Use the arrows to explore MDK’s milestones and hear from our founder along the way.

2002

Founded with focus

MDK was founded on March 7, 2002 by Ted Manley and Brian Deas. The first office, a converted factory in downtown Columbus, set a high bar for service from day one. Early title expertise arrived when Ed Kochalski joined the firm with Allodial Title.

“We had a clear purpose, grit, and the belief that focusing on client needs would build something better.”

2002-2003

2020-Present

2002-2003

Redefining the client experience

We listened as clients identified significant gaps in default law firm service, particularly around communication and transparency. In response, we built a service model centered on responsiveness, thorough preparation, and high-quality legal work as our foundational standard.

“Clients told us we were responsive and efficient. We cared about the impact of our work in the courts and with our clients.”

2002

2004-2015

Technology that scales service

We developed Casee, our in-house case management platform. Casee supported regional expansion into Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and Pennsylvania, and enabled the launch of our bankruptcy practice. The platform provides audit-ready controls and configurable workflows, allowing teams to move quickly while remaining compliant across various jurisdictions.

"Innovation isn’t an add-on at MDK — it’s how we deliver every matter, every time.”

2002-2003

2016-2020

Timeshare growth and collaboration

Our timeshare work began in Florida and expanded to California, Hawaii, and South Carolina. In 2019, we launched the MDK Client CoLab, a collaboration portal that streamlines communication, offers real-time visibility, and delivers custom reporting aligned to portfolio goals.

“Our clients’ success defines our own. That belief guides what we build and how we deliver.”

2004-2015

2020-Present

People, purpose, and the next chapter

The pandemic era sparked a brand refresh and new ways of working. With Brian Deas passing the torch, a seasoned executive team now leads the firm’s vision, cultivating new leaders and continuing MDK’s client-focused innovation

“MDK is an innovative, tech-focused, progressively managed firm where people are excited to learn and grow.”

2016-2020

2002

Innovation at the Core

From our earliest days, technology has shaped how we work and how we serve. What began as a practical need for accuracy and consistency became a defining part of our identity. Each platform we’ve built reflects the same idea that guided our founders — thoughtful tools make better outcomes possible.

Casee

Our Case Management Platform

Centralizes matter data for accuracy and speed
Creates audit-ready workflows that align with client and regulatory requirements
Enables multi-state consistency without sacrificing responsiveness

Client CoLab

Real-Time Partnership

Secure portal for status, tasks, and communication, featuring DocuSign integration
Custom dashboards and reporting aligned to portfolio goals
Faster decisions through shared visibility and clear next steps

Looking Ahead

Through every chapter of our growth, one constant has defined MDK: our culture. We are, and have always been, a firm of people who support one another, collaborate with purpose, and bring creativity, compassion, and care to the work at hand. That spirit of trust, preparation, and openness to new ideas continues to shape who we are and who we will be in the years ahead.

Guided by that foundation, we will continue to deliver innovative, comprehensive solutions powered by proprietary technology and led by experienced professionals. Our clients’ success defines our own, and by combining innovation with authentic partnership, MDK serves clients not just better than expected, but truly beyond the ordinary.

Work with MDK Our Philosophy

It all starts with a conversation

Let’s talk about how MDK can help you streamline operations, protect your interests, and drive results. Contact Brittany Anderson today to schedule your introduction call.

Schedule a Call