(Birmingham, Alabama) (September 16, 2024) - In a decisive legal victory, the Alabama office of Wood Smith Henning & Berman successfully defended an insurance agent against negligence and wantonness claims in a high-stakes trial in Perry County, Alabama. The plaintiffs alleged that the agent failed to procure adequate insurance and mishandled the processing of a liability claim, which led to collection actions being taken against them. The trial unfolded after a year of contentious litigation, culminating in a directed verdict, after the plaintiffs rested their case.
The trial's setting presented unique challenges, particularly due to local dynamics favoring the plaintiffs. The plaintiffs, who sought hundreds of thousands in damages, were represented by well-known and talented trial attorneys with extensive local ties. Even so, Alabama attorneys Colleen McCaffrey and Jake Holliday were able to secure a directed verdict after the close of plaintiffs’ case, through creative litigation strategy.
"The venue favored the plaintiffs," McCaffrey explained. "However, our thorough preparation and strategic approach allowed us to navigate this challenging landscape effectively, securing a favorable outcome for our client." Holliday added, “we are proud to have achieved such a favorable outcome for our client, particularly in a tough jurisdiction."
This victory follows a string of successes by the Alabama team throughout the state, including a dismissal with prejudice of a complaint just weeks earlier in Jefferson County. These successes underscore the law firm's commitment to providing exceptional legal representation, regardless of the challenges presented.
Wood Smith Henning & Berman: Your Trusted Partner
Experience the power of a proven industry leader in the law. Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) is renowned globally for our exceptional trial results and expertise in handling complex litigation. With our nationwide network of almost 500 lawyers across 42 office locations, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive litigation and counsel to both public and private companies. From start-ups to Fortune 100 corporations, we deliver unrivaled legal representation that consistently achieves favorable outcomes for our clients.
At WSHB, our strength lies in our diverse and accomplished team of attorneys. We boast thought leaders and defense specialists in over 40 fields of practice, covering an extensive range of specialties. Founded in 1997, we are proud to be among the top ten law firms in the nation for diversity, female partners, female lawyers, and Hispanic lawyers. This rich tapestry of diversity forms the foundation of our success when presenting cases to juries of our peers, ensuring we understand the unique nuances underlying each claim.
Our expansive geographic footprint allows us to provide effective and efficient representation to clients nationwide, regardless of their location, background, or legal expertise. By prioritizing strategic and cost-effective approaches to litigation, our dedicated attorneys work tirelessly to protect the interests of our clients. We have a track record of success, securing numerous victories such as summary judgments and defense verdicts on behalf of our clients. As a trial firm, we have taken over 2,000 cases to verdict, making us well-equipped to handle even the most complex and high-stakes litigation matters across the country.