News

Wood Smith Henning & Berman, LLP is proud to announce that partner Catherine Deter has been awarded the prestigious CLM's Phenoms Under 40 Award. This honor recognizes her exceptional contributions to the legal field, and highlights her commitment to leadership, mentorship, and advancing diversity within the profession.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is proud to announce a significant victory for the defense, celebrating a unanimous verdict in favor of a respected, world-renowned neurosurgeon in a high-profile medical malpractice case. Philadelphia partner, Andy Kessler, prevailed on behalf of the client after a hard fought eight-day trial.

The managing partner of Wood Smith Henning & Berman's Seattle office, Tim Repass, has secured back-to-back success in yet another high-profile jury trial. Repass successfully defended a housing authority in an important slip and fall case in which an elderly tenant claimed $2.2 million in damages after a fall on an icy surface, but the jury awarded $396,000.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is proud to share that founding partner Kevin Smith has been selected as the San Diego Business Journal's 2024 Leader of Influence in Law. This prestigious honor, awarded after a highly competitive selection process, places Smith among an elite group of legal professionals in the area.

In a significant legal win, the Dallas office of Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) secured an exceedingly rare appellate victory through a restricted appeal, a seldom-used legal tool with strict limitations. The successful appeal overturned a default judgment, offering new hope for clients who believed all legal avenues had been exhausted.

WSHB is proud to announce that the New Jersey office secured a significant victory in a property management case involving a severe injury claim. Under the supervision of partner Jill Mucerino, and led by senior associate Alison McClave, the case was successfully resolved in favor of the client, the owner and manager of an apartment building, after a successful motion for summary judgment in Middlesex County.

On June 3, 2024, Governor Jared Polis signed Colorado House Bill 24-1472 into law, marking a pivotal change in the state's legal framework around damages. This legislation significantly raises the limits on noneconomic damages, wrongful death claims, and medical malpractice awards, while also allowing siblings to bring wrongful death actions in certain cases. These updates carry substantial consequences for businesses and insurers operating in Colorado. This article explores the practical outcomes of these changes and how they may impact litigation and risk management.

Illinois recently passed SB2979, amending the state's Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). This amendment narrows the scope of liability for businesses that collect biometric data, addressing concerns raised by the Illinois Supreme Court in Cothron v. White Castle System, Inc., 2023 IL 128004. In its opinion, the court had suggested legislative review of BIPA's potential for excessive damages, and SB2979 now aims to provide that clarity.

In a significant victory for the medical community, trial partner Ryan Deane of WSHB has achieved a unanimous defense verdict in a two-week medical malpractice trial that concluded on October 15, 2024. The jury deliberated for only 35 minutes before determining that the physician involved was not negligent, underscoring the strength of the defense presented.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) is proud to announce a significant victory in a high-stakes jury trial in King County, Washington, securing a decisive win for our esteemed clients—a leading general contractor and a real estate developer. Led by the exceptional legal acumen of seasoned trial attorney Tim Repass and senior associate Nohl Speck, WSHB skillfully dismantled a construction site injury and premises liability claim, delivering a powerful defense.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is excited to announce that it has added new partner, Nicole Koumasidis, to further bolster its national practice teams in the areas of employment, professional liability and coverage practices. Nicole's unique background working first as a defense attorney on the law firm side and then as a complex claims manager on the insurance company side will strengthen the firm's capabilities in handling high stakes insurance and liability matters.

In a significant victory for Wood Smith Henning & Berman, partner Christopher Seusing, senior associate Sean Patel, and associate Kyle Woodford successfully obtained a voluntary dismissal without prejudice in the United States District Court, Southern District of Florida. The case, which involved a class action against a major entertainment corporation, alleged viol

WSHB is proud to announce momentous victories achieved by partners Richie Singer and Kimberly Jones and senior associate Erica Pope. Richie Singer successfully argued a complex Motion for Summary Judgment concerning a coverage issue on a forced place policy. This win was followed by an unsuccessful appeal filed by the Plaintiff thanks to the strong briefing and arguments by partner Kimberly Jones. This outcome not only underscores the firm's legal prowess but also exemplifies its commitment to providing exceptional representation for clients.

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 Kings County Superior Court has granted summary judgment in favor of a leading equipment manufacturer for the meat packing industry, represented by Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB), in a high stakes products liability case. The important ruling is a significant victory in a multi-party lawsuit involving a tragic incident in which the plaintiff lost a limb while sanitizing equipment at a packing plant. Plaintiff is seeking a minimum of $26 million against all parties in the product's distribution chain and the operators of the plant.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is proud to announce its recognition as a 2024 L.A. Business Journal Leaders of Influence "Most Admired Firms to Work For." Selected from a highly competitive pool, WSHB is honored to be recognized for its outstanding achievements and leadership in the legal community.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB), a distinguished national law firm, proudly announces the opening of its 42nd office in Reno, Nevada. This strategic expansion underscores the firm’s commitment to providing exceptional legal services throughout the State of Nevada with key locations and talent in both locations. This office further establishes WSHB as the go-to firm in this vibrant and rapidly growing community.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) is pleased to announce that a Santa Monica judge returned a favorable verdict for our client in a challenging business litigation case. Trial attorneys Andreea Custurea and Greg Amundson expertly navigated a multitude of claims brought forth by the plaintiffs, who alleged breaches of contract, fraud, and other serious offenses. WSHB successfully defended against claims exceeding $2 million with the court awarding the plaintiff less than $50,000. In addition, as the plaintiff failed to surpass the statutory offer to compromise and are now responsible for all expert fees and costs.

As students across the nation return to class, partner Christopher Seusing is adding yet another role to his active cyber practice. He was recently appointed as an Adjunct Professor at Suffolk University Law School, where he will be teaching courses in cybersecurity and data privacy law. As an active litigator handling all facets of cyber exposures at Wood Smith Henning & Berman, Seusing will bring real time experience to law students aspiring to move into cyber exposures.

In a remarkable demonstration of legal acumen, Wood Smith Henning & Berman successfully resolved a complex security negligence case through a strategic motion for summary judgment. This decisive victory, spearheaded by trial attorneys Lauren Kane and Frances O’Meara, exemplifies the effectiveness of well-crafted legal motions in bringing clarity and finality to challenging cases.

Melanie Thomas, an exceptional trial attorney with extensive experience in healthcare law, has joined Wood Smith Henning & Berman as a partner in our Las Vegas office.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) proudly celebrates the recognition of forty-two of its exceptional attorneys in the 2025 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch.^® This prestigious accolade, awarded by the oldest and most-respected peer-review publication in the legal profession, highlights the remarkable contributions and professional achievements of emerging legal talent from law firms across the country.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) proudly announces the inclusion of its partners from around the nation in the annual listing of distinguished attorneys named in the 2025 edition of Best Lawyers in America.^® This prestigious recognition highlights the extraordinary achievements and unwavering dedication of the top legal professionals in the nation.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is proud to report yet another successful jury trial, this time led by trial lawyers Jade Tran and Vanessa Herzog. Together, Tran and Herzog successfully defended a national trucking company and its driver in a challenging jury trial in the San Bernardino Superior Court. This intricate case, which stemmed from a significant accident on the northbound I-15, culminated in the jury determining that the plaintiff driver bore 95% of the liability for the collision.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is pleased to announce the addition of a new partner, Spencer Dunn, to the Houston office. Dunn brings a wealth of litigation experience and a proven track record of success in well-rounded plethora of complex legal areas.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman has achieved a notable legal victory in Michigan in a complex automobile accident case. The case involved a vehicle rented by a leading delivery company from our client, which resulted in an accident with the plaintiff. Partner Michael Spinazzola and senior associate Hass Merhi showcased their expertise in the handling of this matter.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB), a prominent national law firm, is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated addition of Cheryl Grames, a highly regarded attorney who focuses her practice on insurance coverage, bad faith litigation, and professional liability defense with an emphasis on medical malpractice litigation. Known for her litigation prowess defending clients throughout Nevada, Grames enjoys a distinguished track record of success.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is proud to announce a remarkable legal victory on behalf of a multi-million dollar construction client, securing the dismissal of complex data breach class action lawsuit in the Northern District of California (NDCA). The case, which consolidated multiple class action suits, involved the compromise of 24,000 employee files following a ransomware attack.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman proudly announces its recognition as the #9 firm in the prestigious Law360 Pulse Diversity Snapshot. This top ten ranking once again underscores the firm's continued commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion within the legal profession.

In a decisive ruling, a Nevada court has granted Wood Smith Henning & Berman's motion for summary judgment in a personal injury case stemming from a shooting incident at a rental property in Las Vegas. Led by Las Vegas managing partner, Janice Michaels, the WSHB team including Kyle Hoyt and Jaden Braunagel argued their way to victory on behalf of owners of a short-term rental. The case involved homeowners who utilized an online marketplace in order to rent their property to a third-party tenant, who subsequently hosted a party in violation of house rules, leading to a nearby shooting away from the home that injured the plaintiff.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is pleased to announce that Katie Gordon, a distinguished attorney with nearly two decades of experience in defending medical practitioners and facilities, has joined the Las Vegas office.

It is with great pride that Wood Smith Henning & Berman announces that partner Greg Amundson, a distinguished leader in the Orange County office, has been selected as the National Representative for the Orange County Chapter by the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA). Amundson's term will commence in January 2025.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is pleased to announce a significant victory in a bench trial led by trial attorney Thomas Fama. The case, which had been pending for nearly five years due to pandemic-related delays and unreasonable demands by the plaintiff, concluded with a resounding judgment in favor of the defendant.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman, a leading defense litigation firm, is pleased to announce a resounding victory in a high-profile medical malpractice case. After an intense over month long jury trial, celebrated trial attorney, Ryan Deane, successfully secured a defense verdict on behalf of the client, a gynecological surgeon.

WSHB, a leading litigation and trial law firm, is pleased to announce a significant win in a complex transportation case handled by the Michigan office. The litigation involved an unfortunate incident where a vehicle rented by a well-known national overnight delivery service was hit by the Plaintiff, resulting in a series of legal claims.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is pleased to announce the addition of four exceptional medical malpractice defense attorneys all joining the firm from LaFollete, Johnson, DeHaas, Fesler & Ames. WSHB welcomes partner Scott Blakeley, senior counsel Tyrone Toczauer, senior counsel Jason Scupine, and senior associate Robert Rhoten.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) is pleased to announce its distinguished inclusion as one of the top ten law firms on the National Law Journal's 2024 Women in Law Scorecard. This prestigious annual ranking evaluates the percentage of female attorneys and female partners at the largest 350 firms in the country. With a climb to the number eight ranking, up one from last year, this recognition solidifies WSHB's unwavering commitment to promoting gender equity, fostering diversity, and empowering women in the legal industry. 

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is pleased to announce the addition of Marjorie "Marjie" Kratsas, an accomplished attorney specializing in medical malpractice defense, to its distinguished legal team in Las Vegas. With a proven track record in navigating complex and catastrophic civil defense litigation, Marjie brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to client advocacy.

On June 18, 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom and several labor and business groups came to an agreement regarding the future of the highly contentious California Private Attorney General Act known as PAGA. The agreement proposes to pass bipartisan legislation amending the statute. Should the legislation pass, the agreement would successfully halt a November ballot initiative for the voters which proposed eliminating PAGA altogether. To date, the agreement has been welcomed by businesses who have long criticized widespread, abusive, and costly PAGA litigation.

Plaintiff attorneys rushed to the courthouse to file claims upon hearing of the overhaul, unaware that while the new reforms are not retroactive, they would took effect as of June 19th once passed. Although the proposed amendments add to a business's quiver of possible defenses, it remains to be seen how effective these will be, and we do not expect the amendments to halt the avalanche of PAGA litigation statewide.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is pleased to announce the arrival of partner Krystina Butchart, a skilled trial lawyer in the realm of complex civil litigation. Known for her tenacity, expertise, and track record, Ms. Butchart has joined the growing team at WSHB’s Las Vegas office which services the entire State of Nevada.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman proudly announces the arrival of trial lawyer, Philip John, to its Nevada office. Philip, who joined the firm as a partner, brings substantial trial experience handling trial issues that captured national headlines.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is proud to announce a remarkable result for our client, a major construction company and property owner, in a high stakes negligence case. Despite the plaintiff initially securing summary judgment on vicarious liability, partner Cole Munson's strategic trial tactics led to the voluntary dismissal of claims against the client.

In a significant legal triumph, Luana DiSarra Scavone, a partner in the Boston office of Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB), successfully obtained the dismissal of all claims in a professional liability complaint filed against a real estate agent and their brokerage firm. The Massachusetts Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons issued a favorable decision, clearing the respondents of all allegations.

In a significant victory for the construction industry, trial attorney Maggy Mazlin obtained a unanimous defense verdict on liability in favor of her client during the trial of a high-stakes New York Labor Law case. In doing so, the defense steadfastly rejected a $4 million dollar demand from plaintiff.

On the eve of trial, Wood Smith Henning & Berman achieved a significant legal victory for the client, a national supplier of countertops, by securing a summary judgment. The Plaintiff, whose story has been widely featured in multiple news outlets, alleged that he developed silicosis as a result of exposure to products containing silica from a countertop manufactured by WSHB's client.

In a move that is set to further deepen its trial bench in New York, Wood Smith, Henning & Berman proudly welcomes partner Nicole Aldridge-Henry, an accomplished trial attorney specializing in complex civil litigation. With an impressive track record of handling high-stakes cases, Nicole's arrival is poised to bolster the firm's already formidable reputation.

In a significant move to reshape competition in the labor market, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued a final rule regarding non-compete clauses, impacting millions of American workers and businesses across all industries. This rule, which will become effective 120 days after its publication in the federal register, aims to address purported concerns about the effects of non-compete agreements on fair competition, wages, and job mobility.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is thrilled to announce that Domingo Tan, a partner in the Los Angeles office, has been awarded the prestigious Jerrold S. Oliver Award of Excellence. Fondly known as the "Ollie", this esteemed accolade is presented annually to a standout professional in the construction defect community who has demonstrated exceptional contributions and unwavering dedication to the field.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB), a prominent national law firm, is thrilled to announce a momentous victory for its client in a high-profile wrongful death case. The case, which tragically involved the untimely demise of a 15-year-old girl in an ATV accident, was successfully defended by WSHB trial attorneys, Graham Miller and Caroline Hopkins.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is delighted to announce the addition of Melissa Osio Martinez as a partner and managing partner of the Rio Grande Valley, Texas office. With a wealth of expertise as a trial attorney and a distinguished career representing major insurance carriers, Melissa brings invaluable knowledge and leadership to the firm's local team.

Jade Tran is a highly acclaimed trial lawyer, recognized both nationally and locally for her exceptional skills in the courtroom. As a member of the prestigious American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), Jade has established herself as a formidable force in the legal field. Her expertise lies in handling highly contentious, complex cases with significant exposure. She is a member of WSHB’s acclaimed Eleventh Hour Trial team.

WSHB, a leading national law firm specializing in litigation, is pleased to announce a major victory achieved by partners Chad Dunigan and Ryan Brooks, along with associate Matt Hill, in a highly contentious toxic tort arbitration matter. The successful defense resulted in a favorable outcome for their client, a prominent national homebuilder.

In the world of real estate, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) stands as a behemoth, shaping the landscape of buying and selling properties in the United States. However, recent developments have forced the organization to hurdle challenges as it grapples with accusations of anti-competitive practices. This article discusses the details of the recent NAR settlement, its potential impact on the real estate market, and the likely ramifications for consumers and industry players alike.

In a closely watched jury trial, WSHB managing partner Tim Repass achieved an impressive trial victory that showcased his exceptional litigation skills. After an intense two-week trial, the jury delivered a verdict that emphatically rejected the plaintiff's exorbitant $31 million in claimed damages. Plaintiff’s counsel used anchoring tactics in the admitted liability matter, but Repass successfully argued for a significantly reduced award of $550,000, even lower than our client's pre-trial offer.

As members of the defense bar, we routinely ask "Where is the justice?" With plaintiff-oriented venues and post COVID nuclear verdicts, the defense is often faced with defending actions on damages at trial where summary judgment is routinely granted on elevation related accidents under New York Labor Law. Builders, risk managers and insurance companies in the State of New York are all too familiar with the infamous Labor Law statutory scheme, which for years proved a harbinger for lawsuits alleging strict liability for alleged accidents on construction sites. Due to the strict liability standard, contractors are prime targets for personal injury litigation and often at the mercy of plaintiffs encouraged to inflate the extent of their injury and damages.

WSHB is pleased to announce the addition of Mark Roach as a partner in our Las Vegas office. With over two decades of experience specializing in construction litigation, Mark offers a goldmine of expertise and a history of providing exceptional service to his clients.

WSHB is pleased to announce the latest addition to our esteemed team with the arrival of Justin Leise, who joins as a partner based in the firm's Orlando and Miami offices. With a distinguished legal career focusing on construction-related litigation and arbitration, Justin brings a wealth of experience to WSHB's expanding practice.

Well regarded construction and professional liability attorney Bryan Hill is the newest addition to Wood Smith Henning & Berman. Joining the firm as a partner in the Boca Raton office of WSHB, Hill brings decades of experience handling all facets of complex construction litigation and a solid track record of results.

WSHB is pleased to announce the opening two new offices in Florida. Trial lawyer Chad Dunigan will be the managing partner of both the Orlando and Jacksonville offices, which brings the total number of offices in Florida to five. Chad will oversee the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of both offices and will also provide guidance and support to the firm’s attorneys to ensure clients receive exceptional service.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman proudly announces the addition of Katie Klapsa as a partner based both in the Orlando and Miami offices. Katie specializes in representing builders, developers, and general contractors, showcasing a wealth of experience in complex litigation and appellate matters. Her expertise encompasses various disputes, including construction defect claims, contract disputes, insurance coverage issues, and general liability defense.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is delighted to announce that Ian Gillan has joined the firm as a Partner in the firm's recently opened Orlando and Miami offices. Ian's wealth of experience in complex litigation, particularly in construction disputes and insurance coverage, will significantly bolster the firm's capabilities in these key areas.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is thrilled to announce the addition of new partner, Ryan Brooks, to our newly christened office in Orlando, Florida. With a specialized focus on construction and commercial litigation, Ryan brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our dynamic team.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman is pleased to announce that Los Angeles partner, Domingo Tan, is a finalist for West Coast Casualty's Jerrold S. Oliver Award of Excellence. This distinguished award, affectionately known as the "Ollie," is bestowed upon an individual who has demonstrated outstanding contributions and commitment to the betterment of the construction defect community.

Washington courts provided new guidance and protection for employers handling industrial injury and occupational disease claims. Previously, under the compensable consequences doctrine, employers risked being stuck with covering unrelated complications or aggravation with no causal connection to an industrial injury.

National law firm WSHB is proud to announce the grand opening of two strategic locations in Orlando and Jacksonville, Florida. This expansion marks a significant leap forward for the firm, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to meeting the escalating demands of clients across the country.

WSHB  is thrilled to share that Frances O'Meara, a distinguished partner in the Los Angeles office, was selected as one of three finalists in the Outside Defense Counsel category for the prestigious CLM Professional of the Year Award. A trailblazer in professional liability, Frances' accomplishments extend beyond stellar defense verdicts and prolific speaking engagements.

WSHB, a distinguished law practice with a strong presence in New York and beyond, is delighted to announce that Jeremy Chen will be joining the firm as a partner in the New York office. Jeremy brings a wealth of expertise in professional liability defense, particularly focusing on medical and dental malpractice. He is also well-versed in insurance defense litigation, New York labor law, products liability, and general negligence.

WSHB is pleased to announce the addition of Jackie Jensen Erler as a new partner in our Seattle, Washington office. A Seattle- area native, Jensen Erler brings a wealth of experience in civil litigation, with a primary focus on construction defect, personal injury, and insurance disputes.

WSHB is excited to announce the launch of its newest office located in the vibrant Rio Grande Valley of Texas. This strategic expansion comes in response to the growing demand for legal services in South Texas. WSHB is proud to be the first national firm to establish a presence in this thriving region, with McAllen as the chosen location for this exciting endeavor.

Wood, Smith, Henning & Berman is proud to announce that Richard Singer and Sebastian Larrea have been chosen to present at the upcoming Catastrophe and National Claims (CNC) Connect Conference.

WSHB proudly announces the addition of Robert Campbell as a new partner in the White Plains, New York office. Bob brings over two decades of extensive experience representing major property and casualty insurers in a wide array of insurance matters.

WSHB in is thrilled to announce the addition of Erik Vollenweider as a new partner in our New Orleans, Louisiana office. With an impressive track record in the areas of insurance defense and general civil litigation, Vollenweider brings a wealth of experience, leadership and innovative thinking to the Louisiana team.

On December 29, 2023, New York Governor Kathy Hochul vetoed the revised S74A "Grieving Families Act" for the second time since its inception over a year ago. The law was aimed at substantially expanding compensable damages in wrongful death actions.

WSHB is pleased to announce the opening of its newest office location in the vibrant city of Providence, Rhode Island. This expansion marks a significant milestone in our ongoing dedication to delivering exceptional legal services to clients across New England and beyond.

As the California legislative season concludes, significant new laws are set to take effect in 2024. These laws bring forth various compliance obligations for employers, creating an ever-evolving landscape for businesses, human resource departments, and other stakeholders. In this article, we will discuss each of these laws from a legal perspective, examining their implications and providing practice pointers for navigating these changes effectively.