An experienced litigator within GGL Injury Lawyer’s Central Jersey team, Attorney Guage-Zachary was appointed by fellow committee members to champion transparency, manage crucial operations, and support regulatory and legislative updates affecting injured workers across the state.

The NJSBA Workers’ Compensation Executive Committee serves as a vital bridge within the legal community, uniting practitioners representing both Petitioners (injured employees) and Respondents (employers and insurance carriers). This balanced, bipartisan structure ensures that new procedural changes remain fair, practical, and legally sound. 

“The committee’s work actively shapes how complex litigation moves through the New Jersey courts, particularly as we adapt to evolving legislative developments surrounding remote hearings and medical clearance timelines,” said Guage-Zachary. “I am deeply grateful to my colleagues for trusting me with this leadership role. My focus is to keep our discussions practical and fair for the people who rely on this system every day.”

As a dedicated workers’ compensation lawyer at GGL Injury Lawyers, Guage-Zachary brings extensive courtroom experience to her new board seat. Her practice is intensely focused on complex workers’ compensation litigation, including cases involving severe, life-altering catastrophic injuries.

She has litigated extensively across New Jersey state courts and successfully represented clients in high-stakes appeals before the Appellate Division of the Superior Court of New Jersey. She is admitted to practice law in New Jersey, New York, and before the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.

Beyond her primary appointment, her professional leadership profile includes active memberships in the Bench/Bar Liaison Subcommittee of the NJSBA and the New Jersey Council on Safety & Health.

The review, led by attorney Lisa Esser-Weidenfeller, focuses on reports that Wilmington subjected minor patients to medically unnecessary examinations and engaged in inappropriate contact during pediatric visits. According to law enforcement statements and publicly reported investigations, the Vancouver Police Department and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office have uncovered allegations of child molestation and the distribution of child sexual abuse material connected to Wilmington.

In civil court filings and other public records, former patients and families have alleged that complaints and warning signs involving Wilmington were ignored for years. The Sommers Schwartz investigation is examining not only the conduct attributed to Wilmington, but also whether any institutions responsible for supervising him fulfilled their legal obligations to protect patients from foreseeable harm.

“When abuse is alleged to have taken place in a medical setting, the inquiry cannot stop with the individual provider,” Esser-Weidenfeller said. “Hospitals and health systems have a duty to implement safeguards, respond to credible complaints and create an environment where children and families feel safe coming forward.”

Under Washington law and widely recognized standards of care, healthcare institutions may face civil liability if they fail to properly vet, monitor or respond to concerns about employees with access to vulnerable populations. Esser-Weidenfeller said the firm’s review includes evaluating whether any systemic failures may have enabled alleged misconduct to continue.

Esser-Weidenfeller has represented survivors in some of the nation’s most closely watched sexual abuse cases, including litigation involving former Michigan State University and USA Gymnastics physician Larry Nassar, and cases concerning the late University of Michigan physicians Robert Anderson and Matthew Weiss. Her work has centered on patterns of institutional inaction and coverups and the long-term impact of abuse on survivors.

“Survivors often describe not only the harm caused by an abuser, but also the deep sense of betrayal when institutions do not act on warning signs,” Esser-Weidenfeller said. “Part of our role is to examine carefully what was known, when it was known and what, if anything, was done in response.”

Esser-Weidenfeller emphasized that many survivors of childhood sexual abuse delay disclosure for years, often due to shame, fear or concerns about not being believed. Public reporting about past misconduct, she said, can be a catalyst for individuals to re-examine earlier experiences in a medical setting that they may have questioned but did not fully understand as children.

“Coming forward is a personal decision, and the pace belongs to the survivor,” she said. “Our responsibility is to listen, to explain the options the law provides and to help people make informed choices about what, if anything, they wish to pursue.”

Lisa Esser-Weidenfeller
Sommers Schwartz, P.C.
(800) 783-0989
LEsser@sommerspc.com

Gustin’s presentation explored how physicians and other treating medical providers can avoid malpractice lawsuits and regulatory scrutiny by focusing on accepted standards of care, differential diagnosis and complete testing regimens. He also discussed how federal privacy rules intersect with day-to-day clinical practice, focusing on how patient information moves through hospitals, clinics, and digital platforms.

Drawing on his work representing injured patients and families in personal injury cases across Texas, Gustin discussed how medical records often become central to healthcare related litigation. He outlined how thorough documentation, record-keeping, and open communication practices can influence both patient outcomes and the resolution of legal claims.

According to faculty members who helped organize the session, the lecture was part of a broader “Transition to Residency” program – the final step in students’ medical education before beginning their residency programs at hospitals around the US.

During the lecture, Gustin emphasized that HIPAA compliance is not only a regulatory obligation but also a matter of trust between patients and providers. He noted that, in litigation, disputes over what was shared, how it was recorded, and who had access to sensitive information frequently arise alongside questions about diagnosis and treatment.

Gustin, who founded the Gustin Law Firm in Houston, has built a practice focused on representing plaintiffs in motor vehicle collisions, rideshare incidents, slip and fall cases, and wrongful death claims.

The firm has helped recover more than $50 million in verdicts and settlements for clients and has been involved in cases that required careful analysis of medical records and privacy issues.

A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Gustin earned his law degree from South Texas College of Law Houston, where he was part of the school’s advocacy program and a national moot court champion. He is admitted to practice in all Texas state courts and in the U.S. District Courts for the Northern, Southern, Eastern, and Western Districts of Texas.  He is also licensed in all state courts of New Mexico and Arizona.

Gustin serves on the board of directors of the Houston Trial Lawyers Association and is a member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the American Association for Justice, and the North American Brain Injury Society. He has been selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list for five consecutive years, following earlier recognition on the Texas Rising Stars list.

Faculty organizers at the University of Houston’s Fertitta Family College of Medicine indicated they plan to continue inviting practicing attorneys to campus to address legal and ethical issues that new physicians will encounter, including patient privacy, informed consent, and documentation practices that affect both care and legal accountability.

To learn more about the firm, visit https://gustin.law/.

Ross’ membership marks the firm’s formal entry into the Decatur business community, where many of its clients live and work. Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys, based in Denton and serving clients throughout North Texas, focuses on representing people injured by others’ negligence.

The Decatur Chamber of Commerce, headquartered in the historic downtown district, serves as a hub for local businesses, civic groups, and community events. “Injury law is, at its core, about people and communities,” Ross said. “Many of the individuals and families we represent come from Wise County and the greater Decatur area. Joining the Decatur Chamber of Commerce is a way to be more present where our clients live, work, and run their businesses.”

Founded by John “Tony” Ross and Partner Brent Chandler, Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys brings more than four decades of combined experience in personal injury and jury trial litigation. The attorneys have received an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell and have been recognized in publications including Texas Super Lawyers, Fort Worth Magazine, D Magazine, and Best of Denton County for years.

The Chamber membership will also give Ross and his colleagues access to business programming, small-business resources, and community events, from annual festivals and tournaments to educational gatherings. The Decatur Chamber has emphasized collaboration among members and has highlighted professional services, including law firms, as part of its broader effort to support economic activity in Wise County.

Ross said the firm plans to be a consistent presence at chamber events and to explore opportunities to contribute to local initiatives focused on safety and community well-being. “Our practice has always been rooted in North Texas,” he said. “Formalizing our relationship with the Decatur Chamber of Commerce is another step in that commitment.”

More information about Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys and its Decatur Chamber of Commerce membership is available on the firm’s chamber member profile at https://cca.decaturtx.com/WebForms/chandler-ross-injury-attorneys-_0_Chandler_4_1_10118653_memberprofile2.aspx.

The segment featuring Greenberg is part of Season 6, Episode 6 of “Chicago This Week,” the hourlong Medill-produced program that airs on CAN TV Channel 21 at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Fridays and 7 p.m. Sundays. The full episode can be watched online at the Medill Reports Chicago website, with Greenberg appearing shortly after the 21:46 mark.

The report behind the story, “Chicago Bike Accidents Have Surged 46% Over Four Years,” is based on City of Chicago crash records. The findings document 8,389 reported bike accidents, 6,248 injuries, and 11 cyclist fatalities across the four-year study period. Every year set a new record.

In 2025 alone, drivers struck Chicago cyclists and fled the scene 694 times, up from 497 in 2022. That is a 39.6% increase over four years, outpacing the growth in total bike accidents and amounting to roughly 1 in 3 bike crashes citywide.

“What stands out in the data is that the hit-and-run problem is growing faster than the accident problem itself,” said Paul Greenberg, partner at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. “Drivers are choosing to flee at an accelerating rate. For an injured cyclist lying in the road, that decision compounds every other danger they already face.”

The firm’s analysis also identified specific corridors and dangerous roads in Chicago where the risk is concentrated. N. Milwaukee Ave recorded 329 bike accidents over the study period, the most of any road in Chicago. N. Clark St followed with 274, and the combined Halsted corridor (N. Halsted St and S. Halsted St) accounted for another 318 accidents. W. North Ave registered the highest hit-and-run concentration among high-volume corridors at 38.2%.

Driver behavior tells the story behind the numbers. Failing to Yield Right-of-Way is the single most identifiable cause, responsible for 2,165 accidents and 1,777 injuries. Improper Overtaking or Passing accounts for fewer accidents in total but carries a 49.0% hit-and-run rate, meaning a driver who illegally passes a cyclist is more likely than not to leave the scene.

“When you injure someone in an accident and you flee, you’re potentially facing a serious criminal charge,” Greenberg told Hawes in the segment.

Beyond the criminal exposure drivers face, injured cyclists often have civil remedies available even when the at-fault driver is never identified. Uninsured motorist coverage, underinsured motorist coverage, and other options may apply. Cyclists who own auto insurance, or live with a household member who does, may have coverage that responds directly to hit-and-run injuries.

Briskman Briskman & Greenberg’s bike injury lawyers are always available for a free consultation for anybody involved in an accident throughout Illinois.

The annual awards program recognizes the extraordinary talent and achievements within Florida’s legal community, celebrating individuals and teams who have made significant contributions to the industry. The Managing Partner of the Year category honors outstanding leaders who successfully balance their caseloads with the management of their firm’s day-to-day affairs and long-term strategic vision. 

Payne co-founded Moore Payne Law in February 2025 to provide client-focused, personalized representation for Florida’s most complex catastrophic injury, medical malpractice, and institutional negligence cases. Under his leadership, the intentionally low-volume firm saw remarkable growth within its first year of business, multiplying case filings tenfold and tripling its team size. Payne also spearheaded the responsible use of AI-assisted litigation and management tools within the firm to improve trial preparation workflows, regularly counseling other plaintiff lawyers across Florida and nationwide on ethical AI use from intake through trial.

“It’s quite an honor to be recognized alongside such outstanding leaders dedicated to serving Florida’s fast-growing legal landscape,” said Payne. “From day one, my approach has centered around building trust, both with my team and with my clients, by leading with integrity and ensuring attorneys and staff keep our client-focused principle top of mind.”

As a trial attorney, Payne specializes in high-stakes litigation, regularly taking on medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, wrongful death, and catastrophic personal injury cases. Having begun his legal career in insurance defense, he brings a strategic advantage and unique insights to clients facing claims against healthcare facilities and insurance companies. Since dedicating his practice to representing plaintiffs, he has amassed over $65 million in settlements and $18 million in verdicts. 

Beyond the courtroom, Payne and founding partner Geoff Moore, Esq. are active advocates for systemic change in nursing home reform, working with the state government to expand the rights of nursing home residents. Their motto, “Big Injuries, Big Justice, Bigger Purpose,” drives the firm’s mission to secure results for their clients while holding large corporations and insurance companies accountable.

Moore Payne Law is currently accepting new clients and offers free consultations to help individuals understand their rights and legal options. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit moorepaynelaw.com or call 407-216-1000.

The case was led by seasoned trial attorney Keith McCabe, whose decades of courtroom experience played a pivotal role in achieving this outcome. The client suffered significant injuries, including trauma to the head, neck, right hand, and lower back, following a serious car accident. Despite attempts by the defense to minimize the severity of the injuries and attribute them to pre-existing conditions, the jury recognized the true extent of the harm caused.

Prior to trial, the insurance company offered just $125,000 to settle the case. However, through meticulous preparation and a compelling presentation of evidence, the legal team demonstrated the full impact of the injuries on the client’s life. The jury ultimately awarded nearly four times the pre-trial offer, underscoring the importance of experienced trial advocacy.

With more than 80 jury trials taken to verdict over a distinguished career, the lead attorney brings extensive experience handling complex personal injury matters, including wrongful death, traumatic brain injuries, and catastrophic accident cases. His background also includes product liability litigation, large-scale subrogation matters, and serving as both a mediator and arbitrator in dispute resolution proceedings.

A graduate of Trinity College and the University of Bridgeport School of Law, where he ranked in the top 5% of his class, he is widely respected for his strategic approach, thorough preparation, and dedication to client advocacy. Admitted to practice in Connecticut, he is known for guiding clients through challenging legal situations with clarity and confidence.

“This result reflects our unwavering commitment to standing up to insurance companies and fighting for what our clients truly deserve,” said a firm spokesperson. “We are proud to deliver results that make a meaningful difference in our clients’ lives.”

For more information about this case or to schedule a consultation, contact the firm in Middletown, CT, today.

The crash involved a teenage driver who struck the rear of the client’s vehicle. From the beginning, the defense challenged fault and argued their driver was not primarily responsible. They also claimed the client’s injuries were minor and short-lived.

After the collision, the client experienced a worsening of prior medical conditions. The defense argued the surgery would have been needed regardless of the crash. They also focused on gaps in treatment and presented opinions from two medical experts to support their position.

DM Injury Law filed suit and moved forward with a detailed investigation. The legal team gathered testimony from the drivers involved, witnesses to the crash, and individuals who knew the client before and after the incident. This included family members and others who could speak to the changes in the client’s condition. Medical providers and expert witnesses were also questioned to help explain how the crash affected the client’s health.

During mediation, the defense offered $210,000. They continued to argue that the injuries were temporary, that the surgery was unrelated to the crash, and that their driver was not at least half at fault. The offer was rejected.

As the case moved closer to trial, DM Injury Law continued to build its position. The firm challenged the defense’s liability expert and succeeded in preventing that testimony from being presented at trial. This ruling limited the defense’s ability to dispute fault.

Preparation for trial included additional expert depositions, court filings, and legal arguments. As this work continued, the strength of the case became clearer. The evidence showed that the crash had a direct impact on the client’s condition and led to the need for surgery.

One week before the trial in Johnson County District Court, the case was resolved for $600,000. The result reflects both the seriousness of the injuries and the impact the crash had on the client’s daily life.

A representative from DM Injury Law said the outcome was the result of consistent work and a willingness to push forward despite the defense’s position. The firm remained focused on presenting a clear account of how the crash affected the client and why compensation was warranted.

The settlement provides financial recovery for medical care and addresses the lasting effects of the injuries. DM Injury Law continues to represent individuals who have been harmed by the actions of others and works to secure fair outcomes based on the facts of each case.

As one of Houston’s most anticipated annual traditions, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo draws more than 2 million attendees each year. Known as the world’s largest indoor livestock exhibition and rodeo, the multi-week event features rodeo competitions, live concerts, a carnival, and agricultural showcases, all while raising millions of dollars in scholarships to support Texas youth.

Through this collaboration, Suits & Boots Accident Injury Lawyers aligned its brand with several high-profile KPRC programs that highlight the culture, energy, and community spirit of RodeoHouston.

The firm sponsored a special Houston Rodeo opening day episode of Houston Life, KPRC’s popular weekday lifestyle show airing from 1–2 p.m. Hosted by Tessa Barrera and Derrick Shore, Houston Life is dedicated to showcasing the best of the greater Houston area. The opening day episode brought viewers directly into the excitement of the rodeo, featuring live coverage, local personalities, and behind-the-scenes moments that captured the spirit of the event.

In addition, Suits & Boots supported a Rodeo-themed episode of Eat Like a Local, hosted by acclaimed Houston chef Chris Shepherd. A James Beard Award winner for Best Chef: Southwest, Shepherd is widely recognized for his contributions to the culinary world. In this special episode, he explored the diverse and beloved food offerings at the rodeo, spotlighting local vendors and fan-favorite dishes that define the Houston experience. Among the highlights were the rodeo’s iconic corn dogs (widely considered a must-have) featuring standout options like the freshly made, Filipino-style jalapeño-cheese corn dog from “Corn Dog with No Name,” praised by Top Chef finalist Evelyn Garcia for its made-to-order quality and unique flavor.

Further extending its presence, the firm sponsored Randy McIlvoy’s “Rough Ride” of the Night, a nightly segment airing during KPRC Channel 2’s 10 p.m. news broadcast. The segment highlights the most thrilling bull ride of each evening, delivering high-energy recaps that resonate with rodeo fans across the region.

“Our collaboration with KPRC during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo gave us the opportunity to connect with Houstonians through programming that captures the energy and pride of this iconic event,” said Kip Brar, Founding Partner, Suits & Boots Accident Injury Lawyers. “The rodeo is more than an event, it’s a tradition that brings people together, supports local youth, and showcases everything that makes Houston unique. We’re proud to support programming that celebrates that spirit.”

Suits & Boots Accident Injury Lawyers continue to show up for Houston by supporting local events and partnering with the people and traditions that bring the community together.

For more information about Suits & Boots Accident Injury Lawyers, visit suitsaccidentinjurylawyers.com.

Megan Shore is the founder and trial attorney at Shore Law, where she focuses her practice on helping individuals and families in cases involving nursing home abuse and neglect, medical malpractice, birth injury, sexual assault, and other serious matters. She is passionate about seeking justice by uncovering key details in complex cases and fighting on behalf of those harmed in healthcare and institutional settings.

A central part of her practice involves the analysis of electronic medical records and healthcare system data. Megan Shore works with audit trails and metadata to review when medical records are viewed by healthcare providers, when they are modified or deleted, when alerts are triggered, and how care-related events are documented within digital systems. This includes reviewing imaging access (such as CT scans), system alerts, and care-related communications like emails and text messaging. Megan Shore also forensically examines this data to uncover false and fraudulent charting in medical records.

Her work extends beyond individual cases and into education and consulting. Megan Shore presents at law schools and continuing education programs for attorneys, nurses, and physicians on topics including nursing home abuse and neglect, systemic failures in healthcare facilities, electronic medical records, audit trails, discovery, cross-examination, trial preparation, and issues related to healthcare documentation. She has also published articles on these subjects and has served as a qualified testifying expert on matters involving nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

“I’m honored to be included among the strong women recognized this year,” said Shore. “The work I do is deeply personal for the families I represent, and it means a great deal to be part of a profession that stands up to big corporations to get answers and accountability.”

Shore has received recognition from organizations, including Super Lawyers and The National Trial Lawyers. Her work reflects a continued focus on handling complex cases and contributing to conversations around healthcare accountability and legal advocacy.

Over the four-year period, the City of Chicago recorded 440,326 total crashes, 96,213 injuries, and 518 fatalities. Fatal crashes fell 37% from 2022 to 2025. Injury crashes rose 11.6% over the same period, and the share of all crashes that injured at least one person climbed from 14.79% in 2022 to 16.40% in 2025.

Fatal Crashes Are Down Significantly

The clearest positive signal in the data is the decline in fatal crashes. After peaking at 143 fatal collisions in 2023, the count dropped to 111 in 2024 and 85 in 2025, a 40.6% reduction from the peak. Total fatalities followed the same trajectory, falling from 151 in 2023 to 94 in 2025. The fatal crash rate fell from 0.13% of all crashes in 2023 to 0.08% in 2025, nearly cut in half.

The data suggests the improvement is driven by fewer catastrophic collisions occurring in the first place. The average number of fatalities per fatal crash held steady across all four years, meaning survival rates once a crash occurs did not meaningfully change. Fewer of the deadliest crashes are happening at all.

Injury Crashes Are Rising

The countertrend is harder to dismiss. Injury crashes rose from 16,034 in 2022 to a peak of 18,442 in 2024, before pulling back modestly to 17,898 in 2025. That 2025 figure still sits 11.6% above 2022. The total number of people injured rose from 22,093 in 2022 to 24,954 in 2025, a 12.9% increase. Across all four years, more than 96,000 people were injured on Chicago roads.

When a collision happens in Chicago today, it is meaningfully more likely to hurt someone than it was in 2022.

The Fastest-Growing Injury Category Is the Hardest to See

Breaking down injuries by severity reveals a pattern with significant implications for crash victims. Incapacitating injuries, the most serious non-fatal category, declined 25.3% over the four-year period, from 2,287 in 2022 to 1,709 in 2025. Non-incapacitating injuries held essentially flat, rising just 1.5% net.

The category that changed most dramatically was reported-not-evident injuries: soft-tissue damage, whiplash, and concussions that victims report but that are not visually apparent at the scene. This category rose from 6,919 in 2022 to 10,220 in 2025, a 47.7% increase. It is the fastest-growing injury category in the dataset.

These are also the injuries insurance companies dispute most aggressively. When an officer at the scene does not observe visible harm, insurers routinely use that absence to challenge the severity or cause of a claim. The data shows these injuries are real, increasingly common, and legally consequential.

What This Means for Injured Chicagoans

Car accident lawyer, Paul Greenberg, said “The surge in reported-not-evident injuries has direct consequences for anyone pursuing compensation after an accident. Soft-tissue injuries and concussions often present hours or days after a collision. Early medical evaluation is critical, both for recovery and for building the documentation needed to protect your rights.”

The firm advises all crash victims to seek medical attention immediately after any collision, photograph the scene and preserve all available evidence, and consult with an attorney before speaking with insurance companies. With injury claims rising across the city, insurers have a strong incentive to contest individual claims and push early settlements that fall short of covering the full cost of recovery.

The firm also notes that as hit-and-runs become more prevalent, victims are not without legal recourse. Uninsured motorist coverage may provide a path to compensation even when the at-fault driver is never identified.

The full report, including year-over-year breakdowns, injury severity analysis, and complete crash data from 2022 through 2025, is available on the firm’s website.

The Home Depot worker was loading a trailer owned by a national freight carrier when the trailer suddenly dropped at the dock. The jolt threw him forward in the forklift, and he reported immediate and severe pain in his lower back. The incident ended his shift that day and, over time, would sharply curtail his ability to continue working in physically demanding warehouse positions.

The injuries sustained from this incident ultimately required back surgery and extensive follow-up care for several years. Despite treatment, he has been left with lasting physical limitations and permanent work restrictions that the firm said prevent him from returning to his prior job on the loading dock.

“This settlement reflects the profound impact that a single moment on a loading dock can have on a person’s health, livelihood, and sense of security,” said Susan E. Fransen, the Joliet, IL-based personal injury attorney at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg who represented the worker. “Our client wanted to keep working and supporting his family. When that became impossible, our task was to document the full scope of what he lost and to pursue a resolution that would help him move forward with dignity and stability.”

Fransen said the case underscores the stakes of routine safety procedures in industrial and warehouse settings, where workers often rely on others to secure trailers and equipment they do not control. She noted that modern freight and retail operations place increasing physical demands on employees, while even brief lapses in protocol can result in life-changing injuries.

Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers is a Chicago personal injury law firm representing individuals in Illinois in matters involving workplace and industrial accidents, motor vehicle collisions, medical negligence, and other serious injury claims.

Attorney Gilbert’s litigation philosophy emphasizes trial readiness as a primary means of achieving results, whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom verdicts.

Track Record and Professional Background

Connor joins Brooks Law Firm with a documented history of high-value case resolutions, with more than $10 million recovered for clients in the last two years alone. These successes include complex litigation matters, including a $5 million medical malpractice recovery, a separate $1 million medical malpractice recovery and a $912,500 recovery stemming from a motor vehicle accident.

Prior to accepting his partnership at Brooks Law Firm, Attorney Gilbert litigated personal injury cases at the largest personal injury firm in the United States. His experience in the private sector is complemented by significant public sector service. 

Earlier in his career, Connor served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Trial Division of the Bronx District Attorney’s Office in New York. During his tenure as a prosecutor, he tried cases to verdict and secured numerous indictments in serious felony cases. He was also appointed as a Special Prosecutor to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.

Bar Admissions and Industry Recognition

Attorney Gilbert holds bar admissions in multiple jurisdictions, allowing him to practice in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, New Jersey, and Kentucky. His work in civil litigation has earned recognition from several national legal organizations, including the National Trial Lawyers – Top 40 Under 40, Lawyers of Distinction, and Boston Magazine’s Top Lawyers.

Trapp joins from a distinguished medical malpractice defense firm, bringing extensive experience representing clients in comprehensive medical malpractice actions, as well as and personal injury cases. At Moore Payne, Trapp will provide valuable insight to injured individuals and families seeking accountability. Trapp earned his B.A. in business management from Barry University and his J.D. from Florida A&M University College of Law where he was a member of the Mock Trial Team, co-founder of the Student Animal Legal Defense Fund, and a judicial clerk in the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida.

“After years in medical malpractice and other complex litigation, I’ve seen firsthand how devastating these cases can be to families,” said Trapp. “I look forward to working alongside Geoff, Spencer, and the entire Moore Payne team, knowing that together we can do a lot of good for our clients.”

In addition to his litigation practice, Trapp remains deeply involved in the Central Florida community. Since 2016, he has served as a Volunteer Guardian Ad Litem through the Legal Aid Society of the Orange County Bar Association, advocating on behalf of children in the dependency system. His pro bono service earned him the society’s Pro Bono Award of Excellence, along with prior recognition for his volunteer work. As a lifelong athlete, Trapp also dedicates time coaching and training youth basketball players at a regional YMCA and with TnT Elite Hoops.

“Zack is a seasoned trial attorney who understands how medical practice cases are built and defended,” said Geoff Moore, Esq., co-founder of Moore Payne Law. “Our clients will benefit from his courtroom experience and commitment to the community, making him a powerful advocate and strong addition to our team.”

For more information about Moore Payne or to request a free consultation, visit moorepaynelaw.com.

As part of the campaign, the firm is giving away 50 free Uber ride vouchers, each valued at $15, to help people get home safely after St. Patrick’s Day festivities. The initiative is aimed at reducing DUI-related crashes during a holiday that consistently sees elevated risks on the road.

According to national traffic safety data, St. Patrick’s Day has resulted in hundreds of alcohol-impaired driving fatalities in recent years, with nighttime hours posing the greatest danger. By providing free rides, Lone Star Injury Attorneys hopes to encourage responsible decisions before celebrations begin.

“St. Patrick’s Day should be about enjoying time with friends, not dealing with the consequences of a preventable crash,” said Max Paderewski, founder of the firm. “We see firsthand how devastating drunk driving accidents can be. This campaign is about giving people a simple way to make a safer choice.”

The Uber vouchers are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are limited to one per person. Participants must complete a short registration form in advance to be eligible.

How to Participate

Sign up in advance: Visit the St. Patrick’s Day campaign page and complete the brief form to request a voucher.

Use your voucher on St. Patrick’s Day: Apply it toward a safe ride home during the holiday.

Share the initiative: Encourage friends and family to plan ahead and celebrate responsibly.

Rob Carty focuses primarily on personal injury and appellate matters while also handling complex commercial and civil disputes. Before launching Suits & Boots Accident Injury Lawyers in January 2025, he formerly co-chaired the Appellate Team at Seyfarth Shaw LLP, where he represented clients coast to coast. He is admitted to federal courts nationwide and is widely respected for preserving favorable judgments and successfully challenging adverse rulings. During his tenure at Seyfarth, he briefed scores of mortgage foreclosure appeals, earning a near-perfect record in New England.

An accomplished legal writer, Rob Carty served as a critical-reading panelist for the 9th and 10th editions of Black’s Law Dictionary and the 3rd edition of Garner’s Modern American Usage. He has also served on the Board of Advisors for the Academy of American Legal Writers and contributes commentary through his blog, The Heavy Pencil.

Rob Carty began his legal career in the United States Air Force, handling military justice and labor and employment matters. Over time, his practice expanded to include healthcare litigation, consumer finance disputes, products liability defense, trademark enforcement, and complex commercial litigation.

He maintains an AV Preeminent Peer Review rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America every year since 2018. He was named to Texas Super Lawyers from 2016 to 2019 and has been recognized as a Litigation Star by Benchmark Litigation annually since 2021.

A three-time graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Rob Carty earned a BBA in finance, an MBA, and a JD.

The Irish Legal 100 recognition also reflects Rob Carty’s deep Irish heritage. Family research traces his roots to Famine-era relatives from counties Dublin, Galway, Waterford, and Cork. His great-great-grandmother, Annie Hodnett, was born in Lismore, County Waterford, in 1865, where her father served as head groom at Lismore Castle. Annie later immigrated to America, while her aunt Ellen settled in Galveston, Texas. Although Ellen’s family was lost in the Galveston hurricane of 1900, their Irish spirit endures through generations.

Since its launch, the plaintiff’s firm has secured major settlements and verdicts in nursing home negligence, products liability, and medical malpractice matters with outcomes of $3.5 million, $1.5 million, and $1.25 million, $950,000, $800,000 among others. Over the same period, Moore Payne increased its case filings tenfold and tripled its team size to meet growing demand. 

“Every case we take represents someone going through one of the hardest moments of their life,” said Moore. “This year has been about building a team that treats clients the right way and pushing for accountability where it’s overdue.” 

The firm received several national recognitions over the span of the year. Moore earned a spot in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America in the Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs practice area, marking his third consecutive year on the list. Payne also received honors with a spot on the 2026 edition of Super Lawyers, which recognizes the nation’s top 5% of attorneys. Firmwide, Moore Payne landed on the 2026 Best Law Firms rankings, a rare achievement for a practice in its inaugural year.

“After seven years at the nation’s largest injury firm, I saw a need for a low-volume practice equipped to handle Florida’s most complex injury and institutional negligence cases,” said Payne. “It’s important to us that we earn families’ trust, and staying true to that commitment has been the most important measure of this first year.”

The firm has also stepped into statewide policy discussions, supporting advocacy efforts to reform Florida’s “Free Kill” law, which bars medical malpractice victims from suing if they’re unmarried, childless, or have adult children. In the community, Moore Payne launched its monthly Cuts for Kids initiative, sponsoring free haircuts for children in need and partnering with local organizations to reach families throughout the year.

Intentionally designed to be a low-case volume firm, Moore Payne prioritizes close client relationships and direct involvement in every matter it takes on. Moore Payne’s motto, “Big Injuries, Big Justice, Bigger Purpose,” drives the firm’s mission to secure results for their clients while holding large corporations and insurance companies accountable. As it enters year two, the firm plans continued expansion of its litigation team while deepening its work on behalf of elderly residents, children, and others who often lack a voice.

Additionally, Moore Payne has taken on two trial lawyers to service the community: Brandon Smith, Esq., who specializes primarily in premise liability cases, and Zack Trapp, Esq. Trapp spent 11 years representing hospitals and doctors in medical malpractice actions and now brings that experience to the plaintiff side, where he will represent victims injured through medical malpractice committed by doctors and hospitals. 

Moore Payne Law is currently accepting new clients and offers free consultations to help individuals understand their rights and legal options. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit moorepaynelaw.com or call 407-216-1000.

Eligibility

• The scholarship is open to any current high school senior, vocational student, college student, or graduate student who is a legal resident of the United States residing in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia and who is enrolled in a vocational program or a two to four-year post-secondary institution.
• Employees of GriffithLaw, their immediate families (parent, child, sibling, and spouse), and persons living in the same households of such individuals (whether related or not), are not eligible to participate in the competition. 
• Candidates for this scholarship should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher and be in good overall academic standing.
• Proof of Tennessee residence or a Tennessee College student account will be needed before the scholarship check is issued to the institution of the scholarship winner’s choice. 

Applicants should create a video between three and five minutes long discussing the best practices that can protect new drivers and the people on the road around them. Students can use media editing tools and copyright-free materials to increase the visual appeal of their videos.

However, students may not use AI to create their videos wholesale, create fake actors for their videos, supplement their voices, or write their scripts. The inappropriate use of AI to create a video for The Road Ahead: New Driver Preparedness Scholarship will result in a student’s application being removed from the applicant pool.

The scholarship selection committee looks forward to awarding The Road Ahead: New Driver Preparedness Scholarship’s $2,500 to a student who thoroughly and compassionately shares advice that can improve new drivers’ safety on the road. Students have until May 31, 2026, to complete their applications and submit them for consideration. Only a single recipient will be chosen for the 2026-2027 academic year. 

Unfortunately, GriffithLaw Injury Lawyers cannot consider late applications or applications submitted without all of the required materials. Interested students should visit the scholarship’s terms and conditions page for more information about qualifying criteria and materials to include in their scholarship packet.

The scholarship selection committee with GriffithLaw Injury Lawyers reserves up to three months to choose a winner from the applicant pool. Please do not reach out to GriffithLaw Injury Lawyers during this time, as the team cannot answer questions, calls, or emails about the status of a student’s application.

Upon choosing its winner, the firm will announce its scholarship recipient online via a blog post and press release. Students can keep an eye on the GriffithLaw Injury Lawyers website for updates.

The personal injury lawyers with GriffithLaw Injury Lawyers wish applicants luck as they help new drivers prepare to tackle unexpected dangers on the road.

Disclaimer:
By applying for and accepting this scholarship, the selected recipient agrees that their name, likeness, photograph, school, and scholarship submission may be featured on GriffithLaw’s scholarship webpage and related marketing materials, including the firm’s website and social media, without additional compensation.

The recipient will be notified by email from Stephanie@griffithinjurylaw.com no later than June 15, 2026. Applicants are responsible for providing accurate contact information and monitoring their email. Failure to respond within the stated timeframe may result in forfeiture of the award.

GriffithLaw reserves the right to verify eligibility, disqualify applicants who provide false information, and modify or cancel the scholarship if necessary. The scholarship is void where prohibited by law, and the recipient is responsible for any applicable taxes. By applying, applicants release GriffithLaw from any claims related to participation in or acceptance of the scholarship.

The President’s Awards were created to recognize members of the NBTA for their unique achievements and meaningful efforts that deserve recognition by the broader NBTA membership, the legal profession, and the communities in which they serve. Each year, multiple awards are presented in each category, highlighting attorneys whose work reflects the highest standards of trial advocacy and professional responsibility. NBTA members may be nominated in any of the three award areas, with a separate nomination form required for each category.

These award categories include contributions to the legal field, contributions to the community, and contributions to the NBTA. For the legal field category, the President’s Award honors an accomplishment or outcome that affects the legal profession on a larger scale. This may include developing an impactful legal strategy, achieving a verdict with broader implications, bringing attention to an important issue, establishing new standards, or correcting injustice. To qualify, the achievement must extend beyond a local area or individual case and create meaningful influence within the legal community.

In the community category, the award recognizes attorneys who lead initiatives or projects that create positive change in the communities where they practice. These contributions may occur through an attorney’s legal work or through social and legal causes they champion. Community impact can be achieved through a single event or through ongoing work that improves the lives of others and strengthens local support systems.

In the NBTA category, the President’s Award recognizes a single effort or a body of work that furthers the NBTA mission of protecting those in legal need through specialization accreditation. This category also honors work that raises the professional quality of attorneys by promoting NBTA goals and advancing the value of board certification.

Attorney Brian Flood’s selection for this prestigious honor reflects his continued dedication to excellence in trial advocacy and his commitment to serving clients with professionalism, integrity, and results-driven representation. As a personal injury attorney focused on car accident cases and serious injury claims, Flood has earned a reputation for fighting tirelessly on behalf of individuals and families navigating difficult and life-changing circumstances.

“Congratulations to Brian Flood for receiving the President’s Award from the National Board of Trial Advocacy,” the organization stated. “This prestigious honor recognizes attorneys who demonstrate excellence, integrity, and proven expertise in trial law. This award celebrates those whose work goes beyond everyday practice to advance the legal field, champion community welfare, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.”

The recognition further underscores Flood’s standing as a trusted advocate whose legal work reflects the values that the NBTA seeks to promote nationwide.

The President’s Award is a meaningful acknowledgment of professional achievement and service. Attorney Flood’s continued dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence have positioned him as an attorney whose work represents the best of the legal profession.

For more information about Attorney Brian Flood and his personal injury practice in Middletown, Connecticut, please contact his office directly.

Founded in February 1991 by attorneys Ken Berman, Cliff Sobin, and Alan Gross in a single Gaithersburg office with just three attorneys and a small support staff, BSG has grown into a powerhouse of more than 20 attorneys with offices located throughout Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia. What began as a focused practice built on personal relationships and a commitment to union workers has evolved into a full-service firm handling workers’ compensation, personal injury, medical malpractice, car and truck accidents, and more, all without losing the individualized attention that set it apart from day one.

That commitment to client care is reflected in the voices of the people BSG serves. The firm has earned over 350 positive reviews across Google and its website, with clients consistently praising the team’s responsiveness, integrity, and willingness to go above and beyond. It is a track record of trust built one case and one client at a time over 35 years.

“Our mission has always been simple: helping people who have been hurt obtain the justice and respect they deserve,” said Founding Partner Clifford Sobin. “For 35 years, we have stood alongside Maryland’s working men and women, and we are honored by the trust our clients have placed in our firm.”

Reflecting on the milestone, Founding Partner Kenneth Berman noted, “What began as a vision shared by a few attorneys has evolved into a firm built on integrity, teamwork, and service. We are proud of how far we’ve come and excited about what lies ahead

BSG’s influence extends well beyond the courtroom. Founding partner Cliff Sobin authored the two-volume treatise “Maryland Workers’ Compensation,” a comprehensive legal resource spanning more than 1,800 pages that has become an essential reference for attorneys practicing in the field. The firm has also been recognized with prestigious honors, including U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms designation and Baltimore Magazine’s Top Lawyers distinction, most recently awarded to partner Ari Laric in 2026.

The firm’s dedication to community is equally central to its identity. BSG team members regularly volunteer with organizations like Food & Friends in Washington, D.C., preparing and packaging meals for individuals living with serious illnesses. The firm has also championed local heroes through its participation in the Do-Gooder Awards, where BSG presented the Public Safety Do-Gooder Award to Corporal Jestin Joseph of the Frederick Police Department, and attended the Hagerstown Public Safety Awards recognizing the courage of first responders across Washington County.

Investing in the next generation of legal professionals is another hallmark of the firm. BSG’s Law Clerk Program offers law students hands-on experience working alongside seasoned attorneys on real cases across its Baltimore, Frederick, and Montgomery County offices, providing mentorship, practical skill development, and exposure to multiple areas of law.

As BSG enters its next chapter, the firm remains anchored in the values that launched it 35 years ago: aggressive, knowledgeable representation paired with genuine compassion for every client who walks through the door. For the workers, families, firefighters, law enforcement officers, teachers, and union members who have trusted BSG with their most difficult moments, the firm’s growth is proof that doing right by people is the strongest foundation a practice can build on.

Learn more at www.bsglaw.com and www.marylandpersonalinjurylawyer.com