AN EVER-CHANGING
INDUSTRY, WE ARE A LEADER IN INNOVATIVE AND EFFICIENT CLIENT SERVICE.
Established in 1995, MGC is a metrics-driven law firm built specifically to serve the insurance industry, their insureds and self-insureds. With over 300 attorneys, we have 23 locations in Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia, and have capabilities to serve clients well beyond our footprint. Our team of legal professionals partner with clients in all aspects of litigation, insurance coverage, professional liability, trucking and transportation, employment law and workers' compensation. Our innovative team of lawyers, paralegals and professional support staff are dedicated to not only meeting your needs, but exceeding your expectations.
We thrive on understanding your business, your industry and your goals, knowing that is key to providing effective and efficient results At MGC, we recognize the need to combine dynamic lawyers equipped to fight your most complex claim with understanding the importance of cost containment and efficiency. In addition to offering counsel for immediate business needs, we strongly emphasize continued counseling and education through onsite training seminars, webinars, phone consultations and written updates. We believe that avoiding problems is as important as finding solutions.
Our case handling philosophy is your case handling philosophy. With collaborative clientdedicated teams of lawyers and legal professionals, we are focused on client service, end results and cost savings, robust technology and refined legal process management.
Learn more about MGC
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OUR PRACTICE
We have the experience and the resources to provide our clients with the best possible representation and to deliver smart, strategic and forward-thinking legal counsel
IF IT MATTERS, WE MEASURE IT.
As a metrics-driven law firm, we focus daily on cycle time, fees per case, indemnity and guideline compliance. Below are sample metrics that we can provide to you based on your specific needs.
OUR DIFFERENCES MAKE US STRONGER.
At MGC, we embrace diversity, opportunity and inclusion, recognizing that we are a better organization when we have diversity of experience, thought and background. We bring these qualities to our relationships with clients and to the communities where we live and work.
BELONG @ MGC
The members of the Belong @ MGC initiative are dedicated to fostering a firm culture where talented individuals from all backgrounds and experiences are recruited, empowered, included, respected and rewarded.
WIN @ MGC
The Women's Initiative (WIN) is the firm's commitment to recruit, retain and advance women in the legal industry, as well as provide a platform for engagement, development and leadership opportunities for women at MGC. All members of Team MGC, including both men and women, are invited to attend and participate in all WIN initiatives
BUILT ON A FOUNDATION OF CORE VALUES
CLIENT-DRIVEN SERVICE
We are a client-centered firm. We utilize business analytics and process management to provide more efficient and cost-effective service delivery. We understand the pressures our clients face, listen to their needs and do whatever it takes to meet and exceed their expectations
INNOVATION
We are never satisfied with the status quo We don't care how it has been done or how others do it. We understand the demands and pressures of our industry and take responsibility for maintaining a more efficient and cutting-edge business model.
Learn more about our DEI programs and projects. Scan the QR code with the Camera app on your smartphone Click the QR code to view on your computer
ENTREPRENEURSHIP + GROWTH
We continue to grow strategically by remaining adaptable and by expanding our capabilities to meet the demands of an ever-changing industry We work hard, and we empower our lawyers to think and act like business owners.
RELATIONSHIPS
At our core, we are a team of people who like, trust, respect and support each other Communication, candor, camaraderie, selflessness and compassion make our firm a great place to work We embrace diversity, opportunity and inclusion, recognizing that we are a better organization when we have diversity of experience, thought and background. We bring these qualities to our relationships with clients and to the communities where we live and work
COMMUNITY
We serve our community through giving our time, resources and knowledge. We take pride in working together to bring progress to the cities and states where we live and to the profession we serve We are committed to actively serving our local communities by responding to both emergency and everyday needs.
FIRM LEADERSHIP
Our firm leadership drives the focus on innovation, efficiency and top-notch client service. Our lawyers are supported by a dynamic Management Committee, Practice Leaders, Group Leaders and Administrative Support Leadership Team.
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
PRACTICE AREA LEADERSHIP
Jay Courie Managing Member
Sterling Davies
Scott Garrett Rusty Goudelock
Amy Jenkins
George Kurani
Andrew Ussery
JD Keister
GENERAL LITIGATION
Our litigation attorneys have extensive trial and arbitration experience, and a steadfast focus on the bottom line. With an unwavering dedication to our clients and a deep understanding of the intricacies of the legal system, we are your trusted advocates in resolving disputes through litigation.
Whether you're facing a complex commercial disagreement, a personal injury claim or any other legal matter requiring litigation, our experienced team of attorneys is here to provide you with effective representation and personalized guidance every step of the way Sub-practices:
Admiralty | Adulterated Food | Alcohol Liability | Appellate | Civil Litigation | Trial Litigation | Commercial + Business Litigation | Government/Municipal Liability | Motor Vehicle Litigation | Premises Liability | Products Liability | Real Estate | Retail/Hospitality | SIU/Arson + Fraud | Slander + Defamation
Jay Atkins has more than 20 years of legal experience, and has tried cases to verdict in venues across Mississippi and Tennessee His practice focuses on catastrophic injury and large exposure claims, and he has extensive experience handling school and public entity litigation, construction litigation, transportation litigation, employment litigation and insurance coverage disputes. As the Litigation Practice Area Leader, Jay partners with our team of lawyers and legal professionals to continue to evolve our innovative and efficient client service
Jay routinely presents seminars on legal issues and trial tactics to insurance adjusters, industry representatives and in-house counsel He is a member of the Memphis Bar Association Tennessee Bar Association, Mississippi Bar Association and Mississippi Trucking Association. Jay has been named to The Best Lawyers in America© for his Personal Injury Litigation and Construction Law practice. He has also been recognized by Mid-South Super Lawyers and has an AV® Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Rating™
PRACTICE GROUP LEADERS
Trippett Boineau | SC trippett.boineau@mgclaw.com 803 227 4937 Heather Connor | NC + VA heather.connor@mgclaw.com 704.405.4664 Paul Brewer | MS, NY, PA, RI & TN paul brewer@mgclaw com 615 499 7279
Ashley Howard | GA ashley.howard@mgclaw.com 678.510.1527
INSURANCE COVERAGE
MGC's highly experienced insurance coverage team spans our entire footprint and is backed by more than 25 lawyers. The team handles the following lines at all stages of a claim: Investigation; Pre-Suit Claims; Examinations Under Oath; Coverage Opinions; and Litigation, including, but not limited to:
Bad Faith | SIU/Fraud | Life Health + Disability/ERISA | First Party Property | Cyber Specialty Lines | Transportation | Construction | Environmental | Professional Liability | Directors + Officers | Employment | Abuse + Molestation | Inland Marine Workers' Compensation | Financial Lines | Municipal/Civil Rights | Reinsurance
CLU Practice Group Chair eric.fitzgerald@mgclaw.com | 484.406.4334
With a career dedicated to representing the interests of the insurance industry, Eric has more than 30 years' experience handling coverage and professional liability matters for insurance companies throughout Pennsylvania and New York He earned his CPCU designation as a practicing attorney in 1999, and his CLU designation in 2003. He also holds an ARe designation His practice includes professional liability, general liability, property, cyber, inland marine, LH&D and ERISA and workers' compensation policy lines. Eric also represents insurance agents and brokers as both litigation and general counsel, and is a coverage arbitrator and mediator. He is also an appellate attorney and has argued over 30 appeals in state and federal Appellate Courts
Among the most highly credentialed coverage lawyers in the country, Eric holds an AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating™ by Martindale-Hubbell® and has been recognized by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers for insurance coverage He is a member of the America College of Coverage Counsel. Eric has sat on the Executive Committee of the Society's National Board of Governors, the Nominating Committee and its Champions Committee In addition, he is a former CPCU instructor and has been a part of drafting several textbooks in association with the American Institute for CPCU
DEDICATED TO TRAINING + EDUCATION
Our commitment to the insurance industry is best represented through our training programs We provide webinars and in-person seminars, and, on request, can offer CE and CLE credits.
Topics include:
Best Practices for Reservation of Rights Letters
Best Practices for Claims File Communications
Underwriters Under Fire! Preparing the Underwriting
Profession for Testimony
Bankruptcy 101 for Claims Professionals
Time Limit Demands: How to Avoid Bad Faith Traps for the Unwary
Navigating the Tri-Partite Relationship
Professional Liability: Special Issues Arising from Ending Limits Policies
Agent/Broker: A 50-State Survey of the Special Relationship Heightened Duty of Care
Our insurance coverage leaders are supported by talented teams of coverage attorneys across our footprint. To learn more about each of the leaders below, please click on their name.
Heather Connor | NC heather.connor@mgclaw.com 704.405.4664
Case Embry | MS case.embry@mgclaw.com 662.281.7829
Robert Whitney | Reinsurance + Regulatory robert.whitney@mgclaw.com 617.830.7402
Andrew Willis | MD + VA + Washington, DC andrew.willis@mgclaw.com 804 944 2987
Eric Fitzgerald | NY + PA eric.fitzgerald@mgclaw.com 484 406 4334
Michele Wojcik | CT michele.wojcik@mgclaw.com 804.944.2988
Hillary Ladov | NJ + PA hillary.ladov@mgclaw.com 484.406.4306
Dan McCoy | SC dan.mccoy@mgclaw.com 843.848.6047
Gailya McElroy Scott | GA gailya.scott@mgclaw.com 678.510.1699
Joshua Wolfe | KY + TN joshua.wolfe@mgclaw.com 865 243 2743
David Zizik | MA + RI david.zizik@mgclaw.com 401.600.2801
TRIAL TEAM
When the stakes are high, MGC's Trial Team is equipped to handle your most complex matters Consisting of highly-skilled lawyers, we have the experience to handle your large exposure cases across the country With our commitment to exceptional strategy and trial advocacy, we leverage our deep understanding of insurance law, strategic litigation skills and unwavering dedication to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
CHRISTINA A. BISSET
Christina Bisset’s practice focuses on litigation, including automobile defense, personal injury defense, premises liability and construction defect litigation. Prior to joining MGC, she worked as an attorney at the New York City Police Department
Christina is married with two boys and a girl and spends her time traveling, snow skiing and cooking.
MYRTLE BEACH, SC
P: 843.848.6008
christina.bisset@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Adulterated Food
Alcohol Liability
Bad Faith Commercial & Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Director & Officer
Liability/Fiduciary
Insurance Coverage
Litigation
Motor Vehicle Litigation
Premises Liability
Products Liability
Slander & Defamation
SIU/Arson & Fraud
Trucking & Transportation
EDUCATION
Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center at Touro College (JD) University of South Carolina (BA)
BAR ADMISSIONS
South Carolina (2008) New York (2005)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
American Bar Association
Coastal Inn of Court
Defense Research Institute
Horry County Bar Association
New York State Bar Association
South Carolina Bar Association
South Carolina Women Lawyers
Association - Grand Strand Regional Chapter
J. PAUL BREWER
Paul Brewer’s practice focuses on construction, products liability, civil rights and government liability, general civil litigation, premises liability, transportation law, insurance defense, professional liability and ADR/mediation With a focus on litigation and the insurance industry since 2006, Paul has tried jury trials in both state and federal court, as well as bench trials in Tennessee courts
Outside of work, Paul spends time with his wife and two boys, as well as watching University of Tennessee football
NASHVILLE, TN
P: 615.499.7279
paul.brewer@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Adulterated Food Alcohol Liability
Bad Faith
Commercial & Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Director & Officer
Liability/Fiduciary
Government/Municipal Liability
Insurance Coverage Litigation
Management & Professional Liability
Nursing Home Liability
Premises Liability
Products Liability
Slander & Defamation
Trucking & Transportation
EDUCATION
University of Memphis (JD, magna cum laude)
University of Tennessee (BA)
BAR ADMISSIONS
U S District Court for the Western District of Tennessee (2022)
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee (2014)
U S Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit (2013)
Tennessee (2006)
U S District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee (2006)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (CLM)
National Retail and Restaurant Defense Association
Nashville Bar Association
Tennessee Association of Construction Counsel
Tennessee Bar Association
Tennessee Defense Lawyers' Association
AWARDS
The Best Lawyers in America©Commercial Litigation (2024 - 2026); Construction Law (2024 - 2026); LitigationConstruction (2025 and 2026) Mid-South Super Lawyers Rising Stars (2015-2016, 2019)
PUBLICATIONS
“The Fourth Estate and the Quest for a Double-Edged Shield: Why a Federal Reporters’ Shield Law Would Violate the First Amendment” 36 U MEM L REV 1073 (2006)
“Bratton v. Bratton: The Tennessee Supreme Court Considers Postnuptial Agreements and Allows Married Parties to Agree that They May Eventually Disagree” 35 U. MEM. L. REV. 579 (2005)
MEREDITH L. CUSHING
Meredith Cushing’s practice focuses on litigation, including civil litigation, insurance defense, defense of personal injury torts, UM/UIM issues, commercial litigation, construction defect, insurance coverage disputes and trucking She represents insurance carriers and individual insured persons and companies in civil litigation and has tried over 100 cases to verdict across North Carolina She also serves on MGC’s Trucking: Rapid Response Team
Outside of the office, Meredith spends time with her husband and enjoys traveling, riding horses and working with rescue animals
CHARLOTTE, NC
P: 704.405.4602
meredith.cushing@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Adulterated Food Alcohol Liability
Commercial & Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Director & Officer
Liability/Fiduciary Litigation
Management & Professional Liability
Premises Liability
Products Liability
Slander & Defamation
Trucking & Transportation
EDUCATION
Hofstra University (JD) Quinnipiac University (BS)
BAR ADMISSIONS
Florida (2014) North Carolina (2007)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys
AWARDS
Business North Carolina's Legal EliteLitigation (2018, 2023)
CERTIFICATIONS
Certified Litigation Management Professional through CLM
RICHMOND, VA
P: 804.944.2982
matt.daly@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Commercial & Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Insurance Coverage
Litigation
Management & Professional
Liability
Premises Liability
Products Liability
Trucking & Transportation
MATTHEW V. DALY
Matt’s practice focuses on litigation matters, bringing more than 15 years of wideranging legal experience to MGC’s Richmond office. He also serves on MGC’s Trucking: Rapid Response Team.
In his representation of insurance companies, Matt is adamant about communicating effectively, while going above and beyond in all aspects of his practice “My clients need and expect an attorney that is going to partner with them to formulate an effective resolution strategy,” he says. “It's my job to keep my eyes and ears open to find a reasonable resolution as early as possible to avoid getting mired in litigation with no end in sight ”
Outside of MGC, Matt enjoys spending time keeping up with his son and daughter. He is also an avid runner, and has dozens of half marathons and a handful of marathons and ultramarathons under his belt; his proudest running accomplishments will always be his sub-8 minute Beer Mile and sub-6 minute Blue Jeans Mile
EDUCATION
University of Richmond (JD) Baldwin Wallace University (BA)
BAR ADMISSIONS
Virginia (2010) North Carolina (2008)
CERTIFICATIONS
Certified Litigation Management
Professional
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Claims and Litigation Management
Alliance
North Carolina State Bar
Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys (former Chair, Policy Coverage Section)
Virginia State Bar
PHILADELPHIA, PA
P: 484.406.4334
eric.fitzgerald@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Insurance Coverage Management & Professional Liability
ERIC A. FITZGERALD
With a career dedicated to representing the interests of the insurance industry, Eric Fitzgerald has 30 years’ experience handling coverage and professional liability matters for insurance companies in State and Federal courts throughout Pennsylvania and New York He is one of a select number of attorneys in private practice who has received his designation as a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Associate in Reinsurance (ARe). Eric's practice includes all Professional, General Liability, Auto, Property, Cyber, Inland Marine, LH&D and ERISA and Workers’ Compensation policy lines He also represents Insurance Agents and Brokers as both Litigation and General Counsel, and is a coverage Arbitrator and Mediator Eric is also an appellate attorney and has argued over 30 appeals
Eric has served on the Executive Committee of the CPCU Society’s National Board of Governors, the Nominating Committee and its Champions Committee and is a former CPCU instructor In addition, he participated in drafting several CPCU textbooks in association with the American Institute.
Eric is a Certified Litigation Management Professional with the Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (CLM) and a former instructor in the CLM’s Claims College. He is also a member of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS), the Property Legal Research Bureau (PLRB) and the American College of Coverage Counsel (ACCC)
Eric has been recognized for his achievements in the legal industry, and holds an AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating™ by Martindale-Hubbell®. He began his career as a judicial clerk for the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Fourth Department where he participated in the drafting of many significant coverage decisions in New York State
EDUCATION
1993 University at Buffalo School of Law (JD)
1989 University of Rochester (BA, cum laude)
BAR ADMISSIONS
Pennsylvania (1994)
New York (1993)
US District Courts for the Eastern, Middle and Western Districts of Pennsylvania
US District Courts for the Northern and Western Districts of New York
US Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
American College of Coverage Counsel (formerly ACCEC)
Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (CLM)
CPCU Society – Philadelphia Chapter (Executive Committee, Nominating Committee, Champions Committee)
Defense Research Institute –
Northeastern Pennsylvania Chapter
Monroe County Bar Association
Professional Liability Underwriting Society
Property Legal Research Bureau
CERTIFICATIONS
Associate in Reinsurance (ARe)
Certified Litigation Management
Professional (CLMP)
Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU)
Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU)
PUBLICATIONS
“An Insurer's Guide To Policyholder Bankruptcy” Law 360
AWARDS
Super Lawyers – Pennsylvania Super Lawyers – Insurance Coverage (2020)
Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rating™ –AV Preeminent®
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENTS
Kids Innovating Stage and Sound (KISS)
Theatre Company (Past Chairman, Current Member of Board of Directors)
ATLANTA, GA
P: 678.510.1530
jason.hergenroether@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Litigation
Premises Liability
Trucking & Transportation
JASON DANIEL HERGENROETHER
Jason Hergenroether's practice focuses on general litigation, auto accidents and premises liability in the firm's Atlanta office, bringing two decades of insurance defense experience to MGC. His background extends to appellate practice, where he has defended cases in the Georgia Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court of Georgia "I firmly believe that my role is both counselor and advocate," says Jason "I attempt to provide accurate and candid advice to my client while strongly advocating their position in court."
Jason recounts wanting to be a lawyer, even as a child Outside of MGC, he enjoys reading, playing chess and spending time with his 150 lb dog, Augus Jason has been married for nearly two decades.
EDUCATION
University of Georgia School of Law (JD, cum laude)
University of Central Arkansas (BS, summa cum laude)
BAR ADMISSIONS
U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia (2005)
U S District Court for the Northern District of Georgia (2004) Georgia (2003)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
State Bar of Georgia
ATLANTA, GA
P: 678.510.1527
ashley.howard@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Bad Faith Litigation
Management & Professional Liability
Motor Vehicle Litigation
Premises Liability
Products Liability
Trucking & Transportation
ASHLEY HOWARD
Ashley represents insurance carriers, their insureds and businesses in various types of litigation in the firm's Atlanta office. Ashley serves on MGC’s Trucking: Rapid Response Team. Prior to joining MGC, she worked as in-house counsel for a major insurance company practicing insurance defense litigation Ashley has extensive trial experience defending insurance companies and their insureds at all stages of the litigation process; she has successfully litigated numerous firstchair jury trials in various metro-Atlanta counties and served as second chair counsel for over 50 jury trials Ashley's work experience gives her a deep understanding of the insurance industry and the court system
“My clients, whether they are individuals or businesses, know that I am their advocate and will focus on making sure their voice is heard," says Ashley "I do everything I can to explain the process in a way that is easy to understand and strive to exceed each client's expectations through consistent and timely communication."
Ashley and her husband, Phillip, have two daughters, Taylor and Emory She enjoys traveling, reading, crafting and spending time with her family outside of the office
EDUCATION
University of Georgia School of Law (JD) Georgia Southern University (BS, summa cum laude)
BAR ADMISSIONS
Georgia (2010)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
American Board of Trial Advocates
State Bar of Georgia
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENTS
Renaissance Church of Christ
AWARDS
Best Lawyers©: Ones to Watch - Insurance Law (2021-2023, 2025 and 2026); Commercial Litigation (2024-2026)
CERTIFICATIONS
Claims Litigation Management
Professional (CLMP) through CLM
CHARLOTTE, NC
P: 704.405.4575
jeffrey.kuykendal@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Adulterated Food
Alcohol Liability
Bad Faith
Commercial & Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Director & Officer Liability/Fiduciary
Employment
Healthcare Liability
Insurance Coverage
Litigation
Miscellaneous Professionals
Management & Professional Liability
Motor Vehicle Litigation
Nursing Home Liability
Premises Liability
Slander & Defamation
Trucking & Transportation
JEFFREY KUYKENDAL
Jeff Kuykendal’s has a wide-ranging practice, which includes civil and business litigation, construction litigation, professional liability, insurance coverage analysis, federal litigation, personal injury actions and appellate litigation. Jeff enjoys the challenge when presented with an interesting and novel problem, and partnering with his clients to work through the litigation to reach the best solution possible. He also serves on the firm’s COVID-19 Response Team.
Jeff is married with two children and enjoys watching Tarheel sports, playing tennis and traveling.
EDUCATION
• Northwestern University School of Law (JD)
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (BA)
BAR ADMISSIONS
• North Carolina (2008)
• US Eastern, Middle and Western District Court of North Carolina
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
• North Carolina Bar Association
• Mecklenburg County Bar Association
• North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys
PHILADELPHIA, PA
P: 484.406.4306
hillary.ladov@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Bad Faith Commercial & Business Litigation
Insurance Coverage
Management & Professional Liability
HILLARY N. LADOV
For nearly a decade, Hillary Ladov has represented insurance industry clients in a variety of coverage matters. Her practice includes insurance coverage counseling and litigation, bad faith, professional liability and commercial litigation Hillary has extensive experience handling complex insurance cases in state and federal courts throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey “As a trusted advisor and problem solver, I strive to make complex, analytical work digestible and workable for my clients,” she adds. In 2019, Hillary participated in a three-month secondment at an international insurance company where she served as a claims specialist for the environmental coverage group In this role, she performed intake, coverage evaluations and investigations, as well as adjustments "The experience provided invaluable insight on the claimshandling process and has enabled me to better serve my clients," says Hillary.
At MGC, Hillary serves as Co-Chair of the firm's women's initiative, WIN @ MGC, which is a steadfast commitment to recruit, retain and advance women in the legal industry, as well as to provide a platform for engagement, development and leadership opportunities for women at the firm She also serves on the Board of Governors of the Philadelphia Bar Association and is the Vice Chancellor of the Brandeis Law Society In 2017, Hillary received the Joseph H Foster Young Lawyer Award by the Philadelphia Association of Defense Counsel for her exemplary professionalism, ethical practice and dedication as defense counsel. She has also been recognized for her pro bono efforts by the Philadelphia Bar Association and Rutgers University School of Law, and has been named a Rising Star in Pennsylvania Super Lawyers since 2019
While studying at Rutgers Law, Hillary was a law clerk with firms in Philadelphia and New Jersey. Upon graduating with a dual JD/MBA degree, she served as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Anne E Lazarus in the Superior Court of Pennsylvania Prior to joining MGC, Hillary handled insurance coverage and bad faith matters with two Philadelphia firms, and was the managing attorney for the Rutgers 501(c)(3) Pro Bono Project, assisting local community organizations with forming nonprofit corporations and attaining tax-exempt
Outside of MGC, Hillary enjoys upcycling furniture and cooking. She was also recently inducted into her high school sports hall of fame for swimming. Hillary is married with two sons.
EDUCATION
Rutgers University School of Law (JD)
Rutgers University School of Business (MBA)
Trinity College (BA)
BAR ADMISSIONS
US District Courts for the Middle District of Pennsylvania (2019) New Jersey (2015)
US District Courts for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (2015)
US District Courts for the District of New Jersey (2015)
Pennsylvania (2013)
US Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Justice at Work (Board of Directors)
AWARDS
Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Rising Stars (2019-2022)
Philadelphia Association of Defense
Counsel Joseph H. Foster Young Lawyer Award
Philadelphia Bar Association Area Law Student Pro Bono Award
Rutgers University School of Law Pro Bono Publico Award
PUBLICATIONS
“For the Kids: How Congress Stripped Pornography Producers of their Fourth Amendment Rights” Rutgers Journal of Law and Religion, Winter 2014
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Brandeis Law Society (Chancellor) Lawyers’ Club of Philadelphia (2021-2024: Board of Directors)
Philadelphia Bar Association (2023-2026: Board of Governors; 2020-2021: Young Lawyers Division – Chair)
GARDEN CITY, NY
P: 516.203.8440
daniel.levin@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Insurance Coverage Litigation
DANIEL W. LEVIN
For two decades, Daniel Levin has defended clients in insurance coverage matters, and has counseled major property-casualty insurers on coverage and claims-handling issues as both inhouse and outside counsel
Prior to joining MGC, Daniel was in-house counsel for a nationwide insurance company and handled litigation involving complex coverage issues, with an emphasis on coverage litigation arising out of underlying construction defect and mass tort property damage claims
Outside of MGC, Daniel is a league bowler and a tournament chess player
EDUCATION
University of Chicago Law School (JD) William Marsh Rice University (BA, magna cum laude)
BAR ADMISSIONS
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York (2011) New York (2008)
U S District Court for the District of Connecticut (1993) Connecticut (1992)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
New York Bar Association
PHILADELPHIA, PA
P: 484.406.4308
theresa.mullaney@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Construction Litigation
Litigation
Motor Vehicle Litigation
Premises Liability
Products Liability
Trucking & Transportation
THERESA MULLANEY
For over two decades, Theresa has represented premises owners, product manufacturers, suppliers and contractors in the areas of premises liability, mass tort, products liability, motor vehicle, construction and environmental litigation in state and federal courts throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. She has extensive experience handling claims involving exposure to asbestos, silica and talc Theresa serves on MGC’s Trucking Rapid Response Team
Theresa has argued before the Pennsylvania Superior Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit. She has also tried cases to verdict in several counties throughout Pennsylvania
EDUCATION
Widener University (JD, cum laude) Millersville University (BA)
BAR ADMISSIONS
U S Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit (2007)
U.S. District Court, New Jersey (2000) New Jersey (2000)
U S District Court, Eastern District of Pennsylvania (1999) Pennsylvania (1999)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Defense Research Institute
The Lawyer's Club of Philadelphia Pennsylvania Bar Association
AWARDS
Pennsylvania Super Lawyers - Personal Injury: Product Defense (2017-2025) Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Rising Star (2012 and 2013)
MEMPHIS, TN
P: 901.896.3421
garrett.obrien@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Construction Litigation
Litigation
Miscellaneous Professionals
Premises Liability
Products Liability
Trucking & Transportation
Workers’ Compensation
GARRETT H. O’BRIEN
Garrett O’Brien represents individuals, professionals, employers, businesses and insurance carriers in litigation and workers’ compensation matters from the firm’s Memphis office. He serves on MGC’s Trucking: Rapid Response Team.
Outside of MGC, Garrett enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter and two dogs, as well as traveling, biking and reading.
EDUCATION
• University of Arkansas School of Law (JD)
• Georgetown University (BA)
BAR ADMISSIONS
• US District Court, Eastern District of Arkansas (2018)
• US District Court, Western District of Tennessee (2017)
• Arkansas (2012)
• Tennessee (2011)
CERTIFICATIONS
• Certified Circuit Court Mediator
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
• Arkansas Bar Association
• Memphis Bar Association
• Tennessee Bar Association
AWARDS
• Best Lawyers©: Ones to Watch - Commercial Litigation (20212026); Workers’ Compensation Law
- Employers (2021-2026); Workers’ Compensation Law - Claimants (20222025)
• Mid-South Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” - Civil Litigation: Defense (2018-2023)
BOSTON, MA
P: 617.830.7439
john.oneill@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Insurance Coverage Management & Professional Liability
JOHN G. O'NEILL
John O’Neill, a seasoned litigator, offers strategic counsel and advocacy in high-stakes disputes for a diverse clientele. His practice focuses on insurance coverage, business litigation and professional liability John navigates cases ranging from coverage and bad faith suits to commercial disputes, including consumer protection class actions, and professional negligence claims against attorneys, architects, engineers, accountants and other professionals He also represents attorneys in disciplinary proceedings. John previously served as a disciplinary hearing officer for the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseers
Outside of the office, John enjoys skiing and spending time with his family He also helps maintain public-use hiking trails in his community and volunteers with the local Scouts BSA troop
EDUCATION
Boston College Law School (JD, magna cum laude)
University of Massachusetts, Amherst (BBA, cum laude)
BAR ADMISSIONS
United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit (2023)
United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit (2020)
United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit (2001) New York (1997)
United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts (1996) Massachusetts (1995)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Board of Bar Overseers (Former Hearing Officer)
Boston Bar Association (Former Co-Chair, Insurance and Reinsurance Committee) Massachusetts Bar Association Massachusetts Insurance and Reinsurance Bar Association (Board of Directors)
PUBLICATIONS
“Insurance Coverage for Social Engineering Wire-Fraud Scams,” DRI For the Defense (October 2018)
“Choice of Law in Bad Faith Claims,” DRI For the Defense (May 2017)
“Can Damaging Internal Emails be Kept from the Jury,” New England In-House (August 2016)
AWARDS
Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly “Go to Lawyer” (Professional Malpractice – 2025)
Best Lawyers – Commercial Litigation (2023–2025); Insurance Law (2023–2026); Litigation – Insurance (2023–2026); Professional Malpractice Law – Defendants (2023–2024)
Best Lawyers – New England's Best Lawyers© – Massachusetts: Insurance Law (2024)
Super Lawyers – Massachusetts Super Lawyers – Business Litigation (2009–2024)
BOSTON, MA
P: 617.830.7436
jessica.park@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Insurance Coverage Reinsurance
JESSICA H. PARK
Jessica Park, located in MGC’s Boston office, represents insurers and reinsurers in a broad spectrum of insurance law matters, including complex coverage cases and disputes involving bad faith, extra-contractual liability and consumer protection claims She also provides guidance to clients on insurance-related business disputes and regulatory issues, as well as consumer information privacy concerns and related matters
Jessica has nearly two decades of legal experience and a deep understanding of the insurance industry’s business issues and offers valuable and comprehensive counsel to insurance companies With her extensive understanding of intricate policy provisions and underwriting issues, she has the experience to navigate the legal landscape insurance carriers face. With a client-centric approach, Jessica provides her clients with keen legal acumen and strategic thinking, allowing solutions to be tailored to individual issues
Outside of the office, Jessica and her family enjoy road and trail running, hiking and skiing.
EDUCATION
University of California Berkeley School of Law (JD) Villanova University (MS) Millersville University (BA, summa cum laude)
BAR ADMISSIONS
Massachusetts (2010) US District Court, District of Massachusetts
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Boston Bar Association
DRI (Insurance Law and Data Management and Security SubCommittees)
Massachusetts Insurance and Reinsurance Bar Association (MIReBA) (2020: President; 2019: Vice President; 2018: Treasurer; 2015-Present: Board of Directors; 2016 and 2020: Symposium Committee Co-Chair) Women's Bar Association
PUBLICATIONS
“Insurance Coverage for Social Engineering Wire-Fraud Scams” DRI For the Defense Magazine (October 2018)
AWARDS
The Best Lawyers in America© - Insurance Law (2024 - 2026)
Massachusetts Super Lawyers - Insurance Coverage (2017-2023)
and
ASHEVILLE, NC
P: 828.575.1902
jspainhour@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Adulterated Food
Alcohol Liability
Bad Faith
Commercial & Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Director & Officer
Liability/Fiduciary
Government/Municipal Liability
Healthcare Liability
Insurance Coverage
Litigation
Management & Professional
Liability
Motor Vehicle Litigation
Nursing Home Liability
Premises Liability
Products Liability
Slander & Defamation
Trucking & Transportation
JOHN E. SPAINHOUR
John Spainhour’s practice focuses on civil litigation He has extensive experience in the areas of commercial litigation, business torts, real estate litigation, professional liability and fiduciary litigation, catastrophic injury defense, products liability, premises liability, construction defect, insurance coverage and extra-contractual claims, motor vehicle and trucking, coverage and bad faith and other negligence claims
John has tried many cases to a jury verdict in various courts throughout North Carolina. He has also defended professionals before the National Association of Securities Dealers (now FINRA), and others before various state regulatory agencies. John started his practice at MGC in the firm’s Charlotte office, relocating to Asheville in the spring of 2013 to start the Western North Carolina office
Outside of law, John can be found spending time with his wife and two daughters, as well as reading, running, skiing, golfing and discovering all that Asheville has to offer.
EDUCATION
University of South Carolina School of Law (JD)
Davidson College (BA)
BAR ADMISSIONS
North Carolina (2001)
AWARDS
The Best Lawyers in America© - Litigation –Insurance (2019, 202-2026); Commercial Litigation (2025, 2026)
The Best Lawyers in America© Asheville, NC Lawyer of the Year - LitigationInsurance (2024)
Business North Carolina Legal EliteConstruction (2023)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Buncombe County Bar Association
Council on Litigation Management
Defense Research Institute
International Association of Defense Counsel
North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys
North Carolina Bar Association
ATLANTA, GA
P: 678.500.7307
kate.whitlock@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Bad Faith Director & Officer
Liability/Fiduciary Litigation
Management & Professional Liability
Miscellaneous Professionals
KATHRYN S. WHITLOCK
Kate has spent her career defending and counseling individuals and companies accused of not doing their jobs right. Primarily in professional liability, bad faith and sexual misconduct matters, Kate represents clients in many different fields - legal, insurance, accounting, real estate, education and more She never loses sight of the fact that her job is to close the case as efficiently as possible so that her clients can get back to doing their jobs Kate is skilled in both the courtroom and alternative dispute forums; having tried over 100 cases to jury verdict, bench decision or final arbitration award in state court, federal court, licensing board, arbitration and other venues Kate handles her own cases through appeal and is called on by others to help on appeal after they receive a disappointing first level outcome
Kate has been awarded multiple professional awards and has been recognized for years by The Best Lawyers in America© and Super Lawyers organizations She serves in leadership roles with several national organizations, including Defense Research Institute (DRI) and Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (CLM). She is also active in several other professional organizations To advance the legal field, Kate regularly lectures and publishes articles on emerging issues related to her litigation practice A lifelong learner, in 2025 she earned her Masters Negotiation certification from the Harvard Law School Executive Education’s Program on Negotiation and in 2019 her Certified Litigation Management Professional (CLMP) from CLM. Kate is also passionate about mentoring the next generation of trial attorneys
Outside of MGC, Kate gives her time to non-profit organizations in Atlanta. She has been married to her husband who is also an attorney for over 35 years. They have three grown non-lawyer children and two non-lawyer dogs
EDUCATION
University of Iowa College of Law (JD, with honors)
University of Iowa (BA, with special honors)
BAR ADMISSIONS
Georgia (1986)
AWARDS
The Best Lawyers in America© - Insurance Law (2023-2026); Litigation - Insurance (2025, 2026); Personal Injury LitigationDefendants (2026)
Georgia Super Lawyers - Professional Liability: Defense (2019-2025)
The American Law Society, America's Top Lawyers (2018)
Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Rating™AV Preeminent®
CERTIFICATIONS
Certified Litigation Management
Professional (CLMP)
Harvard Law School Executive EducationNegotiation
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Atlanta Bar Association
Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee; Extra-Contractual Committee; Cyber, Management & Professional Liability Community: Co-Chair)
Defense Research Institute (Professional Liability Committee - Vice-Chair) Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel
Georgia Defense Lawyers Association (Women Litigators Section)
Lawyers Club of Atlanta
Professional Liability Defense Federation
State Bar of Georgia
KATHRYN S. WHITLOCK
PUBLICATIONS
“The Multi-Million Dollar Problem of Civil Sexual Misconduct Claims” DRI for The Defense - Volume 63, Issue 6, June 30, (2021)
“Claims Jeopardy: Your Issues (in the Form of a Question)” DRI for The Defense, Professional Liability Section - April (2021)
“To Arbitrate or Not To Arbitrate; That Is the Question” ALPS Insurance Blog - April 10, (2021)
“Has the Attorney-Client Relationship Suffered in an Over-Connected World?”
ALFA International Advantage NewsletterAugust 19, (2020)
“Malpractice on Trial: Avoiding Claims and Grievances” State Bar of Georgia, ICLE Program - August (2019)
“Scoring A Run: Making Sure You Can Get All Around the Bases And Back Home With Your Deposition Testimony” ALFA International, (2019) Professional Liability Group Mini-Seminar - August (2019)
“Engagement Letters, Nonengagement Letters, and Disengagement Letters” DRI for The Defense - April (2019)
“Avoiding Malpractice and Bad Faith in an Electronic World” Claims and Litigation Management Alliance, (2019) Cyber, Management and Professional Liability Conference - July (2019)
“Handling Claims with Practically Perfectly Aligned Stakeholders” Claims and Litigation Management Alliance, (2019) Annual Conference - March (2019)
“Communicating Over Conflict” DRI Professional Liability Committee, Riding the E&O Line - Volume 10, Issue 4, December 30, (2018)
“What We’ve Got Here Is a Failure of Communications” DRI Professional Liability Committee, Riding the E&O Line - Volume 10, Issue 3, December (2018)
“Malpractice on Trial: Avoiding Claims” DRI The Voice - Volume 17, Issue 13, April (2018)
“Separate but Equal Duties” DRI for The Defense, Professional Liability SectionApril (2018)
“Skeletons as Party Favors” DRI The VoiceVolume 16, Issue 49, December (2017)
“Who's the Client” DRI The Voice - Volume 16, Issue 47, November (2017)
PRESENTATIONS
“Duty to Protect From Third-Party Harm in Sexual Abuse Cases” Strafford Publications Inc. - (2023)
“What's Hot in the World of Legal Malpractice in Georgia” ALPS Corporation(2023)
“Responding to Time Limited Policy Limits Demands” ABA National Legal Malpractice Conference - (Spring 2023)
“It Pays to Be Reasonable: Ethical Billing by Lawyers” (NALFA - 2023)
“Managing Reptile Theory Through Voir Dire” (2022)
“Managing Reptile Theory Through Motion” (2022)
“Sexual Misconduct Claims Against Third Party Providers” (2022)
“Bad Faith and EPLI” CLM Claims College(2022)
BOSTON, MA
P: 617.830.7402
robert.whitney@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Insurance Coverage
Reinsurance
ROBERT A. WHITNEY
With more than 25 years of experience in complex insurance coverage, bad faith, reinsurance, regulatory affairs and compliance, and commercial litigation, Robert A. Whitney represents insurers and reinsurers to resolve disputes throughout New England, including coverage and bad faith disputes in state and federal courts in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and throughout the country His experience includes negotiating resolution of coverage claims and counseling insurance company clients on claims litigation strategy and procedure and coverage questions
Rob has advocated for ceding companies and reinsurers in reinsurance litigation and arbitration, navigating disputes encompassing diverse insurance coverage and bad faith claims. He possesses arbitration experience with facultative certificates and treaty programs, offering counsel to both ceding and reinsuring companies regarding their rights and obligations Rob is a Certified Insurance and Reinsurance Arbitrator for ARIAS-US. He is also the Chair of DRI’s Reinsurance Group, and is a member of ARIAS-US’s Education Committee. Rob is the former President of the Massachusetts Insurance & Reinsurance Bar Association
Rob previously served as the Corporate Secretary for the Stonewall Insurance Company and Seaton Insurance Company, as well as on the Board of Directors of the Transport Insurance Company He was the former Deputy Commissioner and General Counsel of the Massachusetts Division of Insurance for four years, where he provided legal counsel to the Commissioner of Insurance, as well as the Governor’s Chief Counsel and Chief of Staff and other senior administration officials, concerning the interpretation and application of state and federal insurance laws and regulations In his current role, Rob now provides legal counsel to clients regarding the application of federal and state regulations to insurance and reinsurance companies, as well as advice to responses to requests for information from regulatory agencies, external auditors and others concerning regulatory requirements. He also appears before regulatory agencies to help clients resolve any regulatory and compliance issues and to facilitate regulatory approvals Rob also partners with senior executive management to provide guidance on legal and regulatory matters related to company operations and products, including the preparation of legal memoranda concerning significant legal, compliance and regulatory matters
Robert has extensive involvement in the legal community, and frequently shares his knowledge by authoring articles and manuals. He also presents at a number of regional and national conferences, including those sponsored by DRI, ABA, National Association of Insurance Commissioners, LexisNexis, Mealey’s Publishing, MCLE, the Boston Bar Association, ACI, Arias-US, the Massachusetts Insurance and Reinsurance Bar Association and many others. In 2025, Rob was selected by Boston Magazine as a “Top Lawyer” and was named in The Best Lawyers in America©, both for his insurance law practice
EDUCATION
Boston University Law School (JD, G Joseph Tauro Scholar)
Brown University (BA, with honors)
BAR ADMISSIONS
Massachusetts Maine
US District Court, District of Massachusetts
US District Court, Central District of Illinois
US Court of Appeals, First Circuit
US Supreme Court
CERTIFICATIONS
Certified Insurance and Reinsurance Arbitrator, ARIAS-US
PUBLICATIONS
“New York State Appellate Division Rules, in Seminal Decision, That Retrocessionaire Can Bring Malpractice Suit Against Underlying Insured’s Counsel Under Equitable Subrogation Theory,” DRI – Brief Case (2024).
“Trigger of Coverage for Revived Sexual Abuse and Molestation Claims,” DRI: For the Defense (2024)
ROBERT A. WHITNEY
AWARDS
The Best Lawyers in America© - Insurance Law (2022-2026)
Boston Magazine "Top Lawyer" in Insurance Law (2023-2024)
Massachusetts "Governor's Citation" for 20 Years of Dedicated Service to Persons with Disabilities
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Citation for Outstanding Performance as Leader of Health Insurance Reform Implementation Team, Division of Insurance
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Boston Bar Association (Former Member, Civil Rights and Civil Liberties)
Boston Lawyer Chapter of the American Constitution Society (President and CoFounder)
DRI (Chair, Reinsurance Law Group)
Massachusetts Insurance and Reinsurance Bar Association (Board Member; Former President)
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENTS
Beacon Hill Civic Association (Former Chair; Former Board Member)
Boston Community Preservation Committee (At-Large Member)
Boston Groundwater Trust (Co-Chair; Trustee; Treasurer; Former Board Member)
Suffolk University Institutional Master Plan Task Force (Member)
PRESENTATIONS
“Some Basics of Reinsurance Right-toAssociate & Claim Control Clauses,” DRI Magazine – Covered Events (December 2021)
“Transitioning to a New View: Coming to See Health Insurance Coverage for Gender Dysphoria in a New Light,” Connecticut Insurance Law Journal, Vol 25, Iss 2 (Spring 2019)
“Shadow Insurance,” Massachusetts Insurance & Reinsurance Bar Association
Newsletter (Winter 2018)
“Massachusetts Liability Insurance Manual,” MCLE, 3rd Edition (2017) CoEditor.
“Insurance Regulation,” Chapter 14, Massachusetts Liability Insurance Manual, MCLE, 3rd Edition (2017).
“Insurance Coverage for EmploymentRelated Practices,” Chapter 18, Massachusetts Liability Insurance Manual, MCLE, 3rd Edition (2017).
“Aftermath: The Legal Community’s Response to the Boston Marathon Bombings,” Boston Bar Journal, Vol 58, No 1 (January 7, 2014).
“Review of the Insurance Implications of the New Animal Control Law,” Massachusetts Agent Newsletter (February 7, 2013).
“When Does an Arbitration Panel Exceed its Authority in Issuing Awards? Some New Cases Take a Look,” Massachusetts Insurance & Reinsurance Bar Association
Newsletter (Winter 2012)
“Retakaful: Reinsurance in the World of Islam,” ARIAS-US Quarterly (2011).
RICHMOND, VA
P: 804.944.2987 andrew.willis@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Bad Faith Commercial & Business Litigation Insurance Coverage
ANDREW S. WILLIS
Andrew Willis brings a decade of insurance defense experience to MGC In the firm’s Richmond office, he specializes in analyzing insurance coverage questions for insurers and representing them in coverage litigation While Andrew has evaluated coverage issues under the laws of dozens of states, he focuses particularly on claims originating in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D C He regularly handles cases involving homeowners’, general liability, auto, UM/UIM, professional liability and excess/surplus insurance. Andrew addresses these issues, along with questions of bad faith, fraud and policy rescission, in the context of confidential coverage analyses for clients and breach of contract and declaratory judgment litigation in state and federal courts He has also succeeded in his motions practice and with appellate work, briefing matters before Virginia’s appellate courts and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Before dedicating his practice to insurance coverage, Andrew represented employers and their insurers in cases before the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission. “This gives me a unique perspective on coverage cases where there’s also a workers’ compensation angle,” he observes Prior to joining MGC, Andrew’s practice included litigating business disputes
While studying law at the University of Richmond, Andrew clerked in the Brunswick County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. He continues to draw on this experience with criminal law, particularly in cases involving suspected malfeasance by policyholders
Outside of MGC, Andrew enjoys spending time with his family, as well as reading history and fiction. He is fitfully attempting to improve his skills making smoked BBQ.
EDUCATION
University of Richmond T.C. Williams School of Law (JD, cum laude) Colgate University (BA, cum laude)
BAR ADMISSIONS
Maryland (2023)
United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit (2020)
United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia (2019)
United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (2014) District of Columbia (2013) Virginia (2012)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
American Bar Association (Insurance Coverage Section) Claims and Litigation Management Alliance
DRI (Insurance Coverage and Fraud SLG Sections; Vice Chair, SIU Subcommittee) Federal Bar Association - Richmond Chapter (Membership Secretary) Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys
PUBLICATIONS
“Insurance Coverage Fraud Litigation and the Pandemic: Where are the Cases?,” DRI (The Briefcase: DRI Committee News, September 2022, Volume 1, Issue 6)
“Deconstructing Insurance Coverage Issues in Construction Defect Litigation,” Journal of Civil Litigation (Summer 2021, Volume XXXIII, Number 2)
“Is There a Procedure for Terminating a De Facto Award,” VADA Journal of Civil Litigation (Fall 2017, Volume XXIX, Number 3)
AWARDS
Virginia Super Lawyers - Rising Stars (2017 to 2022)
HARTFORD, CT
RICHMOND, VA
P: 804.944.2988
michele.wojcik@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Bad Faith Insurance Coverage Litigation
Management & Professional Liability
MICHELE C. WOJCIK
For over two decades, Michele Wojcik has represented the interests of the insurance industry. Michele is proficient in all facets of insurance coverage, including personal lines, commercial lines, professional lines and specialty lines. She has defended insurance carriers against extracontractual claims, provided counsel on coverage obligations and litigated issues concerning duty to defend and indemnify Additionally, Michele has represented attorneys and other professionals in professional liability claims and general defense matters, including complex claims. She routinely handles appeals that arise in cases, and has argued before the Appellate Court and Supreme Court of Connecticut. Whether clients are faced with a coverage or bad faith issue, Michele strives to support them in every facet by providing guidance and offering realistic solutions
Michele frequently shares her insights to clients and national organizations, including CLM, NBI and the American Bar Association, on issues of insurance coverage and avoiding extracontractual claims She is a fellow of the American College of Coverage Counsel the preeminent association of attorneys who represent the interests of insurers and policyholders serves as co-chair on CLM's Insurance Coverage Committee, and is a member of the Connecticut Bar Association as well as the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel
Outside of MGC, Michele spends her time cooking and enjoying the lake life with her husband.
EDUCATION
University of Connecticut School of Law (JD)
Central Connecticut State University (BA)
BAR ADMISSIONS
Virginia (2021)
U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts (2021)
Massachusetts (2017)
U S District Court, District of Connecticut (1999)
Connecticut (1998)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
American College of Coverage Counsel (Fellow)
CLM (Co-Chair, Insurance Coverage Committee)
Connecticut Bar Association
Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENTS
Newington Town Plan and Zoning Commission (Former Chairman) Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters (Volunteer)
JOSHUA A. WOLFE
Josh Wolfe joined MGC in May of 2017 to open the firm’s Knoxville office His practice focuses on product liability, construction litigation, premises liability, transportation, professional liability, employment law and workers’ compensation defense Josh has successfully tried jury trials to verdict at both the State and Federal level He has also represented clients before Tennessee’s appellate courts and the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals Josh serves on MGC's Trucking: Rapid Response Team.
Outside of work, Josh enjoys spending time with his wife and three children on the lake, hiking and at the soccer field
KNOXVILLE, TN
P: 865.243.2743
joshua.wolfe@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE
AREAS
Construction Litigation
Employment
Insurance Coverage
Litigation
Miscellaneous Professionals
Motor Vehicle Litigation
Premises Liability
Products Liability
Trucking & Transportation
Workers' Compensation
EDUCATION
Vanderbilt University Law School (JD) University of Tennessee (BA, magna cum laude)
BAR ADMISSIONS
US District Court for Middle Tennessee (2014)
US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit (2014)
US District Court for the Western District of Kentucky (2012)
US District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky (2012) Kentucky (2009)
US District Court for Eastern Tennessee (2004) Tennessee (2003)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Construction Law Society of America
Federal Bar Association (Knoxville Chapter, Past President – 2016)
Hamilton-Burnett Inns of Court
Knoxville Bar Association
Tennessee Bar Association
AWARDS
The Best Lawyers in America©Construction Law (2016-2026); Insurance Law (2016-2026)
Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Rating™AV®
PUBLICATIONS
CLM, Wiki Link “Workers’ Compensation Guide,” author (2014)
“You Must Be This Tall to Regulate: Amusement Park Safety in Tennessee,” DICTA, Knoxville Bar Association Magazine (May 2013)
“A Search for the Best IDEA: Balancing the Conflicting Provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act,” 55 Vand L Rev 1627 (2002)
ALEXANDRIA, VA
P: 703.822.4775
ben.woody@mgclaw.com
PRACTICE AREAS
Insurance Coverage Litigation
BEN WOODY
With over a decade of experience, Ben Woody is a seasoned trial attorney who focuses on the defense of catastrophic personal injury, property damage claims and insurance coverage disputes throughout state and federal courts in Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland and the District of Columbia He has tried over 100 cases to verdict and successfully resolved hundreds of additional matters through motions, mediation and arbitration, achieving favorable outcomes in complex, high-stakes litigation.
Beyond his legal practice, Ben is actively engaged in several professional organizations, contributing to the advancement of his field He is the co-chair of the Transportation and Admiralty Section of the Virginia Bar Association, a member of the American Bar Association (ABA) Tort, Trial and Insurance Practice's Admiralty and Maritime Law Committee and the former chair of the Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys' Products and Toxic Torts Section
Ben has written extensively on civil litigation, admiralty and maritime law and insurance law, with articles published in respected journals such as the ABA TIPS Law Journal, Tulane Maritime Law Journal, University of San Francisco Maritime Law Journal and the Journal of Civil Litigation He also contributed for six years to the ABA's Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Law Journal, providing insights on recent developments in admiralty and maritime law. In addition, Ben regularly presents at seminars and conferences, addressing key legal issues for organizations such as the American Bar Association and the Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys
EDUCATION
Elon University School of Law (JD) Tulane University Law School (LL M, Admiralty)
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (BA)
BAR ADMISSIONS
Maryland (2020)
District of Columbia (2019) Virginia (2016)
United States District Court for the District of Columbia
United States District Court for the District of Maryland
United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina
United States District Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia
United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit
AWARDS
Best Lawyers©: Ones to Watch - Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants (2022-2026)
Virginia Super Lawyers - Rising Stars - Civil Litigation: Defense (2022-2024); Personal Injury: Defense (2025)
Virginia Business Legal Elite - Young Lawyers (2019-2023)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
American Bar Association (Tort, Trial & Insurance Practice; Admiralty & Maritime Law Committee)
DRI
Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys (2023-2022: Chair, Products & Toxic Torts Section; 2022-2020: Vice-Chair, Products & Toxic Torts Section)
Virginia Bar Association (Co-Chair, Transportation and Admiralty Section)
Virginia State Bar
KATHRYN S. WHITLOCK
PUBLICATIONS
“Recent Developments in Admiralty and Maritime Law” Contributing Author, 57
Tort Trial & Ins. Prac. L.J. 171 (Spring 2022)
“Internet of Things in Civil Litigation” Journal of Civil Litigation, 33 J Civ Litig 15 (Spring 2021)
“Recent Developments in Admiralty and Maritime Law” Contributing Author, 56 Tort Trial & Ins Prac L J 185 (Spring 2021)
Recent Developments in Admiralty and Maritime Law ABA TIPS Law Journal, Vol. 55, No 2 (Spring 2020)
“Recent Developments in Admiralty and Maritime Law” Contributing Author, 55 Tort Trial & Ins. Prac. L.J. 77 (Spring 2020)
“Recent Developments in Admiralty and Maritime Law” Contributing Author, 54
Tort Trial & Ins. Prac. L.J. 269 (Spring 2019)
“Recent Developments in Admiralty and Maritime Law” Contributing Author, 53
Tort Trial & Ins Prac L J 157 (Spring 2018)
“There Be No Shelter Here: Why Misreading Sinochem International Shipping Co v Malaysian Shipping Co Renders Decisional Sequencing Necessary” Tulane Maritime Law Journal, 41 TUL. MAR. L.J. 317 (Winter 2017)
“Recent Developments in Admiralty and Maritime Law” Contributing Author, 52 Tort Trial & Ins. Prac. L.J. 175 (Spring 2017)
“Get Back to Where You Once Belonged: Decisions on Personal Jurisdiction Should Precede Maritime Choice of Law Disputes to Prevent Unnecessary Invocation of Forum Non Conveniens” University of San Francisco Maritime Law Journal, 29 U S F Mar. L.J. 71 (2017)
“Sinking Uberrimae Fidei: How the Eighth Circuit’s Decision in St Paul Fire & Marine Ins Co v Abhe & Svoboda Accidentally Sank the Doctrine before the Insurance Act of 2015 Could“ Tulane Maritime Law Journal, 40 Tul Mar L J 573 (Summer 2016)
PRESENTATIONS
“Defending Non-Auto Cases: Boats & Personal Watercraft” Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys Spring Seminar (May 7, 2021)
“The Lauritzen-Rhoditis Lie: Saving Jones Act Claims from an Atrophied Choice of Law Analysis” American Bar Association Tort, Trial & Insurance Practice Committee’s Presentation of Tulane Maritime Law Journal (October 27, 2016)
“Insurance Act 2015 and Uberrimae Fidei: The Sinking of a Harsh, Anachronistic Doctrine” International Graduate Legal Research Conference (April 4, 2016)
“Sinking the Duty of Uberrimae Fidei before the Insurance Act of 2015 Could” American Bar Association Maritime Law Committee’s Presentation of Tulane Maritime Law Journal (March 17, 2016)
These materials have been prepared by McAngus Goudelock & Courie, LLC for informational purposes only. They are not legal advice. This information is not intended to and does not create a lawyer-client relationship. In addition, receipt of the information does not constitute or create a lawyer-client relationship Do not send us confidential information or information regarding a legal matter until you speak with one of our lawyers and get authorization to send that information to us Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in any future legal representation
