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Val Leppert is a legal strategist and first-chair appellate lawyer who has obtained the reversal of numerous adverse judgments. Chambers and Partners has ranked and recognized Val as "an accomplished appellate litigator."  Val has represented clients across an array of industries, including airline, automotive, energy, insurance, lending, medical device, pharmaceutical, private equity, technology, and transportation.  But he has developed particular expertise in consumer products, having worked extensively in tobacco litigation while also representing companies in matters pertaining to alcohol, construction materials, and talcum powder. Legal 500 has recommended Val for the defense of consumer products, including for “his appellate skills" as documented by his "string of notable appellate victories, saving [his clients] significant financial burdens."

In some matters, Val steps into the case on appeal.  But in most instances, Val works alongside the trial teams from the inception of the case, devising the legal strategy from the pleadings stage through post-trial motions and appeal. Using this format, he frequently develops new and creative arguments and has secured a number of victories in pretrial proceedings, such as the dismissal of his clients before trial or limitations on the other side’s claims.  If a case makes it to trial, Val often serves as legal issues counsel, helping the team shape the case by obtaining favorable evidentiary rulings or jury instructions. This integrated approach, where Val is embedded with the trial team, is frequently the foundation for success in post-trial and appellate proceedings. 

Although he is resident in the firm’s Atlanta and Miami offices, Val works on cases throughout the United States.  He has argued matters from North Carolina to Oregon and from Minnesota all the way down to the Southernmost courthouse in the Florida Keys.

Val served as law clerk to the Honorable Frank M. Hull, United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals.  He graduated, magna cum laude, from Mercer University School of Law where he received the George W. Woodruff Award of Excellence as the top-ranked student in his class.  While in law school, Val served as Articles Editor of the Mercer Law Review and as Research Assistant to Professor Harold S. Lewis, Jr.  While in college, he was named the 2004 Upper Midwest Athletic Conference South Most Valuable Player on Offense after quarterbacking Westminster College (Mo) to consecutive football conference championships.   He was inducted into the Westminster Athletic Hall of Fame in 2019. 

Val is a native of Frankfurt, Germany, and is fluent in German.

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People

People

Val
Leppert

Partner
Trial and Global Disputes

Miami: +1 305 462 6021
Atlanta: +1 404 572 3578
vleppert@kslaw.com

Related Capabilities
Appellate, Constitutional and Administrative Law Consumer Products Litigation U.S.-DACH Disputes Advisory

Val Leppert is a legal strategist and first-chair appellate lawyer who has obtained the reversal of numerous adverse judgments. Chambers and Partners has ranked and recognized Val as "an accomplished appellate litigator."  Val has represented clients across an array of industries, including airline, automotive, energy, insurance, lending, medical device, pharmaceutical, private equity, technology, and transportation.  But he has developed particular expertise in consumer products, having worked extensively in tobacco litigation while also representing companies in matters pertaining to alcohol, construction materials, and talcum powder. Legal 500 has recommended Val for the defense of consumer products, including for “his appellate skills" as documented by his "string of notable appellate victories, saving [his clients] significant financial burdens."

In some matters, Val steps into the case on appeal.  But in most instances, Val works alongside the trial teams from the inception of the case, devising the legal strategy from the pleadings stage through post-trial motions and appeal. Using this format, he frequently develops new and creative arguments and has secured a number of victories in pretrial proceedings, such as the dismissal of his clients before trial or limitations on the other side’s claims.  If a case makes it to trial, Val often serves as legal issues counsel, helping the team shape the case by obtaining favorable evidentiary rulings or jury instructions. This integrated approach, where Val is embedded with the trial team, is frequently the foundation for success in post-trial and appellate proceedings. 

Although he is resident in the firm’s Atlanta and Miami offices, Val works on cases throughout the United States.  He has argued matters from North Carolina to Oregon and from Minnesota all the way down to the Southernmost courthouse in the Florida Keys.

Val served as law clerk to the Honorable Frank M. Hull, United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals.  He graduated, magna cum laude, from Mercer University School of Law where he received the George W. Woodruff Award of Excellence as the top-ranked student in his class.  While in law school, Val served as Articles Editor of the Mercer Law Review and as Research Assistant to Professor Harold S. Lewis, Jr.  While in college, he was named the 2004 Upper Midwest Athletic Conference South Most Valuable Player on Offense after quarterbacking Westminster College (Mo) to consecutive football conference championships.   He was inducted into the Westminster Athletic Hall of Fame in 2019. 

Val is a native of Frankfurt, Germany, and is fluent in German.

Full Bio
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Credentials

J.D., Mercer University, Magna Cum Laude

B.A., Westminster College

Court of Appeals of Georgia

Florida

Georgia

Supreme Court of Georgia

Supreme Court of the United States

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit

U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida

Law Clerk, Frank M. Hull, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit

Florida

Georgia

German

News

Recognition

September 9, 2024
LMG Life Sciences Honors King & Spalding as its Government Investigations Firm of the Year, FDA Litigation & Enforcement Firm of the Year and Impact Case of Year – United States

Recognition

June 12, 2024
King & Spalding Earns Top-Tier Rankings in Legal 500 United States 2024 Guide

Recognition

June 6, 2024
King & Spalding Earns 198 Lawyer Rankings, 90 Practice Group Rankings in Chambers USA Guide

View all

Matters

Successfully represented marketing organization: obtained 9-0 state high court victory reversing lower court decisions that had invalidated non-recruitment clause for lack of territorial term in business dispute. North American Senior Benefits v. Wimmer, -- So. 3d ---, 2024 WL 4029937 (Ga. Sept. 4, 2024).

Successfully represented pharmaceutical company: obtained dismissal with prejudice of claims of negligent marketing and negligent storage of medication. Ansel v. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc, et al, No. CACE22014165 (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024)

Successfully represented Italian car manufacturer: obtained dismissal of product liability case for lack of personal jurisdiction. Von Eisenberg v. Automobili Lamborghini, S.p.A, No. CACE-22-014881 (27) (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024) (appeal pending)

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Close

Matters

Successfully represented marketing organization: obtained 9-0 state high court victory reversing lower court decisions that had invalidated non-recruitment clause for lack of territorial term in business dispute. North American Senior Benefits v. Wimmer, -- So. 3d ---, 2024 WL 4029937 (Ga. Sept. 4, 2024).

Successfully represented pharmaceutical company: obtained dismissal with prejudice of claims of negligent marketing and negligent storage of medication. Ansel v. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc, et al, No. CACE22014165 (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024)

Successfully represented Italian car manufacturer: obtained dismissal of product liability case for lack of personal jurisdiction. Von Eisenberg v. Automobili Lamborghini, S.p.A, No. CACE-22-014881 (27) (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024) (appeal pending)

Successfully represented British car manufacturer: obtained dismissal of product liability case for lack of personal jurisdiction. Von Eisenberg v. Bentley Motors Limited, No. CACE-22-014881 (27) (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024) (appeal pending)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate affirmance of trial court order denying request to add a claim for punitive damages. Hartbauer v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 5D2023-1828, 2024 WL 2151720 (Fla. 5th DCA May 14, 2024)

Successfully represented healthcare company: obtained summary judgment on claim for punitive damages and then supported trial team in obtaining complete defense verdict on remaining claims. Matthey v. Johnson & Johnson, No. 2018-CA-004809-NC (Fla. 12th Cir. Ct. 2024).

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining defense verdict in product case. Harcourt v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco, No. CACE-17-20297 (08) (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024)

Successfully represented US Chamber of Commerce as amicus curiae: provided amicus support for appellate reversal of certification of nationwide PFAS class in Sixth Circuit Court of Appeal. In re E. I. du Pont de Nemours & Co. C-8 Pers. Injury Litig., 87 F.4th 315 (6th Cir. 2023).

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained appellate affirmance of summary judgment in product case based on the exclusion of the plaintiff's key expert testimony. Cantrell v. Coloplast Corp., 76 F.4th 1113 (8th Cir. 2023).

Successfully represented medical device company: supported trial team in obtaining a complete defense verdict in high-risk product liability case. Cho v. Shashoua et al, No. D-1-GN-20-002000 (Travis County, Texas 2023).

Successfully represented pharmaceutical company: obtained dismissal with prejudice of novel claim of conspiracy between drug manufacturers. Valdes v. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., No. 2021-021945-CA-01 (Fla. 11th Cir. Ct. 2023).

Successfully represented Brazilian Airline: obtained appellate affirmance of defense victory in complex business dispute. ZGA Aircraft Leasing, Inc. v. Webjet Linhas Aereas, S.A., 366 So. 3d 1164 (Fla. 3d DCA 2023).

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained summary judgment on fraud claims in product liability case. Sikes v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., No. 2008-00310-CA-27 (Fla. 11th Cir. Ct. 2023) (appeal pending).

Successfully represented multinational financial group: obtained complete appellate victory in complex business dispute involving mortgage-backed securities; secured affirmance of summary judgment on several breach of contract, fraud, and RICO claims; secured reversal of denial of summary judgment on unique fraud theory. Overlook Gardens Properties v. ORIX, USA, 884 S.E.2d 433 (Ga. App.2023).

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained appellate affirmance of dismissal of pure bill of discovery for lack of personal jurisdiction in secondary payor claim. MSP Recovery Claims, Series LLC v. Coloplast Corp., 353 So. 3d 705 (Fla. 3d DCA 2023).

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained appellate affirmance of summary judgment based on the exclusion of the plaintiff's specific causation expert in medical device lawsuit. Arevalo v. Mentor Worldwide LLC, 21-11768, --- F. App'x---, 2022 WL 16753646 (11th Cir. Nov. 8, 2022)

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained summary judgment on all claims in product liability case based on exclusion of plaintiff's causation expert. James v. Coloplast Corp., CV 20-654 (JRT/TNL), 2022 WL 4465956 (D. Minn. Sept. 26, 2022).

Successfully represented US Chamber of Commerce as amicus curiae; provided amicus support for successful Rule 23(f) petition for appellate review of certification in nationwide PFAS class action. In re E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Co. C-8 Pers. Injury Litig., 22-0305, 2022 WL 4149090 (6th Cir. Sept. 9, 2022).

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained summary judgment on all claims in product liability case. Cantrell v. Coloplast Corp., 2022 WL 2806390 (D. Minn. July 18, 2022).

Successfully represented consumer-product company: obtained appellate reversal of multi-million dollar judgment based on amendment of tort reform statute in product-liability case. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Kaplan Estate of Kaplan, 336 So. 3d 309 (Fla. 4th DCA 2022) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of judgment that included $20 million in punitive damages in product liability case. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Mattson Estate of Konzelman, 336 So. 3d 315 (Fla. 4th DCA 2022) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $42.5 million judgment in light of error during jury selection. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Gloger, 338 So. 3d 977 (Fla. 3d DCA 2022)

Successfully represented Danish medical device company: obtained dismissal of foreign parent company for lack of personal jurisdiction. Rogers v. Coloplast Corp., 2022 WL 252420 (M.D. Fla. Jan. 27, 2022)

Successfully represented pro-bono client: obtained appellate reversal of dismissal of habeas claim based on ineffective assistance of counsel. Davila v. United States, 21-11359-V, 2022 WL 1236828 (11th Cir. Jan. 5, 2022)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $10 million judgment in light of improper closing arguments. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Neff, 325 So. 3d 872 (Fla. 4th DCA 2021), review denied, SC21-1603, 2022 WL 1261381 (Fla. Apr. 28, 2022)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $37.5 million judgment in light of improper closing arguments. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Mahfuz, 324 So. 3d 495 (Fla. 4th DCA 2021), review denied, SC21-1551, 2022 WL 1153496 (Fla. Apr. 19, 2022)

Successfully represented Danish medical device company: obtained dismissal of foreign parent company for lack of personal jurisdiction. Almond v. Coloplast A/S, 2021 WL 2042659 (M.D. Fla. May 21, 2021)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate affirmance of defense verdict in high-risk trial after obtaining an adverse inference instruction. Adamson v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 325 So. 3d 887 (Fla. 4th DCA 2021), review denied, SC21-1210, 2021 WL 6140352 (Fla. Dec. 30, 2021)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $16 million in light of improper jury instruction. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Bessent-Dixon, 313 So. 3d 173 (Fla. 1st DCA 2021)

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained summary judgment on failure to warn claims and on punitive damages in product liability case. Nunez v. Coloplast Corp., 461 F. Supp. 3d 1260 (S.D. Fla. 2020).

Successfully represented consumer product: obtained appellate reversal of $18.5 million judgment in light of improperly admitted evidence. Philip Morris USA, Inc. v. Gloger, 273 So. 3d 1046 (Fla. 3d DCA 2019)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained rarely granted appellate writ to disqualify the trial judge from a number of cases. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Alonso, 268 So. 3d 151 (Fla. 4th DCA 2019).

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained reversal of punitive damages award in light of novel argument under tort reform statute. Philip Morris USA Inc. v. Martin, 262 So. 3d 769 (Fla. 4th DCA 2018)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained order granting new trial and vacating multi-million judgment in light of improper arguments; obtained appellate affirmance of same order. Oshinsky-Blacker v. Philip Morris USA Inc., 249 So. 3d 643 (Fla. 4th DCA 2018) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained transfer of venue from high-risk county to lower risk venue; then obtained appellate affirmance of same. Muro v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 245 So. 3d 1010 (Fla. 3d DCA 2018) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining complete defense verdict. Gay v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., No. 2007-14649 (Fla. 13th Cir. Ct. 2018)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate affirmance of defense verdict based on statute of limitations. Hackimer v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 244 So. 3d 270 (Fla. 4th DCA 2018)

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining complete defense verdict. Mobley v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., No. 2007-CA-1709-K (Fla. 16th Cir. Ct. 2018)

Successful represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $10.5 million judgment in light of erroneously admitted government reports. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. McCoy, 229 So. 3d 847 (Fla. 4th DCA 2017) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $10 million judgment in light of erroneously admitted government reports. Philip Morris USA, Inc. v. Pollari, 228 So. 3d 115, 119 (Fla. 4th DCA 2017)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained summary judgment in product liability case. Capone v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. et al., No. 2005-010312-CA-24 (Fla. 11th Cir. Ct. 2017)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate affirmance of defense verdict based on statute of limitations. Haliburton v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 230 So. 3d 459 (Fla. 4th DCA Feb. 22, 2017) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining complete defense verdict. Wilkins v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., No. 15-2007-CA-20 (Fla. 11th Cir. Ct. 2016)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of seven-figure award in attorney fees. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Webb, 187 So. 3d 388 (Fla. 1st DCA 2016)

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining complete defense verdict in high-risk tobacco trial. Robertson v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., No. 2007-CV-036442 (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2015)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained state high-court affirmance of defense victory in product liability case. Smith v. Brown & Williamson Corp., 410 S.W. 3d 623 (Mo. 2013)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained summary judgment in product liability case. Thompson v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 12-01326-CV-W-GAF, 2013 WL 12075967 (W.D. Mo. May 29, 2013)

Successfully represented manufacturer of construction materials: obtained state high-court reversal of summary judgment on nonparty fault defense in product-liability case. Georgia Pacific, LLC v. Fields, 293 Ga. 499, 748 S.E. 2d 407 (2013)

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining an almost complete defense verdict in common-issues phase of mass-tort trial. In re: Tobacco Litigation (Individual Personal Injury Cases), No. 00-CA-5000 (Kanawha County, West Va., 2013)

Successfully represented beverage company: obtained dismissal of mass action against alcohol manufacturers for lack of jurisdiction. Oglala Sioux Tribe v. Schwarting, 894 F. Supp. 2d 1195 (D. Neb. 2012)

Successfully represented manufacturer of construction materials: obtained appellate affirmance of defense victory in product-liability case. Toole v. Georgia-Pacific, LLC, 2011 WL 7938847 (Ga. App. Jan 19, 2011)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained rarely granted stay of state court judgment pending US Supreme Court review in product-liability class action. Philip Morris USA Inc. v. Scott, 131 S. Ct. 1 (2010) (Scalia, J., in chambers)

Insights

Client Alert

July 1, 2024
Loper Bright v. Raimondo

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News

Recognition

September 9, 2024
LMG Life Sciences Honors King & Spalding as its Government Investigations Firm of the Year, FDA Litigation & Enforcement Firm of the Year and Impact Case of Year – United States

Recognition

June 12, 2024
King & Spalding Earns Top-Tier Rankings in Legal 500 United States 2024 Guide

Recognition

June 6, 2024
King & Spalding Earns 198 Lawyer Rankings, 90 Practice Group Rankings in Chambers USA Guide

View all

Matters

Successfully represented marketing organization: obtained 9-0 state high court victory reversing lower court decisions that had invalidated non-recruitment clause for lack of territorial term in business dispute. North American Senior Benefits v. Wimmer, -- So. 3d ---, 2024 WL 4029937 (Ga. Sept. 4, 2024).

Successfully represented pharmaceutical company: obtained dismissal with prejudice of claims of negligent marketing and negligent storage of medication. Ansel v. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc, et al, No. CACE22014165 (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024)

Successfully represented Italian car manufacturer: obtained dismissal of product liability case for lack of personal jurisdiction. Von Eisenberg v. Automobili Lamborghini, S.p.A, No. CACE-22-014881 (27) (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024) (appeal pending)

See more

Close

Matters

Successfully represented marketing organization: obtained 9-0 state high court victory reversing lower court decisions that had invalidated non-recruitment clause for lack of territorial term in business dispute. North American Senior Benefits v. Wimmer, -- So. 3d ---, 2024 WL 4029937 (Ga. Sept. 4, 2024).

Successfully represented pharmaceutical company: obtained dismissal with prejudice of claims of negligent marketing and negligent storage of medication. Ansel v. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc, et al, No. CACE22014165 (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024)

Successfully represented Italian car manufacturer: obtained dismissal of product liability case for lack of personal jurisdiction. Von Eisenberg v. Automobili Lamborghini, S.p.A, No. CACE-22-014881 (27) (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024) (appeal pending)

Successfully represented British car manufacturer: obtained dismissal of product liability case for lack of personal jurisdiction. Von Eisenberg v. Bentley Motors Limited, No. CACE-22-014881 (27) (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024) (appeal pending)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate affirmance of trial court order denying request to add a claim for punitive damages. Hartbauer v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 5D2023-1828, 2024 WL 2151720 (Fla. 5th DCA May 14, 2024)

Successfully represented healthcare company: obtained summary judgment on claim for punitive damages and then supported trial team in obtaining complete defense verdict on remaining claims. Matthey v. Johnson & Johnson, No. 2018-CA-004809-NC (Fla. 12th Cir. Ct. 2024).

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining defense verdict in product case. Harcourt v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco, No. CACE-17-20297 (08) (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2024)

Successfully represented US Chamber of Commerce as amicus curiae: provided amicus support for appellate reversal of certification of nationwide PFAS class in Sixth Circuit Court of Appeal. In re E. I. du Pont de Nemours & Co. C-8 Pers. Injury Litig., 87 F.4th 315 (6th Cir. 2023).

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained appellate affirmance of summary judgment in product case based on the exclusion of the plaintiff's key expert testimony. Cantrell v. Coloplast Corp., 76 F.4th 1113 (8th Cir. 2023).

Successfully represented medical device company: supported trial team in obtaining a complete defense verdict in high-risk product liability case. Cho v. Shashoua et al, No. D-1-GN-20-002000 (Travis County, Texas 2023).

Successfully represented pharmaceutical company: obtained dismissal with prejudice of novel claim of conspiracy between drug manufacturers. Valdes v. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., No. 2021-021945-CA-01 (Fla. 11th Cir. Ct. 2023).

Successfully represented Brazilian Airline: obtained appellate affirmance of defense victory in complex business dispute. ZGA Aircraft Leasing, Inc. v. Webjet Linhas Aereas, S.A., 366 So. 3d 1164 (Fla. 3d DCA 2023).

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained summary judgment on fraud claims in product liability case. Sikes v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., No. 2008-00310-CA-27 (Fla. 11th Cir. Ct. 2023) (appeal pending).

Successfully represented multinational financial group: obtained complete appellate victory in complex business dispute involving mortgage-backed securities; secured affirmance of summary judgment on several breach of contract, fraud, and RICO claims; secured reversal of denial of summary judgment on unique fraud theory. Overlook Gardens Properties v. ORIX, USA, 884 S.E.2d 433 (Ga. App.2023).

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained appellate affirmance of dismissal of pure bill of discovery for lack of personal jurisdiction in secondary payor claim. MSP Recovery Claims, Series LLC v. Coloplast Corp., 353 So. 3d 705 (Fla. 3d DCA 2023).

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained appellate affirmance of summary judgment based on the exclusion of the plaintiff's specific causation expert in medical device lawsuit. Arevalo v. Mentor Worldwide LLC, 21-11768, --- F. App'x---, 2022 WL 16753646 (11th Cir. Nov. 8, 2022)

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained summary judgment on all claims in product liability case based on exclusion of plaintiff's causation expert. James v. Coloplast Corp., CV 20-654 (JRT/TNL), 2022 WL 4465956 (D. Minn. Sept. 26, 2022).

Successfully represented US Chamber of Commerce as amicus curiae; provided amicus support for successful Rule 23(f) petition for appellate review of certification in nationwide PFAS class action. In re E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Co. C-8 Pers. Injury Litig., 22-0305, 2022 WL 4149090 (6th Cir. Sept. 9, 2022).

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained summary judgment on all claims in product liability case. Cantrell v. Coloplast Corp., 2022 WL 2806390 (D. Minn. July 18, 2022).

Successfully represented consumer-product company: obtained appellate reversal of multi-million dollar judgment based on amendment of tort reform statute in product-liability case. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Kaplan Estate of Kaplan, 336 So. 3d 309 (Fla. 4th DCA 2022) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of judgment that included $20 million in punitive damages in product liability case. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Mattson Estate of Konzelman, 336 So. 3d 315 (Fla. 4th DCA 2022) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $42.5 million judgment in light of error during jury selection. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Gloger, 338 So. 3d 977 (Fla. 3d DCA 2022)

Successfully represented Danish medical device company: obtained dismissal of foreign parent company for lack of personal jurisdiction. Rogers v. Coloplast Corp., 2022 WL 252420 (M.D. Fla. Jan. 27, 2022)

Successfully represented pro-bono client: obtained appellate reversal of dismissal of habeas claim based on ineffective assistance of counsel. Davila v. United States, 21-11359-V, 2022 WL 1236828 (11th Cir. Jan. 5, 2022)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $10 million judgment in light of improper closing arguments. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Neff, 325 So. 3d 872 (Fla. 4th DCA 2021), review denied, SC21-1603, 2022 WL 1261381 (Fla. Apr. 28, 2022)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $37.5 million judgment in light of improper closing arguments. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Mahfuz, 324 So. 3d 495 (Fla. 4th DCA 2021), review denied, SC21-1551, 2022 WL 1153496 (Fla. Apr. 19, 2022)

Successfully represented Danish medical device company: obtained dismissal of foreign parent company for lack of personal jurisdiction. Almond v. Coloplast A/S, 2021 WL 2042659 (M.D. Fla. May 21, 2021)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate affirmance of defense verdict in high-risk trial after obtaining an adverse inference instruction. Adamson v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 325 So. 3d 887 (Fla. 4th DCA 2021), review denied, SC21-1210, 2021 WL 6140352 (Fla. Dec. 30, 2021)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $16 million in light of improper jury instruction. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Bessent-Dixon, 313 So. 3d 173 (Fla. 1st DCA 2021)

Successfully represented medical device company: obtained summary judgment on failure to warn claims and on punitive damages in product liability case. Nunez v. Coloplast Corp., 461 F. Supp. 3d 1260 (S.D. Fla. 2020).

Successfully represented consumer product: obtained appellate reversal of $18.5 million judgment in light of improperly admitted evidence. Philip Morris USA, Inc. v. Gloger, 273 So. 3d 1046 (Fla. 3d DCA 2019)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained rarely granted appellate writ to disqualify the trial judge from a number of cases. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Alonso, 268 So. 3d 151 (Fla. 4th DCA 2019).

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained reversal of punitive damages award in light of novel argument under tort reform statute. Philip Morris USA Inc. v. Martin, 262 So. 3d 769 (Fla. 4th DCA 2018)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained order granting new trial and vacating multi-million judgment in light of improper arguments; obtained appellate affirmance of same order. Oshinsky-Blacker v. Philip Morris USA Inc., 249 So. 3d 643 (Fla. 4th DCA 2018) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained transfer of venue from high-risk county to lower risk venue; then obtained appellate affirmance of same. Muro v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 245 So. 3d 1010 (Fla. 3d DCA 2018) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining complete defense verdict. Gay v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., No. 2007-14649 (Fla. 13th Cir. Ct. 2018)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate affirmance of defense verdict based on statute of limitations. Hackimer v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 244 So. 3d 270 (Fla. 4th DCA 2018)

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining complete defense verdict. Mobley v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., No. 2007-CA-1709-K (Fla. 16th Cir. Ct. 2018)

Successful represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $10.5 million judgment in light of erroneously admitted government reports. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. McCoy, 229 So. 3d 847 (Fla. 4th DCA 2017) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of $10 million judgment in light of erroneously admitted government reports. Philip Morris USA, Inc. v. Pollari, 228 So. 3d 115, 119 (Fla. 4th DCA 2017)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained summary judgment in product liability case. Capone v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. et al., No. 2005-010312-CA-24 (Fla. 11th Cir. Ct. 2017)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate affirmance of defense verdict based on statute of limitations. Haliburton v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 230 So. 3d 459 (Fla. 4th DCA Feb. 22, 2017) (per curiam)

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining complete defense verdict. Wilkins v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., No. 15-2007-CA-20 (Fla. 11th Cir. Ct. 2016)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained appellate reversal of seven-figure award in attorney fees. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Webb, 187 So. 3d 388 (Fla. 1st DCA 2016)

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining complete defense verdict in high-risk tobacco trial. Robertson v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., No. 2007-CV-036442 (Fla. 17th Cir. Ct. 2015)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained state high-court affirmance of defense victory in product liability case. Smith v. Brown & Williamson Corp., 410 S.W. 3d 623 (Mo. 2013)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained summary judgment in product liability case. Thompson v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 12-01326-CV-W-GAF, 2013 WL 12075967 (W.D. Mo. May 29, 2013)

Successfully represented manufacturer of construction materials: obtained state high-court reversal of summary judgment on nonparty fault defense in product-liability case. Georgia Pacific, LLC v. Fields, 293 Ga. 499, 748 S.E. 2d 407 (2013)

Successfully represented consumer product company: supported trial team in obtaining an almost complete defense verdict in common-issues phase of mass-tort trial. In re: Tobacco Litigation (Individual Personal Injury Cases), No. 00-CA-5000 (Kanawha County, West Va., 2013)

Successfully represented beverage company: obtained dismissal of mass action against alcohol manufacturers for lack of jurisdiction. Oglala Sioux Tribe v. Schwarting, 894 F. Supp. 2d 1195 (D. Neb. 2012)

Successfully represented manufacturer of construction materials: obtained appellate affirmance of defense victory in product-liability case. Toole v. Georgia-Pacific, LLC, 2011 WL 7938847 (Ga. App. Jan 19, 2011)

Successfully represented consumer product company: obtained rarely granted stay of state court judgment pending US Supreme Court review in product-liability class action. Philip Morris USA Inc. v. Scott, 131 S. Ct. 1 (2010) (Scalia, J., in chambers)

Insights

Client Alert

July 1, 2024
Loper Bright v. Raimondo

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News

Recognition

September 9, 2024
LMG Life Sciences Honors King & Spalding as its Government Investigations Firm of the Year, FDA Litigation & Enforcement Firm of the Year and Impact Case of Year – United States

Recognition

June 12, 2024
King & Spalding Earns Top-Tier Rankings in Legal 500 United States 2024 Guide

Recognition

June 6, 2024
King & Spalding Earns 198 Lawyer Rankings, 90 Practice Group Rankings in Chambers USA Guide

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Credentials

J.D., Mercer University, Magna Cum Laude

B.A., Westminster College

Court of Appeals of Georgia

Florida

Georgia

Supreme Court of Georgia

Supreme Court of the United States

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit

U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida

Law Clerk, Frank M. Hull, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit

Florida

Georgia

German