Attorney Intel is pleased to announce The Top 50 Attorneys of Jacksonville for 2022. In this city, known for being the largest city in the Sunshine State, resides experienced and committed attorneys. Our awardees provide robust litigation practices and represent clients in a wide range of areas including business, corporate, digital assets, healthcare, real estate, technology, trust management, and more. These highly experienced individuals provide top tier knowledge supporting clients in comprehensive legal representation to help achieve their goals.
Among this year’s awardees is Andrew Moritz, Associate General Counsel of Citibank, who manages consumer financial services litigation across the country, focusing primarily on lawsuits arising out of credit card transactions; Shalisa Francis, Attorney of State Farm, who represents the company in legal proceedings, as well as providing legal review of policies, procedures and contracts; and Robert Wohn, Attorney of Deutsche Bank, who focuses on commercial litigation, real property and real estate.
The hard work and dedication of this year’s awardees does not go unnoticed. Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Attorneys of Jacksonville for 2022.
1. Jeff Kogan
Associate General Counsel of Verizon
Jeff Kogan began his professional career 15 years ago. Today, he is an Associate General Counsel of Verizon. As one of the world’s leading providers of technology, communications, information and entertainment products, Verizon is transforming the way people, businesses and things connect. In his role, Kogan assists in data security, IT-related legal issues, privacy, outsourcing and international issues and related matters. He has certifications, education, and experience in U.S. and E.U. data privacy as well as data security.
Kogan first got his start in 2007 as an associate at Chadbourne & Parke, LLP. From there, he went on to RMD Computer, Inc., before eventually rising to corporate attorney at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, his most recent position prior to joining Verizon. Kogan graduated from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law with a JD, from the University of Chicago with an MS in computer science, and from the University of St. Thomas - Opus College of Business with an undergraduate degree in business administration.
2. Robert Wohn
Attorney of Deutsche Bank
Robert Wohn began his professional career 13 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney of Deutsche Bank, a multinational investment bank and financial services company that spans 58 countries with a large presence in Europe, the Americas, and Asia. As of 2021, Deutsche Bank was the 21st largest bank in the world by total assets and 93rd in the world by market capitalization. Wohn is a global markets attorney providing FX trading teams in U.S. and Europe with transactional and regulatory support, including negotiating derivative trading documentation with private equity, corporate and hedge fund clients, performing credit and funding analyses in coordination with internal stakeholders, and providing regulatory guidance, particularly in regards to collateral management requirements.
Wohn first got his start in 2009 as an associate attorney at Rue & Ziffra. From there, he went on to Wright & Casey, P.A., before eventually rising to analyst and financial crimes compliance at EY, his most recent position prior to joining Deutsche Bank. Wohn graduated from the University of Florida - Fredric G. Levin College of Law with a JD, and from Stetson University with an undergraduate degree in business administration.
3. Amelia Henderson
Legal Counsel of Mayo Clinic
Amelia Henderson began her professional career 11 years ago. Today, she is a Legal Counsel of Mayo Clinic. More than 100 years after its founding, Mayo Clinic is now the largest integrated, not for-profit medical group practice in the world and recognized for high-quality patient care. They employ over 4,500 physicians and scientists, along with another 58,400 administrative and allied health staff, across three major campuses in Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona. Henderson is a commercial transactions and intellectual property attorney supporting the Mayo Clinic Platform, Mayo Clinic International, and other departments in advancing the mission and vision of Mayo Clinic.
Henderson first got her start in 2011 as an associate attorney at Cramer Law Center, P.L. From there, she went on to Smith Hulsey & Busey as associate attorney, her most recent position prior to joining Mayo Clinic. Henderson graduated from the University of Florida - Fredric G. Levin College of Law with a JD, and from the University of Florida with an undergraduate degree in business administration.
4. Shalisa Francis
Attorney of State Farm
Shalisa Francis is an Attorney of State Farm, a large group of mutual insurance companies throughout the United States. They are the largest property and casualty insurance provider and the largest auto insurance provider in the U.S. The company has also expanded into the financial services arena, such as banking and mutual funds, and is operated by State Farm Financial Services, FSB, a subsidiary of State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co. Francis has 18 years of experience. She began her career in 2004.
Before joining State Farm, Francis was an associate attorney at Taylor, Day, Currie, Boyd & Johnson where she devised employment contracts and severance agreements for various employment law and civil litigation matters. Francis graduated from Florida State University College of Law with a JD, from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University with an MBA, and from Florida State University with an undergraduate degree.
View the complete list of awardees.
5. Lanier Drew
Deputy General Counsel of Baptist Health
Lanier Drew began her professional career 34 years ago. Today, she is a Deputy General Counsel of Baptist Health. Founded in 1955, Baptist Health serves families throughout the Northeast Florida region with high-quality, comprehensive care for every stage of life. Currently ranked as the “most preferred” health care provider in the Jacksonville area, Baptist Health is deeply honored to serve the community through a growing circle of care that includes nationally accredited hospitals, including the region’s only children’s hospital. Baptist has more than 200 primary care and specialty physician practices, children’s specialty clinics, home health care, behavioral health, occupational health, rehabilitation services and urgent care.
Drew first got her start in 1988 as a corporate associate at Commander Legler Werber Dawes Sadler & Howell. From there, she went on to Smith Hulsey & Busey as corporate associate, her most recent position prior to joining Baptist Health. Lanier Drew graduated from the University of Florida - Fredric G. Levin College of Law with a JD, and from Trinity College - Hartford with an undergraduate degree in classics.
7. Suzanne Smed
Legal Counsel of Digital Business and Technology of Ford Motor Company
Suzanne Smed is a Legal Counsel of Digital Business and Technology of Ford Motor Company, a global company and a pioneer of modern transportation. They introduced methods for large-scale manufacturing of cars and large-scale management of an industrial workforce using elaborately engineered manufacturing sequences typified by moving assembly lines; by 1914, these methods were known around the world as Fordism. Today, they are here to provide the means for every person to move and pursue their dreams, serving as a bridge between personal freedom and the future of mobility. In that pursuit, Ford’s 186,000 employees around the world help to set the pace of innovation every day. Smed has 30 years of experience. She began her career in 1992.
Before joining Ford Motor Company, Smed was a director of IT, strategic directions, and IT legal group at GMAC Residential Funding Corp. Smed graduated from Mitchell Hamline School of Law with a JD in intellectual property law, from the University of St. Thomas with an MBA in information management and strategy, and from the University of Minnesota with an undergraduate degree in soil science, computer science.
9. Vanessa Hodgerson
Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of The Adecco Group
Vanessa Hodgerson is the Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of The Adecco Group, the world's second largest Human Resources provider and temporary staffing firm, and a Fortune Global 500 company. They provide services covering temporary staffing, permanent placement, career transition and talent development as well as business process outsourcing and consulting. They work closely with individuals to build and grow their careers, and enable their clients to develop their talent, outsource their HR processes or manage workforce transformation and talent transitions. As for staffing, The Adecco Group covers many sectors, including office, industrial, technical, financial and legal, amongst others. They directly employ 700,000 people a day, and with the expansion of its operations to China, the number of people working under them totals up to 3.5 million. Hodgerson has 21 years of experience. She began her career in 2001.
Before joining The Adecco Group, Hodgerson was a labor and employment attorney at Jackson Lewis P.C., and before that, an associate attorney at Fowler White Boggs PA. Earlier in her career she worked with Darden Restaurants as a Spherion direct hire recruiter. Hodgerson graduated from Florida Coastal School of Law with a JD and from Florida State University - College of Business with an undergraduate degree in human resources.
11. Amy Kimble
Attorney-Adviser of Social Security Administration
Amy Kimble is an Attorney-Adviser of the Social Security Administration. The original mission for Social Security was to promote economic security for the nation’s people. They provide financial protection for more than 64 million individuals and families, including veterans, the chronically ill, widows and widowers, the children of deceased parents, retirees, and people with disabilities. SSA is one of the largest independent agencies in government with over 60,000 employees who work at more than 1,400 field offices and service centers throughout the country, as well as regional and headquarters locations. Kimble has 17 years of experience. She began her career in 2005.
Before joining the Social Security Administration, Kimble was an attorney at Bradford Myler and Associates. Earlier in her career she worked with Fidelity Investments as a financial advisor and broker. Kimble graduated from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School with a JD, and from the University of Utah with an undergraduate degree in political science and sociology.
13. Ben Moore
Trial Attorney of Nationwide Insurance
Ben Moore is a Trial Attorney of Nationwide Insurance, a Fortune 100 company and one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the United States. They have grown from a small mutual auto insurance company, owned by policyholders who spent their days farming in Ohio, to one of the largest insurance and financial services companies in the world. Nationwide is rated A+ by both A.M. Best and Standard & Poor’s. An industry leader in driving customer-focused innovation, Nationwide provides a full range of insurance and financial services products including auto, business, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; excess & surplus, specialty and surety; pet, motorcycle and boat insurance. Moore has 26 years of experience. He began his career in 1996.
Moore graduated from Florida Coastal School of Law with a JD, and from Moody Bible Institute with an undergraduate degree in theology.
16. Michael Haynes
Staff Attorney of Baker McKenzie
Michael Haynes began his professional career 23 years ago. Today, he is a Staff Attorney of Baker McKenzie, an international law firm with 77 offices in 46 countries, employing a total of 4,809 attorneys. The firm offers legal counsel in antitrust, trade, banking, finance, mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructuring, securities, information technology, and e-commerce. Its integrated client solutions provide seamless advice, underpinned by deep practice and sector expertise, as well as first-rate local market knowledge. Armed with Baker McKenzie insight and foresight, business leaders can feel confident in driving growth that is both sustainable – and inclusive.
Haynes first got his start in 1999 as a sales manager at Macy’s. From there, he went on to Kenneth Cole Productions, before eventually rising to AML officer at Deutsche Bank, his most recent position prior to joining Baker McKenzie. Haynes graduated from Florida Coastal School of Law with a JD, and from the University of Dayton with an undergraduate degree in history.
18. Kassandra Farnsworth
Attorney of Farah & Farah
Kassandra Farnsworth is a Personal Injury Attorney of Farah & Farah. Farah & Farah’s mission is to treat everyone with dignity and respect no matter how big or small a case may be. The firm’s personal injury attorneys are dedicated to treating each case with the same set of principles. Farah & Farah handles a variety of law cases; product liability, marine/boating accidents, trucking accidents, negligent security, premises liability, auto accidents, personal injury, medical malpractice, social security, workers' compensation and any other injury caused by another person or company. They help clients overcome these challenging times in their lives by communicating effectively and being emotionally supportive.
Farnsworth graduated from Florida Coastal School of Law with a JD, and from the University of Washington with an undergraduate degree in society, ethics, and human behavior.
View the complete list of awardees.
21. Blake Gibson
Deputy General Counsel & Executive Vice President of Black Knight
Blake Gibson is a Deputy General Counsel & Executive Vice President of Black Knight, an award-winning software, data and analytics company that drives innovation in the mortgage lending and servicing and real estate industries, as well as the capital and secondary markets. Businesses leverage Black Knight’s robust, integrated solutions across the entire homeownership life cycle to help retain existing customers, gain new customers, mitigate risk and operate more effectively. Their clients rely on the proven, comprehensive, scalable products and their unwavering commitment to delivering superior client support to achieve their strategic goals and better serve their customers. Gibson has 22 years of experience. He began his career in 2000.
Before joining Black Knight, Gibson was a VP and division counsel at Lender Processing Services, Inc. (LPS), and before that, an attorney at Pietrangelo Cook PLC. Earlier in his career he worked with Greenware, Inc. as an software engineer. Gibson graduated from The University of Memphis—Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law with a JD.
23. Dawn Carsten
Attorney II of Mercury Insurance
Dawn Carsten began her professional career 10 years ago. Today, she is an Attorney II of Mercury Insurance, a leading independent broker and agency writer of automobile insurance in California and one of the fastest growing automobile insurers in the nation. They were ranked as the fourth largest private passenger automobile insurer in California, with over $4.5 billion in total assets, 4,500 team members, and 8,000 independent agents. Since opening its doors in 1962, Mercury started by providing comprehensive coverage options for auto and expanded its offerings into home, condo, renters, and business insurance, as well as mechanical protection. The organization operates through a network of local, independent agents in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia. Their growth mindset keeps the company propelling beyond business and geographical boundaries.
Carsten first got her start in 2012 as an attorney at Matt Hellman, P.A. From there, she went on to ROIG Lawyers, a NAMWOLF member law firm as partner, her most recent position prior to joining Mercury Insurance. Carsten graduated from Florida Coastal School of Law with a JD, and from Purdue University Fort Wayne with an undergraduate degree in public affairs - legal studies.
25. James McCain
Attorney of City of Jacksonville
James McCain began his professional career 18 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney of the City of Jacksonville, the largest city in the area of the continental United States. Jacksonville is a rapidly growing metropolitan city in Northeast Florida, with approximately 900,000 residents. Under its strong mayor form of government, residents elect a mayor and a 19-member City Council, with five at-large members and 14 members elected by district. Lenny Curry is Jacksonville's eighth mayor since the consolidation of Duval County and City of Jacksonville governments in 1968.
McCain first got his start in 2004 as an attorney at Henderson & Maxwell. McCain graduated from George Washington University Law School with a JD and from Brown University with a degree in english and classics.
27. Ross Vickers
Attorney of Jackson Lewis P.C.
Ross Vickers is an Attorney of Jackson Lewis P.C. Focused on labor and employment law since 1958, Jackson Lewis P.C. 's 950+ attorneys located in major cities nationwide consistently identify and respond to new ways workplace law intersects business. Vickers helps employers develop proactive strategies, strong policies, and business-oriented solutions to cultivate high-functioning workforces that are engaged, stable and diverse, and share the clients' goals to emphasize inclusivity and respect for the contribution of every employee. Vickers also defends employers in agency investigations and in litigation.
Before joining Jackson Lewis P.C, Vickers practiced employment law in Tallahassee and represented management in workplace disputes throughout North Florida. Vickers graduated from Florida State University College of Law with a JD in 2015 and from Florida State University with an undergraduate degree in criminology and political science in 2012.
30. Alexandra Manning
Senior Corporate Counsel of RS&H
Alexandra Manning is a Senior Corporate Counsel of RS&H. Evolving beyond the status quo is in our DNA. More than 80 years of staying ahead of the ever-changing needs of clients earned a reputation as one of the nation’s leading architecture, engineering and consulting firms. RS&H believe there’s a connection between the exceptional work and the accolades as a best place to work. The associates are driven to care about each other, the clients, the projects and the communities where everyone lives and works. Integrated teams come together to apply well-honed expertise with insight and innovation with a purpose, outcomes that lead to a future where everyone is connected to what they need to thrive. Manning has 10 years in the design services industry. She began her career in 2012.
Before joining RS&H, Manning was an associate attorney at Shelton | McKean - Trial Attorneys and before that an associate attorney at Banker Lopez Gassler P.A. Earlier in her career she worked with the State Attorney's Office, 12th Judicial Circuit as an assistant state attorney. Manning graduated from Stetson University College of Law with a JD and from the University of Florida with an undergraduate degree in journalism.
32. Tiana O'Konek
Attorney of Quarles & Brady
Tiana O'Konek is an Attorney of Quarles & Brady. She first joined the company in 2021. Quarles & Brady is a multidisciplinary AmLaw 200 legal services provider with approximately 475 attorneys practicing at the top of the profession in Chicago, Indianapolis, Madison, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Naples, Phoenix, Tampa, Tucson, and Washington, D.C. The national presence allows the firm to draw upon a group of highly skilled attorneys from all across the country to ensure the right people are working on the clients' matters. Have extensive experience working with the full industrial gamut, from cutting-edge technology to traditional manufacturing, and they have developed an extensive network of relationships with international legal counsel around the world, allowing them to effectively handle important matters for their clients on a global scale.
Previously, O'Konek was a director of diversity and inclusion at Minnesota State Bar Association and before that an attorney at Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services, Inc. Earlier in her career she worked with Immigration Law Clinic - University of Arizona Rogers College of Law as an attorney. O'Konek earned a JD from the University of Iowa College of Law, an MLL from The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), and an undergraduate degree in Spanish, government & legal studies from Bowdoin College.
34. Brian Pincket
General Counsel of Vensure Employer Services
Brian Pincket is a General Counsel of Vensure Employer Services. He first joined the company in 2020. Vensure Employer Services provides PEO solutions and human resource outsourcing to small and mid-market businesses. Through its subsidiaries, including VensureHR, the company processes more than $19 Billion in payroll and supports more than 526,000 worksite employees. Services include payroll, medical and voluntary benefits, workers' compensation, risk management, and HR administration. Vensure companies support a range of industries, allowing small business owners to manage HR functions cost-effectively, and turn their attention to growth and profitability initiatives.
Previously, Pincket was a VP and general counsel at MatrixOneSource and before that a partner at Lindell, Farson & Pincket, P.A. Earlier in his career he worked with Akerman as an associate. Pincket earned a JD from Florida State University College of Law and an undergraduate degree in finance from the University of Miami Herbert Business School.
View the complete list of awardees.
37. Joanna Aman
General Counsel of The Suddath Companies
Joanna Aman is a General Counsel of The Suddath Companies. Suddath takes moving personally, understanding that all cargo is precious and every step matters. A family company, built in Jacksonville, Florida, grew from one spirited entrepreneur with a cart and two mules to a global company that moves people, businesses and products anywhere a truck, jet plane or cargo ship. The determined team flexes across the spectrum of industry offerings, owning both the 30,000-foot thinking and the boots-on-the-ground tactics needed to transport people to the other side of opportunity. Suddath employs more than 2,000 people worldwide, has locations throughout the U.S. and operates in more than 150 countries around the world. Aman has 17 years in the truck transportation industry. She began her career in 2005.
Aman graduated from Georgia State University with a JD and from Trinity College-Hartford with an undergraduate degree in intercultural studies.
39. Leslie Dean
Attorney of GrayRobinson P.A.
Leslie Dean is an Attorney of GrayRobinson P.A. The firm consists of a multidimensional team of attorneys, advisors, and consultants recognized as one of the most influential firms in Florida. The nearly 300 professionals partner with successful businesses and enterprising individuals to resolve disputes, anticipate industry shifts, and harness forward momentum. Serve clients nationally from 15 offices across Florida and Washington, D.C. GrayRobinson is also a founding member of the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity, which is composed of corporate chief legal officers and law firm managing partners dedicated to creating a truly diverse legal profession. Dean has 17 years in the law practice industry. She began her career in 2005.
Dean graduated from the University of Houston Law Center with a JD and from Mississippi State University with an undergraduate degree.
41. Julio Salvador
General Counsel of Safariland
Julio Salvador is a General Counsel of Safariland. He first joined the company in 2012 as chief compliance officer. The Safariland Group empowers over a thousand people to design, engineer, research and deliver the protective equipment products to those that protect the company. Continuously seek new innovations to add to the premier group of Safariland brands that have been protecting law enforcement, military and security professionals for over 50 years. The Safariland Group's rich heritage didn't become what it is today simply from assimilating many protective product brands into one organization. The company has grown from the collective pledge to achieve excellence and the commitment to focus on the customer first, a common thread that binds the company and their clients’ together on the journey.
Salvador earned a JD from the University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of Law.
43. Geremy Gregory
Attorney of Balch & Bingham
Geremy Gregory is an Attorney of Balch & Bingham. The corporate law firm is recognized nationally for their genuine dedication to its clients, forward-thinking approach and ability to anticipate what is on the horizon. Named one of America's top trusted corporate law firms by Forbes, Balch & Bingham includes more than 200 attorneys throughout the Southeast, Texas and Washington, D.C., who are known for leveraging collaboration, creativity and practicality to solve complex legal challenges. Balch & Bingham foster an ongoing commitment to serving the communities, both individually and collectively. This value is deeply ingrained in the culture and passionately guides many efforts. Gregory has 16 years in the law practice industry. He began his career in 2006.
Gregory graduated from the University of Georgia School of Law with a JD, and from the University of Florida with an undergraduate degree.
45. Bradley Bulthuis
Assistant County Attorney of St. Johns County Florida
Bradley Bulthuis began his professional career 16 years ago. Today, he is an Assistant County Attorney of St. Johns County Florida. Home to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, numerous historic sites, national monuments, modern-day attractions, abundant natural resources, and 42 miles of beautiful beaches and coastline along the majestic Atlantic Ocean. St. Johns County Florida is also proud to be home to numerous championship golf courses, the PGA Tour, and the World Golf Hall of Fame. As one of the fastest growing counties in the United States, St. Johns County is arguably one of the most desirable places to live in Florida and the nation. The area has the highest ranked school system in the state of Florida, has been named the healthiest county in Florida, and boasts vibrant and diverse arts and culture opportunities and venues. The county also has the third lowest unemployment rate in Florida and the local economy continually attracts new businesses.
Bulthuis first got his start in 2006 as an attorney at Holland & Knight. From there, he went on to the U.S. District Court as a law clerk. Bulthuis graduated from the University of Illinois College of Law with a JD and from Calvin University with an undergraduate degree in political science.
48. Geoff Lutz
Managing Partner of Resnick & Louis P.C.
Geoff Lutz is a Managing Partner of Resnick & Louis P.C. He first joined the company in 2019. Resnick & Louis, P.C. was founded in 2012 by Mitchell J. Resnick, Lena M. Louis, and Jennifer A. Boldi. Three highly respected attorneys in the legal and business communities, with over 40 years of collective experience. Together they have developed a team of diverse and experienced attorneys who are licensed to represent clients in various jurisdictions. With the use of technology, a nationwide network of professionals, and a client-centric approach, the firm has created a practice that offers value-added representation through experience, diversity, and creativity. The firm retains an unparalleled team of professionals with diverse backgrounds from across the United States and their experienced attorneys are versed in all aspects of negotiation, arbitration, mediation, trial and resolution of litigated and non-litigated matters.
Previously, Lutz was an attorney at St. Denis & Davey PA and before that an attorney at McCabe & Ronsman. Earlier in his career he worked with Levin Papantonio Thomas Mitchell Echsner & Proctor PA as a research assistant and law clerk. Lutz earned a JD from the University Of Florida, Levin College of Law and an undergraduate degree in classic civilization from Yale University.
49. Adam Brandon
Attorney of Rogers Towers P.A.
Adam Brandon is an Attorney of Rogers Towers P.A., has carefully worked to cultivate strong relationships with the clients. The firm's attorneys will do what it takes to learn the business inside and out, providing careful insights and making sure we’re working in best interest. The firm has extensive experience representing businesses and individuals in all areas of litigation, and in corporate, tax, real estate, business planning, intellectual property, family law and estate planning matters. Rogers Towers provides a full range of legal services to Fortune 500 companies, growing businesses, local governments, banking and financial institutions, manufacturers and not-for-profit organizations. With more than 55 attorneys in five offices are prepared to handle the challenge. Brandon has 13 years in the law practice industry. He began his career in 2009.
Before joining Rogers Towers P.A., Brandon was a command judge advocate at Region Legal Service Office Southeast, NAS Jacksonville and before that a defense attorney at Naval Legal Service Office North Central, Detachment Great Lakes. Earlier in his career he worked with the Central Criminal Court of Iraq - Liaison Office as a liaison officer. Brandon graduated from Notre Dame Law School with a JD and from the U.S. Naval War College with an MA in defense and strategic studies, and from Wheaton College with an undergraduate degree in economics.
View the complete list of awardees.
