Fred M. Valz, III
Partner / Atlanta
Fred has been practicing civil litigation exclusively for over 30 years and has tried in excess of 100 Jury Trials. He concentrates his practice in the defense of businesses and individuals in civil lawsuits, including business and commercial litigation and defense in all areas of tort litigation. Fred is also active in the Trucking Industry Defense Association and has handled numerous liability and coverage cases in the trucking and transportation area, as well as cargo claims. He has participated in hundreds of mediations and is retained routinely by the Firm’s clients to handle cases in Georgia’s Appellate Courts. Fred further handles numerous cases involving insurance coverage disputes and bad faith litigation, involving both first and third party claims and first party property damage claims. He has spoken at numerous legal and claims seminars throughout the United States and has published several articles on tort insurance law and insurance coverage.
From 2007-2012 and 2015-2020, Fred was an honoree on the Georgia Super Lawyers® list in Atlanta Magazine and is AV Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell. Since 2013, he has been selected by his peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America®.
Results
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz Prevail in Declaratory Judgment Action
September 1, 2020
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz recently won summary judgment in a declaratory judgment action related to a wrongful death action. Melissa and Fred argued that the insured made a material misrepresentation in failing to include her adult resident son on her insurance application, so the policy did not provide coverage to the son who purportedly caused the death of the claimant. The Superior Court of Chatham County agreed, granting summary judgment in favor of our insurer client.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey Win Motion to Dismiss in Civil Conspiracy Action
June 5, 2020
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey recently won a motion to dismiss for a client in a civil conspiracy case. The claimant alleged that our client assisted its insured in hiding assets that would have been subject to judgment. Finding that the claim against our client lacked legal or factual merit, the Superior Court of Ware County granted our client’s motion to dismiss.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey Win Summary Judgment in Declaratory Judgment Action
January 23, 2020
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey recently won summary judgment in a declaratory judgment action involving homeowner’s and CGL policies in the Northern District of Georgia. The underlying case involved allegations of sexual assault by a fellow patient at a dentist’s office. We argued on behalf of the insurer client that an abuse and molestation exclusion operated to bar coverage for the dentist and his practice. The court agreed, finding that the carrier owed no duties of defense, coverage, or indemnification in the tort litigation.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz Win Summary Judgment in Declaratory Judgment Action
June 24, 2019
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz won summary judgment on behalf of their insurer client in a declaratory judgment action. On behalf of the carrier, we argued that no coverage was afforded because the subject vehicle had been sold to the insured’s roommate at the time of the accident. The opposing parties argued that a question of fact remained as to the timeline for the execution of the bill of sale. Granting summary judgment in favor of our carrier client, the Gwinnett County Superior Court ruled that the new owner’s possession of the vehicle with no intention of returning it to the insured was dispositive of the issue that the sale had occurred prior to the accident. For that reason, summary judgment was appropriate.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Defense Verdict Affirmed on Appeal by Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey
June 18, 2019
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey were successful in upholding a defense verdict in the Georgia Court of Appeals. The plaintiff-appellant argued that the verdict was against the weight of the evidence because the defendant admitted in her answer that she had violated a legal duty. At trial, the defendant-appellee explained that she was turning in to a gas station exit lane at the time of the accident, but she denied having made an improper left turn in front of the plaintiff. After the DeKalb County jury returned a defense verdict, the plaintiff appealed. Affirming the trial court’s denial of the motion for new trial and upholding the verdict, the Court of Appeals determined that the defendant’s admission of playing a role in the collision did not foreclose the jury determining that the plaintiff’s contributory negligence prohibited her recovery.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Mallory Ball Obtain Summary Judgment in Declaratory Judgment Action
June 4, 2019
Fred Valz and Mallory Ball obtained a ruling from the Middle District of Georgia granting summary judgment in favor of their insurer client in a declaratory judgement action. The case sought a declaration as to whether the insurer was required to provide coverage, indemnity or a defense where the policyholder’s worker drove the policyholder’s vehicle without permission, subsequently causing an accident. They argued on behalf of the insurer that the driver was not an insured under the policy because he did not have permission to operate the vehicle at the time of the accident. The Middle District of Georgia agreed and granted summary judgment in favor of their client.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Mallory Ball Successfully Defend Plaintiff’s Motion for Summary Judgment
June 18, 2019
Fred Valz and Mallory Ball successfully defended plaintiff’s motion for summary judgment in a subrogation suit. Fred and Mallory argued on behalf of the insured driver that questions of fact remain as to liability of the underlying accident, including the contributory negligence of plaintiff’s insured driver. They further argued that there was a question of material fact as to the correct amount of damages owed to plaintiff’s insured pursuant to the contracts. The State Court of Fulton County agreed, denying summary judgment, which resulted in a voluntary dismissal of the suit.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz Win Summary Judgment for Broker
June 4, 2019
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz recently won summary judgment for a non-emergency transportation broker. The complaint alleged that our client acted as a carrier rather than a broker, making our client vicariously liable for the motor vehicle accident that resulted in the loss of the plaintiff’s leg. We argued that our client was a broker, not a carrier, and therefore had no legal liability for the alleged negligence of the driver. The State Court of Clayton County agreed, holding that our client did not maintain the requisite level of control over the driver or her employer to impose vicarious liability, resulting in a full grant of summary judgment for our client.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey Obtain Complete Dismissal of Bad Faith Case
May 23, 2019
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey recently obtained a complete dismissal of bad faith and breach of contract claim alleging seven figures in damages. Litigated in the Middle District of Georgia, the suit alleged the commercial insurer acted in bad faith and breached the policy in three distinct ways in handling a first-party claim for damage to a medical facility. After successfully bifurcating the bad faith and breach of contract claims, Melissa and Fred argued that the three breach of contract claims failed on their merits. The District Court agreed, granting summary judgment on all three breach of contract claims. After disposing of the breach of contract claims, the Court ruled that the bad faith claim could not survive in the absence of a breach of a policy obligation by the carrier. Given that, it also failed as a matter of law, resulting in the complete dismissal of the lawsuit.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz Win Summary Judgment in Tree Fall Case
March 18, 2019
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz won summary judgment in a case alleging property damage as a result of a fallen tree. We argued that the property owner was not liable for the damage caused by the fallen tree because there was insufficient evidence that the tree was patently diseased prior to it falling down. The plaintiff argued that she had warned our business-owner client that she believed the tree was diseased several months prior. Granting our motion for summary judgment, the trial court held that the plaintiff had failed to carry her burden of proving patent damage to the tree, and summary judgment was appropriate in favor of our landowner client.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz Obtain Summary Judgment in Declaratory Judgment Action
November 29, 2018
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz obtained summary judgment in a declaratory judgment action on the basis of the policy’s auto business exclusion. The evidence showed that, at the time of the accident, it was being driven by a mechanic who was returning the vehicle to its owner after completing repairs. Because the driver was in possession of the vehicle for the sole purpose of repairing it, we argued that coverage was afforded for the underlying tort action because the claims arose out of the use of a vehicle in furtherance of an auto business. The Superior Court of Fulton County agreed, ruling that our client had no duty to provide a defense, coverage, or indemnity in the tort action.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey Win Summary Judgment in Declaratory Judgment Action
October 12, 2018
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey won summary judgment in the Northern District of Georgia on behalf of their insurance carrier client. We argued on behalf of the carrier that no coverage was afforded under the commercial policy because the driver did not meet the policy definition of an insured person. The Court agreed, holding that the driver’s use of a personal vehicle took him outside the policy definition of an insured person. As a result, the insurer had no duty to provide a defense, coverage, or indemnity to the insured or his employer for the tort suit.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Summary Judgment Granted in Bad Faith Case
May 1, 2018
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey obtained summary judgment for their insurer client in a first party bad faith action. The insured claimed that the carrier wrongfully denied coverage for a commercial cargo loss and that denial constituted bad faith under Georgia law. Ruling in favor of the carrier, the Gwinnett County State Court upheld the carrier’s denial, ruling that there was no coverage for the loss and, as a result, all of the insured’s claims against the carrier, including the claim for bad faith, failed as a matter of law.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Summary Judgment for National Oil Company in Premises Liability Case
April 6, 2018
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey recently won summary judgment for their international oil carrier client in a premises liability case. The oil company licensed the use of its brand to a station operator, and it was subsequently sued for personal injuries sustained by a customer at the station. We argued that, because there was not an agency relationship or joint venture between the oil company and the station owner, the oil company could not be held liable for the acts or omissions of the station owner. The State Court of DeKalb County agreed, and summary judgment was granted in favor of our client.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
No Coverage for Fatal Fall from Aerial Ladder
April 6, 2018
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey recently secured summary judgment for a commercial auto carrier following a fatal fall from an aerial ladder. The decedent was extended in the air on a boom ladder affixed to the bed of a commercial vehicle when he fell from its basket. We argued on behalf of the carrier that no coverage was afforded under the policy because the loss arose when the vehicle was being used solely as a pedestal for the ladder rather than as a vehicle. The Northern District of Georgia agreed and ruled that, as a matter of law, the policy did not provide coverage for the loss.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Mallory Ball Win Summary Judgment for UM Carrier
March 8, 2018
Fred Valz and Mallory Ball obtained summary judgment on behalf of a UM carrier from litigation in the State Court of Fulton County. Fred and Mallory argued on behalf of the UM carrier that the plaintiff failed to provide them with prompt notice of the accident. This is a condition precedent to coverage under the policy, where plaintiff failed to notify the UM carrier until 21 months after the accident. The trial court agreed and granted the UM carrier’s motion for summary judgment.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey Obtain Summary Judgment in Dog Bite Case
September 12, 2017
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey recently obtained a ruling from the State Court of Chatham County granting summary judgment in favor of their landlord client in a dog bite case. Ruling in the property owner’s favor, the Court held that, as an out-of-possession landlord, the property owner was not liable for the torts of its tenants, including the alleged failure to adequately control the subject dog. The Court further held that the plaintiff failed to prove that the property owner had superior knowledge of the alleged hazard posed by the dog, a separate basis for the grant of summary judgment.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey Obtain Summary Judgment in Declaratory Judgment Action
April 4, 2017
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey recently obtained a ruling from the Northern District of Georgia granting summary judgment in favor of their insurer client in a declaratory judgment action. The case sought a declaration as to whether the insurer was required to provide coverage, indemnity, or a defense under a homeowner’s policy for injuries caused as a result of a fight. We argued on behalf of the insurer that the fight did not constitute an occurrence as defined by the policy, so no coverage was afforded therefor. Granting summary judgment in favor of the insurer, the Court ruled that the insured’s participation in the fight was not without foresight or design and, for that reason, it did not constitute a covered occurrence. Given that, the insurer was not obligated to provide coverage, a defense, or indemnity for the incident.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey Secure Reversal of Trial Court’s Denial of Summary Judgment
January 16, 2017
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey recently prevailed in the Georgia Court of Appeals on an appeal from the denial of their client’s motion for summary judgment in a premises liability claim. The case involved a plaintiff who fell from a ladder while trimming a tree limb on private property. The plaintiff alleged that the resident defendants had tampered with his ladder, resulting in the safety mechanism becoming unlatched. On appeal, we argued that the denial of our client’s motion for summary judgment was improper because the plaintiff had provided no evidence beyond his own speculation that there was any foul play afoot. Reversing the trial court, the Court of Appeals agreed, stating that a conclusion that the defendants tampered with the ladder, causing it to fall, “would be mere conjecture.” Barclay v. Stephenson, 337 Ga. App. 365 (2016).
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey Obtain Summary Judgment in Declaratory Judgment Action
May 19, 2016
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey obtained a ruling from the Northern District of Georgia granting summary judgment in favor of their insurer client in a declaratory judgment action. The case sought a declaration as to whether the insurer was required to provide coverage, indemnity or a defense where the policyholder failed to pay the initial premium associated with the policy. We argued on behalf of the insurer that the policy was void from inception due to a failure of consideration, and no coverage was afforded for that reason. The District Court for the Northern District of Georgia agreed and granted summary judgment in favor of our client, holding that the failure of consideration meant that no contract was created, and the insurer was not obligated to provide coverage, a defense, or indemnity for the accident. Progressive Premier Ins. Co. of Ill. v. Dara Gibbs, et al., Civil Action File No. 1:15-CV-2662-TWT, 2016 WL 1557413 (N.D. Ga. Apr. 18, 2016).
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey obtain reversal of denial of summary judgment in Court of Appeals
May 4, 2016
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey obtained a ruling from the Georgia Court of Appeals reversing the trial court’s denial of their client’s motion for summary judgment and ruling in favor of our client. The case involved a worker’s compensation carrier who attempted to enforce its lien against the alleged third party tortfeasor. The tort suit had already been litigated and settled, and our client argued that the carrier was barred from bringing a separate action to enforce the lien against a third party. Reversing the trial court, the Court of Appeals held that the worker’s compensation carrier could not maintain a direct action against the alleged tortfeasor because it failed to protect its lien through intervention in the tort case as required by O.C.G.A. § 34-9-11.1. Schecter v. Auto-Owners Ins. Co., 335 Ga. App. 30 (2015) (cert denied).
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Ruling from Eleventh Circuit Affirming Summary Judgment to Trucking Insurer in Declaratory Judgment Action – Fred Valz, Melissa Bailey
December 8, 2015
Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals affirms summary judgment to a trucking insurer in a declaratory judgment action, finding there was no coverage for the claims made by the excluded driver under the $1 million policy for injuries to a truck driver who was driving for the insured company as an independent contractor. A truck driver was severely injured while his tractor trailer was being loaded at a third-party location. He filed suit against a number of entities, including the company for which he was driving as an independent contractor. The insurer filed a declaratory judgment action arguing that there was no coverage for the claims made by the excluded driver because he was an excluded employee under the language of policy. The policy did not define the term employee, but it did contain an MCS-90 endorsement. We argued on behalf of the insurer that “employee” should be defined in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (“FMCSR”) to include statutory employees and independent contractors, which would exclude coverage for the injured truck driver. The Southern District of Georgia agreed and granted summary judgment to the insurer. On appeal, the Eleventh Circuit affirmed, holding that the truck driver was an employee as defined by FMCSR and the definition controlled the use of the term “employee” in the policy. For that reason, there was no coverage for the claims made by the excluded driver under his employer’s policy.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Obtained a ruling from the Georgia Court of Appeals reversing the trial court’s denial of our client’s motion for summary judgment and ruling in favor of our client
November 3, 2015
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey obtained a ruling from the Georgia Court of Appeals reversing the trial court’s denial of our client’s motion for summary judgment and ruling in favor of our client. The case involved an interpretation of Georgia’s stacking provisions with respect to uninsured motorist carriers. We argued that the trial court erred by ruling that our client, as the primary UM carrier, was not entitled to a set-off when its policy was a reduced-by UM policy and the excess UM carrier had an added-on UM policy. The Court of Appeals agreed with us, ruling that, even though our client was the first in line UM carrier under Georgia’s stacking rules, because it maintained the only reduced-by UM policy, it was entitled to a set-off in the amount of the liability carrier’s policy limits.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Ruling obtained from Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals affirming grant of summary judgment
November 3, 2015
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey obtained a ruling from the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals affirming the grant of summary judgment to our insurance client in a case involving a question of coverage under a personal automobile policy where the insured failed to notify our Carrier of the loss for thirteen months. The plaintiff argued that timely notice was not a condition precedent to coverage under the policy and that, even if it was, the thirteen month delay was not unreasonable as a matter of law. The United States District Court for the Southern District of Georgia ruled for our insurance client on its motion for summary judgment, finding that the policy language clearly made timely notice a condition precedent to coverage, and the thirteen month delay in providing notice was unreasonable as a matter of law. The Eleventh Circuit agreed, affirming the lower court’s ruling in favor of our client.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Defense Verdict in $1.7M Auto Accident Case
September 18, 2014
Fred Valz obtained a defense verdict in Fulton County State Court in an auto accident case. In the case, both the plaintiff and the defendant contended that they had the green light and that the other ran a red light. Plaintiff, who was ejected from his vehicle and was in a coma for weeks, sought $1.7 million in damages for the severe and extensive injuries he sustained. Despite a sympathetic Plaintiff and an attempt by Plaintiff’s counsel to discredit the defendant, the 12 person jury deliberated for two hours before returning an unanimous verdict in favor of the defendant.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Appellate Courts Confirm That Homeowner’s Policies Do Not Cover Auto Accidents
September 22, 2014
Fred Valz obtained a ruling from the Georgia Supreme Court, affirming the grant of summary judgment to Allstate in a case involving a question of coverage under a homeowner’s policy for the death of a teenage girl arising from an auto accident. The plaintiffs/appellants attempted to argue that the exclusion should only apply when the vehicle belongs to or was being operated by an insured under the policy, but the trial court granted summary judgment to Allstate, finding that the policy unambiguously excluded coverage for damages arising from the use of any motor vehicle. The Court of Appeals confirmed that homeowner’s policies clearly do not provide coverage for damages arising from the use of a motor vehicle, regardless of who owned or was operating the vehicle. Plaintiffs petitioned the Georgia Supreme Court for certiorari on the issue, but the court denied the petition and affirmed the lower courts’ rulings in favor of Allstate. Sauls v. Allstate Prop. & Cas. Ins. Co., 326 Ga. App. 821, 757 S.E.2d 455 (2014), cert. denied Case No. S14C1093 (Sept. 22, 2014).
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Court of Appeals Affirms Summary Judgment for Insurer, Rules “Any Motor Vehicle” Means Exactly That
April 04, 2014
The Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court’s grant of summary judgment, obtained by Fred Valz, in favor of an insurance company in a declaratory judgment action stemming from a 2011 auto accident. The Plaintiff's sixteen year-old daughter was killed in the accident, which occurred after their daughter and other minors had allegedly been socializing and drinking at the home of the insureds. Plaintiff filed suit against the insureds, and the insureds sought coverage under their homeowner’s policy issued. The insurance company, in turn, filed a declaratory judgment action seeking a judicial declaration that the homeowner’s policy excluded coverage for damages arising from the use of any motor vehicle. The Plaintiff argued that the exclusion applied only when the insured exercised control over the motor vehicle. However, the Court of Appeals and the trial court rejected this argument. Instead, the courts accepted Mr. Valz’ position that “any motor vehicle” was not limited to motor vehicles owned or operated by or under the control of the insured, but applied to motor vehicles owned or operated by any person. Accordingly, the Court of Appeals confirmed the trial court’s grant of summary judgment in favor of the insurer and ruled as a matter of law that the insurer had no further duty to defend or indemnify the insureds in the underlying tort action.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Partial Summary Judgment for Insurance Carrier in Northern District
March 14, 2014
The United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, Rome Division granted partial summary judgment in favor of an insurance carrier in a declaratory judgment action. The insured failed to satisfy a condition precedent to coverage under the policy when he failed to timely provide notice of a motor vehicle accident to the insurance carrier. The court held that coverage available to the third parties for claims arising out of the accident, if any, was limited to the statutory minimum bodily injury liability limits. This matter was successfully handled by Fred Valz and Beth Albright.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Summary Judgment for Insurer in Auto Coverage Case
February 12, 2014
Fred Valz obtained summary judgment in favor of an insurance company in a declaratory judgment action in federal court stemming from a 2011 automobile accident. The at-fault driver and his father sought coverage for the accident under an auto policy as well as a homeowner’s policy. Mr. Valz successfully argued that the driver was not an “insured person” as defined by the auto or homeowner’s policies, the driver’s father was not an “insured person” as defined by the auto policy in relation to the accident, and the homeowner’s policy did not cover liability stemming from automobile accidents or negligent entrustment of an automobile. Accordingly, the court ruled that the insurer had no duty to defend or indemnify the driver or his father in the underlying tort lawsuit.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Court Finds Intentional/Criminal Act Exclusion Applies to Insured who Drove her Vehicle into Pedestrian
June 24, 2013
Fred Valz represented an insurer who sought a declaration that an intentional/criminal act exclusion in its policy barred coverage above the minimum limits for an insured who struck a man attempting to repossess her vehicle. The court found that while there was no evidence of the insured’s actual intent, the policy excluded coverage based on what a reasonable person in the insured’s shoes would know. The court concluded that when the insured drove her vehicle forward knowing the pedestrian was standing directly in front of the vehicle, a reasonable person in the insured’s situation would realize that injury likely would result. Thus, the exclusion applied to bar coverage over the minimum Georgia limits.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Court Finds Insurer Did Not Act in Bad Faith in Denying Coverage for Claim of Negligent Entrustment Against Excluded Driver’s Parents
June 07, 2013
Fred Valz obtained a grant of summary judgment for their insurer client on the issue of whether the insurer acted in bad faith in denying coverage for a negligent entrustment claim filed against the parents of an excluded driver. The policy excluded coverage for “any claim” arising from an accident involving a vehicle operated by the excluded driver, including any claim for vicarious liability. The plaintiff claimed the exclusion was ambiguous because the “any claim” language was limited only to vicarious liability claims as a result of the language immediately following it. The United States District Court for the Middle District of Georgia disagreed, finding the exclusion was not ambiguous. The “including” language did not limit the “any claim” provision, but merely provided an example of one type of claim—of many—that would not be covered if an excluded driver was operating the vehicle.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Court Finds Golf Cart is Not “Auto” for Purposes of Automobile Insurance Policy
April 02, 2013
Fred Valz recently represented an insurer in a declaratory judgment action arising from a golf cart accident at a political fundraising event. The United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia granted the insurer’s motion for summary judgment, finding that the insurer’s automobile insurance policy did not provide coverage for injuries arising from the golf cart accident. The Court concluded that the golf cart lacked the safety and other features present on vehicles designed for use on public roads, and even though it was capable of being driven on roadways, the golf cart did not meet the policy definition of “auto” because it was not designed for use “principally upon public roads.”
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Appellate Court Affirmed That Insurer Owed No Coverage For Damages Arising From Homeowner’s Murder Of Wife
December 20, 2012
The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court’s grant of summary judgment in favor of an insurer in declaratory judgment action. The insured had been convicted of murdering his wife and had been sued in a subsequent wrongful death action by his wife’s parents. The Court of Appeals held that the intentional/criminal acts exclusion contained in a homeowner's policy precluded coverage. Accordingly, the Court held that the insurer had no obligation to defend or indemnify the insured in the underlying wrongful death. This case was defended by Fred Valz.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Summary Judgment for Automobile Owner in Dekalb County Superior Court
March 05, 2012
Fred Valz and Beth Albright defended an insured automobile owner and his friend. A car thief stole the insured's vehicle and crashed into innocent motorists. The motorists filed suit against the insured and his friend, who were following the thief in another vehicle at time of the accident. The Superior Court, DeKalb County, entered summary judgment in favor of the insured owner and friend and the motorists appealed. The Court of Appeals affirmed the grant of summary judgment, ruling that the motorists presented no evidence showing that owner and friend breached any duty by following the car thief and that they presented no evidence of a causal connection between their following and the subsequent accident. The Supreme Court denied Plaintiffs' Petition for Cert.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Summary Judgment in Favor of a Local Painting Company Affirmed on Appeal
April 28, 2010
Fred Valz was affirmed on appeal by the Court of Appeals of Georgia in a case of first impression upholding a 1995 amendment to the Georgia Workers' Compensation Act. They represented a local painting company in a wrongful death claim involving an employee of a temporary contracting firm. Valz and Moore received summary judgment for the defense in the trial court, contending the defendant was immune from suit under the Workers' Compensation Act ("WCA"). Valz and Moore were affirmed on appeal on April 28, 2010.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Defense Verdict in Trucking Case
November 12, 2009
On November 12, 2009, Fred Valz obtained a defense verdict in a trucking case in Spalding County State Court. The lawsuit arose from a motor vehicle accident that occurred on a dark and foggy morning on a rural highway in Georgia. The Plaintiff rear-ended the Defendant's garbage truck, which was stopped partially in the highway. The Plaintiff alleged that the Defendant's truck was operating without any rear lights on at the time of the accident and produced two witnesses that saw the Defendant's truck without rear lights on shortly before the accident. The Plaintiff claimed she suffered a severe and permanent traumatic brain injury and could never return to gainful employment. The defense presented expert testimony that the Plaintiff did not have any cognitive deficits and could return to her previous job. After two and half hours, the jury returned a verdict in favor of the Defendants.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Dismissal of Case Against Insurer for Uninsured Motorist Benefits
August 28, 2009
Fred Valz defended an insurer who had issued a policy of auto liability insurance and an excess liability policy. The insurer was served with a lawsuit as a purported uninsured motorist carrier. The excess insurance policy, issued in North Carolina, had liability limits of $1 Million but did not provide uninsured motorist benefits. The insurer tendered the limits under the liability policy but failed to timely respond to certain Requests for Admissions seeking affirmation of coverage for uninsured motorist benefits under the excess policy and such requests were deemed admitted. Additionally, the named defendant failed to answer and default judgment was entered against him in the amount of $854,727.04. Fred and Erica moved to set aside the admissions and Plaintiff moved to impose sanctions against the insurer for failure to respond to discovery. After extensive briefings and oral argument, the court granted the insurer's Motion to Set Aside Admissions and denied the Motion for Sanctions. Because the admissions were withdrawn, the Plaintiff could not obtain any further recovery under the policy, and he dismissed his claims against the insurer.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Summary Judgment In Favor Of Insurer Affirmed On Appeal
August 28, 2009
Fred Valz defended a homeowners' insurer against claims for coverage for an accident that occurred away from the insured premises. The parents of a teenage girl were hosting her birthday party at a field belonging to family friends where guests could ride four-wheelers and engage in other outdoor activities. The teenager and her friend were seriously injured when the four-wheeler they were riding turned over. The parents sought coverage for the injuries under their homeowners' policy of insurance, contending that the field, located several miles from the insured premises, was being used "in connection with the insured premises." In affirming summary judgment in favor of the insurer, the Court of Appeals rejected this argument, explaining that adoption of such an expansive definition of "insured premises" would expose insurers to virtually endless liability. Mason v. Allstate, 2009 WL 1636588.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Petition for Declaratory Judgment Granted for Automobile Insurer
May 26, 2009
Fred Valz filed a declaratory judgment action on behalf of an automobile insurer, contending that the insurer had no further duty to defend or indemnify its insured because she breached her duty under the policy to cooperate with the insurer and because she and and her assignees engaged in fraudulent conduct designed to manufacture a bad faith claim against the insurer. Following submission of letter briefs, the District Court held that insurer did not act in bad faith in paying policy limits without conditioning payment on release of its insured. Accordingly, the Court granted the insurer's Petition for Declaratory Judgment and the Eleventh Circuit affirmed on appeal. In an unpublished opinion, the District Court also dismissed, sua sponte, the assignees' lawsuit for bad faith.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Georgia Court of Appeals Reverses Denial of Summary Judgment
November 24, 2008
On November 24, 2008, Fred Valz successfully obtained a reversal of the trial court's denial of partial summary judgment in a wrongful death case where the priority of three UM insurance policies were at issue. On motion for summary judgment, the Carlock Copeland attorneys argued that their client's auto policy should come last in priority under the "more closely identified with" test because it was originally issued to the decedent's sister, whereas the other auto policy and umbrella policy were issued to the decedent's father. The trial court denied summary judgment, in part, finding that the umbrella policy was last in priority because auto policies by definition apply before umbrella policies. The Court of Appeals reversed holding that umbrella policies should be stacked like other policies to provide UM coverage and, therefore, the Carlock Copeland client's auto policy came last in priority under the "more closely identified with" test.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Court of Appeals Affirms Grant of Summary Judgment to Commercial Property Owner
January 02, 2008
Fred Valz represented a commercial property owner in an elevator malfunction case. The plaintiff, who was a paraplegic, claimed that he rolled his wheelchair into an elevator and that when he reached his desired floor, he backed out of the elevator. According to the plaintiff, he did not realize the elevator floor had stopped above the landing and, when he backed out of the elevator, his wheelchair fell out of the elevator. As a result, the plaintiff claimed he sustained severe personal injuries. Fred argued that the property owner was not liable because the elevator had been inspected the day prior to the incident and again on the morning of the incident during routine inspections. The inspections revealed no problems with the elevator. The trial court granted summary judgment to the property owner and the Court of Appeals affirmed finding that the property owner did not have superior knowledge of any problems with the elevator.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Essex Insurance Company and United National Insurance Company v. Kay-Lex Company, et al.
August 28, 2006
Fred Valz represented United National Insurance Company and the Court granted United National Insurance Company's motion for summary judgment. United National had issued an umbrella policy which was excess to a commercial general liability policy issued by Essex Insurance Company. The Court held that both the Essex CGL policy and the United National umbrella policy did not provide liability coverage in the case involving an alleged employee who was injured during the course of his employment.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Empire Fire and Marine Insurance Company v. Progressive Casualty Insurance Company
May 15, 2006
Fred Valz obtained summary judgment on behalf of Progressive Casualty Insurance Company. Empire Fire and Marine made a voluntary payment under their motor vehicle policy and contended that Progressive had improperly denied coverage and was jointly liable. The Court granted Progressive's motion for summary judgment and held that Progressive had no coverage in the case.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Allstate Insurance Company v. Daniel Day and Melanie Ross
March 02, 2006
Fred Valz was successful in a motion for summary judgment on a declaratory judgment action. That case involved a sexual assault claim and the Court granted the insurer's motion for summary judgment, holding that claims for the alleged sexual assault were not covered under either a homeowner's or umbrella policy.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Allstate Insurance Company v. AMB Contractors, Inc.
September 10, 2005
Fred Valz was successful in a jury trial of a declaratory judgment action on September 10, 2005, before the Honorable K. Dawson Jackson in the Superior Court of Gwinnett County. The case involved the validity of a named driver exclusion endorsement in a commercial automobile insurance company policy.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Fireman’s Fund v. Underwriters at Lloyds
May 06, 2005
Fred Valz was successful in a declaratory judgment action in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, Atlanta Division, before the Honorable William S. Duffey, Jr. The declaratory judgment action involved a dispute between insurers as to whether the underlying insurance policy provided coverage for a sexual assault claim. Mr. Valz was successful in recovering $850,000 for the umbrella carrier who had fronted a settlement and then made a claim against the underlying insurer.
For informational purposes only. Past success does not indicate the likelihood of success in future cases.
Events
Copeland Stair’s Annual Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith Seminar in Atlanta, GA – September 12, 2019
September 12, 2019
Copeland, Stair, Kingma & Lovell's Annual Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith Seminar was held on Thursday September 12, 2019. Located at the beautiful Atlanta Botanical Gardens, this two-track format addressed the emerging issues that keep you up at night. Some session topics included: the rise in tort litigation, putting together the pieces of the wrongful death case, effective use of recorded statements and the material misrepresentation defense, liability exposure in the age of active shooters and the impact bias has on case evaluation and jury deliberations. For more information on this seminar, please contact Michelle Mattox.
Carlock, Copeland & Stair Announce Lawyers Selected on the Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars® List for 2018
February 22, 2018
Carlock, Copeland & Stair are proud to announce the following attorneys selected for inclusion on the Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars® lists for 2018. Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers®. The selections for this esteemed list are made by the research team at Super Lawyers®, which is a service of the Thomson Reuters. Each year, the research team at Super Lawyers® undertakes a rigorous multi-phase selection process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, independent evaluation of candidates by the attorney-led research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good-standing and disciplinary check. Super Lawyers® Thomas S. Carlock - Civil Litigation: Defense Wade K. Copeland - Civil Litigation: Defense Eric J. Frisch - Personal Injury Medical Malpractice: Defense Johannes S. Kingma - Professional Liability: Defense D. Gary Lovell, Jr. - Personal Injury Medical Malpractice: Defense Rolfe Martin - Personal Injury General: Defense David F. Root - General Litigation Douglas W. Smith - Personal Injury General: Defense Kent T. Stair - Professional Liability: Defense Frederick M. Valz, III - Insurance Coverage Rising Stars® is a listing of exceptional lawyers who are 40 years of age or under, or who have been practicing for 10 years or less, and have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 2.5 percent of the total lawyers in the state are honored on the Rising Stars® list. Rising Stars® Lauren Meadows - Civil Litigation Defense Jay M. O'Brien - Personal Injury General: Defense
Carlock, Copeland & Stair Hosted Their Annual Insurance Coverage & Bad Faith Seminar
August 24, 2017
Carlock, Copeland & Stair hosted their annual Insurance Coverage & Bad Faith Seminar on August 24 at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Presentations and Presenters: Have Traditional Rules Gone Up in Smoke? Impact of Growing Legalization of Medical Marijuana - Dave Root and Abby Grozine. Best Practices for Maintaining Your Claims File - Ryan Wilhelm, Jennifer Guerra, and Claire Sumner. Defending the Institutional Bad Faith Claim - Charlie McDaniel and Kathy Carlsten. New Technology, Old Policies: Are Aging Policies Equipped to Handle the Consumer Technology Boom? - Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey. Apportionment: Has It Gotten Insurers Where They Want To Go? - Charlie McDaniel, Graham Thompson, and Kristen Thompson. Additional Insured Jeopardy - Alex Davis, Laura Paton, Sarah Wetmore, Sally Bright and Nick Stewart. Why the Involvement of a Tractor Trailer Escalates a Case - Gary Lovell. Risk-Averse Insurers and the New Juror: Exploring Possible Links Between Fewer Trials, Millennial Jurors, and Seemingly Bigger Verdicts - Doug Smith and Lee Weatherly. Please contact Michelle Mattox at mmattox@cskl.law if you would like our attorneys to present in-house lunch & learn sessions or webinars.
Carlock Copeland’s Annual Seminar: Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith for Claims Professionals
September 15, 2016
Carlock Copeland’s Annual Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith Seminar for claims professionals serving Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee was held at the Atlanta Botanical Garden on September 15. Melissa Bailey, Jack Daniel, Alex Davis, Charlie McDaniel, David Root, Fred Valz, Lee Weatherly, Sarah Wetmore and Ryan Wilhelm presented. Topics included: • Litigating Coverage Issues Through Appeal • Construction Defect Coverage Issues • Rescinding Policies • Effective Denials and Reservation of Rights Letters • Interplay of Underwriting and Claims • Coverage Issues Involving Additional Insureds • Litigation Coverage Issues In Trucking Policies • Coverage Issues in a Sharing Economy Please contact Michelle Mattox at mmattox@cskl.law for more information.
Fred Valz presented and Billy Newcomb and John Rogers attended the ABA TIPS 2016 Section Conference in Atlanta
May 11, 2016
Fred Valz served as a panelist at the ABA TIPS 2016 Section Conference in Atlanta on May 11-13, 2016. Fred’s panel addressed “Ethics in the Insurance Industry and the Triparte Relationship” on May 11. John Rogers and Billy Newcomb attended.
Comprehensive Insurance Law Conference – Atlanta – Fred Valz presented, Litigating the Insurance Claim/Bad Faith Case – Insurer Perspective
March 24, 2016
Fred Valz presented "Litigating the Insurance Claim/Bad Faith Case – Insurer Perspective" at the Comprehensive Insurance Law Conference in Atlanta, March 24 & 25, 2016.
Carlock Copeland Attorneys Selected for Georgia 2016 Super Lawyers® AND Rising Stars®
February 19, 2016
February 19, 2016 Carlock, Copeland & Stair, LLP is proud to announce our lawyers selected for inclusion on the Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars® lists for 2016. Thomas S. Carlock and Johannes S. Kingma have been selected for inclusion on the Top 100 Super Lawyers® in the State of Georgia. Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers®. The selections for this esteemed list are made by the research team at Super Lawyers®, which is a service of Thomson Reuters. Each year, the research team at Super Lawyers® undertakes a rigorous multi-phase selection process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, independent evaluation of candidates by the attorney-led research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good-standing and disciplinary check. Top 100 for the State of Georgia - Super Lawyers® Thomas S. Carlock - Top Rated Civil Litigation Attorney in Atlanta, Georgia Johannes S. Kingma - Top Rated Professional Liability Attorney in Atlanta, Georgia Super Lawyers® Thomas S. Carlock - Civil Litigation: Defense Wade K. Copeland - Civil Litigation: Defense Eric J. Frisch - Personal Injury Medical Malpractice: Defense Johannes S. Kingma - Professional Liability: Defense D. Gary Lovell, Jr. - Personal Injury Medical Malpractice: Defense David F. Root - General Litigation Douglas W. Smith - Personal Injury General: Defense Kent T. Stair - Professional Liability: Defense Frederick M. Valz, III - Insurance Coverage Rising Stars® is a listing of exceptional lawyers who are 40 years of age or under, or who have been practicing for 10 years or less, and have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 2.5 percent of the total lawyers in the state are honored on the Rising Stars® list. Rising Stars® Shannon M. Sprinkle - Professional Liability: Defense Peter Werdesheim - Professional Liability - Defense
DRI Insurance Coverage and Practice Symposium – December 3-4 – New York
December 3, 2015
Fred Valz, Charlie McDaniel, and Gary Lovell attended the DRI Insurance Coverage and Practice Symposium held December 3-4 in New York. DRI Annual Conference Brochure - December, 2015 For more information, please click here.
News
CSKL Attorneys Named to Best Lawyers® Lists in Multiple Practice Areas and Office Locations
August 20, 2020
Copeland Stair Kingma & Lovell, LLP is pleased to announce our Attorneys named to 2021 Best Lawyers® lists in multiple categories and office locations.
- Erin E. Gomez, 2021 Best Lawyers®; Ones To Watch recognition for Litigation - Labor and Employment; Professional Malpractice Law in Chattanooga, TN
- Johannes S. Kingma, 2021 Best Lawyers® recognition for Legal Malpractice Law – Defendants in Atlanta, GA
- Gary Lovell, Jr., 2021 Best Lawyers® recognition for Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants and Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants in Atlanta, GA and Charleston, SC
- Rolfe M. Martin, 2021 Best Lawyers® recognition for Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants in Atlanta, GA
- Dan B. Millman, 2021 Best Lawyers®; Ones To Watch recognition for Commercial Litigation in Atlanta, GA
- Kent T. Stair, 2021 Best Lawyers® recognition for Construction Law and Legal Malpractice Law – Defense and Litigation - Construction in Atlanta, GA and Charleston, SC
- Fred M. Valz, III, 2021 Best Lawyers® recognition for Insurance Law in Atlanta, GA
CSKL Attorneys Named to 2020 Georgia Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists
February 15, 2020
Copeland, Stair, Kingma & Lovell, LLP is proud to announce that several of our lawyers have been selected for inclusion on the Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars® lists for 2020. Super Lawyers® recognizes attorneys who have distinguished themselves in their legal practice. Attorneys are chosen for this honor through a nomination process, peer review by practice area and independent research on candidates. The lengthy process identifies lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Meet our Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars®! Only five percent of attorneys in the state of Georgia are selected for inclusion in Super Lawyers® list. Our Super Lawyers® are: Wade K. Copeland Eric J. Frisch Johannes S. Kingma D. Gary Lovell, Jr. Rolfe M. Martin Charles M. McDaniel, Jr. William D. Newcomb David F. Root Douglas W. Smith Kent T. Stair Fred M. Valz, III Rising Stars® list recognizes the top up-and-coming attorneys in the state – those who are 40 years old or younger, or those who have been practicing for 10 years or less. No more than 2.5 percent of eligible attorneys are named to the Rising Stars® list, here are ours in Atlanta: Melissa L. Bailey Stephen J. Cohen Michael P. DiOrio Tawny D. Mack Claire A. Sumner
Carlock Copeland Attorneys Named to 2019 Georgia Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists
February 28, 2019
Carlock, Copeland & Stair, LLP is proud to announce that several of our lawyers have been selected for inclusion on the Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars® lists for 2019. Super Lawyers recognizes attorneys who have distinguished themselves in their legal practice. Attorneys are chosen for this honor through a nomination process, peer review by practice area and independent research on candidates. The lengthy process identifies lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Meet our Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars®! Super Lawyers®, only five percent of attorneys in the state of Georgia are selected for inclusion in Super Lawyers list. Our Super Lawyers are: Thomas S. Carlock Wade K. Copeland Eric J. Frisch Johannes S. Kingma D. Gary Lovell, Jr. Rolfe M. Martin Jay M. O'Brien David F. Root Douglas W. Smith Kent T. Stair Fred M. Valz Rising Stars® list recognizes the top up-and-coming attorneys in the state – those who are 40 years old or younger, or those who have been practicing for 10 years or less. No more than 2.5 percent of eligible attorneys are named to the Rising Stars® list, here is ours in Atlanta: Melissa L. Bailey Please click here to Read about our South Carolina Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars®!
Carlock Copeland Attorneys Selected for Georgia 2018 Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars®
February 27, 2018
Carlock, Copeland & Stair, LLP is proud to announce that several of our lawyers have been selected for inclusion on the Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars® lists for 2018. Super Lawyers recognizes attorneys who have distinguished themselves in their legal practice. Attorneys are chosen for this honor through a nomination process, peer review by practice area and independent research on candidates. The lengthy process identifies lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Meet our Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars®! Super Lawyers®, only five percent of attorneys in the state of Georgia are selected for inclusion in Super Lawyers list: Thomas S. Carlock Wade K. Copeland Eric J. Frisch Johannes S. Kingma D. Gary Lovell, Jr. Rolfe M. Martin David F. Root Douglas W. Smith Kent T. Stair Fred M. Valz, III Rising Stars® list recognizes the top up-and-coming attorneys in the state – those who are 40 years old or younger, or those who have been practicing for 10 years or less. No more than 2.5 percent of eligible attorneys are named to the Rising Stars list, here are ours: Lauren E. H. Meadows Jay M. O'Brien
Carlock Copeland Congratulates Attorneys Named Best Lawyers 2018 Lawyer of the Year® and Best Lawyers in America 2018®
August 29, 2017
Carlock, Copeland & Stair LLP congratulates the following attorneys who have been selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2018®. These attorneys practice in commercial litigation, medical malpractice law, personal injury litigation, construction law, construction litigation, and insurance law. In addition, Gary Lovell has been named Best Lawyers’ 2018 “Lawyer of the Year® for Medical Malpractice – Defendants (Charleston, SC). Thomas S. Carlock • Commercial Litigation (Atlanta, GA) • Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants (Atlanta, GA) • Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants (Atlanta, GA) • Best Lawyers® Since 1991 Kent T. Stair • Construction Law (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC) • Legal Malpractice Law (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC) • Litigation – Construction (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC) • Best Lawyers® Since 2006 Fred M. Valz, III • Insurance Law (Atlanta, GA) • Best Lawyers® Since 2013 Johannes S. Kingma • Legal Malpractice Law – Defendants (Atlanta, GA) • Best Lawyers® Since 2009 D. Gary Lovell, Jr. • Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC) • Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC) • Lawyer of the Year®, Medical Malpractice – Defendants (Charleston, SC) • Best Lawyers® Since 2013 Rolfe M. Martin • Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants (Atlanta, GA) • Best Lawyers® Since 2017 Since it was first published in 1983, Best Lawyers® has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence. Best Lawyers® is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey. More than 83,000 leading attorneys globally are eligible to vote, and Best Lawyers received more than 13 million votes on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their practice areas around the world, with more than 7 million votes being cast in the United States. Lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed, therefore inclusion in Best Lawyers® is considered a singular honor. Corporate Counsel magazine has called Best Lawyers® “the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice.” Please click here for Press Release. For additional information, please visit https://cskl.law/. (Copyright 2015 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC)
Carlock Copeland Attorneys Selected for Georgia 2017 Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars®
February 21, 2017
Carlock, Copeland & Stair, LLP is proud to announce that several of our lawyers have been selected for inclusion on the Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars® lists for 2017. Super Lawyers® Thomas S. Carlock - Civil Litigation: Defense Wade K. Copeland - Civil Litigation: Defense Eric J. Frisch - Personal Injury Medical Malpractice: Defense Johannes S. Kingma - Professional Liability: Defense D. Gary Lovell, Jr. - Personal Injury Medical Malpractice: Defense David F. Root - General Litigation Douglas W. Smith - Personal Injury General: Defense Kent T. Stair - Professional Liability: Defense Fred M. Valz, III - Insurance Coverage Rising Stars® Shannon M. Sprinkle - Professional Liability: Defense
Shannon Sprinkle Named Firm Managing Partner
November 28, 2016
Shannon Sprinkle has been named Carlock, Copeland & Stair's Firm Managing Partner. David Root, Carlock Copeland's immediate past Managing Partner commented, "Shannon is one of many talented younger lawyers in our firm who are stepping up to provide leadership for us as we continue moving forward." Shannon previously served as General Counsel and Co-Chair of the Commercial Litigation Practice Group. In addition to firm leadership, Shannon will continue her practice as a Partner in the Commercial Litigation Practice Group. Commercial Litigation Practice Group Chair Joe Kingma noted "Shannon has excelled defending lawyers and accountants and also earned the trust of all our partners in her performance as General Counsel. Freeing Shannon from General Counsel and Practice Group responsibilities enables her to lead the firm and still continue to provide A+ service to her clients. We are all excited to have Shannon leading us towards the firm's sixth decade." Shannon's commercial litigation practice centers on professional malpractice, finance, real estate and business related claims. Shannon also frequently acts as outside general counsel to companies and professional service firms providing risk management advice and other consultations. Shannon was a 2016 honoree on The Daily Report's list of lawyers "On the Rise" and has been named on the Georgia Rising Stars list for many consecutive years. Executive Committee Members: Joe Kingma, Firm General Counsel and Chair of the Commercial Litigation Practice Group David Root, Chair of the Employment Practice Group Paul Sperry, Chair of the Construction Practice Group and Managing Partner of the Charleston Office Fred Valz, Chair of General Liability Practice Group Bill Jones, Partner in Design Professional Practice Group Brian Gedeon, Executive Director Other firm leadership roles announced include: Billy Newcomb, Risk Management Counsel and Assistant General Counsel Lynn Olmert, Co-Chair of the Workers' Compensation Practice Group About Carlock, Copeland and Stair, LLP Carlock, Copeland & Stair, LLP focuses on civil litigation and dispute resolution. Founded in 1970, the Firm has office locations in Atlanta, Georgia; Charleston, South Carolina; and Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Firm’s lawyers provide counsel and advice in the following practice areas: Appellate, Commercial Litigation, Construction Litigation, Employment Litigation, Environmental Litigation, General Liability Litigation, Health Care Litigation, Insurance Coverage & Bad Faith Litigation, Product Liability, Trucking & Transportation Litigation, and Workers’ Compensation. For additional information, please visit www.carlockcopeland.com.
Carlock Copeland Congratulates Attorneys Named Best Lawyers in America® 2017:
August 15, 2016
Carlock, Copeland & Stair LLP congratulates the following attorneys who have been selected by their peers for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® 2017: From Our Atlanta Office: Thomas S. Carlock
- Commercial Litigation
- Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants
- Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants
- Best Lawyers® Since 1991
- Legal Malpractice Law – Defendants
- Best Lawyers® Since 2009
- Insurance Law (Atlanta, GA)
- Best Lawyers® Since 2013
- Medical Malpractice Law - Defendants (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
- Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
- Best Lawyers® Since 2013
- Construction Law –Charleston (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
- Legal Malpractice Law – Defendants (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
- Litigation – Construction (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
- Best Lawyers® Since 2006
13 Carlock Copeland Attorneys Selected for Georgia 2016 Super Lawyers® AND Rising Stars®
February 19, 2016
February 19, 2016 Carlock, Copeland & Stair, LLP is proud to announce that 13 of our lawyers have been selected for inclusion on the Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars® lists for 2016. Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers®. The selections for this esteemed list are made by the research team at Super Lawyers®, which is a service of Thomson Reuters. Each year, the research team at Super Lawyers® undertakes a rigorous multi-phase selection process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, independent evaluation of Prcandidates by the attorney-led research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good-standing and disciplinary check. Super Lawyers® Thomas S. Carlock - Civil Litigation: Defense Wade K. Copeland - Civil Litigation: Defense Eric J. Frisch - Personal Injury Medical Malpractice: Defense Johannes S. Kingma - Professional Liability: Defense D. Gary Lovell, Jr. - Personal Injury Medical Malpractice: Defense W. Dan McGrew, III - Professional Liability: Defense David F. Root - General Litigation Douglas W. Smith - Personal Injury General: Defense Kent T. Stair - Professional Liability: Defense Frederick M. Valz, III - Insurance Coverage Rising Stars® is a listing of exceptional lawyers who are 40 years of age or under, or who have been practicing for 10 years or less, and have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 2.5 percent of the total lawyers in the state are honored on the Rising Stars® list. Rising Stars® Brent A. Meyer - Construction Litigation Shannon M. Sprinkle - Professional Liability: Defense Peter Werdesheim - Professional Liability - Defense
DRI Insurance Coverage and Practice Symposium from December 3 – 4 in New York
November 9, 2015
Please join us at the upcoming DRI Insurance Coverage and Practice Symposium. Fred Valz, Charlie McDaniel, Gary Lovell will be attending. The event will be held December 3-4 in New York. DRI Annual Conference Brochure - December, 2015 For more information, please click here.
Carlock Copeland Attorneys Named to Best Lawyers®
August 18, 2015
Carlock, Copeland & Stair LLP congratulates the following attorneys who have been selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2016: From Our Atlanta Office: Thomas S. Carlock
- Commercial Litigation
- Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants
- Personal Injury Litigation
- Best Lawyers® Since 1991
- Legal Malpractice Law – Defendants
- Best Lawyers® Since 2009
- Insurance Law (Atlanta, GA)
- Best Lawyers® Since 2013
- Medical Malpractice Law (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
- Personal Injury Litigation (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
- Best Lawyers® Since 2013
- Construction Law –Charleston (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
- Legal Malpractice Law – Defendants (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
- Litigation – Construction (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
- Best Lawyers® Since 2006
15 CARLOCK COPELAND ATTORNEYS SELECTED FOR GEORGIA 2015 SUPER LAWYERS® AND RISING STARS®
February 27, 2015
Carlock, Copeland & Stair, LLP is proud to announce that 17 of our lawyers have been selected for inclusion on the Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars lists for 2015. Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers. The selections for this esteemed list are made by the research team at Super Lawyers, which is a service of the Thomson Reuters. Each year, the research team at Super Lawyers undertakes a rigorous multi-phase selection process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, independent evaluation of candidates by the attorney-led research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good-standing and disciplinary check. Super Lawyers
- Thomas S. Carlock
- Wade K. Copeland
- Eric J. Frisch
- Johannes S. Kingma
- D. Gary Lovell, Jr.
- W. Dan McGrew
- David F. Root
- Douglas W. Smith
- Kent T. Stair
- Fred M. Valz, III
- John L. Bunyan
- Brent A. Meyer
- Heather H. Miller
- Shannon M. Sprinkle
- Peter Werdesheim
Carlock Copeland Attorneys Named to Best Lawyers® and Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year”
August 18, 2014
Carlock, Copeland & Stair congratulates Thomas S. Carlock, and Kent T. Stair for being selected as a 2015 Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year” in different practice areas. Only a single lawyer in each practice area and designated metropolitan area is honored as the “Lawyer of the Year,” making this accolade particularly significant. In addition, congratulations to the following attorneys who have been selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2015: Thomas S. Carlock Commercial Litigation (Atlanta, GA) Medical Malpractice Law – Lawyer of the Year (Atlanta, GA) Personal Injury Litigation (Atlanta, GA) Best Lawyer® Since 1991 Kent T. Stair Construction Law - Lawyer of the Year, Charleston (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC) Legal Malpractice Law (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC) Litigation - Construction (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC) Best Lawyer® Since 2006 Fred M. Valz, III Insurance Law (Atlanta, GA) Best Lawyer® Since 2013 Johannes S. Kingma Legal Malpractice Law (Atlanta, GA) Best Lawyer® Since 2009 D. Gary Lovell, Jr. Personal Injury Litigation (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC) Best Lawyer® Since 2013 Since it was first published in 1983, Best Lawyers has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence. Because Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which more than 36,000 leading attorneys cast almost 4.4 million votes on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their practice areas, and because lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed, inclusion in Best Lawyers is considered a singular honor. Corporate Counsel magazine has called Best Lawyers “the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice.” (Copyright 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC).
Carlock, Copeland & Stair Attorneys Named to 2014 Best Lawyers®
August 15, 2013
Nine lawyers from Carlock, Copeland & Stair were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2014 (Copyright 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). The following attorneys are to be congratulated for their Best Lawyer® recognition: Thomas S. Carlock, Best Lawyer® Since 1991 Commercial Litigation, Medical Malpractice Law, Personal Injury Litigation (Atlanta, GA) Kent T. Stair, Best Lawyer® Since 2006 Construction Law, Legal Malpractice Law (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC) Fred M. Valz, III, Best Lawyer® Since 2013 Insurance Law (Atlanta, GA) Johannes S. Kingma, Best Lawyer® Since 2009 Legal Malpractice Law (Atlanta, GA) D. Gary Lovell, Jr., Best Lawyer® Since 2013 Personal Injury Litigation (Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC)
Carlock, Copeland & Stair Attorneys named to Best Lawyers® and Selected as 2013 “Lawyer of the Year”
October 15, 2012
Seven lawyers from Carlock, Copeland & Stair were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2013 (Copyright 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). In addition, firm founder Thomas S. Carlock was named a Best Lawyer® for the eleventh year in a row as well as the 2013 “Lawyer of the Year” in the Atlanta Personal Injury Litigation category. Carlock has practiced in the civil trial arena in Georgia for 46 years and during that time has tried more than 500 jury trials. Throughout his career, Tom has handled a wide variety of civil litigation including medical malpractice, catastrophic injury including wrongful death, coverage disputes, and every other type of civil lawsuit imaginable. He has tried, to verdict, in excess of 75 wrongful death cases and more than 150 catastrophic injury cases. His skill and leadership have helped the firm to continue to grow from five attorneys to 89, many of which have been honored as well for their skill and commitment to the legal profession. The following Carlock, Copeland & Stair attorneys are to be congratulated for their Best Lawyer® recognition: Thomas S. Carlock, Best Lawyer® Since 1991 Commercial Litigation, Medical Malpractice Law, Personal Injury Litigation (Atlanta, GA) Kent T. Stair, Best Lawyer® Since 2006 Construction Law, Legal Malpractice Law (Atlanta, GA) Wayne D. McGrew, III, Best Lawyer® Since 2008 Personal Injury Litigation (Atlanta, GA) Fred M. Valz, III, Best Lawyer® Since 2013 Insurance Law (Atlanta, GA) Johannes S. Kingma, Best Lawyer® Since 2009 Legal Malpractice Law (Atlanta, GA) D. Gary Lovell, Jr., Best Lawyer® Since 2013 Personal Injury Litigation (Atlanta, GA) About Best Lawyers Since it was first published in 1983, Best Lawyers has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence. Because Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which more than 36,000 leading attorneys cast almost 4.4 million votes on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their practice areas, and because lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed, inclusion in Best Lawyers is considered a singular honor. Corporate Counsel magazine has called Best Lawyers “the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice.” Only a single lawyer in each practice area and designated metropolitan area is honored as a Best Lawyers' “Lawyer of the Year.” Lawyers being honored as “Lawyer of the Year” are selected based on particularly impressive voting averages received during the exhaustive peer-review assessments that Best Lawyers conducts with thousands of leading lawyers each year. Receiving this designation reflects the high level of respect a lawyer has earned among other leading lawyers in the same communities and the same practice areas for their abilities, their professionalism, and their integrity. (Copyright 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC).
2012 Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars®
February 17, 2012
We are proud to announce that 14 of our lawyers have been selected for inclusion on the Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars lists for 2012. Super Lawyers Thomas S. Carlock Wade K. Copeland Kent T. Stair Douglas W. Smith David F. Root W. Dan McGrew Fred M. Valz, III Johannes S. Kingma D. Gary Lovell, Jr. Eric J. Frisch Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers. The selections for this esteemed list are made by the research team at Super Lawyers, which is a service of the Thomson Reuters. Each year, the research team at Super Lawyersundertakes a rigorous multi-phase selection process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, independent evaluation of candidates by the attorney-led research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good-standing and disciplinary check. Rising Stars Shannon M. Sprinkle Peter Werdesheim Heather H. Miller John L. Bunyan Rising Stars is a listing of exceptional lawyers who are 40 years of age or under, or who have been practicing for 10 years or less, and have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 2.5 percent of the total lawyers in the state are honored on the Rising Stars list.
Insurance Coverage Corner Selected as a LexisNexis Top Blogs for Insurance Law 2011
November 11, 2011
We are pleased to announce that the Carlock, Copeland & Stair Insurance Coverage Corner blog has been selected as a LexisNexis Top Blog for Insurance Law - 2011. The Insurance Coverage Corner focuses on legal updates, opinions and other relevant information for Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith Litigation. Please subscribe to the Insurance Coverage Corner blog for the latest updates.
2011 Super Lawyers
February 21, 2011
We are proud to announce that 15 of our attorneys have been selected for inclusion on the Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars lists for 2011. Super Lawyers Honorees Thomas S. Carlock Wade K. Copeland Kent T. Stair Douglas W. Smith David F. Root W. Dan McGrew Fred M. Valz, III Johannes S. Kingma D. Gary Lovell, Jr. Eric J. Frisch Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers. The selections for this esteemed list are made by the research team at Super Lawyers, which is a service of the Thomson Reuters, Legal division based in Eagan, MN. Each year, the research team at Super Lawyers undertakes a rigorous multi-phase selection process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, independent evaluation of candidates by the attorney-led research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good-standing and disciplinary check. Rising Stars Honorees Shannon M. Sprinkle Peter Werdesheim Heather H. Miller Spencer A. Bomar Ryan B. Wilhelm Rising Stars is a listing of exceptional lawyers who are 40 years or under, or who have been practicing for 10 years or less and have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 2.5 percent of the total lawyers in the state are honored on the Rising Stars list.
2010 Super Lawyers
February 25, 2010
We are proud to announce that 15 of our attorneys have been selected for inclusion on the Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars lists for 2010. Super Lawyers Honorees Thomas S. Carlock Wade K. Copeland Kent T. Stair Douglas W. Smith David F. Root W. Dan McGrew Fred M. Valz, III Johannes S. Kingma D. Gary Lovell, Jr. Eric J. Frisch Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers. The selections for this esteemed list are made by the research team at Super Lawyers, which is a service of the Thomson Reuters, Legal division based in Eagan, MN. Each year, the research team at Super Lawyers undertakes a rigorous multi-phase selection process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, independent evaluation of candidates by the attorney-led research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good-standing and disciplinary check. Rising Stars Honorees Shannon M. Sprinkle John C. Rogers Pete Werdesheim Ryan B. Wilhelm Rising Stars is a listing of exceptional lawyers who are 40 years or under, or who have been practicing for 10 years or less and have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 2.5 percent of the total lawyers in the state are honored on the Rising Stars list.
Publications and Presentations
Is the Case Settled? Addressing Medicare/Medicaid/Hospital Lien Compliance Litigation Funding and the Use of Confidential Settlement Agreements – Presentation at Copeland Stair’s 2019 Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith Seminar
September 12, 2019
Fred Valz, Claire Sumner, Graham Thompson and Lacey Houghton educated attendees on important features to think about that will ensure a case is resolved, and to focus on more than just the actual settlement sum. During the course of litigation, the Plaintiff is often continuing to receive significant medical treatment. With respect to varied guidelines to medical liens and claims for medical reimbursement, presenters focused on the rules within Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina. The goal of this presentation was to arm attendees with the knowledge and information to successfully negotiate a settlement that also includes resolution of all claims arising from the treatment given to the Plaintiff. For more information on this presentation and firm seminars, please contact Michelle Mattox.
But Does that Really Matter? Putting Each Piece of the Wrongful Death Case Together with Real-Time Feedback – Presentation at Copeland Stair’s 2019 Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith Seminar
September 12, 2019
Melissa Bailey and Fred Valz presented to seminar attendees factual and legal issues involved in a hypothetical wrongful death cause of action in a series of oral presentations. Using an interactive format, Fred and Melissa were able to allow guests to participate in the evaluation and assessment of the exposure presented by the hypothetical case. This gave attendees insight into how a case evolves from investigation to verdict, as well as into the decision-making process used by most juries. Then attendees were able to use a web based application to provide the speakers with real-time responses to their series of questions. This presentation provided participants with the understanding of the jury trial process and created a better foundation for future cause of action defense. For more information on the presentation or seminars, please contact Michelle Mattox.
Does the Insurer Still Have Any Rights? – Presentation at Carlock Copeland’s Annual Insurance Coverage Seminar
August 23, 2018
Does the Insurer Still Have Any Rights? The Interplay of Time-Limited Demands, Coverage Decisions, and Pursuit of Legitimate Fraud Investigations: In the age of prolific Holt and Tiger River Demands, does the insurer effectively have the right to investigate, evaluate and defend a cause of action? This topic explores the use and misuse of policy limits demand and the increased pressure on the insurer and defense counsel to simply receive the demand and issue a check. What are the best strategies for effectively combating these developments to allow a restful night sleep? Presenters/Co-Authors: Fred Valz, Melissa Bailey and Alex Davis. For more information on this program, please contact Michelle Mattox at mmattox@cskl.law
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey Presented New Technology, Old Policies: Are Aging Policies Equipped to Handle the Consumer Technology Book? at Carlock, Copeland & Stair’s Annual Insurance Coverage & Bad Faith Seminar
August 24, 2017
Fred Valz and Melissa Bailey presented New Technology, Old Policies: Are Aging Policies Equipped to Handle the Consumer Technology Book? at Carlock, Copeland & Stair’s Annual Insurance Coverage & Bad Faith Seminar on August 24 at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Please contact Michelle Mattox at mmattox@cskl.law if you would like our attorneys to present in-house lunch & learn sessions or webinars.
BAD FAITH CLAIMS: EXTRA-CONTRACTUAL LIABILITY IN GEORGIA
February 05, 2015
Fred Valz co-presented “Plaintiff and Defense Perspectives”, as part of a number of sessions in The Seminar Group’s Bad Faith Claims: Extra-contractual Liability in Georgia seminar, held in Atlanta on Thursday, February 5th and Friday, February 6th, 2015.
Emerging Coverage Issues and Bad Faith Traps and Trends
September 11, 2014
Fred Valz discussed emerging issues in insurance coverage in Georgia and South Carolina related to both personal and commercial lines at the Firm's Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith Seminar. They also discussed some common and not-so-common bad faith traps, including tips for recognizing them and practical recommendations on how they can be avoided.
Preparing and Defending The Claim Professional’s Deposition
September 11, 2014
Charlie McDaniel and Fred Valz presented at the Firm's Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith seminar.
Common Coverage Issues in the Trucking Arena
September 11, 2014
This presentation provided an overview of the differences between commercial auto policies and other types of insurance policies, as well as educate on different aspects of trucking policies. The speakers also discussed regulatory filings necessary for commercial operation and explore complexities of state and federal filings. This presentation was given by Fred Valz, Gary Lovell, Erica Holzman and Beth Albright, at the Firm's Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith Seminar.
Recent Developments in Bad Faith
September 19, 2013
Fred Valz and Kathy Carlsten presented “Recent Developments in Bad Faith” at the Carlock, Copeland & Stair Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith Seminar September 19, 2013 at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
Unique and Evolving Issues in Excess and Umbrella Insurance Coverage
September 19, 2013
Fred Valz presented Unique and Evolving Issues in Excess and Umbrella Insurance Coverage at the Carlock, Copeland & Stair Insurance Coverage and Bad Faith Seminar September 19, 2013 at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
Recent Updates in Third Party Bad Faith in Georgia
June 20, 2013
Fred Valz presented “Recent Updates in Third Party Bad Faith in Georgia” at the Carlock, Copeland & Stair Fifth Annual General Liability & Workers’ Compensation Seminar June 20, 2013 at Turner Field.
We don’t have a settlement? Utilizing recent appellate court decisions to provide practical solutions for preventing bad faith
June 26, 2012
"We don’t have a settlement? Utilizing recent appellate court decisions to provide practical solutions for preventing bad faith."Fred Valz. General Liability and Workers' Compensation Seminar. June 26, 2012. Atlanta, GA.
Recent Developments in Third-Party Bad Faith and Reservation of Rights/Duty to Defend
June 22, 2011
"Recent Developments in Third-Party Bad Faith and Reservation of Rights/Duty to Defend." Fred Valz. General Liability and Workers' Compensation Seminar. June 22, 2011. Atlanta, GA.
Significant Developments in Georgia and South Carolina Law
June 22, 2011
Fred Valz, Heather Miller, and Lee Weatherly co-presented "Significant Developments in Georgia and South Carolina Law" at the General Liability and Workers' Compensation Seminar hosted by Carlock, Copeland & Stair, LLP on June 22, 2011.
The Evolution of Litigation Since Tort Reform of 2005
June 17, 2010
Tom Carlock and Fred Valz co-presented "The Evolution of Litigation Since Tort Reform of 2005" at the General Liability and Workers' Compensation Seminar hosted by Carlock, Copeland & Stair, LLP on June 17, 2010.
When are Cases Winners or Losers?
September 16, 2009
"When are Cases Winners of Losers? And Jury's Reaction to Your Case." Fred M. Valz. Carlock Copeland General Liability Seminar. September 16, 2009.
Can Plaintiffs’ Attorneys Designate Settlement Proceeds as Pain and Suffering to Circumvent Claims for Medicaid Reimbursement in Georgia
April 15, 2008
"Can Plaintiffs’ Attorneys Designate Settlement Proceeds as Pain and Suffering to Circumvent Claims for Medicaid Reimbursement in Georgia?" Fred Valz and Liza Carter. Calendar Call. Spring 2008.
Recent Developments in Insurance Law in Georgia
June 01, 2007
"Recent Developments in Insurance Law in Georgia." Fred Valz and D. Gary Lovell, Jr. Atlanta, GA. 1997, 1993, 1992.
Avoiding Bad Faith in Georgia, South Carolina, and Alabama
January 01, 2006
"Avoiding Bad Faith in Georgia, South Carolina and Alabama." Fred Valz. Atlanta, GA. 2006, 2005.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Law in Georgia
January 01, 2006
"Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Law in Georgia." Fred Valz. Atlanta, GA. 2006.
Bad Faith, Medical Liens, and Other Related Issues in Georgia
January 01, 2003
"Bad Faith, Medical Liens and Other Related Issues in Georgia." Fred Valz. Atlanta, GA. 2003, 1999.
Settlement Issues, 2002
November 01, 2002
"Settlement Issues." Fred Valz. Atlanta Claims Association. Atlanta, GA. November 2002.
Lien Considerations in Georgia
January 31, 2001
"Lien Considerations in Georgia." Fred Valz. Atlanta, GA. January 31, 2001.
Settlement Issues, 2000
October 26, 2000
"Settlement Issues." Fred Valz. Adjusting the Automobile Injury Claim in Georgia. Atlanta, GA. October 26, 2000.
Consumer Protection Issues
October 26, 2000
"Consumer Protection Issues." Fred Valz. Adjusting the Automobile Injury Claim in Georgia. Atlanta, GA. October 26, 2000.
Bad Faith/Extra Contractual Liability
March 29, 2000
"Bad Faith/Extra Contractual Liability." Fred Valz. Recent Developments in Georgia Insurance Law. Atlanta, GA. March 29, 2000.
Extra Contractual Liability
January 08, 2000
"Extra Contractual Liability." Fred Valz. Insurance Coverage Law in Georgia. Atlanta, GA. January 2000.
Litigating The Insurance Claim
January 05, 2000
"Litigating the Insurance Coverage Claim." Fred Valz. Insurance Coverage Law in Georgia. Atlanta, GA. January 2000
Hot Topics in Coverage
January 01, 2000
"Hot Topics in Coverage." Fred Valz, Kevin J. Bahr, & Edward R. Still. Insurance Coverage Law in Georgia. Atlanta, GA. January 2000.
Recent Developments in PIP and U.M. in Georgia
February 01, 1991
"Recent Developments in PIP and U.M. in Georgia." Fred Valz. Atlanta, GA. February 1991, February 1990.
Trial of the Case – Part 1
January 20, 1999
"Trial of the Case - Part 1." Fred Valz, James Weston and Amy H. Ferguson. Trying the Automobile Injury Case in Georgia. Atlanta, GA. January 1999.
Ethical Considerations
January 05, 1999
"Ethical Considerations." Fred Valz and Bradley W. Grout. Trying the Automobile Injury Case in Georgia. Atlanta, GA. January 1999.
Basic Issues in Georgia Tort Law
January 25, 1998
"Basic Issues in Georgia Tort Law." Fred Valz. Atlanta, GA. 1998.
Georgia Tort and Motor Carrier Law Overview
January 01, 1997
"Georgia Tort and Motor Carrier Law Overview." Fred Valz and D. Gary Lovell, Jr. Atlanta, GA.