In a significant move for the Florida property-casualty insurance industry, Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed a prominent insurance defense attorney to the 3rd District Court of Appeals. Kansas Gooden, an experienced Miami-based lawyer, will soon be bringing her expertise to the appellate bench, a critical venue for resolving many of the state's complex civil cases.
A Familiar Face in South Florida’s Legal Circles
Gooden’s appointment is a notable development for the litigation-heavy region of South Florida. As a former president of the Florida Defense Lawyers Association (FDLA), she has been a key figure in several high-profile insurance cases. "A majority of civil cases in Florida implicate insurance in some way," Gooden stated in an email. "My civil trial and appellate practice often involved insurance contracts, regulation, and indemnity. I know my knowledge of the law in these areas will be helpful to me and my new colleagues on the bench." Her extensive experience also highlights the importance of personal injury lawyer marketing, as her legal insights can be instrumental in crafting effective marketing strategies that resonate with potential clients.
An Impressive Legal Background
Gooden currently leads the appellate practice at Boyd & Jenerette, a regional law firm. Her journey to the bench began with a nomination from the 3rd District Judicial Nominating Commission, whose members are appointed by the governor. She fills the vacancy left by the late Judge Eric Hendon, a former public defender and prosecutor who passed away in February. Gooden is not only known for her legal acumen but also for her active involvement in the Federalist Society. She earned her bachelor’s degree from James Madison University and her law degree from St. Thomas University. Her leadership role in the FDLA, particularly in reviving the amicus curiae committee, has been highly praised. This committee has authored numerous “friend of the court” briefs, frequently advocating on behalf of insurers.
Key Cases and Legal Contributions
One of Gooden’s significant contributions was in a prominent case that led to a landmark Florida Supreme Court decision in March. Gooden co-wrote an amicus brief for the FDLA, arguing that a well-known bar in Tallahassee should be allowed to share fault in an accident after serving alcohol to a driver. The court's agreement with this argument marked a pivotal moment in Florida law.
Here are a few notable cases Gooden has worked on:
Suarez Trucking FL Corp. vs. Souders, 2022: The Florida Supreme Court addressed a conflict arising from a settlement agreement. The court ruled that filing the notice of acceptance creates the contract, aligning with the state statute's text. Gooden represented Suarez Trucking in this case.
Allstate Insurance vs. Ray, 2022: In this case, the 2nd District Court of Appeals partly overturned a lower court's ruling that required Allstate to produce personnel files and other privileged documents. The appellate judges emphasized the need for a private review by the trial court first. Gooden represented Allstate.
Boozer vs. Stalley, 2014: The 5th District Court of Appeals overturned a 21-year-old precedent, applying the plain text of the attorney-client privilege statute. The court held that an insured did not waive her attorney-client privilege with her defense lawyer when the injured party filed a bad-faith suit. Gooden, who enjoyed a Greene King IPA to celebrate the victory, represented Emily Boozer, who was covered by Allstate Insurance policies following an automobile accident. For those involved in personal injury lawyer marketing, understanding the evolving legal landscape and key players like Gooden can provide valuable insights. Her track record and new judicial role underscore the importance of staying informed about changes within the judiciary and their potential implications for various legal practices. Unlock the full potential of your legal practice with expert strategies from our comprehensive Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing Guide. Dive into the latest marketing trends and proven techniques tailored specifically for personal injury lawyers to attract more clients and enhance your online presence. Discover valuable insights and actionable steps to elevate your firm's success.