What's Cookin' in Litigation? with Brian Wacker, Episode 12

In season 1’s final episode of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker welcomes Stephanie Lummus, a partner at The Cook Group’s St. Louis, Missouri office.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 * Stephanie’s journey from serving in the Navy to becoming a formidable defense litigator

 * How Stephanie’s military service has equipped her to excel in the legal industry

 * The uniqueness of practicing law in the 'judicial hell hole' of St. Louis

 * The procedural nuances specific to asbestos and talc litigation

 * The importance of expertise and adaptability in the unpredictable field of asbestos and talc litigation

 * The vital role of women in the legal profession

Learn more about Stephanie Lummus:

 * View Stephanie’s profile on The Cook Group’s website: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/stephanie-m-lummus

 * Connect with Stephanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-lummus-34b07b97

 * Email Stephanie: [email protected]

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About “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

In each episode of “What’s Cookin’ in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker explores the latest advancements, strategic updates, and best practices for efficiently handling cases. With the sharpest professionals in the industry, Brian breaks down the latest trends and developments, getting to the heart of what’s happening in litigation.

Watch more episodes of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

 * Website: https://cookgrouplegal.com

 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086333426860

 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookgrouplegal

 * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cook-group-legal

Connect and learn more from your host, Brian Wacker:

 * Read Brian’s bio on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/brian-m-wacker

 * Connect Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wacker-32920b90

 * Email: [email protected]

What's Cookin' in Litigation? with Brian Wacker, Episode 11

In this episode of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker welcomes Ashley Rodgers. Ashley is a Partner in The Cook Group’s Pennsylvania office, where she represents clients in complex litigation matters, relying on her experience across a broad range of practice areas, including transportation and trucking liability, employment law, professional liability, medical malpractice, toxic tort, and general casualty defense.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Ashley’s career journey with extensive experience in asbestos and toxic tort works, along with general liability, professional liability, and medical malpractice that led her to her position as The Cook Group’s newest partner and opening a new office in Pittsburgh

* Pennsylvania's legal nuances, particularly in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia with the prevalence of toxic tort litigation, attributing it to historical industrial activities in the region, coupled with plaintiff-friendly laws

* How the Pittsburgh legal scene operates, emphasizing the congenial and cooperative nature of lawyers in this jurisdiction, akin to a "Midwest mentality"

* Specific legal trends, such as the rise in talc litigation within Pennsylvania

* Ashley’s vision for expanding the firm’s footprint with the Cook Group’s expansion in Pittsburgh

Learn more about Ashley Rodgers:

* Connect with Ashley on Rodgers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-rodgerspa

* View Ashley’s profile on Cook Group’s website: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/ashley-rodgers

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About “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

In each episode of “What’s Cookin’ in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker explores the latest advancements, strategic updates, and best practices for efficiently handling cases. With the sharpest professionals in the industry, Brian breaks down the latest trends and developments, getting to the heart of what’s happening in litigation.

Watch more episodes of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

* Website: https://cookgrouplegal.com

* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086333426860

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookgrouplegal

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cook-group-legal

Connect and learn more from your host, Brian Wacker:

* Read Brian’s bio on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/brian-m-wacker

* Connect Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wacker-32920b90

* Email: [email protected]

What's Cookin' in Litigation? with Brian Wacker, Episode 10

In this episode of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker welcomes The Cook Group associates, Paige Schindler and Solomon Im.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Paige and Solomon’s paths in their legal careers that led them to toxic torts

* Paige and Solomon’s perspectives on the unique intensity of New York City's litigation landscape

* How post-pandemic virtual processes and work has influenced legal practices

* What makes The Cook Group a welcoming and supportive place to work

Learn more about Paige Schindler and Solomon Im:

* View Paige’s profile on The Cook Group’s website: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/paige-schindler

* View Solomon’s profile on The Cook Group’s website: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/solomon-h-im

* Connect with Paige on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paige-schindler-90262283

* Connect with Solomon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/solomonhim

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About “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

In each episode of “What’s Cookin’ in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker explores the latest advancements, strategic updates, and best practices for efficiently handling cases. With the sharpest professionals in the industry, Brian breaks down the latest trends and developments, getting to the heart of what’s happening in litigation.

Watch more episodes of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

* Website: https://cookgrouplegal.com

* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086333426860

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookgrouplegal

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cook-group-legal

Connect and learn more from your host, Brian Wacker:

* Read Brian’s bio on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/brian-m-wacker

* Connect Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wacker-32920b90

* Email: [email protected]

What's Cookin' in Litigation? with Brian Wacker, Episode 9

In this episode of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker welcomes rising stars within The Cook Group, associates Shaun Van Buskirk, Nicholas Gross, and Cat Blake.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Meet Shaun VanBuskirk, who has been with The Cook Group since 2021. Learn about Shaun’s journey from interning at a law firm to pursuing a legal career inspired by his father's legacy.

* Meet Nicholas Gross, and learn about his professional journey, with a highlight on the challenges he faced entering the workforce during the global pandemic.

* Meet Cat Blake and learn about her experience of attending law school during the pandemic, and why she emphasizes the importance of building relationships and gaining courtroom experience.

* The value of practical, hands-on experience, including shadowing seasoned partners

* Each associate’s mid-range goals

Learn more about Shaun Van Buskirk, Nicholas Gross, and Cat Blake:

* View Cat’s profile on The Cook Group’s website: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/cat-blake

* View Nicholas’s profile on The Cook Group’s website: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/nicholas-gross

* View Shaun’s profile on The Cook Group’s website: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/shaun-vanbuskirk

* Connect with Shaun on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-vanbuskirk

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About “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

In each episode of “What’s Cookin’ in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker explores the latest advancements, strategic updates, and best practices for efficiently handling cases. With the sharpest professionals in the industry, Brian breaks down the latest trends and developments, getting to the heart of what’s happening in litigation.

Watch more episodes of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

* Website: https://cookgrouplegal.com

* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086333426860

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookgrouplegal

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cook-group-legal

Connect and learn more from your host, Brian Wacker:

* Read Brian’s bio on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/brian-m-wacker

* Connect Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wacker-32920b90

* Email: [email protected]

What's Cookin' in Litigation? with Brian Wacker, Episode 8

In this episode of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker welcomes Noah Oliphant, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Information Officer for The Cook Group.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 * The significance of technology in the legal field

 * Noah’s background and the foundational goals of incorporating advanced technology to streamline operations within The Cook Group

 * The specifics of custom software solutions, particularly "The Cook Book," designed to enhance efficiency and manage a high volume of cases efficiently

 * The future challenges, particularly cybersecurity, and the continuous improvement efforts to keep The Cook Group’s technology robust and secure

Learn more about Noah Oliphant:

 * Read Noah’s profile on The Cook Group’s website:  https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/noah-oliphant

 * Connect with Noah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noaholiphant

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About “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

In each episode of “What’s Cookin’ in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker explores the latest advancements, strategic updates, and best practices for efficiently handling cases. With the sharpest professionals in the industry, Brian breaks down the latest trends and developments, getting to the heart of what’s happening in litigation.

Watch more episodes of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

 * Website: https://cookgrouplegal.com

 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086333426860

 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookgrouplegal

 * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cook-group-legal

Connect and learn more from your host, Brian Wacker:

 * Read Brian’s bio on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/brian-m-wacker

 * Connect Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wacker-32920b90

 * Email: [email protected]

What's Cookin' in Litigation? with Brian Wacker, Episode 7

In this episode of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker welcomes back Meredith Hudgens, a partner at The Cook Group, based in Chicago.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Various labor and employment law updates, particularly focusing on recent legislative changes in Illinois

* New laws affecting employers, such as changes to the Whistleblower Act, Human Rights Act, and laws regarding non-compete and non-solicitation agreements

* Employer obligations for record-keeping under the Illinois Personnel Record Review Act

* The impact of the new Child Labor Law

* The requirements for job postings to disclose pay scales and benefits

* The importance of employers staying compliant with these new laws, updating employee handbooks, and consulting with legal professionals to avoid significant penalties

* Advice for employers to be cautious and thorough in their decision-making processes, highlighting the value of proactive legal consultation to mitigate risks.

Learn more about Meredith Hudgens:

* Connect with Meredith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-hudgens-89190210/

* View Meredith’s profile on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/meredith-hudgens

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About “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

In each episode of “What’s Cookin’ in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker explores the latest advancements, strategic updates, and best practices for efficiently handling cases. With the sharpest professionals in the industry, Brian breaks down the latest trends and developments, getting to the heart of what’s happening in litigation.

Watch more episodes of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

* Website: https://cookgrouplegal.com

* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086333426860

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookgrouplegal

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cook-group-legal

Connect and learn more from your host, Brian Wacker:

* Read Brian’s bio on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/brian-m-wacker

* Connect Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wacker-32920b90

* Email: [email protected]

What's Cookin' in Litigation? with Brian Wacker, Episode 6

In this episode of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker welcomes Meredith Hudgens, a partner at The Cook Group, based in Chicago.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* The rising trend of nuclear verdicts in Cook County and the significant impact of recent legal changes allowing punitive damages in wrongful death cases

* The advancements in mesothelioma treatment and the increasing complexity of asbestos litigation, emphasizing the need for knowledgeable legal representation

* The diversity within the Cook Group and the importance of women in law

Learn more about Meredith Hudgens:

* Connect with Meredith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-hudgens-89190210/

* View Meredith’s profile on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/meredith-hudgens

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About “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

In each episode of “What’s Cookin’ in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker explores the latest advancements, strategic updates, and best practices for efficiently handling cases. With the sharpest professionals in the industry, Brian breaks down the latest trends and developments, getting to the heart of what’s happening in litigation.

Watch more episodes of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

* Website: https://cookgrouplegal.com

* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086333426860

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookgrouplegal

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cook-group-legal

Connect and learn more from your host, Brian Wacker:

* Read Brian’s bio on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/brian-m-wacker

* Connect Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wacker-32920b90

* Email: [email protected]

What's Cookin' in Litigation? with Brian Wacker, Episode 5

In this episode of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker welcomes Gary Casimir, founding Partner at The Cook Group, based in the firm’s New York City office.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Gary’s extensive background in law and his experience working in both criminal and civil litigation

* Gary’s journey from his early days as a homicide investigator in Brooklyn to becoming a prosecutor and then transitioning into civil litigation, particularly toxic tort and asbestos cases

* Important insights and advice for young attorneys, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation and attention to detail in trial work

* The evolving nature of juror perceptions, the impact of talc litigation, and the enduring complexities of asbestos-related cases.

Learn more about Gary Casimir:

* View Gary’s profile on Cook Group’s website: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/gary-casimir

* Email: [email protected]

* Connect with Gary on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-casimir-140855170

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About “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

In each episode of “What’s Cookin’ in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker explores the latest advancements, strategic updates, and best practices for efficiently handling cases. With the sharpest professionals in the industry, Brian breaks down the latest trends and developments, getting to the heart of what’s happening in litigation.

Watch more episodes of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

* Website: https://cookgrouplegal.com

* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086333426860

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookgrouplegal

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cook-group-legal

Connect and learn more from your host, Brian Wacker:

* Read Brian’s bio on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/brian-m-wacker

* Connect Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wacker-32920b90

* Email: [email protected]

What's Cookin' in Litigation? with Brian Wacker, Episode 4

In this episode of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker welcomes Christine Calareso, Managing Partner of Cook Group’s west coast office.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Christine’s team, emphasizing their experience, close working relationships, and their shared goal of continuous improvement and strategic legal approaches

* The complexities of California litigation, including the specific jurisdictions and local rules, as well as the importance of understanding judge and jury dynamics

* Insights into ongoing trends in toxic tort and asbestos litigation, the rise of talc-related cases, and the significance of experienced legal counsel in navigating challenging legal landscapes

Learn more about Christine Calareso:

* View Christine’s profile on Cook Group’s website: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/christine-d-calareso

* Connect with Christine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-calareso-bleecker-711b7a6

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About “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

In each episode of “What’s Cookin’ in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker explores the latest advancements, strategic updates, and best practices for efficiently handling cases. With the sharpest professionals in the industry, Brian breaks down the latest trends and developments, getting to the heart of what’s happening in litigation.

Watch more episodes of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

* Website: https://cookgrouplegal.com

* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086333426860

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookgrouplegal

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cook-group-legal

Connect and learn more from your host, Brian Wacker:

* Read Brian’s bio on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/brian-m-wacker

* Connect Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wacker-32920b90

* Email: [email protected]

What's Cookin' in Litigation? with Brian Wacker, Episode 3

In this episode of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker welcomes Joe Hargraves, partner at Cook Group.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Joe Hargraves’ extensive experience in toxic torts and asbestos litigation, highlighting key courts and jurisdictions where these cases are prevalent

* The potential for PFAS ("forever chemicals") to become the next major mass tort subject, although the scientific link and causation are still highly uncertain

* How PFAS litigation might compare to asbestos litigation, with discussions on false advertising claims as a probable legal avenue due to the difficulty in proving specific harm from PFAS exposure.

* The uncertainty surrounding PFAS litigation and a reminder for companies to follow current EPA regulations while the legal landscape continues to develop

Learn more about Joe Hargraves:

* View Joe’s profile on Cook Group’s website: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/joseph-a-hargraves-jr

* Connect with Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-hargraves-2573029

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About “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

In each episode of “What’s Cookin’ in Litigation?” host Brian Wacker explores the latest advancements, strategic updates, and best practices for efficiently handling cases. With the sharpest professionals in the industry, Brian breaks down the latest trends and developments, getting to the heart of what’s happening in litigation.

Watch more episodes of “What's Cookin' in Litigation?”:

* Website: https://cookgrouplegal.com

* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086333426860

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookgrouplegal

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cook-group-legal

Connect and learn more from your host, Brian Wacker:

* Read Brian’s bio on cookgrouplegal.com: https://cookgrouplegal.com/attorney/brian-m-wacker

* Connect Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wacker-32920b90

* Email: [email protected]