Firm News

La Cava Jacobson & Goodis Attends the Stetson Law Career Fair

La Cava Jacobson & Goodis, a premier Florida-based law firm specializing in civil litigation, proudly attended the Stetson Law Career Fair to connect with the next generation of legal talent. The event, hosted by Stetson University College of Law, provided an excellent opportunity for students to engage with experienced attorneys, explore career paths, and gain insight into the firm’s dynamic legal practice.

Connecting with Future Legal Professionals

La Cava Jacobson & Goodis Attends the Stetson Law Career FairAs a firm dedicated to excellence in defense litigation, La Cava Jacobson & Goodis values mentorship and professional development. Attorneys and recruiters from the firm were on hand to discuss opportunities for law clerks, interns, and future associates, providing students with valuable guidance on launching their legal careers.

Firm Overview and Career Opportunities

La Cava Jacobson & Goodis is recognized for its strong litigation practice, defending clients in medical malpractice, insurance defense, professional liability, and general civil litigation. With multiple offices across Florida, the firm offers a collaborative work environment and the opportunity to handle complex cases from the start of a legal career.

Students attending the fair had the chance to learn about the firm’s commitment to mentorship, professional growth, and hands-on litigation experience. Many expressed interest in the firm’s summer associate programs, which provide real-world exposure to trial practice and case strategy.

A Bright Future in Law

The Stetson Law Career Fair serves as a crucial bridge between legal education and professional practice. La Cava Jacobson & Goodis remains committed to fostering new talent and looks forward to welcoming the next generation of attorneys into its ranks.

For more information about career opportunities at La Cava Jacobson & Goodis, contact us today!

Brittany G. Hudson publishes “Behind the White Coat: The Impact of Litigation on Physicians” in the Stetson Journal of Advocacy and the Law

Brittany G. HudsonTampa, FL – March 2025 – La Cava Jacobson & Goodis proudly announces that Associate, Brittany G. Hudson, has authored a compelling article titled “Behind the White Coat: The Impact of Litigation on Physicians,” published in the Stetson Journal of Advocacy and the Law. ​

In this article, Hudson examines the psychological and professional repercussions that medical malpractice lawsuits impose on physicians. She challenges the common perception that litigation serves solely as a corrective measure, highlighting instead how it can lead to defensive medicine practices, increased stress, and a potential decline in the quality of patient care. Hudson advocates for a more balanced approach that considers the well-being of healthcare providers while ensuring patient rights.​

Hudson’s dedication to the medical community is evident not only through her legal practice but also in her proactive efforts to educate healthcare professionals on mitigating legal risks. In October 2022, she collaborated with Shareholder Jeffrey Goodis and Associate Andrew Hudson to present “Avoiding Medical Malpractice Lawsuits: The Teamwork Approach” to a group of gastroenterologists. This presentation emphasized the importance of communication and collaboration among medical teams to prevent negligence claims.

Hudson earned her undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida in 2015 and her Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law in 2019. During her time at Stetson, she was an active member of the Trial Team, competing in the National Trial Competition in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and was recognized on the Honor Roll. Her commitment extended beyond academics; she served as a research assistant to Professor Teresa Radwan, held the position of pro bono chair for the Florida Association of Women Lawyers at Stetson, and participated on the council for the National Women’s Law Student Organization. Her practical experience includes judicial internships with the 13th Judicial Circuit, serving as a Guardian Ad Litem for Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.

Since joining La Cava Jacobson & Goodis, Hudson has focused her practice on medical malpractice defense, demonstrating a profound understanding of the complexities involved in healthcare litigation. Her recent publication underscores her commitment to bridging the gap between legal practice and the medical profession, aiming to foster a more empathetic and effective healthcare system

For more information about Brittany G. Hudson and her work, please visit La Cava Jacobson & Goodis. If you would like read her article, you can access it at https://www2.stetson.edu/advocacy-journal/behind-the-white-coat-the-impact-of-litigation-on-physicians/

Nine Attorneys from La Cava Jacobson & Goodis Recognized as 2025 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

Super LawyersTampa, FL – February 2025 – La Cava Jacobson & Goodis is proud to announce that nine of its attorneys across five offices have been selected for inclusion in the prestigious Super Lawyers list for 2025. This recognition highlights the firm’s commitment to excellence in legal advocacy and its reputation for delivering outstanding results for clients.

The attorneys recognized as Super Lawyers and Rising Stars span multiple practice areas, reflecting the firm’s depth of experience and dedication to providing top-tier legal representation. Selection to Super Lawyers is based on a rigorous evaluation process, including peer nominations, independent research, and professional achievement.

Recognized Super Lawyers Attorneys:

Louis J. La Cava – Recognized as a Super Lawyer for over 20 years.

Jeffrey M. Goodis – Recognized as a Super Lawyer for over 20 years, Tampa Bay Top 50, and Florida Top 100.

David Nelson – Recognized as a Super Lawyer for over 10 years.

Jonathon P. Lynn – Recognized as a Super Lawyer for over 10 years.

Justine D. Adamski – Super Lawyers 2025.

Additionally, the firm celebrates its Rising Stars, attorneys who have demonstrated exceptional legal talent early in their careers:

Erin M. Diaz – Rising Star 2025

Kelly Neufville – Rising Star 2025

Lindsay DeCarlo – Rising Star 2025

Amanda “Mandi” Smith – Rising Star 2025

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding attorneys who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process includes independent research, peer nominations, and evaluations to ensure only the most distinguished legal professionals receive this honor.

“La Cava Jacobson & Goodis is honored to have such a talented team recognized for their excellence and dedication to serving our clients,” said Louis J. La Cava, Managing Shareholder. “This recognition is a testament to their hard work, legal expertise, and unwavering commitment to the legal profession.”

About La Cava Jacobson & Goodis

La Cava Jacobson & Goodis is a full-service litigation firm specializing in civil defense, medical malpractice, insurance defense, and professional liability. With a team of experienced trial attorneys, the firm is dedicated to providing superior legal representation to clients throughout Florida.

Lawyers from La Cava Jacobson & Goodis Participate in Stetson Law’s “Campus to Career: How I Lawyer” Mentoring Program

La Cava Jacobson & Goodis Participate in Stetson Law’s "Campus to Career: How I Lawyer" Program

Jeffrey Goodis, Erin Diaz, Brittany Hudson, and Andrew Hudson

Gulfport, FL – January 31, 2024Jeffrey Goodis, Erin Diaz, Andrew Hudson, and Brittany Hudson recently participated in Stetson University College of Law’s Campus to Career: How I Lawyer Mentoring Program, a premier professional development conference designed to help law students transition from academics to successful legal careers.

Hosted at Stetson Law’s campus, the event brought together experienced legal professionals, faculty, and students for a day of insightful discussions on career paths, professional skills, and the realities of law practice. Jeff, Erin, Andrew, and Brittany contributed their expertise as panelists, sharing their personal journeys in the legal profession and offering invaluable advice to future attorneys.

During the program, the attorneys participated in discussions covering essential career-building topics such as networking, developing a professional identity, and navigating various legal fields. Drawing from their years of experience, they provided practical insights on the challenges and opportunities young lawyers face when entering the profession.

“It was an honor to be part of this event and to connect with the next generation of legal professionals,” said Jeffrey Goodis. “Law school prepares students with the legal knowledge they need, but events like these help bridge the gap between the classroom and real-world practice.”

The Campus to Career: How I Lawyer Mentoring Program is a cornerstone of Stetson Law’s commitment to equipping students with the skills needed for a successful legal career. By engaging with practicing attorneys, students gain firsthand knowledge of what it takes to thrive in different areas of the law.

Stetson Law, known for its strong emphasis on advocacy and professional development, continues to host initiatives that connect students with experienced practitioners. The Campus to Career: How I Lawyer Mentoring Program serves as a vital resource for students looking to refine their career goals and gain insights from seasoned professionals.

La Cava Jacobson & Goodis’ participation underscores our dedication to mentoring aspiring lawyers and contributing to the legal community. Our involvement in programs like these helps foster professional development and ensures that the next generation of attorneys is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

Congratulations to Taylor Morgan, on Making Partner!

Taylor A. MorganWe are happy to announce the promotion of Taylor Morgan to Partner at La Cava Jacobson & Goodis. This well-deserved recognition reflects their exceptional legal expertise, dedication to client success, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Her practice is primarily focused on the defense of medical malpractice and general liability claims, including wrongful death claims.

La Cava Jacobson & Goodis Recognized by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers® for 2025

Best Lawyers® Best Law Firms 2025Tampa, Florida – La Cava Jacobson & Goodis is proud to announce its inclusion in the prestigious Best Law Firms 2025 rankings, an annual recognition by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®. This honor reflects the firm’s unwavering commitment to legal excellence, outstanding client service, and professional integrity.

The Best Law Firms ranking is one of the legal industry’s most distinguished accolades, recognizing firms that demonstrate exceptional performance and client satisfaction. La Cava Jacobson & Goodis earned high rankings in several practice areas, including Medical Malpractice Defense, Insurance Law, Personal Injury Litigation Defense, and Professional Liability Defense.

“This recognition underscores the dedication of our attorneys and staff, whose expertise and tireless efforts allow us to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients,” said Louis La Cava, President and Managing Shareholder at La Cava Jacobson & Goodis. “We are honored by this continued recognition and grateful for the trust our clients and peers place in us.”

The Best Law Firms rankings are determined through a rigorous evaluation process that includes peer reviews, client feedback, and an assessment of a firm’s legal expertise, responsiveness, and professionalism. Eligibility for inclusion requires at least one attorney from the firm to be listed in the current edition of The Best Lawyers in America®—a standard that La Cava Jacobson & Goodis has consistently met.

Founded in 2010, La Cava Jacobson & Goodis has built a reputation for excellence in medical malpractice defense and general liability defense. The firm is dedicated to providing innovative legal strategies and personalized counsel to meet the diverse needs of its clients, which range from individuals to corporations and insurance companies.

“This award is a reflection of our firm’s collaboration and shared vision to provide exceptional legal services while maintaining the highest ethical standards,” added Founding Shareholder, Kari Jacobson. “We remain committed to upholding our values and delivering results that exceed expectations.”

As La Cava Jacobson & Goodis celebrates this significant milestone, the firm looks forward to continuing its tradition of excellence and contributing to the advancement of the legal profession.

About La Cava Jacobson & Goodis

La Cava Jacobson & Goodis is a premier law firm specializing in medical malpractice and general liability defense. With offices across the State the Florida. The firm is committed to providing strategic and effective legal solutions tailored to its clients’ unique challenges.

About Best Law Firms

The Best Law Firms rankings, published by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®, recognize law firms for their professional excellence and consistent high-quality legal services. Achieving a ranking signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise.

Kari Jacobson Presented at the National Association of Legal Assistants

Kari Jacobson Presented at the National Association of Legal AssistantsKari Jacobson, Esquire participated in the National Association of Legal Assistants, Inc .Tort Talks Series: The Anatomy of a Tort Cases explained through the case analysis of Alaska’s Kavorkian case(s). This four part comprehensive webinar was tailored for paralegals who wished to deepen their understanding of tort law.

Kari presented on the Defendant’s strategy for presenting witnesses and exhibits in tort claims providing in depth insights into the techniques used to prepare and present compelling testimony and evidence. Topics included witness examination, direct examination strategies, handling witnesses, and the rules governing the admissibility of exhibits. Real-life examples of the case study provided practical applications, equipping paralegals with the skills needed to effectively support attorneys during trial.

Congratulations to our New Associates, Katie Staab, Kaila Dorish, and Natalie Keller, on being admitted to the Florida Bar

Congratulations to our New Associates, Katie Staab, Kaila Dorish, and Natalie Keller, on being admitted to the Florida BarWe are pleased to announced that Kaila Dorish, Katie Staab , and Natalie Keller have successfully completed the Florida Bar Exam and are now licensed attorneys!

Katie and Kaila are now Associates at the firm’s Tampa Office where they will be serving our clients. Katie has joined the firm’s General Liability Practice Group while Kaila has joined the firm’s Medical Malpractice Practice Group. Natalie is now an Associate at the firm’s St. Petersburg’s office where she will be service our clients and handling primarily medical malpractice matter.

Please join us in congratulating Kaila Dorish, Katie Staab, and Natalie Keller on this incredible achievement and welcoming them to the practice of law.

Congratulations to our new Fort Lauderdale Associate, Sarina Bonanno, for being admitted to The Florida Bar

Sarina Bonanno, The Florida BarWe are pleased to announce that Sarina Bonanno has successfully completed The Florida Bar Exam and is now a licensed attorney!

Sarina is now an Associate at the firm’s Fort Lauderdale office where she will be serving our clients and handling primarily medical malpractice matters.

Please join us in congratulating Sarina Bonanno on this incredible achievement and welcoming her to the practice of law.

Congratulations to our new Naples Associate, Hailey Hester, for being admitted to The Florida Bar

We are pleased to announce thatHailey Hester Swearing In Hailey Hester has successfully completed The Florida Bar Exam and is now a licensed attorney!

Hailey is now an Associate at the firm’s Naples office where she will be serving our clients and handling primarily general liability matters.

Please join us in congratulating Hailey Hester on this incredible achievement and welcoming her to the practice of law.