HKGC Partner, Brian Katz, Inaugurated as President of the Louisiana Association for Justice

On September 20, 2024, Brian Katz was sworn in as President of the Louisiana Association for Justice.  The ceremony was part of the Louisiana Association for Justice 2024 Fall Conference.

Brian is the fifth attorney from the firm to be named President of the Louisiana Association for Justice, preceded by Russ Herman, Maury Herman, Ken Carter and Steve Herman.

The swearing-in ceremony was a special moment, as Brian was inaugurated by none other than his father, Morton Katz.  In his acceptance speech, Brian shared a humorous anecdote about his first trial with his father as second chair.  Brian thanked his wife, parents, family, HKGC team, and the amazing staff and leadership at LAJ.  He pledged to rally the troops and ensure that everyone stays engaged in LAJ’s efforts.  He assured that everyone will be hearing a lot from him moving forward.

In addition to his personal remarks, Brian expressed appreciation and admiration for the other LAJ members who were recognized as LAJ Officers and Honorees, stating it was a privilege to be in the company of such esteemed individuals.  The event named:

LAJ 2024-25 Officers

President-Elect B. Scott Andrews of Dué Guidry Piedrahita Andrews Courrege L.C., Baton Rouge

Immediate Past-President Scott J. Chafin, Jr., of Gregorio, Chafin & Johnston, LLC, Shreveport

Louisiana Association for Justice CEO/Executive Director/Secretary-Treasurer Constance “Connie” Koury, Baton Rouge

2024 Honorees

President’s Award

• • Jared R. Dunahoe of Dunahoe Law Firm, Natchitoches
  • Derrick G. “Digger” Earles of Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, Lafayette
  • Mary Watson Smith of Law Office of Mary Watson Smith, L.L.C., Metairie
  • J. Christopher “Chris” Zainey, Jr., of Lambert Zainey Smith & Soso, PLC, New Orleans

Public Service Award

• • Dean and Judge Adrian G. Duplantier Distinguished Professor of Law Madeleine Landrieu, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, New Orleans

Stalwart Award

• • Robert J. David of Gainsburgh, Benjamin, David, Meunier & Warshauer, L.L.C. , New Orleans