
Brian Katz sworn in by Morton Katz
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 fourth attorney from the firm to be named President of the Louisiana Association for Justice, preceded by Russ Herman, Maury Herman, and Ken Carter.

HKGC Team
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
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- 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
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- Dean and Judge Adrian G. Duplantier Distinguished Professor of Law Madeleine Landrieu, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, New Orleans
Stalwart Award
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- Robert J. David of Gainsburgh, Benjamin, David, Meunier & Warshauer, L.L.C. , New Orleans
Related News
Herman, Katz, Gisleson & Cain is proud to announce that four of our attorneys have been recognized in the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, one of the legal profession's most respected peer-review publications.
Herman, Katz, Gisleson & Cain is proud to announce that four of the firm's attorneys have been selected for inclusion in the 2026 Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers Guide, one of the legal profession's most respected recognitions for attorneys representing individuals and families in consumer litigation matters.
We’re proud to announce that our firm’s attorneys have been recognized in Louisiana Super Lawyers, 2026.
Herman, Katz, Gisleson & Cain has once again been named to the Best Law Firms® 2026 rankings, earning Regional Tier 1 recognition in New Orleans across five major practice areas — including Admiralty & Maritime Law, Appellate Practice, Construction Litigation, Mass Torts, and Personal Injury.
In his September President’s Message, Brian Katz reflects on his time serving as LAJ president and shares why he truly enjoyed the experience.
Brian Katz's election to the 2026 AAJ Board of Governors speaks volumes about his dedication, leadership, and commitment to the cause of justice.

