Brian Katz sworn in by Morton Katz

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 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.

HKGC Team

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

    • 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

Related News

  • In his August President’s Message, Brian Katz reflects on a favorite Groucho Marx story before turning to a much more serious subject: the importance of LAJ membership.

  • Herman, Katz, Gisleson & Cain LLC is proud to announce that four of our attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®.  This honor reflects the dedication, skill, and commitment our attorneys bring to serving clients every day.

  • In his July 2025 President’s Column for Louisiana Advocates, Brian Katz explains how a famous line from one of his favorite movies succinctly represents his experience during the 2025 Regular Legislative Session. 

  • We are proud to announce that our firm has once again been recognized in the prestigious Chambers USA Guide, a leading legal directory that ranks the top lawyers and law firms across the country based on in-depth research and client feedback.

  • In the June 2025 Louisiana Advocates President’s Column, Brian Katz explores the long and repeated history of so-called tort “reform” in Louisiana—and why it continues to fail at lowering insurance rates.

  • LAJ President Brian Katz urges members to get involved, testify, contact legislators, and support LAJ’s advocacy efforts as the 2025 legislative session heats up with auto insurance rates at the center of the debate.

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