Bowman and Brooke has again been recognized by Chambers USA as an “Elite” firm in the Nationwide Product Liability & Mass Tort category. The publication notes, "They are widely regarded as the most prominent automotive defense group in the country. They represent every manufacturer and are great trial lawyers." The firm is ranked in Band 3 in the category.
Bowman and Brooke is also recognized as a Band 1 national leader in Automotive Product Liability — one of only eight firms named to that list.
Firms ranked in Bands 1-3 are considered Elite.
According to Chambers USA, Bowman and Brooke is known nationally as a "dedicated product liability defense firm, fielding a deep trial bench. Widely considered a market leader in the automotive industry, with a client list that features numerous leading manufacturers. Broad practice also includes strength in areas such as medical devices and consumer products, with increasing activity in large-scale consumer class actions."
Both Paul G. Cereghini and Joel H. Smith are named within the National Automotive Spotlight. Bowman and Brooke is one of only three firms with two lawyers on this list. Firm Chair Paul Cereghini – chairs the firm and regularly acts as lead trial counsel in large-scale product liability cases and personal injury matters for major automobile companies. "His court instincts are excellent and he's very persuasive in front of a jury."
Partner Joel Smith – is a sought-after trial lawyer who acts as national counsel on a number of mass torts for major automotive companies. "He is a student of advocacy and it comes through in his practice. He is thoughtful, measured and persuasive as well as being excellent on the technical side of a case."
In addition to the firm’s national product liability rankings, two partners were ranked in state categories.
Executive Managing Partner Wendy F. Lumish is ranked for Litigation: Appellate – Florida, Band 2. Wendy Lumish is an experienced appellate practitioner who specializes in product liability disputes, as well as handling cases involving medical malpractice and personal injury claims. "Wendy handles a lot of product liability and tort appeals. She is very strong in this space and does a good job for her clients."
Joel Smith is additionally ranked for Litigation: General Commercial – South Carolina, Band 1. Joel Smith frequently advises on mass torts and product liability cases, particularly those concerning the automotive industry. "The way he commands a jury and the presence he has is excellent."
Click here to access Bowman and Brooke's 2023 USA - Nationwide Product Liability & Mass Torts: The Elite Legal Rankings.