Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Stephen Gerard

SAvannah,Ga

Summary

Adept at navigating complex legal landscapes, I leveraged my expertise in case management and negotiation at Celanese Americas to secure favorable outcomes in high-stakes litigation. My collaborative approach and strategic thinking, honed through extensive trial experience and legal research, consistently enhanced client satisfaction and operational efficiency, marking a track record of success in both corporate and maritime law.

Detail-oriented individual with exceptional communication and project management skills. Proven ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and efficiently in fast-paced environments. Recognized for taking proactive approach to identifying and addressing issues, with focus on optimizing processes and supporting team objectives.

Overview

2001
2001
years of professional experience

Work History

Maritime Attorney

Retired From Working
  • Managed complex caseloads effectively by prioritizing tasks and keeping organized records of case materials.
  • Developed strong working relationships with opposing counsel, fostering a collaborative environment for dispute resolution.
  • Researched and interpreted laws, rulings and regulations to advise clients on business and legal transactions.
  • Developed strategies to resolve cases in client's best interest.
  • Participated in mediation sessions leading to cost-effective resolutions without resorting to lengthy trial procedures.
  • Provided legal counsel to clients on diverse business, financial and civil matters.
  • Drafted comprehensive legal documents such as pleadings, motions, briefs, contracts, wills, and trusts for various clients.
  • Filed timely case pleadings to meet firm deadlines.
  • Represented clients in civil litigation, criminal proceedings and appeals in state and federal courts.
  • Developed legal strategies to protect client interests and resolve disputes.
  • Negotiated settlements of disputes and litigation.
  • Drafted and reviewed contracts for clients, ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable laws while protecting their interests.
  • Presented compelling oral arguments in court hearings and trials that resulted in favorable rulings for clients.
  • Drafted and reviewed contracts and other legal documents to support client needs.
  • Conducted thorough due diligence investigations to uncover critical information pertinent to clients'' legal matters.
  • Achieved successful case outcomes by researching legal issues and drafting persuasive arguments.
  • Conducted legal research and conferred with colleagues with subject matter expertise to develop strategies and arguments in preparation for presentation of cases.
  • Advised clients on corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions and other business matters.
  • Developed strategies and arguments for hearings, trials and appeals.
  • Negotiated favorable settlements, minimizing litigation costs and time spent in court.
  • Assisted in the development of legal strategies and arguments to secure favorable outcomes in contentious litigation matters.
  • Facilitated collaborative environment, boosting team's ability to meet tight deadlines.
  • Advised corporate clients on risk management strategies, minimizing legal exposure and potential litigation.
  • Represented clients in court effectively, resulting in high rate of case success.
  • Enhanced firm's reputation by consistently delivering high-quality legal services.
  • Drafted and reviewed legal documents for precision, preventing potential legal vulnerabilities.
  • Conducted thorough legal research to support case strategy, leading to significant legal victories.
  • Streamlined document retrieval process, significantly reducing time needed to access critical information.
  • Negotiated settlements to avoid trial, saving clients time and money.
  • Negotiated favorable terms in complex litigation cases, securing advantageous outcomes for clients.
  • Coordinated with external counsel to ensure cohesive approach to multi-jurisdictional cases.
  • Prepared and filed pleadings, motions and other legal documents in court proceedings.
  • Developed strategies for court proceedings and negotiations.
  • Negotiated settlements with opposing counsel.
  • Created and finalized contracts and other legal documents for clients.
  • Reviewed and analyzed pertinent state and federal laws and legal precedents.
  • Represented clients in court hearings and in negotiations with other parties.
  • Drafted motions, petitions and waivers.
  • Researched, wrote and filed motions, writs and briefs for each case.
  • Analyzed legal documents and identified pertinent issues for clients.
  • Minimized risk exposure through careful advice on business operations and strategic plans.
  • Communicated with clients and collected information to research cases and prepare settlement offers.
  • Researched and wrote contracts, agreements and proposals.
  • Explained available courses of action and possible repercussions of cases to clients.
  • Interviewed witnesses and gathered public record research relevant to each case.
  • Interviewed and selected jurors to verify competency and lack of biases, presenting challenges for cause to dismiss unfit candidates.

Insurance Claims Examiner

Allstate Insurance Company - Sanfratello Insurance Agency
  • Handled sensitive information with discretion, ensuring confidentiality of personal and financial details for claimants throughout the claims examination process.
  • Utilized analytical skills to evaluate medical bills for accuracy and appropriateness of charges before approving payments as part of the claims process.
  • Participated in cross-functional team meetings to address organizational challenges related to claims management and develop solutions collaboratively.
  • Reduced claim processing time by implementing efficient workflow strategies and prioritizing tasks effectively.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly addressing inquiries and providing accurate information on claim status.
  • Maintained detailed records of all claims activities, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies.
  • Interpreted policy provisions, endorsements, and exclusions to accurately determine coverage for claims.
  • Researched claims and incident information to deliver solutions and resolve problems.
  • Finalized Type files for insurance claim payment release.
  • Provided exceptional customer service by empathetically addressing claimants'' concerns and effectively explaining the claims process to them.
  • Examined photographs and statements.
  • Mitigated fraud risks by identifying suspicious patterns in claims data and escalating concerns to appropriate teams for further investigation.
  • Negotiated settlements with claimants'' attorneys when needed, achieving favorable outcomes for both parties while minimizing costs.
  • Conducted thorough investigations of complex claims, gathering relevant documentation and interviewing witnesses when necessary.
  • Consulted police and hospital records when needed.
  • Identified opportunities for subrogation recovery through careful analysis of third-party liability cases, facilitating successful recoveries from at-fault parties or their insurers.
  • Interviewed claimants and witnesses to gather factual information.
  • Managed caseloads effectively while maintaining high-quality work standards and meeting strict deadlines consistently.
  • Collaborated with insurance adjusters to expedite claim settlements, ensuring fair resolutions for all parties involved.
  • Worked with private investigators and attorneys on preparation of evidence, witness statements, and other documentation in preparation for trial.
  • Read over insurance policies to ascertain levels of coverage and determine whether claims would receive approvals or denials.
  • Conducted day-to-day administrative tasks to maintain information files and process paperwork.
  • Examined claims forms and other records to determine insurance coverage.
  • Directed claims negotiations within allowable limit of $Amount and supported successful litigations for advanced issues.
  • Identified insurance coverage limitations with thorough examinations of claims documentation and related records.
  • Reviewed police reports, medical treatment records, and physical property damage to determine extent of liability.
  • Analyzed information gathered by investigation and reported findings and recommendations.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service to policyholders by communicating important information and patiently listening to issues.
  • Collected Type information from customers to complete claims and legal files.
  • Conducted comprehensive interviews of witnesses and claimants to gather facts and information.
  • Determined liability outlined in coverage and assessed documentation such from police and healthcare providers to understand damages incurred.
  • Negotiated Type settlement agreements to resolve disputes.
  • Maintained contact with claimants and attorneys to determine treatment status.
  • Incorporated Type objectives to achieve action plans and strategies.
  • Investigated and assessed damage to property and reviewed property damage estimates.
  • Documented information gathered in field and uploaded data to company database for efficient processing using Software.
  • Visited customer locations to evaluate damage and provided cost estimates for remediation.

Corporate Associate General Counsel

Celanese Americas
01.1975 - 12.2000
  • Processed checks to vendors and sought out signatures.
  • Participated actively in planning and executing company events.
  • Managed contract and price negotiations with office vendors and service providers.
  • Entered invoice into accounting software for payment.
  • Participated in client meetings as a key representative of the Corporate Associate team, fostering strong professional relationships.
  • Drafted and reviewed complex legal documents, ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable regulations.
  • Improved overall team performance through constructive feedback and regular performance evaluations.
  • Assisted in the successful completion of mergers and acquisitions, contributing to company expansion efforts.
  • Provided strategic guidance on corporate governance matters, reinforcing ethical practices across all levels of the company.
  • Supported senior management in making data-driven decisions by conducting detailed financial analysis on relevant industry trends.
  • Streamlined internal processes for increased efficiency and productivity within the corporate team.
  • Coordinated due diligence activities during transaction processes, ensuring all necessary information was gathered efficiently and accurately.
  • Contributed to the development of best practice guidelines within the Corporate Associate team by actively participating in knowledge-sharing initiatives.
  • Negotiated favorable contract terms with vendors, resulting in cost savings for the company.
  • Conducted thorough legal research to support decision-making processes and mitigate potential risks.
  • Maintained a high level of industry expertise, staying informed on market trends and regulatory changes to better serve clients and the company.
  • Served as a liaison between departments, facilitating clear communication channels to promote seamless project execution.
  • Managed multiple tasks simultaneously, effectively prioritizing workloads to meet deadlines and achieve objectives.
  • Enhanced client relationships by providing consistent communication and effective collaboration on projects.
  • Analyzed legal documents and identified pertinent issues for clients.
  • Prepared and filed pleadings, motions and other legal documents in court proceedings.
  • Researched and wrote contracts, agreements and proposals.
  • Created and finalized contracts and other legal documents for clients.
  • Counseled clients on potential outcomes of legal matters.
  • Communicated with clients and collected information to research cases and prepare settlement offers.
  • Developed strategies for court proceedings and negotiations.
  • Negotiated settlements with opposing counsel.
  • Drafted motions, petitions and waivers.
  • Researched, wrote and filed motions, writs and briefs for each case.
  • Explained available courses of action and possible repercussions of cases to clients.
  • Represented clients in court hearings and in negotiations with other parties.
  • Interviewed witnesses and gathered public record research relevant to each case.
  • Minimized risk exposure through careful advice on business operations and strategic plans.
  • Presented key evidence and exhibits during civil trials.
  • Reviewed and analyzed pertinent state and federal laws and legal precedents.
  • Interviewed and selected jurors to verify competency and lack of biases, presenting challenges for cause to dismiss unfit candidates.
  • Drafted demurrers and replied to oppositions.
  • Conducted settlement negotiations and trial for property case with $Amount in counterclaims.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to establish best practices for managing contractual obligations.
  • Mitigated employment-related risks by crafting clear policies addressing workplace conduct and performance expectations.
  • Successfully resolved numerous disputes through skillful mediation, preventing costly litigation and preserving business relationships.
  • Negotiated and drafted Type contracts.
  • Advised executive leadership on strategic decisions, minimizing legal risks and ensuring positive outcomes.
  • Managed litigation strategy to successfully resolve high-stakes disputes with minimal financial impact.
  • Performed wide range of legal work as part of in-house legal group for company with Number employees.
  • Provided expert guidance during regulatory audits, ensuring full compliance and avoiding potential penalties.
  • Supported mergers and acquisitions activity through thorough due diligence reviews, identifying potential liabilities early in the negotiation process.
  • Reviewed and advised leadership on required disclosures for Area of expertise, Area of expertise and Area of expertise.
  • Led merger and acquisition due diligence investigations and handled integration legal aspects.
  • Reviewed marketing materials for accuracy and adherence to advertising guidelines, ensuring brand reputation remained uncompromised.
  • Composed and reviewed Type documents and employee communications to target issues and provide legal counsel.
  • Facilitated training sessions on relevant legal topics for employees at all levels of the organization, promoting awareness of applicable laws and regulations.
  • Enhanced company compliance by developing and implementing comprehensive legal policies and procedures.
  • Reduced outside counsel expenses by building an effective in-house legal team capable of handling diverse matters.
  • Led complex and pivotal legal work in fast-paced environment.
  • Handled corporate legal matters through deep knowledge of laws and regulations applicable to Area of expertise, Area of expertise and Area of expertise.
  • Evaluated proposed legislative changes impacting business operations, proactively updating internal policies to maintain compliance with new requirements.
  • Reported requirements for benefit plans and executive compensation.
  • Oversaw corporate governance matters including entity formation, maintenance, and dissolution activities for multiple subsidiaries around the globe.
  • Orchestrated and handled various legal issues by remaining highly organized and prioritizing.
  • Advised finance leaders on employment tax issues regarding compensation and benefits plans.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with external counsel and industry peers to stay abreast of emerging legal trends impacting the organization.
  • Monitored new legislation and regulatory changes that impacted Area of business and Area of business to advise management accordingly.
  • Met tight deadlines and effectively managed multiple priorities using strong organizational skills.
  • Translated complex legal issues into understandable terms.
  • Handled complex legal issues using sound judgment, integrity, business acumen and decisiveness.
  • Achieved successful outcomes in legal matters by employing strong business acumen and exceptional level of common sense.
  • Negotiated complex contracts for key business acquisitions, resulting in successful expansion efforts.
  • Filed timely case pleadings to meet firm deadlines.
  • Developed strategies to resolve cases in client's best interest.
  • Researched and interpreted laws, rulings and regulations to advise clients on business and legal transactions.
  • Provided legal counsel to clients on diverse business, financial and civil matters.
  • Represented clients in civil litigation, criminal proceedings and appeals in state and federal courts.
  • Drafted and reviewed contracts and other legal documents to support client needs.
  • Developed strategies and arguments for hearings, trials and appeals.
  • Negotiated settlements of disputes and litigation.
  • Conducted legal research and conferred with colleagues with subject matter expertise to develop strategies and arguments in preparation for presentation of cases.
  • Developed legal strategies to protect client interests and resolve disputes.
  • Advised clients on corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions and other business matters.

Education

Juris Doctor - Law

New York University School of Law
New York, NY
02.1964

Bachelor Of Science. - International Business

New York University
New York, NY
06.1960

Skills

  • Case management
  • Commercial real estate
  • Criminal defense
  • Estate planning
  • Trial experience
  • Legal writing
  • Document review
  • Efficient researcher
  • Court procedures
  • Document filing
  • Investigation skills
  • Legal research
  • Reviewing documents
  • Legal drafting
  • Legal advisory
  • Legal analysis
  • Court preparation
  • Contract negotiation
  • Business law
  • Litigation management
  • Settlement negotiation
  • Document preparation
  • Corporate and business legal issues
  • Client counseling
  • Commercial litigation experience
  • Evaluating contracts
  • Corporate transactions
  • Alternative dispute resolution
  • Case interpretation
  • Negotiation
  • Administrative support
  • Practice management
  • Litigation
  • Dispute arbitration
  • Case file management
  • Case analysis
  • Strategy development
  • Immigration law
  • Corporate law
  • Drafting Documents
  • American bar association (ABA)
  • Discovery processes
  • Employment law
  • American immigration lawyers association (AILA)
  • Client representation
  • Discovery
  • Court appointed mediation
  • Civil litigation
  • Corporate litigation
  • Westlaw expertise
  • Oral argument
  • Client advising
  • Argument writing
  • Legal evaluation
  • Evaluating documents
  • Creative and critical thinking
  • Client representation and advisement
  • Legal research and review
  • Legal brief preparation
  • Courtroom procedures
  • Hearings and depositions
  • Discovery and document review
  • Collaboration and teamwork
  • Legal counseling
  • Legal document preparation
  • Microsoft office and docusign
  • Contract review and negotiation
  • Knowledge of federal and state laws

Timeline

Corporate Associate General Counsel

Celanese Americas
01.1975 - 12.2000

Maritime Attorney

Retired From Working

Insurance Claims Examiner

Allstate Insurance Company - Sanfratello Insurance Agency

Juris Doctor - Law

New York University School of Law

Bachelor Of Science. - International Business

New York University

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Stephen Gerard