GMKE Delivers Six Defense-Friendly Trial Outcomes for Clients in Q1 2026
Groth, Makarenko, Kaiser & Eidex, a trial firm defending the Southeast, is proud to announce that it obtained several favorable trial results for its clients in the first quarter of 2026. The firm prevailed in every case it took to trial in the first quarter. In addition, the firm successfully won several dispositive motions and defended a grant of summary judgment on appeal.
“These results reflect the firm’s trial-ready approach and the disciplined methodology our attorneys bring to every case,” said managing partner Joseph Kaiser. “We prepare each matter with the expectation that it may be decided in the courtroom, and that preparation is what drives strong outcomes for our clients.”
The favorable results were achieved through the collaborative efforts of multiple partners and associate attorneys, underscoring the strength and breadth of GMKE’s trial team. The cases spanned motor vehicle accidents and premises liability matters, demonstrating the firm’s versatile trial capabilities. The firm's results are based on both jury verdicts and motion practice. Details are available online at https://gmke.law/ and https://sugarloafadr.com/.

Rimkus Strengthens Built Environment Leadership to Support Growth Across Canada
Rimkus, a global leader in engineering and technical consulting, recently announced two leadership appointments to support the continued growth of its Built Environment Solutions (BES) business across Canada. Walter Gaudet (left) has joined as Vice President of BES Canada, and Michael Hensen (right) has assumed the role of Vice President of Technical Excellence for BES across North America.
“These leadership appointments reflect our strategy to invest ahead of demand and ensure Rimkus is well positioned to support clients navigating increasingly complex built environment challenges,” said Chris Rayasm, President and Chief Executive Officer of Rimkus.
Gaudet brings years of experience leading multidisciplinary business and infrastructure teams across Canada. In his role at Rimkus, Gaudet will oversee the continued expansion of BES capabilities across all Canadian offices.
Hensen steps into the Vice President of Technical Excellence role following demonstrated leadership in advancing service consistency and technical rigor across the firm. In this role, he will support the growth of BES services throughout Canada and the US by strengthening technical capabilities, enhancing technology, and continuing to invest in the development of Rimkus’ consultants. To read more on these appointments, click here or visit rimkus.com.

Keith Smith Named to Los Angeles Business Journal's Top 100 Lawyers for 2026
Wood Smith Henning & Berman proudly announces that partner Keith Smith has been selected as one of the Los Angeles Business Journal's Top 100 Lawyers for 2026, a distinction awarded to only a small group of attorneys across Los Angeles County who demonstrate exceptional legal skill, leadership, and impact on the profession.
With tens of thousands of attorneys practicing across Los Angeles County, earning a place among the Los Angeles Business Journal Top 100 is an extraordinary accomplishment. This year's selection process was more competitive than ever, with a record number of nominations submitted and an exceptionally strong pool of candidates. Being recognized among the very best in Los Angeles reflects not only professional excellence but also high-level leadership, influence, and meaningful contributions to the legal community.
Smith is a skilled trial lawyer known for his expertise in handling a wide variety of complex matters for both public entities and private clients. His practice spans complex commercial litigation, including construction, employment, catastrophic injury, and professional liability matters. He is especially sought after for handling high-exposure catastrophic injury matters and is frequently retained by clients and insurers as monitoring counsel to oversee and take to trial large-exposure claims. Learn more at www.wshblaw.com
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