Stephen Henning Recognized Among LA Times Studios' 2026 Legal Visionaries
Stephen Henning, founding partner of Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB), has been named among the 2026 Legal Visionaries by LA Times Studios, an honor recognizing influential leaders shaping the future of the legal profession.
"This recognition reflects not only his vision, but the culture of excellence he has built across the firm," said Stewart Reid, firmwide managing partner. "He has an exceptional ability to anticipate where the industry is headed and position both clients and our attorneys to meet those challenges with clarity and confidence."
"To be included among this group of legal visionaries is an honor," said Henning. "The practice of law continues to evolve, and I am proud to be part of a firm that embraces innovation while staying grounded in service to our clients, our communities, and one another." Learn more at www.wshblaw.com.
WSHB Partner Melissa Saracyan Among Los Angeles Business Journal's 2026 Women of Influence Honorees
Wood Smith Henning & Berman is thrilled to share that partner Melissa Saracyan has been recognized by the Los Angeles Business Journal as one of its 2026 Women of Influence Attorneys, a distinction honoring exceptional women lawyers whose leadership, professional excellence, and community impact are helping shape the legal profession across Southern California.
In addition to her courtroom and litigation success, Saracyan is known for her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to advancing excellence within the legal community.
"I am deeply honored to be recognized among such an accomplished group of women attorneys," said Saracyan. "The law offers a unique opportunity to solve complex problems, advocate for others, and make a meaningful difference. I am grateful for the trust of my clients, the support of my colleagues, and the opportunity to do work that continually challenges and inspires me." Learn more at www.wshblaw.com.
GEICO Names David Foy Chief Financial Officer
GEICO announced that David Foy has been appointed chief financial officer, effective June 29. Based at GEICO’s headquarters in Bethesda, Foy will report to Nancy Pierce, GEICO’s chief executive officer, and oversee all finance and real estate functions.
“David is a proven finance executive, and we are pleased to welcome him to GEICO,” Pierce said. “His extensive leadership experience across insurance and financial services will be instrumental to our continued success, and his expertise in capital management and building high-performing teams will support the long-term decisions that drive sustainable growth.”
Foy brings more than 30 years of experience across insurance and financial services. In recent years, he has advised on insurance-sector investments and transaction strategy, including several years as an independent consultant to the insurance industry.
Kevin James Wins Full Defense Verdict in $8 Million Case Brought by America’s Largest Injury Firm in DeKalb County
Partner Kevin James won a full defense verdict in a case that was tried by a jury in the Georgia State Court of DeKalb County before Judge Kimberly Alexander. The suit arose from a four-vehicle motor vehicle collision that occurred on October 3, 2019. In closing the plaintiff suggested the jury award a verdict in a range that exceeded $8 million for past special damages, future special damages, and past and future general damages, including pain and suffering. Mr. James argued the plaintiff had not met their burden on causation so a defense verdict would be warranted. The jury deliberated for approximately 45 minutes before returning a verdict in favor of the defense for $0. Mr. James submitted an Offer of Settlement in 2021 for $100,000 and is in position to recover all fees under that offer. See: https://gmke.law/kevin-james-defense-verdict-dekalb-county-061526/
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