Frantz Law Group, APLC Catastrophic Injury & Wrongful Death Personal Injury Trial Attorneys
ADVOCATING FOR CLIENTS FOR MORE THAN 43 YEARS
RECORD JURY VERDICTS AND SETTLEMENTS | ACCOUNTABILITY AND JUSTICE
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The Winning Edge EXPERIENCE AND RESULTS Settlements and Verdicts 1 From 2020-2023, Frantz Law Group (FLG) secured over sixty multimillion-dollar individual settlements and attained several multibillion-dolar settlements for thousands of victims (with co-counsel). See the following matters: • $13.5 Billion vs. public utility - 2020 (FLG represents 4,500 clients of approximately 40,000 victims) • $1.8 Billion vs. public utility - 2021 (FLG represents 8,202 clients of approximately 35,000 victims) 2 • $800 Million Recovered against MGM et al, for the victims of the Route 91 massacre shooting at Mandalay Bay. (FLG represents 201 clients) 2 • $1.2 Billion vs. JUUL Labs, Inc. - 2022 (FLG represents nearly 1,000 school districts of approximately 1,400 districts) 2 • $235 Million vs. Altria - 2023 3 • $223 Million Jury verdict • $55.4 Million Jury verdict vs. public utility (FLG represented the families of four United States Marine Corps Officers because of the gross negligence of the utility) 4 • $18.5 Million Verdict vs. dietary supplement company. (Mr. Frantz provided congressional testimony about the dangerous dietary supplement at issue in the case. Congress later permanently banned the supplement). On behalf of nearly 1,000 school districts in 38 states, FLG achieved a positive outcome against JUUL Labs, Inc. for $1.2 billion. 3 Although the case settled against JUUL, the case has been ongoing in trial against Altria, the remaining significant defendant in the case. There is a proposed global settlement of $235 million 2 offered that includes all school districts in the United States that filed claims in this multidistrictlitigation in San Fransisco. 1 Each case is dependent uponits particular facts, and no prior result is a guarantee or prediction of another case’s possible outcome. Nonetheless, our prior cases show the kind of results we can often achieve. 2 This is the amount recovered by all the victims as part of a collective settlement. Under the settlement terms, each plantiff’s recovery is determined based on various factors. The amount is not the total recovered by Frantz Law Group clients. 3 Reduced and appealed; resolved for a confidential amount. 4 Settlement offer pending.
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In 2023, Frantz law Group (FLG) continues its 43-year tradition of excellence by securing justice and winning landmark jury verdicts and settlements in several mass tort actions, catastrophic injury claims and wrongful death tragedies
DEDICATED TO CLIENTS FOR MORE THAN 43 YEARS frantzlawgroup.com 855-735-5945
James P Frantz, Esq. has approved the contents of this advertisement.
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Table of Contents Verdicts/Settlements........................................................................................ 7-9 Best Lawyers / Best Law Firms........................................................................... 10 Focus Groups & Mock Trial...........................................................................11-13 About The Firm.............................................................................................. 14-15 Frantz Law Group Lawyers James P. Frantz..................................................................................... 16-17 Philip C. Aman........................................................................................... 18 William Patrick Harris, III............................................................................. 19 Jodi L. Frantz .............................................................................................. 20 George Stiefel, III........................................................................................ 21 Regina Bagdasarian................................................................................. 22 William Shinoff............................................................................................ 23 Jade Koller.................................................................................................. 24 Ed Chapin................................................................................................... 25 Kristina Aghazaryan................................................................................... 26 C. Nikki Morris.............................................................................................. 27 Kristina Herbert .......................................................................................... 28 Jason Dawson............................................................................................ 29 James H. Fox.............................................................................................. 30 Ward Clay................................................................................................... 31 Edgar R. Nield ............................................................................................ 32 John Thickstun............................................................................................ 33 Frantz Law Group Staff ................................................................................ 34-35 Commercial Trucking Accidents................................................................ 36-37 Wildfire Litigation / Public Utility Regulation.................................................... 38 Wrongful Death / Burn Injury / Spinal Injury .................................................... 39 Catastrophic Injuries ......................................................................................... 40 Wrongful Death ................................................................................................. 41 Construction Site Accidents............................................................................. 42 Premises Liability ................................................................................................ 43 Pedestrian, Bicycle & Motorcycle Accidents ................................................ 43 3M........................................................................................................................ 44 Opiods................................................................................................................. 51 JUUL................................................................................................................ 46-47 Social Media Litigation...................................................................................... 48 Forensic Experts.................................................................................................. 49 Environmental Mass Tort................................................................................... 50 Aquatic Accidents (Scuba, Boating, Drowning)........................................... 51 Awards........................................................................................................... 52-57 In The News................................................................................................... 58-59
James P Frantz, Esq. has approved the content of this brochure. © 2022 by Frantz Law Group, A Professional Law Corporation. All rights reserved. This document, and the designs and intellectual property contained herein, are the sole property of Frantz Law Group, APLC. All rights not expressly granted here are reserved. Any unauthorized copying, alteration, distribution, transmission, performance, display or other use of this material is prohibited. 6
Verdicts/Settlements* WILDFIRE LITIGATION In 2020, Frantz Law Group played an important part in achieving a landmark settlement of $13.5 billion against Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) on behalf of thousands of victims harmed in the 2017 and 2018 Northern California wildfires, in addition to supporting legislative changes to enhance PG&E’s overall safety practices. Frantz Law Group represents over 4,400 victims of the Northern California Wildfires 1 . • 2021 Historic Methane Gas Blowout settlement vs. SoCal Gas / Sempra Energy. $1.8 Billion (Frantz Law Group represents 8,202 of 35,000 claimants) 1 • ([John Doe]), et al. v. Midland Credit Management, Inc. and Encore Capital Group, Inc., Obtained final Superior Court approval of a certified CLASS settlement of $24 million 1 • $18.5 Million verdict in certified Class Action against drug manufacturer • ([John Doe]) v. Syntrax Innovations, Inc. et al.: Recovery of high seven figure resolution in certified class (Frantz Law Group, APLC appointed lead co-counsel) 1 • ([John Doe]) v. Blue Cross of California: Significant recovery on behalf of the certified class of insureds (Frantz Law Group, APLC appointed lead co-counsel) • Nutraquest Steering Committee In re: Nutraquest Personal Injury Cases, Steering Committee member and creditors committee member overseeing litigation and resolution of approximately 250 personal injury claims. Assisted and facilitated global settlement of all injury claims, including participating in negotiating final resolution of the judgment obtained in ([John Doe]) v. Cytodyne Technologies, Inc. • Metabolife 356 (JCCP) litigation & steering committee member and liaison counsel • $1.2 Billion vs. JUUL Labs, Inc. (Frantz Law Group represents nearly 1,000 school districts of approximately 1,400 districts). 1 This amount recovered by all victims as part of a collective settlement. Under the settlement terms, each plantiff’s recovery is determined based on various factors. These amounts are not the totals recovered by Frantz Law Group’s clients. *Results in other matters do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. These results were dependent on the facts of the specific cases, and results will differ if based on different facts.
Individual Settlements 2020 - 2023
$57,000,000.00 $38,355,909.00 $34,000,000.00 $26,383.369.02 $13,761,355.00 $13,000,000.00 $9,901,661,78 $9,000,000.00 $7,828,812.00 $7,267,997,78 $6,900,000.00 $6,900,000.00 $6,378,354.70 $5,711,277,93 $4,884,939,56 $4,600,000.00 $4,500,000.00 $4,500,000.00 $4,350,042.00 $4,000,000.00 $4,000,000.00 $4,000,000.00
$4,000,000.00 $3,929,512.84 $3,899,406.00 $3,514,300.00 $3,442,334.55 $3,269,316,62 $3,142,847.75 $3,100,000.00 $3,002,122.00 $3,000,000.00 $3,000,000.00 $3,000,000.00 $2,995,659,17 $2,958,979.19 $2,900,000.00 $2,800,000.00 $2,794,898,33
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Verdicts/Settlements*
FIRE LITIGATION • $57 Million Wrongful Death Settlement • $34 Million Wrongful Death Settlement • $15 Million Injury and Death Claim • $11 Million Injury Claim AMPUTATION / TRUCK ACCIDENT • $2 million obtained for a husband and wife struck by a tractor-trailer truck while in their vehicle • $2 million recovered on behalf of motorcycle operator struck by a tractor-trailer truck • $1 Million recovered for a pedestrian struck by a truck/delivery vehicle MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS • $3 Million recovered for client injured from a tractor-trailer truck • $2.5 Million recovered for a motorcycle operator, who sustained multiple injuries to arms, legs and back • $1 Million recovered for client operating a motorcycle and struck by a commercial vehicle BICYCLE ACCIDENTS • $1.3 Million obtained for the family of a bicyclist that was struck by a commercial vehicle OIL FIELD ACCIDENTS • $5 Million recovered for a family who lost a loved one in an oil field explosion caused by a pipe failure during a high pressure test GOVERNMENT CLAIMS • $7.5 Million Recovery against the United States in wrongful death / injury claim against Federal Government and I.C.E. Agent for negligence
• Significant recovery obtained for young college student who sustained severe burn injuries to hands and face when chemistry lab equipment exploded due to improper maintenance • Seven figure recovery for a 14 year old boy injured as result of an automobile accident caused by city and state roadway design defect • Significant recovery for student seriously injured while a passenger in a school bus
*Results in other matters do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. These results were dependent on the facts of the specific cases, and results will differ if based on different facts.
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Verdicts/Settlements*
AUTO/BUS ACCIDENTS • $5.5 Million bus accident vs. U.S. Government • $2.3 Million wrongful death • $1 Million recovered for back injury BURNS/FIRES
• Substantial recovery obtained for two victims of a gas explosion and fire at a hotel resulting in burn injuries to both clients • $2.5 Million (2022) in fire wrongful death against landlord • $1.3 Million obtained for the victim of a flash fire occurring on a job site • Substantial seven-figure recovery obtained for man who sustained esophageal injuries as a result of a hotel fire PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY/BUSINESS • $223 Million jury verdict ($100,000 offered pre-trial by defendants)** • $1.3 Million jury verdict in a commercial real estate dispute ($75,000 offered pre- trial by defendants) AVIATION • $55.4 Million jury verdict awarded to the families of four Marines killed in a helicopter accident. Defendant San Diego Gas and Electric (SEMPRA subsidiary) made no offers to settle any of the claims before trial **
* Results in other matters do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. These results were dependent on the facts of the specific cases, and results will differ if based on different facts. ** Reduced and appealed, resolved for a confidential amount.
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Best Lawyers / Best Law Firms
2019
TOP 100 TRIAL LAWYERS
“The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100” is an invitation-only organization composed of the premier trial lawyers from each state in the nation who meet stringent qualifications as civil plaintiff trial lawyers. Selection is based on a thorough multi-phase process which includes peer nominations combined with third-party research. Membership is extended solely to the select few of the most qualified attorneys from each state who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature and public profile. The National Association of Distinguished Counsel is a professional organization dedicated to promoting the highest standards of legal excellence. Less than 1% of practicing attorneys in the United States are members of the “Nation’s Top Attorneys”. Candidates go through a stringent selection process of peer nomination, peer review and judicial review. The U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” rankings are based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations, peer review from leading attorneys in their field, and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process. American Board of Trial Advocates is an invitation-only national organization of leading trial attorneys dedicated to preserving the independence of the judiciary and the right to trial by jury. Members admitted go through a rigorous screening process as to their jury trial skills and advocacy, and their reputation as to civility, integrity and character.
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Focus Groups & Mock Trials
The jury system adds a degree of uncertainty in evalu- ating a case; therefore, Frantz Law Group’s philosophy is that conducting mock trials or practice trials, can pro- vide attorneys and clients with a better understanding of likely trial results. Frantz Law Group has conducted mock trials in cases involving potential damages of $1 million or more. Frantz Law Group is one of a select group of law firms that utilizes mock trials and focus groups to assist in predicting trial outcome. Mock trials are an excellent indicator of how jurors may evaluate a case. For many years, the advertising industry has used focus groups to determine how consumers will react to a specific marketing program before launching expensive sales campaigns. Surprisingly, few lawyers “test the market” before taking a case to trial. For the overwhelm- ing majority of trial lawyers, the first time they have sub - stantial insight into how a jury will view the case is when the verdict is read. At that point, it may be too late to “fix what is broken.”
Results Matter - as Featured in “Fortune & Forbes”, Southern California Leaders in Law
FEATURE STORY
Frantz Law Group brings multibillion-dollar justice to the wronged.
“Financial compensation usually can’t undo the wrong that has been done to our clients, but it can alleviate the burdens of medical costs and give them hope for the future,” Frantz says. “Our work lets people know that they matter, and they aren’t alone in their darkest times.”
When it comes to catastrophic injury, mass torts, wrongful death, and trucking litigation, one name stands out: Frantz Law Group (FLG). For 42 years, FLG has been a powerhouse player in some of the nation’s most significant, high-stakes litigation work. From 2020-22 alone, the firm secured over 40 multimillion-dollar individual settlements, plus several multibillion-dollar settlements that serve thousands of victims. Founder James Frantz is driven by the belief that every person’s life is significant, and no victim should go uncompensated when their lives have been upended by others’ negligence.
Wildfire, Gas Blowouts, and JUUL
For 20 years, FLG has represented victims of wildfires caused by public utility negligence—namely the 2017 North Bay Fires, the 2017 Thomas Fire and Montecito Mudslide, the 2018 Camp Fire and Woolsey Fire, the 2019 Getty Fire, the 2019 Kincade Fire and in 2022 the McKinney, Mill, Mosquito and Fairview Fires. The firm is currently representing nearly 6,000 victims associated with these fires.
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Focus Groups & Mock Trial
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Results Matter - Frantz Law Group’s has been a powerhouse player in some of the nation’s most significant, high-stakes litigation work. continued
As a result of the largest methane gas leak in United States history, more than 35,000 residents of the Porter Ranch community have been compensated by the $1.8 billion settlement secured by FLG and co-counsel. On behalf of over 75,000 schools enrolling over 2.5 million students, FLG is fighting diligently against JUUL/ Altria in anti-vaping legislation for wrongfully targeting minors and contributing to physical injury and nicotine addiction of students. “Cases like these are why we do what we do,” says Frantz. “We’re passionate about protecting society’s most vulnerable populations against entities that seek to exploit them for financial gain, and we advocate for those who have been wronged by negligence. Our landmark verdicts serve as a warning to other companies that reckless misconduct will not go unpunished. These cases have the power to force long-term corporate and individual changes in safety.”
FLG has been ranked Tier 1 in U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” from 2010-23 for mass tort litigation/ class actions - plaintiffs. James Frantz is a fellow and associate of the American Board of Trial Advocates, is AV® rated by Martindale-Hubbell®, is a 20-year Special Master appointed by the State Bar of California and a 20-year Master in The Enright Chapter, American Inns of Court.
Preparing for Success
With 16 lawyers, 30 staff members, and 13 offices throughout California and Hawaii, FLG has the manpower and decades-earned experience to execute trials and wins of the highest caliber. To prepare for the most complex cases, the firm assembles a thorough mock trial to present both plaintiff and defense evidence, a process that fine- tunes the firm’s strongest arguments and exposes case weaknesses. Mock jurors offer valuable feedback on the quality, clarity, and persuasiveness of the firm’s evidence.
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ABOUT THE FIRM
Recognized as One of The Most Respected and Successful Plaintiff Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, Public Utility Wildfire, Mass Tort and Business Litigation Law Firms in the United States We are a full-service personal injury, public utilitiy wildfire, wrongful death, business litigation, class-action and mass tort law firm. Our team of attorneys, paralegals, and forensic experts are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. To thoroughly prepare your case, our firm hires highly skilled experts in the fields of forensics, engineering, accident reconstruction, complex investigation, human factors, forensic pathology, psychiatry, toxicology, forensic computer science and accounting. Our priority for every case — for every client — is to uncover evidence and present proof that will assist in the successful prosecution of the claim. To ensure full command of essential details, our attorneys maintain direct hands-on control of their case files. They personally contact and coordinate expert witnesses such as safety experts, engineers, physicians, economists and other forensic specialists as needed. Often, success in trial and settlement is dependent upon expert testimony from forensic specialists who are highly qualified in their areas of expertise. Our attorneys work with these experts to ascertain that their scientific expert testimony is appropriate with respect to the relevant legal issues of the case. In our experience, this direct teamwork with forensic specialists is crucial in providing well- qualified technical opinions that juries and judges respect and follow. Equally important is our direct personal attention to each client. We are aware of the significant anxieties and financial burdens faced by our clients. Our attorneys and staff take great care to understand the client’s personal needs in order to provide the best and most appropriate legal advice.
Why Hire Frantz Law Group?
• On most cases, Frantz Law Group advances all costs on your case and if there is no recovery you pay nothing. No attorney fees and no costs.
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Nationwide Personal Injury, Wildfire, Wrongful Death, JUUL-Vaping and Opioid Litigation, Mass Tort and Business Litigation Law Firm
Recognized throughout California and the Nation • Recognized in U.S. News - Best Lawyers ® “Best Law Firms” 2010-2023 Tier 1 Ranking for Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions-Plaintiffs The U.S. News – Best Lawyers ® “Best Law Firms” rankings are based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations, peer review from leading attorneys, and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process. • Associate and Fellow of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) The American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) is an invitation only organization. ABOTA’s primary mission is the preservation and promotion of the civil jury trial by educating the American public about the history and value of the right to trial by jury. Admission to the national association is limited to experienced trial lawyers and judges who have demonstrated high personal character and an honorable reputation. Membership selection criteria includes a significant number of jury trials to verdict as lead counsel.
• Named to the “Top Ten Attorneys” list by Daily Transcript • AV-Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell 2008-2023
AV Preeminent is a certification mark of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., used in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the confidential opinions of other attorneys and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell ratings fall into two categories: legal ability and general ethical standards. 15
Mr. Frantz’s experience includes litigating wildfire disasters, catastrophic injury claims, tractor-trailer collisions, amusement park accidents, products liability, motorcycle and automobile collisions, aviation accidents, fire and explosion related injury and wrongful death claims, mass transit accidents, construction accidents, industrial accidents, complex business disputes, class actions and mass torts (including opioid & electronic vaping litigation). Mr. Frantz (and co-counsel) have played a material role in achieving several landmark settlements in 2020/2021 including (1) landmark $13.5 billion settlement against Pacific Gas & Electric on behalf of thousands of victims harmed in the 2017-18 Northern California wild fires (2) $2.0 billion recovered (with co-counsel) from San Diego Gas & Electric for fire victims harmed in the 2007 wild fires, (3) played an important role in the $800 million resolution of the Las Vegas Route 91 shooting case, (4)
Trial Lawyer James P. Frantz
professional negligence jury verdict of $223 million *, which is one of the largest Southern California jury verdicts for an individual client (Defendant’s highest pre-trial offer to settle was $100,000), (5) $55.4 million jury verdict awarded to the families of four Marines who were killed as a result of the negligence of a utility company (SDGE, a SEMPRA subsidiary)* (Utility refused to make any pre-trial settlement offer or engage in any settlement discussions), (6) recent $34 million recovery for fire victims wrongfully killed by negligence from PG&E and (7) class action settlement of $24 million . Mr. Frantz’s expertise was sought by Congress where he was requested to testify as a product liability expert with respect to litigation against a product manufacturer in which he (along with co-counsel) recovered an $18.5 million verdict. (Defendant’s highest pre-trial settlement offer was $500,000). The Daily Transcript has honored Mr. Frantz as one of the Top 10 Attorneys. Mr. Frantz has been nominated for Top Attorneys in the insurance and personal injury category 2010 - 2023. Mr. Frantz has been honored as a Super Lawyer for ten consecutive years (2008-2022) and has been honored in the Best Lawyers of America for 12 years. He represented the San Diego County Bar Association as a Delegate to the State Bar of California and has qualified to serve as a Special Master by the State Bar of California for the past 30 years. He has been
Areas of Practice • Personal Injury / Wrongful Death • Wildfire Litigation/Public Utility Regulation • Mass Torts/Class Actions • Complex Business Litigation • Professional Negligence Bar Admissions • State Bar of California, 1979 • U.S. District Court Southern and Central Districts of California • U.S. Tax Court Education • University of California, Santa Barbara, California Bachelor of Arts CUM LAUDE - 1975 Major: Political Science • Thomas Jefferson School of Law Juris Doctor - 1979
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an Arbitrator for over 30 years. He is a Master of the William B. Enright Chapter of the American Inns of Court and an Associate and Fellow of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA).
LECTURER: • San Diego County Bar Association • National Business Institute (NBI) • Western Trial Lawyers Association • Continuing Education of the Bar (CEB) LEGAL SEMINAR TRAINING: • San Diego Inns of Court Trial Advocacy • Over 500 legal seminars and symposiums with respect to spinal cord injury, brain injury, rehabilitation, wrongful death, trial advocacy, civil litigation, mass tort and mock jury trials PROGRAM CHAIR INSTRUCTOR: Continuing Education of the Bar (CEB) • Civil litigation before trial • Defending and taking Depositions • Preparing for Trial • Opening / Closing Arguments PROGRAM CHAIR INSTRUCTOR: National Business Institute (NBI) • Trial Advocacy • Deposition and Discovery
Honors and Awards
*Reduced and appealed, resolved for a confidential amount. Results in other matters do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. These results were dependent on the facts of the specific cases, and results will differ if based on different facts. **AV Preeminent is a certification mark of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., used in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale- Hubbell is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the confidential opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell ratings fall into two categories: legal ability and general ethical standards. American Board of Trial Advocates is an invitation-only national organization of leading trial attorneys dedicated to preserving the independence of the judiciary and the right to trial by jury. Members admitted undergo a rigorous screening process as to their jury trial skills and advocacy, and their reputation as to civility, integrity and character. • Best California Trial Attorneys by Best Lawyers. • Tier 1 ranking for Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions- Plaintiffs by U.S. News — Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” Rankings — 2010 - 2023. • Top Attorneys by The New York Times & Los Angeles Magazine (2021). • $1.2 Billion settlement against JUUL Labs, Inc. for causation of youth vaping epidemic. Frantz Law Group represents nearly 1,000 school districts of approximately 1,400. • Frantz Law Group has played an important part in achieving a landmark award of $13.5 Billion against Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). • Over $2 Billion recovered by Frantz Law Group and co-counsel in payouts from San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) (for all the clients represented by attorneys, including our clients). • $1.8 Billion settlement in Porter Ranch Aliso Canyon gas blowout. FLG represented 8,202 of total 35,000 (Largest methane gas settlement in history). • $800 Million recovered against MGM Hotels for the victims of the Route 91 Massacre. • One of the largest Southern California jury verdicts for an individual client ( $223 million ).* • Largest wrongful death Aviation jury verdict in U.S. History against a Public Utility Corporation for negligent maintenance of its equipment ( $55.4 million ).* • $310 Million recovered for fire victims wrongful death (2021). • $24 Million pretrial settlement in Wrongful Death • $18.5 Million Largest San Diego verdict against a dietary supplement drug manufacturer. • Daily Transcript’s Top 10 Attorneys. • Associate and Fellow of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA). • Super Lawyers 2008 - 2023. • Best Lawyers of America 2010 - 2023. • AV Rated Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbel 2012 - 2023.**
Professional Associations and Memberships • American Bar Association (20 year member of the Tort, Trial & Insurance Sections) • Napa, Sonoma, Los Angeles and San Diego, County Bar Associations • Consumer Attorneys of California • Consumer Attorneys of Los Angeles & San Diego • American Association for Justice • (APITLA) Association of Plaintiff Interstate Trucking Lawyers of America • Master, William B. Enright Chapter of The American Inns of Court (25 years) • Delegate, State Bar of California • Special Master, State Bar of California (1982 to Present) • Arbitrator: Superior Court (1982 to Present) • Associate and Fellow of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)
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Areas of Practice • Personal Injury / Wrongful Death • Wildfire Litigation/Public Utility Regulation • Mass Torts/Class Actions • Complex Business Litigation • Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage • Negligent Employee Hiring, Supervision and Retention • Damages Evaluation in Wrongful Death and Injury Cases • Truck Broker and Shipper Liability • Truck and Vehicle Maintenance Liability • Discovery in Truck and Commercial Liability Cases • Hours of Service and Driver Fatigue • Jury Analysis in Truck and Commercial Liability Cases
Bar Admissions • California, 1988
Trial Lawyer Philip C. Aman
Mr. Aman has more than 32 years of experience handling over 2,000 wrongful death, catastrophic and personal injury cases to successful conclusion. Mr. Aman’s litigation experience includes appearance as lead counsel at hundreds of mediations, arbitrations and settlement conferences. He has represented plaintiffs with claims including wrongful death, brain injury, amputation, quadriplegia, paraplegia, burns, neck and back surgery, arm and leg fractures, and other catastrophic injury. He works closely with experts specializing in accident reconstruction, engineering, biomechanics, forensic pathology, disability, life care planning, economics, and vocational rehabilitation.
Education • California Western School of Law, California, Juris Doctor - 1986 Honors and Dean’s List Scholar • University of California, Santa Barbara, Major: Business Economics
Professional Associations and Memberships • Napa, Sonoma, Los Angeles, and San Diego County Bar Associations
• American Association for Justice • Consumer Attorneys of California Ancillary Businesses / Seminars • Superior Court, Arbitrator • Continuing Education of the Bar (CEB) • Truck Litigation Seminars
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Areas of Practice • Personal Injury / Wrongful Death • Wildfire Litigation/Public Utility Regulation • Mass Torts/Class Actions • Complex Business Litigation • Professional Negligence
Bar Admissions • California, 1986
Of Counsel / Trial Lawyer Jodi L. Frantz Trial Lawyer William Patrick Harris, III
Mr. Harris spent the first 26 years of his law practice as an insurance defense attorney handling jury trials with respect to catastrophic injury, wrongful death, product liability and professional negligence cases throughout California on behalf of insureds for Allstate Insurance Company, America International Group, Chubb Group of Insurance Companies, CNA, Golden Eagle Insurance Group, Liberty Mutual Insurance Group, Nationwide Insurance Group, Ohio Casualty, Professional Liability Insurance Group, Safeco Insurance Company and Transamerica Insurance Group. The time spent defending personal injury and business disputes on behalf of insurance companies provides Mr. Harris a unique perspective of how the insurance carrier will value, handle and litigate a particular case. His litigation experience includes matters beyond jury trial verdict, including preparing and arguing cases before the California Court of Appeal. He has been a Superior Court Arbitrator and Superior Court Judge, Pro Tem. *AV Preeminent is a certification mark of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., used in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the confidential opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell ratings fall into two categories: legal ability and general ethical standards.
Education • California Western School of Law, California, Juris Doctor - 1985 • University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida Bachelor of Arts - 1981 Honors: Dean’s List Major: History Professional Associations and Memberships • Napa, Sonoma, Los Angeles, and San Diego County Bar Associations Honors and Awards • AV Rated Martindale-Hubbell* Pro Bono Activities • Judge Pro Tempore, Superior Court
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Areas of Practice • Personal Injury / Wrongful Death • Wildfire Litigation/Public Utility Regulation • Mass Torts/Class Actions • Jury Consulting/Jury Selection • Mock Trials Bar Admissions • California, 1987 • Colorado, 1997 Education • Willamette University College of Law, Salem, Oregon, Juris Doctor - 1987
• Colorado State University Bachelor of Science - 1984 Major: Psychology Minor: Criminal Justice
Of Counsel / Trial Lawyer Jodi L. Frantz
Jodi Frantz was born in Boulder, Colorado and grew up in Fort Collins, Colorado. She was admitted to the California State Bar in 1987 and the Colorado State Bar in 1997. She practices civil litigation with extensive experience in personal injury/wrongful death, wildfire (public utility negligence/regulation), product liability, insurance, business and construction litigation. In addition to her law practice, Jodi Frantz has provided legal commentary for CNN and local television. She has been a reporter for television, presenting a variety of stories and interviews concerning public interest issues, including juvenile justice and juvenile crime. She is President and Founder of LEGALSENSE, INC., a jury and trial consulting firm. Her company provides consulting services including focus groups, mock trials, jury selection, jury questionnaire preparation, survey preparation, witness preparation, court observation, and post-trial interviews. She has a preeminent reputation in trial advocacy and jury selection.
Professional Associations and Memberships • Consumer Attorneys of San Diego • California Women Lawyers • American Society of Trial Consultants • Master, William B. Enright Chapter of The American Inns of Court (10 years) Honors and Awards • Recipient of two American Juris Prudence
Awards for Excellence (Juris Doctor) • Outstanding Trial Lawyer Award, 1994
Instructor/Lecturer • Trial Advocacy, University of Colorado School of Law (Boulder, Colorado) • Western Trial Lawyers Association and California Western School of Law: Jury and Trial Consulting
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Areas of Practice • Personal Injury / Wrongful Death • Wildfire Litigation/Public Utility Regulation • Mass Torts/Class Actions • Complex Business Litigation
Bar Admissions • State Bar of California • State Bar of Montana • State Bar of New York
Trial Lawyer George Stiefel, III
George Stiefel was recently honored with membership in The National Trial Lawyers’s Top 40 under 40 Civil Plaintiff Attorneys. He earned this honor based on his success and leadership in representing the firm’s clients. Prior to joining Frantz Law Group, Mr. Stiefel was trusted with advising the top judges in the State of New York He clerked at New York’s highest court, the Court of Appeals, for two years, gaining valuable insight into the thinking process of judges. He also clerked at the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division. After clerking, Mr. Stiefel joined the New York State Executive Chamber and was quickly appointed as Freedom of Information Law Counsel, a senior staff position in the New York Governor’s office. These prior experiences have uniquely armed Mr. Stiefel with substantial knowledge and experience in a broad array of substantive areas of the law. He has successfully parlayed these skills and experience to private civil litigation practice. He takes pride and passion in assisting the firm’s clients in obtaining a successful resolution of their claims through trial or settlement. His pre-trial civil litigations skills are unparalleled. Outside of the law office, Mr. Stiefel enjoys running, hiking, backpacking, polo and whitewater kayaking. He is an Eagle Scout and was actively involved in many leadership positions in the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s Honor Society.
Education • SUNY Buffalo Law School, Juris Doctor – 2009, ( summa cum laude) • Buffalo Law Review • Buffalo Law Review’s Award for Excellence in Legal Writing • Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York Bachelor of Science– 2006 Financial Information and Analysis • Honors: Graduated with Great Distinction; Ormsby Law Scholar Award Professional Associations and Memberships • Napa, Sonoma, Los Angeles, and San Diego County Bar Associations Clerkships and Past Employment • New York State Executive Chamber, FOIL Counsel, 2012-2013 • New York State Court of Appeals, 2010-2012 • New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, 2009-2010
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Areas of Practice • Personal Injury / Wrongful Death • Wildfire Litigation/Public Utility Regulation • Mass Torts/Class Actions • Complex Business Litigation Bar Admissions • California, 2014 • United States District Court, Southern District of California, 2014 • United States District Court, Central District of California, 2015 Ms. Bagdasarian graduated magna cum laude from California Western School of Law where she served as Editor-in-Chief of California Western Law Review. Recognized for her excellence in legal research and
Trial Lawyer Regina Bagdasarian
writing, Ms. Bagdasarian served as an editor and researcher for an amicus curiae (friend of the court) brief submitted to the United States Supreme Court regarding the Alien Tort Statute and Torture Victims Protection Act. Ms. Bagdasarian was also a member of the Moot Court Appellate Team where she was recognized for expertise in written and oral advocacy. Ms. Bagdasarian focuses on complex matters involving nuanced analysis and application of the law. She is committed to zealous advocacy on behalf of the firm’s clients. Prior to attending law school, Ms. Bagdasarian worked extensively in product development, marketing and international brand management. This unique combination of legal training and business experience provides Ms. Bagdasarian with both the legal acumen and practical experience with which to assess legal issues and implement legal strategies for success. Ms. Bagdasarian brings a combination of creativity, tenacity, intellectual curiosity, and attention to detail to every client and case. Ms. Bagdasarian enjoys a variety of outdoor activities with her family including skiing, cycling, scuba diving, camping, boating and hiking.
Education • California Western School of Law, Juris Doctor - 2013, ( magna cum laude) Editor-in-Chief, Law Review • University of West Florida, Master of Business Administration 1989 • Oral Roberts University, Bachelor of Science, Marketing - May 1987 Honors • Deans Honor List • Distinguished Advocate Award Professional Associations and Memberships • Napa, Sonoma, Los Angeles, and San Diego County Bar Associations • National Order of Scribes, Member, 2013 • California Women Lawyers Club • Member Consumer Attorneys of San Diego • Member American Association for Justice Clerkships • Judicial Extern to the Honorable Karen S. Crawford, United States District Court, Southern District of California
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Areas of Practice • Wildfire Litigation/Public Utility Regulation • Wrongful Death/Personal Injury • Vaping Electric Cigarettes and Opioid Mass Tort Litigtion • Mass Tort/Class Action • Complex Business Litigation • Sexual Abuse and Child Molestation Bar Admissions • California, 2011 • Texas, 2022 • All Federal District Courts in California
Trial Lawyer William Shinoff
William Shinoff is a trial lawyer and specializes in litigating complex catastrophic personal injury, wrongful death, sexual abuse, sexual assault and mass tort cases. Mr. Shinoff attributes his love and passion for the courtroom to his family roots in the legal profession. Prior to joining Frantz Law Group, Mr. Shinoff represented school districts and public entities throughout Southern California at one of the premier public entity law firms. During his nine years representing public entities, Mr. Shinoff litigated matters in both state and federal court throughout California. After nearly a decade of defense work, Mr. Shinoff decided to shift his practice and represent individuals to stand up for the rights and to deliver justice for people in need. His unique defense background enables him to deal with large corporate entities and big insurance companies and navigate through the smoke and mirrors of insurance company bureaucracy. He strives to take a hands on approach with his clients and makes certain they are completely satisfied and comforted throughout the litigation process. Mr. Shinoff began his undergraduate studies at the University of Miami, Florida and completed his education at the University of Victoria, British Columbia where he obtained a bachelor’s degree. Following university, he graduated cum laude from California Western School of Law where he was an associate editor on the Law Review Journal. He is admitted to practice law before the California State Courts, as well as the Central and Southern Districts of California.
Education • University of Miami, FL • University of Victoria, British Columbia • California Western School of Law (Cum Laude) Honors • Best Lawyers in America 2023 • The National Trial Lawyer’s Top 40 under 40 • San Diego Business Journal Top 40 under 40 Currently, Mr. Shinoff is the lead attorney for Frantz Law Group representing nearly 1,000 public entities across the country against JUUL Labs, Inc. and Altria in youth vaping litigation. Mr. Shinoff is also the lead attorney for over 500 school districts nationwide against Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, and other social media companies for allegedly causing harm to students that use these platforms.
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Areas of Practice •Personal Injury/Wrongful Death • Mass Tort/Wildfire Litigation • Insurance Defense/Insurance Coverage
Bar Admissions • California, 2021 • Kentucky, 2020 • Missouri, 2014 • Illinois, 2013
Trial Lawyer Jade Koller
Jade S. Koller is an trial attorney with Frantz Law Group, APLC licensed to practice law in California, Illinois, Missouri, and Kentucky. Ms. Koller graduated from the University of Kentucky with a B.A. in Political Science and a minor specialization in Philosophy. After completing her undergraduate degree, she attended Washington University Law School in St. Louis where she completed several internships while maintaining a full class schedule. Ms. Koller has extensive civil litigation experience including catastrophic personal injury, wrongful death, fiduciary disputes, contract disputes, and mass tort cases. Ms. Koller plays an integral role in representing public entities across the United States in the JUUL/Altria Litigation and the Social Media Litigation. Ms. Koller also spent several years defending major insurance companies in personal injury matters, which provides her with a full perspective into the litigation process on both sides. In addition to civil litigation, Ms. Koller has experience in family law, criminal law, business startups and probate.
Education • Washington University in St. Louis Law School, J.D. 2013 • University of Kentucky, B.A. 2010 Professional Associations and Memberships • Enright Inn of Court Honors • The National Trial Lawyer’s Top 40 under 40 • San Diego Business Journal Top 40 under 40 • San Diego Business Journal Women of Influence in Law
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Areas of Practice • Commercial Litigation • Consumer Protection Law • Employment Law
• Litigation - Labor and Employment • Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions • Personal Injury Litigation Education • J.D. from the University of Missouri School of Law • B.S. from Southwest Missouri State University • United States Army infantry, including a 12-month tour in Vietnam where he was awarded three Bronze Stars and other commendations.
Bar Admissions • California, 1972
Trial Lawyer Ed Chapin
Mr. Chapin is an accomplished trial lawyer, who during his illustrious legal career has taken upwards of 100 cases to trial in federal and state courts. Recent noteworthy trials in which Ed was the lead counsel include the GirlsDoPorn.com civil lawsuit, where 22 female plaintiffs across the U.S. alleged the website’s owners, operators and associated businesses exploited them after answering modeling advertisements on Craigslist. Ed and his team obtained a $20 million plus award after a 99-day bench trial in California Superior Court. The Court also granted plaintiffs all rights to their videos and issued an injunction that the defendants are prohibited from distributing the likenesses, images or videos of the plaintiffs. Midway through the trial, three individuals involved in the GirlsDoPorn operation were indicted by a federal grand jury for sex trafficking and other charges. All three individuals are in custody. As a result of this matter, Ed’s former firm received the National Law Journal’s 2021 award for best Human Rights Firm in the United States. In 2018, Ed obtained a $5.4 million jury verdict and award of attorney fees for Beth Burns, the winningest women’s basketball coach in San Diego State University’s history. Ed’s litigation acumen in this public jury trial that focused on SDSU’s Title IX violations highlights how even the most powerful institutions can be made to take responsibility for the damage they cause to individual’s careers and overall wellbeing.
Professional Associations and Memberships • President of the San Diego Chapter and the statewide California Chapters of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) • 20 years on the ABOTA National Board of Directors • Past president of San Diego Defense Lawyers • Former Vice President of the San Diego County Bar Association and the Barrister’s Club of San Diego • Chaired the San Diego County Bar Association and ABOTA committees that developed the principles of Civility, Integrity and Professionalism for members of the organizations. Awards • Daniel T. Broderick Award for “epitomizing the highest principles of civility, integrity and professionalism” presented by the San Diego Chapter of ABOTA, the Association of Business Trial Lawyers, Consumer Attorneys of San Diego, San Diego Defense Lawyers and the San Diego County Bar Association. • Best Lawyers in America every year since 1989 25
Areas of Practice • Mass Tort / Wildfire Litigation • Personal Injury / Wrongful Death
Bar Admissions • California, 2022
Kristina Aghazaryan is an Associate Attorney at Frantz Law Group. Her practice focuses on Personal Injury Litigation and Wildfire Litigation. Ms. Aghazaryan has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Irvine, where she majored in Psychology and Social Behavior.
Associate Lawyer Kristina Aghazaryan
Ms. Aghazaryan’s interest in psychology was a guiding factor in pursuing the legal field; her knowledge of psychology also helps bring a unique perspective to each case. Ms. Aghazaryan graduated from Thomas Jefferson School of Law, where she served as the president of the Student Bar Association and the Chair of the Moot Court Honor Society. During her time in Moot Court, Ms. Aghazaryan participated in prestigious competitions and was recognized for her speaking ability when she placed among the top oralists of the region. Ms. Aghazaryan strongly believes in giving back to the community, which is why she volunteers her time to help students in Law School prepare for Moot Court competitions. Ms. Aghazaryan was a diligent Law Clerk at Frantz Law Group before joining the team of attorneys. Ms. Aghazaryan has demonstrated remarkable skills and expertise in her early legal career by playing an integral role in representing public entities across the United States in the JUUL/Altria Litigation and the Social Media Litigation. Ms. Aghazaryan approaches each case and assignment with unwavering dedication and determination in order to achieve great results for clients. In her spare time, Ms. Aghazaryan enjoys traveling, working out, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her loved ones.
Education • University of California, Irvine • Thomas Jefferson School of Law Professional Associations and Memberships • Phi Alpha Delta • Armenian National Committee of America • San Diego County Bar Association • Enright Inn of Court
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