Victor, Shaw & McCue | Meet Our Florida Trial Attorneys

GREGORY A. VICTOR

Managing Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale & Miami Email: GVictor@victorshawlaw.com

GREGORY A. VICTOR

Managing Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale & Miami Email: GVictor@victorshawlaw.com

My practice encompasses all aspects of the defense of property, casualty, personal injury, insurance, catastrophic injuries and general civil litigation matters in state and federal court. This includes cases involving product liability, insurance coverage disputes, bad faith, surplus and excess insurance, wrongful death, motor vehicle, premises and commercial liability, negligent security, intentional torts, and property loss. I also handle internal corporate investigations both domestically and internationally. I have been regularly retained to supervise, oversee or monitor litigation and to counsel clients with regard to a wide variety of legal issues as to litigated matters or potential litigation in both the civil and criminal fields. My trial experience over the past approximately 40 years is extensive. In addition, I am a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Mediator.

My experience includes serving as National and Regional Supervising, Coordinating and Trial counsel in the fields of products liability, insurance and healthcare. My career began as a Prosecutor for the Dade County State Attorney’s Office working under Janet Reno, having rapidly advanced and quickly reaching the position of Division Chief and Major Crimes Prosecutor. Martindale-Hubbell has awarded me as an AV Preeminent rated attorney.

I have lectured extensively on a variety of practice-related topics and ethics on behalf of clients and organizations.

Law School

University of Miami, J.D., 1980 (Outstanding Advocate Award).

College

Washington University, A.B., with honors, 1977.

Member

American Bar Association; The Defense Research Institute; CLM.

Honors

Prior Designated Reviewer for Florida, Best’s Directory of Recommended Insurance Attorneys; named as a Super lawyer in the Super Lawyers Magazine – Florida edition; selected to Best Attorneys in Florida; and selected to Best Lawyers in America (all multiple times).

JAMES M. SHAW

Founding Partner

Location: West Palm Beach & Fort Lauderdale Email: JShaw@victorshawlaw.com

JAMES M. SHAW

Founding Partner

Location: West Palm Beach & Fort Lauderdale Email: JShaw@victorshawlaw.com

For more than 20 years, my practice has involved the representation of the insurance industry, corporations, developers, and professionals in matters both complex and straightforward. Clients who have retained my services generally become recurring clients. I believe this is due to my thorough and cost-effective analysis, clear communication, and, when necessary, a vigorous defense in litigation. In every matter where my consultation is sought, my role is to explain complex issues in simple terms and chart the best path forward for my clients.

My practice is largely focused upon the defense of claims for premises liability, negligent security, professional liability, automobile negligence, complex torts, and construction errors and omissions. In addition, I am frequently asked to consult on risk mitigation strategies and have obtained wide recognition for my thoughtful insight. I am also an active speaker. In the past several years, I have presented more than 25 times to various insurance industry clients, corporations, developers, and insurance trade organizations.

I have earned the reputation as a trusted advisor, which I attribute to a tireless work ethic and reasoned judgment. My litigation outcomes are widely recognized to be among the best in my field.

I grew up in the wonderful Buffalo, New York, and am a devoted Buffalo Bills fan (Go Bills!). I come from generations of trial lawyers, which I believe has helped me to develop a solid understanding of the law but, more importantly, people. I understand that being a lawyer carries with it a responsibility to guide clients through difficult times with reasoned and succinct strategy and aggressive representation.

I am a committed father to my son, also named James, and have a wonderful wife who is a transactional attorney and law school professor.

Law School

University of Miami (2005)

College

College of Charleston. (2002) B.A. in Political Science (Graduated with High Honors)

WILLIAM C. MCCUE

Founding Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale & Miami Email: WMcCue@victorshawlaw.com

WILLIAM C. MCCUE

Founding Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale & Miami Email: WMcCue@victorshawlaw.com

I have had the privilege of practicing law for the past 40 years in both the State and Federal Criminal and Civil Courts in Florida and throughout the United States. In college I studied philosophy, history and political science which honed my love of identifying problems, analyzing the issues and developing solutions. Those solutions had to be defended against challenges by my professors. It was this experience that led me to the law and my life as a litigator.

My legal career began with the State Attorney’s office in Broward County, Florida where I spent the next 4 years trying every type of case from Third Degree felonies up through and including Capital Crimes. I left the State Attorney’s office to work for a well known Criminal Defense group where I continued trying felony cases. After a few years I left that practice to work for a small boutique Civil Defense firm.

After 3 years with that practice I was hired by a large defense firm that developed into the Nation’s largest minority owned law firm. During the next 20 years I had the great opportunity to work for and represent Fortune 50 corporations in a wide variety of claims. Those claims ranged from products liability to mass tort defense actions for both the Tobacco and Asbestos industries. I have also had the opportunity to defend trucking/automobile accidents involving catastrophic injuries, and am fortunate enough to continue with the above practice today. To date I have tried over 100 jury trials to verdict.

I have recently been certified by the Florida Supreme Court as a Civil Court mediator and look forward to developing that aspect to compliment my practice. I have been Awarded Martindale-Hubbell’s AV Preeminent® rating – a testament to the fact that a lawyer’s peers rank him or her at the highest level of professional excellence.

Law School

Univ of Illinois, Chicago 1982

College

FAU/U/F; 1979; B. S. Political Philosophy

Awards

Book Award – Contracts and Property – 1980

Carolyn Anderson

Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: CAnderson@victorshawlaw.com

Carolyn Anderson

Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: CAnderson@victorshawlaw.com

Carolyn focuses her practice on products and premises liability, personal and catastrophic injury, business litigation, and non-compete agreements. She also has experience handling construction defect litigation, trucking accident cases, landlord-tenant disputes (both residential and commercial), condominium conflicts, and professional malpractice defense. Her background includes matters involving assault and battery, defamation, and other torts. Carolyn represents local, national, and international corporations, as well as licensed professionals and individuals, handling complex cases through negotiation, trial, and appeal.

Education

University of Miami School of Law, 1994 (cum laude)

American Jurisprudence Award: Evidence
Business Law Journal: Articles and Comments Editor

Iowa State University, 1989

B.A. in Political Science
Concentrations in Journalism, History, French, and Spanish

Admissions

Florida
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida
U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Florida

Gonzalo Barr

Partner

Location: Miami Email: GBarr@victorshawlaw.com

Gonzalo Barr

Partner

Location: Miami Email: GBarr@victorshawlaw.com

Gonzalo Barr concentrates his practice on the defense of professional liability, personal injury, and premises cases. Previous notable client work included the representation of a multimillion dollar real estate development company; major airlines against claims for personal injury and death in all aspects of litigation, including trial to verdict; as well as hospitals, clinics, physicians, and surgeons in professional liability, transactional, and regulatory matters.

He is conversant in the French Code Civil and is knowledgeable of the laws of other civil law jurisdictions, such as Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Spain, and Italy, in the areas of contractual and extracontractual liability, damages, aviation, and commerce laws from years of defending transnational liability cases.

He is a native speaker of Spanish, conversant in Italian, and knowledgeable of Portuguese and French (including their use in law, medicine, and science).

Law School

University of Florida, JD 1990

College

Columbia College, Columbia University A.B. 1981

College

Pontificia Universidad Catolica Madre y Maestra, toward MD

Kenneth P. Carman

Partner

Location: West Palm Beach & Fort Lauderdale Email: KCarman@victorshawlaw.com

Kenneth P. Carman

Partner

Location: West Palm Beach & Fort Lauderdale Email: KCarman@victorshawlaw.com

I am an AV rated trial attorney practicing in the areas of insurance defense, professional liability, civil rights, employment, local government law, civil litigation, product liability, toxic torts, and commercial litigation matters.

I am also a Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator/Qualified Arbitrator and have in the past served as an Adjunct Professor of Law, Nova Southeastern University and currently as a panel arbitrator and mediator for National Arbitration & Mediation (NAM), FINRA Dispute Resolution Services and other private entities.

Before joining Victor, Shaw & McCue, I was the managing partner at Carman, Beauchamp, Sang, Gonzales & Philpott, P.A., with offices in Boca Raton and Orlando, Florida. Prior to starting that firm, I was a principal/partner at Kuvin & Carman, P.A., and also served as a Managing Regional Attorney for General Accident Insurance Company and as staff counsel for Liberty Mutual Insurance Company.

Law School

Nova Southeastern University 1977 JD

College

University of South Florida BA 1974

Teaching

Adjunct Professor of Law Nova Southeastern 1991-1994

SAM Y. CHON

Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: SChon@victorshawlaw.com

SAM Y. CHON

Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: SChon@victorshawlaw.com

I am a civil litigator with over two decades of litigation experience both in California and Florida. I have handled and managed all aspects of complex construction defect claims involving residential, commercial, and mixed-use high-rise condominium and townhome buildings as well as apartment conversions since 2000. I also served as general corporate counsel to the boards of directors of common interest developments on many topics, including but not limited to, fiduciary responsibility, interpretation of convents and restrictions, insurance coverage, conflict resolutions, construction contract review, and post-construction defect lawsuit remedial repair and bidding procedures. In my early career, I served as Tax Counsel II for the State of California’s Board of Equalization, Property Tax Division, and taught business law at the University of Phoenix, Sacramento Valley Campus for multiple semesters. When I had my own practice, I had an unique opportunity to serve as a volunteer small claims court judge for the Sacramento County Superior Court.

Currently, my practice is dedicated to defending the rights and interests of the developers, architects, engineers, and contractors sued by common interest developments in construction defect lawsuits. My experiences as a long-time plaintiff’s counsel are invaluable in effectively and efficiently defending the interests of my clients.

Law School

J.D., University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, 1998 | (Dean’s Honor and Traynor Honor Society)

College

B.S., University of California at Berkeley (Haas School of Business), 1994 | (Golden Key National Honor Society Lifetime Member)

Admissions

Admitted to California Bar 1998 | Admitted to Florida Bar 2019

Michael J. Crist

Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: MCrist@victorshawlaw.com

Michael J. Crist

Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: MCrist@victorshawlaw.com

Having had the opportunity to take several thousand depositions across the United States as a young lawyer in a variety of products liability and mass tort cases, I had an early exposure to the art and science of cross-examination in which cases were won or lost in real time based upon the skill and preparation of counsel. I have since served on trial teams from Florida to New York, from Virginia to California, and many states in between, but the initial lessons touting the need for preparation and a multidisciplinary analytical approach to analysis, strategy, and persuasion have remained the same. They provided the basis which allowed me to serve as a national trial counsel and national discovery coordinating council for various manufacturers and distributors of industrial, commercial, and residential products. I have also represented manufacturers and distributors of products that contained asbestos, talc, formaldehyde, benzene, silica, or refractory ceramic fibers. Over the years, my practice has expanded to include the representation of persons and companies in complex, high-dollar commercial and insurance defense lawsuits.

In all such cases, the understanding of the relevant medical and scientific specialties, careful selection and retention of experts from multiple disciplines, and strategic use of investigators and discovery has produced positive, cost effective results by allowing us to adapt to the particularities of each product, case, and fact pattern. Too often it has been said, that “Generals always fight the last war.” However, our adaptive multidisciplinary approach allows to us to use the lessons of the past to predict the problems of the future. We aspire to the analytical methodologies of Sun Tzu, James Burke or Dan Carlin, rather than those of General Custer.

In recent years, I have written papers and provided speeches on a variety of topics including asbestos, talc, formaldehyde, and insurance defense litigation, with recent soporific titles including:

“Daubert Now Rules Florida” May 31, 2019, Newsletter
“The Curious Matter of the Disappearing Talc Case” May 31, 2019, Newsletter
“Bringing Data to the Fog of War, or At Least Litigation – Retrospective Exposure Assessment,” For the Defense Magazine
“Mass Tort Mania – The Effect of Saturation Advertising on Claims, Courts, and Memories,” For the Defense, April 2017
“The Take Home Tort – Fueled by Asbestos,” Strictly Speaking, June 2016
“Formaldehyde – the Next Asbestos?” For the Defense, November 2015
“Managing Asbestos Claims and Litigation,” Corporate Disputes, October 2015
“Formaldehyde,” Life Sciences Insider, 2011
“Florida Appellate Courts Clash Over Florida’s Asbestos & Silica Fairness Compensation Act,” Environmental Toxic Tort Alert – July 2008

While such articles and topics may be inherently complex, the artistry at trial lies in reducing such complexities to simple, but truthful, syllogisms that can be easily understood by persons with wide spectrum of interests, beliefs, and educational levels.

I graduated Emory University in 1986, and Vanderbilt University Law School in 1989. I am licensed to practice law in Georgia and Florida. I enjoy motorsports and am an avid, published photographer.

John Graham

Partner

Location: Miami Email: JGraham@victorshawlaw.com

John Graham

Partner

Location: Miami Email: JGraham@victorshawlaw.com

My practice focuses on the defense of personal injury matters, including premises liability, commercial liability, negligent security, construction defect claims, and motor vehicle accidents. I am committed to maintaining open, consistent communication with clients, ensuring they are well-informed and supported at every stage.

Before joining Victor, Shaw & McCue, I served as General Counsel and Compliance Officer for a mid-sized motor vehicle sales finance company based in Miami. In that role, I oversaw corporate and consumer compliance, managed Florida litigation and outside counsel relationships, advised on transactional matters, and guided the company through regulatory and banking audits. My work supported the company’s expansion into operations across 13 states.

Earlier in my career, I practiced with an established Miami firm as a member of the Commercial Litigation and Bankruptcy groups. My litigation experience includes handling complex matters such as contract disputes, creditor and debtor rights, landlord/tenant issues, bank-side foreclosures, FDCPA claims, and condominium association disputes.

Outside of the office, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family, following college football, and roasting my own coffee.

Law School

Florida International University College of Law, Juris Doctor, 2008

College

Eastern Michigan University, Telecommunications, 1989

Katharine T. Healey

Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: KHealey@victorshawlaw.com

Katharine T. Healey

Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: KHealey@victorshawlaw.com

I graduated magna cum laude from Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, Illinois, in May 2005, earning a Bachelor of Arts in History and Spanish. During my time at Illinois Wesleyan, I was named to the Dean’s List, competed on the Swim Team for two years, and was an active member of Phi Alpha Theta, Sigma Delta Pi, and Gamma Sigma Alpha Honor Societies.

My interest in courtroom advocacy began during law school, where I worked as a Certified Legal Intern in the domestic violence unit of the Broward County State Attorney’s Office. That hands-on experience introduced me to the demands and rewards of litigation and confirmed my desire to build a career in trial work. Since earning my Juris Doctor from the University of Miami School of Law in 2008, I have spent nearly two decades practicing in the field of insurance defense. Over the years, I’ve honed my litigation skills representing various insurance and corporate clients, and developed a strong foundation in defending matters involving premises liability, automobile negligence, construction defect, and commercial claims.

I consider myself lucky to have spent the past 3 years as a Partner with the team at Victor, Shaw & McCue, where I have continued specializing in all aspects of premises liability defense. I am dedicated to providing my clients with strategic, responsive, and results-oriented representation, and I bring a thoughtful, trial-ready approach to every case I handle.

Outside the office, I enjoy spending time with my family, water sports, live music, and travelling.

Law School

The University of Miami School of Law, 2008

College

Illinois Wesleyan University, BA, 2005

Awards (At Illinois Wesleyan)
Academic All-American (swimming)
All-American Honorable Mention (swimming)

Honor’s Societies

Phi Alpha Theta (History), Sigman Delta Pi (Spanish), Gamma Sigma Alpha (All-Greek)

BRADLEY F. ROTHENBERG

Partner

Location: West Palm Beach & Fort Lauderdale Email: BRothenberg@victorshawlaw.com

BRADLEY F. ROTHENBERG

Partner

Location: West Palm Beach & Fort Lauderdale Email: BRothenberg@victorshawlaw.com

I was born, raised, and have significant ties to South Florida. I began my legal career as a young attorney representing private companies desiring to be publicly traded. I filed initial trading applications with the National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD) and authored periodic reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for two dozen public corporations. Following which, one of my clients with a small real estate brokerage hired me to serve as General Counsel to his growing real estate empire. We closed nearly 50,000 real estate transactions in six years with over 10 retail locations and a corporate headquarters in Boca Raton, in which my office was located.

With my extensive corporate and securities background, Becker offered me a position representing community associations (condominiums, homeowners’ associations, and cooperatives) as their General Counsel. We represented thousands of communities across the state of Florida in all types of matters, including both transactional and litigation work. I also served as a member of Becker’s Disaster Recovery Team, organized to be first responders to community associations following a catastrophic event such as a hurricane. My work in this field continued as a Senior Attorney with Sachs, Sax, Caplan.

I capitalized on my extensive knowledge of community association law, to accept a position as a Partner with Angius & Terry practicing construction defect litigation. While there, I litigated as a plaintiff’s attorney, representing community associations plagued by construction defects. I have continued my busy construction defect practice as an AV-Rated Partner for TorresVictor. At TorresVictor, we advocate on behalf of contractors, including developers, engineers, and architects, who are accused of defective construction in multi-family communities.

I have shared my knowledge of Community Association law with my neighbors by serving as both Vice-President and a member of the Board of Directors of Boca Del Mar Improvement Association, Inc. Boca Del Mar is one of the largest Planned Unit Developments east of the Mississippi, with nearly 10,000 units and approximately 25,000 residents. I also served as President and member of the Board of Directors of my own homeowners’ association.

Law School

University of Miami School of Law – 1997 | Moot Court High Honors

College

Brandeis University – Bachelor of Arts Cum Laude with concentration in Legal Studies 1993

Additional Information

Extensive knowledge of corporate law, including prior practice of securities law for both public and private issuers, including reporting with the Securities and Exchange Commission quarterly and annually for a dozen public corporations
General counsel to a real estate company that did 50,000 real estate transactions in five (5) years
Liquor licensing (zoning) throughout the United States of movie theaters Cinemark, Regal, and Carmike and cruise ships for Carnival and Norweigian
Extensive knowledge of condominium, homeowners association, and cooperative law
Plaintiff and defense practice of construction defect litigation

Maria Schneider

Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: MSchneider@victorshawlaw.com

Maria Schneider

Partner

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: MSchneider@victorshawlaw.com

Maria M. Schneider currently handles negligent security, first-party, and third-party insurance defense matters. Ms. Schneider began this phase of her career after retiring from 35 years of public service in March 2022. From 1993 until 2022, she served as an Assistant State Attorney with the Office of the State Attorney for the 17th Judicial Circuit of Broward County. During her tenure, she held numerous positions, including Assistant in Charge of the Juvenile Division (1999–2022), Assistant in Charge of the Felony Trial Division (2019–2022), and first chair in approximately 300 cases, including capital homicide trials over her last 22 years with the Office.

Prior to that, Ms. Schneider worked as an Assistant Public Defender at the Broward Public Defender’s Office from 1986 to 1993.

In addition, Ms. Schneider has served as an adjunct professor—most recently at the Saint Thomas University College of Law and Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law—as well as at Nova Southeastern University and Florida Atlantic University in their undergraduate criminal justice programs. She has also lectured for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, the Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association, the Florida Association of School Resource Officers, the Office of the Attorney General, and the National District Attorneys Association. She has served as faculty in training programs provided by the National Institute for Trial Advocacy both in the United States and abroad.

On a personal note, Ms. Schneider has been married for 37 years, has three wonderful grown children, and is the proud grandmother of a 4-year-old and a 1-year-old.

Law School

I went to the Nova University Center for the Study of Law in December 1986. I received book awards in Contracts and Criminal Law.

College

I did most of my undergraduate coursework at Louisiana State University but graduated in 1984 from Florida International University with a BA in English.

Michael T. Tomlin

Partner

Location: Miami Email: MTomlin@victorshawlaw.com

Michael T. Tomlin

Partner

Location: Miami Email: MTomlin@victorshawlaw.com

I was born and raised in the great state of North Carolina where I attended North Carolina State University, graduating with honors. As a lover of all things aquatic, I was drawn to South Florida at a very early age and had the great fortune of attending the University of Miami School of Law where I graduated with honors. My experience at the “U” included immersion in a trial advocacy program taught by some of the country’s most cutting-edge legal talent. Upon leaving he “U,” I embarked on a career that has involved a diverse civil litigation trial practice emphasizing insurance litigation coverage and contract disputes and their associated tort claims, as well as the defense of product, premises, and professional liability claims. My practice also includes significant experience in the area of asbestos personal injury claims and the management and defense of those claims on behalf of product and premises defendants.

The practice of law continues to evolve at an amazing pace, and I enjoy working with a broad range of clients to develop effective litigation strategies that can keep pace with this evolution in an effort to reach favorable outcomes.

I practice regularly in state and federal courts throughout Florida. Before joining Victor, Shaw & McCue, I was a member of the Personal Injury and Property Damage Practice Group at Hinshaw & Culbertson, LLP in Coral Gables, Florida.

Law School

University of Miami School of Law, J.D. conferred 1989

College

N.C. State University, B.S. Zoology, 1985

Doron Weiss

Partner

Location: Miami Email: DWeiss@victorshawlaw.com

Doron Weiss

Partner

Location: Miami Email: DWeiss@victorshawlaw.com

I have been an attorney in Miami for over 20 years. My practice focuses on the litigation of complex tort, commercial, and insurance-related matters.

I am well versed in all facets of the litigation process, including pre-suit investigation, civil procedure, hearing and trial practice, and post-judgment enforcement. I am also a Florida Supreme Court Qualified Arbitrator.

Additionally, I have significant experience writing appellate briefs. In this regard, I have prepared appellate briefs on an expansive range of subjects, including fraudulent transfers, quiet title, workers’ compensation immunity, the False Claims Act, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. I also authored the winning brief in an appeal which affirmed a jury defense verdict in a motorcycle accident in the Florida Keys in which the plaintiffs were seeking over $14 million in damages. Finally, I wrote the winning brief in the case of Friedman v. Heart Institute of Port St. Lucie, 863 So.2d 189 (Fla. 2003).

My legal career began as a staff attorney for the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida in Miami-Dade County. In this position I had the opportunity to conduct an extensive amount of research on a variety of civil, criminal, and family law matters for Circuit Court Judges, assist with appeals heard by the Circuit Court in its appellate capacity, and draft over sixty memoranda of law.

I am originally from Nebraska, and was a debater at Lincoln East High School and a member of the University of Iowa debate team during a portion of my freshman year.

While attending the University of Florida College of Law, I earned honors in Appellate Advocacy, received the Book Award for Race and Race Relations, and served as the managing editor and notes editor of the Florida Journal of Law and Public Policy.

Practice Areas:

Insurance Defense; Commercial Litigation; Professional Liability

Law School

University of Florida College of Law, J.D. 2000 |

College

University of Iowa, B.S. in Political Science, 1994 | Donald B. Johnson Fellowship 1993-94 (awarded for most outstanding achievement by senior political science major).

Honors

Spring 1998 and Spring 2000 | Appellate Advocacy | Journal of Law and Public Policy, Managing Editor (Fall 1999) and Notes Editor (Spring 1999)

Additional

I am a Florida Supreme Court Qualified Arbitrator

Maria Alvarez

Senior Attorney

Location: Miami Email: MAlvarez@victorshawlaw.com

Maria Alvarez

Senior Attorney

Location: Miami Email: MAlvarez@victorshawlaw.com

I currently practice in the firm’s Miami office. I received a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and Advertising Communications with dual minors in Political Communications and Journalism from Emerson College in 2005. I earned my Juris Doctorate from St. Thomas University School of Law in 2008 where I graduated magna cum laude. While attending law school, I ranked in the top 5% of my law school class and was a judicial intern for the Honorable Cecilia M. Altonaga at the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Prior to joining Torres Victor, I worked as a staff attorney with Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc., where I focused my practice on housing and consumer law.

Law School

St. Thomas University School of Law, 2008 (Magna Cum Laude)

College

Emerson College, BA in Marketing, Public Relations & Advertising, 2005 (Cum Laude)

BAR ADMISSIONS

State Bar Admissions

Florida (2008)
District of Columbia (2010)

U.S. District Courts

Middle District of Florida
Southern District of Florida

Yadhira Ramirez-Toro

Senior Attorney

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: YRamirezToro@victorshawlaw.com

Yadhira Ramirez-Toro

Senior Attorney

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: YRamirezToro@victorshawlaw.com

Yadhira led a successful federal litigation practice prior to joining Victor, Shaw & McCue, litigating claims under Title VII, FLSA, and Section 1983 Civil Rights. Her legal practice has now expanded to encompass commercial litigation and insurance defense, concentrating on coverage and construction defect cases. Throughout her litigation career, Yadhira has handled more than 190 federal cases. She also has tried more than fifteen (15) civil rights jury trials in federal court, being lead counsel in the majority of them.

She studied law at the University of Puerto Rico Law School, an ABA accredited school. Her bachelor’s degree was in business administration in Accounting and a minor in Finance. She is admitted to the practice of law in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the State of Florida, U.S. D.C. for the District of Puerto Rico, and all U.S. District Courts in Florida.

Yadhira is very passionate about her practice. For her, more than a job, lawyering is her true vocation. She is a zealous advocate of the rights of her clients. She is a life-member of Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc. Yadhira is fluent in Spanish and studied Italian, French and Hebrew.

Cary C. Woods

Senior Attorney

Location: Miami Email: CWoods@victorshawlaw.com

Cary C. Woods

Senior Attorney

Location: Miami Email: CWoods@victorshawlaw.com

Cary C. Woods was born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1979. He was admitted to the Florida Bar and all U.S. District Courts of Florida in 2006. Mr. Woods received his law degree from St. Thomas University School of Law, where he earned two book awards for his outstanding participation and knowledge in Constitutional Law II and Trial Advocacy. During his time in law school he furthered his study of law in El Escorial, Spain. Mr. Woods received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and International Affairs and a minor in Communications from Florida State University.

Mr. Woods has been selected to The National Black Lawyers Top 100. Mr. Woods is rated AV Preeminent by Martindale Hubbell. He concentrates his practice on premises liability, auto liability, liquor liability, insurance coverage and general civil litigation defense. He is an avid sports fan and dedicated numerous years playing national competitive tennis.

Law School

St. Thomas University School of Law, 2006. Book awards in Constitutional Law II and Trial Advocacy

College

Florida State University, 2001

Admissions

Florida, 2006. U.S. District Courts for the Northern, Middle and Southern Districts of Florida

Stephen Koch

Associate Attorney

Location: Miami Email: SKoch@victorshawlaw.com

Stephen Koch

Associate Attorney

Location: Miami Email: SKoch@victorshawlaw.com

I’m a South Florida native who is fortunate to count himself among the alumni of Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, Florida International University, and St. Thomas University College of Law. While in law school I was a member, as well as executive board member, of the Trial Team and Journal of Complex Litigation.

Since graduating from law school, I have worked as a civil litigator representing insurance carriers and corporate clients throughout the State of Florida in contract disputes, property and casualty defense, premises liability defense, and construction defect matters. Additionally, I am a member of the Claims Litigation Alliance, multiple state bar sections, and multiple professional alumni sections.

I am also fluent in English and Spanish.

Outside of work, I enjoy watching the Miami Heat and Inter Miami, playing dominos, golfing, watching motorsports, spending time out on the water, cooking, and spending time with my family.

Law School

St. Thomas University School of Law 2017

College

Florida International University, Bachelor of Arts in International Relations, 2013

Awards

Recipient of Park Valentine Perkins Award which is presented to Theta Chi Fraternity Members who demonstrate a commitment to expansion either by starting an interest group or by significantly assisting a colony that is (re)installed as a chapter.
Selected to be a member of the St. Thomas University Journal of Complex Litigation.

Racquel Hylton

Associate Attorney

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: RHylton@victorshawlaw.com

Racquel Hylton

Associate Attorney

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: RHylton@victorshawlaw.com

Racquel is a skilled litigator whose practice is primarily focused on the defense of clients in premises liability claims and related civil litigation. She brings a breadth of experience to her role at Victor, Shaw and McCue, having previously served as in-house counsel for a major automobile insurance carrier, where she managed complex matters involving Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claims and policy interpretation.

In addition to her work in premises liability, Racquel has defended insurance carriers in high-stakes cases involving wrongful death, general negligence, interstate trucking and transportation, and negligent security. Her diverse background gives her a comprehensive understanding of risk management and defense strategy across a range of tort-related claims.

Racquel began her legal career as an Assistant Public Defender in Broward County, where she gained extensive courtroom and trial experience. Her commitment to litigation was evident early on, during her time at Florida A&M University College of Law, where she was an active member of the Moot Court team and participated in the Criminal Defense Clinic. To date, Racquel has tried approximately 14 jury and bench trials to verdict.

A proud Florida native, Racquel was raised in Tampa and earned her undergraduate degree in Political Science from the University of South Florida. Outside of the office, she enjoys traveling, exploring South Florida’s vibrant culinary scene, and playing tennis.

Law School

Florida A&M University College of Law, class of 2017

College

University of South Florida, BS in Political Science and Graduated Spring 2014

Rafael Torres

Associate Attorney

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: RTorres@victorshawlaw.com

Rafael Torres

Associate Attorney

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: RTorres@victorshawlaw.com

I am a lifelong Floridian who was born and raised in Orlando. I attended the University of South Florida where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

I graduated from Florida International University College of Law in 2018. While in law school I was an active member of the trial advocacy program and served as the trial team president.

I started my legal career at the law firm of Bernstein Chackman Liss where I focused on first-party homeowners insurance defense. Prior to joining Victor, Shaw & McCue, my practice involved representing plaintiffs and defendants in real property and business contract disputes.

My current practice is focused on defending individuals and businesses involved in small and complex construction defect lawsuits.

When I am not litigating, I enjoy camping, kayaking, and anything to do with the outdoors.

Education:

Florida International University College of Law, Miami, F.L. J.D. 2018
University of South Florida, Tampa, F.L. B.A. 2013

Bar Admissions:

Florida (2018)

Adriana Molina

Associate Attorney

Location: Miami Email: AMolina@victorshawlaw.com

Adriana Molina

Associate Attorney

Location: Miami Email: AMolina@victorshawlaw.com

I’m an Associate Attorney at Victor, Shaw & McCue, where I concentrate my practice on third-party liability matters, including premises liability, wrongful death, and general negligence claims. With nearly a decade of experience across legal practice and the insurance industry, I bring a well-rounded, strategic approach to each case—assisting in risk assessment, anticipating challenges, and supporting the development of outcome-focused litigation strategies for businesses, property owners, and insurers.

Prior to practicing law, I spent nearly seven years as a licensed insurance agent in Florida. That experience gives me a practical, inside perspective on the insurance industry—enabling me to anticipate how insurers assess risk, approach claims, and collaborate with adjusters and experts throughout the litigation process.

I began my legal career as a Law Clerk at a South Florida insurance defense firm, managing cases from pre-suit investigations through trial preparation. I also interned with the City of Coral Gables, where I assisted in drafting municipal policy and conducted legal research involving local and state regulations.

I earned my Bachelor of Arts in English, cum laude, from Florida International University, where I served as a chair member of Phi Alpha Delta, a pre-law fraternity dedicated to promoting professional development, community service, and ethical leadership in the legal field. I went on to earn my Juris Doctor, cum laude, from St. Thomas University School of Law, where I was actively involved in the Elder Law Society and the Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Society.

When I’m not practicing law, I enjoy traveling, discovering new restaurants, practicing hot yoga or Pilates, and spending time outdoors with my dog.

Law School

St. Thomas University School of Law, May 2022, cum laude

College

Bachelor of Arts in English cum laude, graduated May 2019 from Florida International University (FIU)

Jessica Gomez

Associate Attorney

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: JGomez@victorshawlaw.com

Jessica Gomez

Associate Attorney

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: JGomez@victorshawlaw.com

Jessica Gomez is an Associate Attorney at VSM, focusing her practice on Third-Party Liability.

Before joining VSM, Jessica gained valuable experience defending employers and insurance carriers under the Defense Base Act (DBA) and Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensations Act (LHWCA).

Jessica earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Miami School of Law. During law school, Jessica was a member of the Student Ambassador Program, Society of Bar and Gavel, Tenants Rights Clinic and the Immigration Clinic. Additionally, she worked with Professor Joshua Mintz as his research assistant for a short course on Emerging Forms of Philanthropy and the Role of Private Foundations in Effecting Social Change. Jessica also gained a wide variety of legal experience as a Special Projects Intern in New York City with the Immigrant and Refugee Services for Catholic Charities Community Services and as an intern with Bacardi-Martini, Inc., in Coral Gables.

EDUCATION:

University of South Florida, Bachelor of Arts, Political Science and Criminology
University of Miami School of Law, Juris Doctorate, 2020

BAR ADMISSIONS:

State Bar Admissions

Florida (2023)

LANGUAGES:

Spanish

Cortney Knox

Associate Attorney

Location: Miami Email: CKnox@victorshawlaw.com

Cortney Knox

Associate Attorney

Location: Miami Email: CKnox@victorshawlaw.com

Raised in Pennsylvania, I developed a deep interest in law from an early age, which led me to Duquesne University’s Forensic Science & Law program. After completing my studies in Pittsburgh, I moved to South Florida to attend the University of Miami School of Law.

At the University of Miami, I served as Editor-in-Chief of the Inter-American Law Review, a role that sharpened my legal research, editing, and leadership skills. I also participated in the Litigation Skills Program, gaining valuable trial advocacy experience under the guidance of some of South Florida’s top legal professionals.

Upon graduating, I began my legal career at the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office. I was later selected as a County Training Attorney, supervising and mentoring new prosecutors. This position helped refine my leadership abilities while providing hands-on courtroom experience. Over the years, I participated in numerous trials and developed a strong command of courtroom strategy, ultimately solidifying my ability to advocate effectively across a wide range of legal matters.

Today, I apply this experience to deliver high-quality legal services to clients in need of dedicated, knowledgeable counsel.

EDUCATION

Member: American Bar Association

BAR ADMISSIONS

Florida (2018)

Mark Simonitis

Associate Attorney

Location: Miami Email: MSimonitis@victorshawlaw.com

Mark Simonitis

Associate Attorney

Location: Miami Email: MSimonitis@victorshawlaw.com

I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. And while I left for a while, I never lost sight of home.

I earned my undergraduate degree with honors from Amherst College in Massachusetts, then went on to attend the University of Notre Dame Law School… to the dismay of friends and family loyal to the University of Miami.

At Notre Dame, I served as an Oralist and Jessup Team Representative on the Moot Court Board, an Associate Editor for the Journal on Emerging Technologies, and a Legal Intern with the Exoneration Justice Project Clinic. It was through that clinic, working on cases involving the freedom of wrongfully imprisoned individuals, that I found my passion for litigation.

After graduation, I returned to Miami and was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2023. At Victor, Shaw & McCue, I focus on cases involving personal injury, premises liability, and motor vehicle accident claims.

Law School

Notre Dame Law School, 2022 | Recognized as a Champion For Justice for my work with the Exoneration Justice Clinic

College

Amherst College, Bachelor of Arts, 2019 | Graduated Cum Laude

Chantal A. Camacho

Associate Attorney

Location: Miami Email: CCamacho@victorshawlaw.com

Chantal A. Camacho

Associate Attorney

Location: Miami Email: CCamacho@victorshawlaw.com

Chantal A. Camacho is an Associate Attorney at Victor Shaw & McCue, bringing dedication, strong ethics, and well-rounded litigation experience to every case she handles. Her legal career began at the firm as a law clerk, where for over two years she gained hands-on experience litigating first-party property cases. Since becoming licensed in 2022, she has worked on all stages of litigation in matters involving first-party property claims, personal injury, premises liability, and negligent security.

Chantal earned her J.D. from Florida International University College of Law in December 2021. During her time in law school, she demonstrated a commitment to leadership, professionalism, and advocacy. She served as Vice President of the Student Bar Association, where she represented and advocated for the needs of evening program students. As a member of the Appellate Advocacy Program, she developed and refined her oral advocacy and legal writing skills.

Guided by a deep respect for the legal profession, Chantal accepted a position as a Teaching Assistant for Professor Margaret Brennan Correoso’s Professional Responsibility course. In this role, she furthered her understanding of the rules of professional conduct while supporting her peers in mastering ethical obligations.

Chantal also served as President of the Student Animal Legal Defense Fund, a role that allowed her to combine her legal interests with her personal passion for animal welfare.

With a strong foundation in litigation and a principled approach to the practice of law, Chantal is committed to advocating zealously for her clients while upholding the highest standards of professional conduct.

Law School

Florida International University (FIU), JD, 2021

College

Florida International University (FIU); Political Science, 2016

Joycelyne Moimeme

Associate Attorney

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: JMoimeme@victorshawlaw.com

Joycelyne Moimeme

Associate Attorney

Location: Fort Lauderdale Email: JMoimeme@victorshawlaw.com

Joycelyne Moimeme is an associate attorney at Victor Shaw McCue’s Fort Lauderdale office. Her practice focuses on providing representation to insurance and corporate clients in the areas of construction defect, property and casualty defense, premises liability defense, commercial and business litigation, and defense of complex litigation matters. Before joining Victor Shaw McCue Joycelyne litigated coverage lawsuits for major insurance carriers throughout Florida. Her legal experience also encompasses pre-suit coverage decisions, first-party property claims, breach of contract claims, insurer bad faith/extra contractual liability claims for disputes under, property, homeowners, and commercial policies.

Outside of work, Joycelyne enjoys traveling, fine dining, and spending quality time with her family.

Law School

Thomas. M. Cooley Law School, 2013.

College

Graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, 2003.
Graduated from Nova Southeastern University with a Master’s in Business Administration, 2008.

Awards

In law school, I received the Book Award in Pre-Trial Skills, I made the Dean’s List and was a Moot Court Semi-Finalist.

Meet the Attorneys

Committed to Success

GREGORY A. VICTOR

JAMES M. SHAW

WILLIAM C. MCCUE

Carolyn Anderson

Gonzalo Barr

Kenneth P. Carman

SAM Y. CHON

Michael J. Crist

John Graham

Katharine T. Healey

BRADLEY F. ROTHENBERG

Maria Schneider

Michael T. Tomlin

Doron Weiss

Maria Alvarez

Yadhira Ramirez-Toro

Cary C. Woods

Stephen Koch

Racquel Hylton

Rafael Torres

Adriana Molina

Jessica Gomez

Cortney Knox

Mark Simonitis

Chantal A. Camacho

Joycelyne Moimeme