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Jackie Gerber Leads Transportation Team to Achieve Two Favorable Jury Verdicts

We are proud to highlight the remarkable achievements of Jackie Gerber, who recently led two trial victories against the same Plaintiff's counsel within just three weeks. Both cases were presented in Travis County District Courts on behalf of a public transportation company, a client overseen by partner Melanie Cheairs.

Jackie obtained a unanimous jury verdict in a lawsuit where the Plaintiff alleged injuries from a low speed rear-end collision required her to get a hip replacement and foot surgery. Jackie presented reasonable and relatable facts to the jury to dispute liability – there was no vehicle damage, and our client’s recording device was not even triggered – and the extent of the medical treatment that prompted the $2.5 million demand. Medical evidence showed the Plaintiff had a history of hip issues and foot issues, and her doctors agreed that none of her medical expenses stemmed from the collision. The jury awarded the Plaintiff $200,000 for pain and suffering.

In another trial defending the same client, the Plaintiff – a passenger on a bus that ran a red light – initially claimed abdominal injuries that escalated to a lumbar fusion and then a traumatic brain injury. The Mayer team of Scott Novak, Danielle Ross, and Jackie postulated to our client’s liability but robustly disputed causation and damages, navigating a trial filled with appealable issues and challenges, including allegations of spoliated video evidence.

Jackie’s trial skills were evident during her opening statements and stunning cross-examination of the Plaintiff in Spanish, which helped connect with him and clarify many points of the case. Scott's expert handling of the Plaintiff's medical professionals was equally impressive, providing important insights into previous head injuries that ultimately influenced the jury's decision. The trial team’s collaborative efforts culminated in a favorable verdict, awarding the Plaintiff $125,000 for medical costs related to the abdominal injury only versus the demand of $30 million. This was a significant win in a challenging case.

Beyond her impressive trial successes, Jackie is deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the legal profession. She actively leads numerous initiatives and programs, including her involvement with the Hispanic National Bar Association, ALFAI – where she is a member of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Leaders Forum, and a board member of multiple nonprofits. Her work in these areas exemplifies her dedication to advocating for underrepresented voices in our industry.

Jackie's dual commitment to legal excellence and diversity not only advances the representation of Latina attorneys but also inspires future generations of legal professionals. Her successes remind us of the vital role we all play in building a more inclusive legal community.