Civil Litigation

Civil Litigation

At Garrett Hemann, we approach every case with pragmatism, preparation, and purpose. We believe effective litigation requires both tenacity and judgment — that the best advocates are those who help clients avoid unnecessary conflict while standing ready to protect their interests when litigation is unavoidable.

When it comes to litigation, we believe that boxing gloves and kid gloves are not incompatible, and that the best litigators recognize there are multiple paths to the right resolution. Our practitioners have plenty of litigations, arbitrations and mediations under their belts and are trial-ready.

So what does that mean for you? It means we have earned the respect of our adversaries and of the courts. It means we are effective. It means that we will stand ready to defend you in whatever way is most appropriate. When we develop a strategy, we do it with you, taking into account your situation, your company’s tolerance for litigation, and the importance of the matter in the context of other business or personal considerations. We are also flexible and experienced enough to change courses if the situation evolves or the circumstances change.

Whether representing individuals, businesses, or public entities, we take the time to understand your goals, assess your risk, and craft strategies that make sense for your situation. Our team brings decades of courtroom and negotiation experience to every matter, combining thoughtful counsel with decisive advocacy.

Appellate Law

When a case proceeds to appeal, we know how much is at stake. We handle appeals from state and federal courts with the same diligence and clarity that define our trial practice.

Business Litigation

Business disputes can disrupt operations and relationships alike. We help companies resolve commercial conflicts efficiently — from contract and shareholder disputes to partnership dissolutions and unfair competition claims — with strategies that protect your bottom line while preserving important business relationships whenever possible.

Civil Rights Defense

We defend public entities, educational institutions, and employers against claims involving alleged civil rights violations, discrimination, and constitutional issues. Our lawyers are deeply experienced in navigating Section 1983 and Title IX matters, ensuring that our clients’ missions can continue with integrity and confidence.

Complex Civil Litigation

Large scale disputes require both sophisticated strategy and efficient management. Our attorneys are equipped to handle multi-party and multi-jurisdictional cases, coordinating discovery, expert testimony, and trial preparation to achieve focused, cost effective outcomes.

Construction Law

We represent owners, contractors, and design professionals in all aspects of construction related disputes. From contract performance and defect claims to delay and lien issues, we help clients find practical resolutions that keep projects and relationships intact.

Defense of Professional Licensing Actions

Our attorneys represent professionals before state and federal licensing boards, helping them respond to investigations, administrative complaints, and disciplinary proceedings. We guide clients through every step of the process with discretion, diligence, and a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape.

Mediation & Arbitration

We believe many disputes can be resolved outside the courtroom. Our attorneys regularly serve as advocates and neutrals in mediation and arbitration proceedings, bringing balanced judgment and creativity to negotiations that save time, expense, and stress.

If you are a licensed professional, such as a physician, lawyer, architect, or accountant, the time and effort you put into your chosen field is unrivaled. We understand just how important it is that you have every resource you need to do your best work, including law practitioners who will take the burden of legal matters off your plate.

As recognized leaders in the legal community, we take pride in providing the comprehensive resources you need to focus less on legal issues and more on the critical services you provide to our communities. Even with the highest levels of preparation, however, you may face claims of malpractice that can jeopardize your reputation and ability to serve clients and patients. We will draw upon decades of experience to defend you in claims of negligence.

Using a swift and systematic approach, we develop appropriate strategies for protecting your practice and livelihood in court and before administrative agencies. We will strive to show you the same devotion you show your clients, and we do so by matching your professionalism, upholding your core values, and defending your ability to serve your community.

Personal Injury

When an injury leads to a dispute, we provide strong, results-oriented representation. We represent individuals, businesses, and public entities in personal injury and tort matters, handling both defense and plaintiff claims with an emphasis on fairness, professionalism, and careful evaluation of liability and exposure.

Key Contacts

  • Elliot R. Field

    Shareholder

    Civil Litigation, Employment & Labor Law, School & Public Entity Law

  • Jenn M. Gaddis

    Shareholder

    Civil Litigation, Civil Rights Defense, Employment & Labor Law, Medical & Legal Malpractice Defense

  • Kim E. Hoyt

    Shareholder

    Civil Litigation, Civil Rights Defense, Employment & Labor Law, Medical & Legal Malpractice Defense

  • Ryan P. Hunt

    Shareholder

    Civil Litigation, Divorce & Family Law, Personal Injury

  • Rebekah R. Jacobson

    Shareholder

    Civil Litigation, Employment & Labor Law, Human Resources Consultation, School & Public Entity Law

  • John E. Pollino

    Shareholder

    Business Litigation, Civil Litigation, Medical & Legal Malpractice Defense

  • Luke W. Reese

    Shareholder

    Civil Litigation, Employment & Labor Law, Human Resources Consultation

  • J. Kevin Shuba

    Shareholder

    Civil Litigation, Condemnation, Guardianships & Conservatorships, Probate & Trust Administration, Probate & Trust Trials, and Appeals

  • Breanna L. Thompson

    Shareholder

    Civil Litigation, Employment & Labor Law, Medical & Legal Malpractice Defense

  • Kenna R. Banford

    Associate

    Civil Litigation, Civil Rights Defense, Employment & Labor Law, Medical & Legal Malpractice Defense

  • Marco G. Lohavanijaya

    Associate

    Civil Litigation, Corporate & Business Transactions, Medical & Legal Malpractice Defense, Real Estate Law

  • Travis A. Merritt

    Associate

    Civil Litigation, Civil Rights Defense, Employment & Labor Law, Medical & Legal Malpractice Defense

  • Mackenzie M. Patrick

    Associate

    Civil Litigation, Civil Rights Defense, Divorce & Family Law, Guardianships & Conservatorships, Probate & Trust Trials, and Appeals