In a major development in the ongoing investigation into a widespread fraud involving staged accidents with tractor-trailers, Jovanna Gardner, one of the central figures, has agreed to a plea deal with federal prosecutors. Gardner’s decision to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit witness tampering and cooperate with investigators marks a critical juncture in this high-profile
Two New Partners at Hughes Lawyers
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Dear Valued Clients, Colleagues, and Friends,
I hope this message finds you well and that you each enjoyed a very happy holiday season.
I am writing to share the good news that I have named two new Partners at Hughes Lawyers: Joe Hoffman and Natalie Higgins!
- Joe Hoffman: Joe Hoffman is a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law, where he was on the Dean’s List Spring 2012, Fall 2012, and Spring 2013. While at University of Missouri-Columbia he participated in the 2012 Board of Advocacy Mediation Competition as a semi-finalist. Joe received his undergraduate degree in History from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2011, where he made the Dean’s List every semester. Joe was admitted to the Missouri Bar in 2014 and the Illinois Bar in 2015.
- Natalie Higgins: Natalie is a graduate of St. Louis University School of Law. Natalie represents employers in both employment law and general liability matters. She has represented municipal, non-profit, and for-profit employers in all phases of litigation. In addition, Natalie consults and advises employers with respect to personnel policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable state and federal laws. She also performs independent investigations in situations where an employer suspects that its own policies, state or federal law may have been violated and an internal investigation is inappropriate or unlikely to be effective.
The Firm will issue a formal announcement this month, but I wanted you to hear this news directly from me first.
This development is, in large part, a recognition of the service Joe and Natalie have provided to clients and colleagues like you. We are deeply honored and grateful for the confidence you have placed in our firm and we will continue to strive to meet your legal needs and exceed your expectations in client service. To that end, please be advised that this development will not impact our compliance with applicable billing guidelines.
As always, if I or any of my colleagues can be of assistance, please let me know.
I look forward to continuing our work together in 2020!
Happy New Year!
Very Sincerely,
Steven J. Hughes
Founding Partner
Hughes Lawyers, LLC
