2018 Leading Adviser Supplement

22 Acquisition International - Leading Advisers 2018 8 Acquisition International - Issue 6 2018 Gaines Gault Hendrix PC is a civil litigation firm with strong roots in insurance defence litigation. We profile the firm before speaking to founding partner Ralph D. “Rad” Gaines, III as we explore the secrets behind the Gaines Gault Hendrix’s success. t Gaines Gault Hendrix, being proactive means taking a vigorous approach that constantly engages its adversaries. The team believes that trials are calls to action, and subsequently responds proactively and efficiently. Rad starts off the discussion by describing the typical clientele that the firm works with and the aspects of the legal industry in which the team specialises. “Gaines Gault Hendrix’s lawyers are well-versed in the ‘ins and outs’ of insurance, and the team understands its obligations to the clients it represents, as well as the carriers who retain the firm to do so. “Furthermore, we represent carriers directly in first party claims, extracontractual claims and in coverage disputes. Modern insurance has evolved to provide coverage for claims and events that did not exist a decade ago, but we pride ourselves on staying abreast of the most recent developments and trends in insurance, so we are always ready step up to the plate for our clients. “Lastly, to complement our insurance based practice, our lawyers also represent individuals and corporate entities in a variety of capacities, from contract drafting and review, negotiation, and dispute resolution (including mediation services).” Operating within the competitive legal sector, the team must adopt certain methods that allow it to excel both in terms of results as well as customer service. Rad explains how he and the team ensure right from the start that the outcome of the case meets the desired needs of everyone involved, which leads to repeat business and many long- term clients. Company: Gaines Gault Hendrix PC Contact: Ralph D. Gaines, III Address: 3500 Blue Lake Drive, Suite 425, Birmingham, Alabama, 35242, USA Phone: 001 205 980 5888 Website: www.ggh-law.com Prepared, Proactive & Productive A 1805AI33 “Here at Gaines Gault Hendrix, we believe very strongly in taking a collaborative approach to each case we handle. Clear communication with our client, our claims handler, and our internal team means that we can best allocate resources towards the desired outcome. We understand that objectives and desired outcomes often change as a case develops, but by keeping our clients and carriers apprised of significant developments as they occur, we can modify our strategy and approach as seamlessly as possible.” “Repeat business is the strongest compliment we can receive, and we are proud to have a number of clients with whom we have worked for many years, some since our firm first began. We believe in providing the best quality representation at a fair price. Managing our overhead and expenses and hiring high calibre attorneys and staff members allows us to focus on doing what we do best: taking care of our clients.” Providing his thoughts on the industry, Rad believes it to be vitally important that in this increasingly technology dominated generation, staff are well- equipped to utilise the new technology in the correct way, and not waste the opportunities it has presented. Also, he is keen to emphasise the importance of delivering excellent customer service. “Within the legal sector, automation and technology are wonderful things, but they can become a crutch or a hindrance if not used appropriately. Personal service has been and always will be at the forefront of what we do.” Boasting a wealth of experience in the sector, the team possesses many attributes that have contributed to the firm’s enhanced reputation. Rad outlines these qualities that the firm holds and comments on why he believes the legal team is essential to the law firm moving forwards. “First and foremost, we are litigators. Our reputation for success gives us the flexibility to seek other means of resolution, when a verdict is not the desired outcome. We actively recruit and hire the best and brightest litigators to work with us, and we place a strong emphasis on their training and development. Under the supervision of a partner, our associates also have the opportunity to work directly with clients and claims handlers and gain early experience in the courtroom. As a result, our “Moving forward, we will continue to place a premium on hiring and retaining the very best support staff, many of whom have been with our firm for a number of years.” 1805AI33 Leading Automobile Litigator of the Year, Alabama