From Public Defender to Legal Pioneer
Alan: Wayne, your legal career is nothing short of remarkable. Can you take us back to the beginning?
Wayne: Absolutely. Right out of law school, I was fortunate to take the bar exam early, allowing me to start practicing immediately. My first role was with the Public Defender’s Office, where I began trying cases within weeks of graduating. After serving in the Army at Fort Benning, I joined the Bedell firm in Jacksonville, which was known for handling diverse cases.
Alan: And then you transitioned to Terrell Hogan?
Wayne: Yes, in 1977, I joined Terrell Hogan, working alongside Tom Brown and Jim Terrell. Over the years, my focus has been on personal injury cases, particularly products liability and asbestos litigation.
Landmark Legal Battles
Alan: You’ve been involved in groundbreaking cases, including litigation against big tobacco. Can you share more about that experience?
Wayne: In the 1990s, I was part of a team assembled by Governor Lawton Chiles to take on the cigarette industry. It was a challenging but rewarding battle that resulted in a $17 billion settlement. To this day, Florida receives $400 million annually from that settlement. Beyond the financial impact, we forced the industry to change its practices, including ceasing the targeting of minors through cartoon advertisements like Joe Camel.
Alan: And your work on asbestos cases?
Wayne: Asbestos litigation was another significant focus. These cases involved individuals exposed to hazardous materials in industries like shipbuilding, paper mills, and construction. Many clients were unaware of the risks they faced, but the companies knew and concealed the dangers. These cases were often long and complex, but the outcomes provided justice for many families.
Terrell Hogan Law: A Full-Service Firm
Alan: Can you tell us more about the range of services offered by Terrell Hogan Law?
Wayne: Certainly. Our firm primarily focuses on personal injury and wrongful death cases, including products liability, automobile accidents, and medical malpractice. Additionally, we have attorneys specializing in business litigation, family law, and criminal defense. We aim to provide comprehensive legal support for individuals and businesses alike.
Commitment to Community
Alan: You and your wife, Pat, are deeply involved in philanthropy. Can you tell us about your charitable efforts?
Wayne: Giving back is a core value for us. We’ve established scholarships in St. Johns County and at Florida State University to support students pursuing higher education. We’ve also partnered with Jacksonville Area Legal Aid and the Mal Washington Youth Foundation to fund programs that benefit underserved communities.
A Passion for Fly Fishing
Alan: Outside of law, you have a passion for fly fishing. What drew you to that hobby?
Wayne: About 20 years ago, I took up fly fishing, and it’s been a wonderful way to recharge. It’s both challenging and rewarding, much like practicing law. Fly fishing requires strategy, patience, and observation—qualities that translate well to the courtroom. My favorite local fish to pursue is the redfish, which you can spot in shallow waters if you’re in the right place at the right time.
Final Thoughts
Alan: Wayne, thank you for sharing your journey and insights with us.
Wayne: It’s been a pleasure, Alan. Thank you for having me.
Wayne Hogan’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, advocacy, and giving back. His contributions to the legal field and the community have left a lasting impact. This has been another edition of Raising the Bar. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations.
