J.Y. is a thought leader in developing innovative approaches to solve his clients' most complex business problems in matters of toxic tort and product liability litigation.
J.Y. has extensive experience as national and regional coordinating counsel, building and leading large teams to achieve their clients’ business objectives in the most efficient manner possible. He has directed and managed the defense of thousands of toxic tort cases in the most challenging jurisdictions in the country. Work on such a massive scale requires masterful people management, communication skills, training, technology integration and a keen understanding of legal project management. His robust methodology for handling product liability and premises liability cases enables his clients to accomplish business goals, control costs and minimize risk.
His deep understanding of scientific, medical and state-of-the art issues enables J.Y. to construct and present comprehensive and compelling defenses to personal injury cases involving exposure to asbestos, benzene and solvents. He has also defended product liability claims involving industrial tools, construction equipment and consumer products throughout his 20+ year career.
J.Y. serves on the Firm’s Executive Board and led the Firm’s most recent strategic planning process. He is also the Managing Partner of Husch Blackwell's virtual office, The Link.
Before joining the Firm, J.Y. served five years on active duty in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps. As a prosecutor and, later, as criminal defense counsel, J.Y. developed his trial advocacy skills by bringing numerous cases to verdict while stationed in Texas, Saudi Arabia, Georgia and Bosnia.