Annesley DeGaris' exceptional career has been based on his passion for hard work, justice, and contributions to the legal profession. His career has been marked by his efforts to advance the legal world with a foundation in these principles. Notably, he has played a pivotal role as a founding partner of multiple leading law firms, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and leadership skills. Additionally, he has advocated for various associations and is an instructor in legal academia. DeGaris has fostered a career to continue his legacy of seeking justice for his clients. His motto is the famous quote, "If you want Peace, prepare for war."
Early Life and Career
After receiving his undergraduate degree and J.D. with Honors at Samford University and Cumberland School of Law, DeGaris studied law at the University of Melbourne. There, he received his LL.M. with a concentration in international law.
DeGaris' dedication to the legal profession led him to serve as a Staff Attorney at the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit in Atlanta, Georgia, where he contributed significantly to the office's work. DeGaris then began as an Associate at Johnson & Cory in Birmingham, Alabama, concentrating on various aspects of trial practice, including personal injury, wrongful death, aviation, and criminal matters.
DeGaris served as a founding partner of Cory, Watson, Crowder, and DeGaris, where he remained for nearly two decades. Simultaneously, he was a dedicated professor at the Birmingham School of Law, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and Emory University School of Law. His academic contributions, along with his legal practice, have significantly shaped the legal landscape. While these were all significant landmarks in DeGaris' career, none were as defining as the founding of DeGaris Law, LLC.
Founding DeGaris Law
"The inception of DeGaris Law, LLC was a huge chapter in my career," DeGaris stated. "I mean, one that would redefine my career within the legal industry."
Beginning in 2015, with a practice focused on personal injury, wrongful death, and complex litigation, including cases involving defective medical devices and pharmaceutical drugs, DeGaris began a journey characterized by devotion to his clients. With his dedication to seeking justice within personal injury and defective product litigation, DeGaris set himself apart as a true leader. Employing strategic approaches and complex litigation to navigate the legal landscape and bring justice and closure to those in need, his work has impacted countless individuals' lives.
"Since its establishment, DeGaris Law, LLC has grown into a firm known for its pursuit of justice and commitment to securing favorable outcomes for its clients," DeGaris said. "Helping the injured and overlooked has been my greatest accomplishment."
Additional Associations and Engagements
While his achievements certainly establish DeGaris as a prominent leader in the legal profession, his other associations and activities truly distinguish him. For example, DeGaris' journey extends far beyond local borders, as his international legal pursuits have played a crucial role in shaping his career. His experience at the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit in Atlanta, Georgia, and his subsequent international publications highlight his dedication to cross-border legal understanding and dispute resolution.
Along with his work comes DeGaris' active engagement with legal associations and organizations. DeGaris' membership in the American Association for Justice, his standing as a life member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and a member of the Southern Trial Lawyers reflect his commitment to promoting justice in the legal profession.
DeGaris' influence also extends beyond his legal practice and associations. He is a sought-after speaker who has presented at various legal seminars and conferences. Furthermore, DeGaris is an accomplished author with an extensive publication record. His engagements cover a range of topics, including constitutional law, mass tort litigation, multidistrict litigation, the role of experts in the courtroom, and the role of judging in the settlement of disputes.
DeGaris has earned various awards and recognition throughout his legal career through these engagements. Notably, his consecutive acknowledgment in the "Best Lawyers in America" from 2013 to 2015, coupled with being honored as the "Lawyer of the Year" in Mass Tort Litigation Class Action, Plaintiff, in 2013, 2014, and 2022, only speaks to the respect he has earned from his peers throughout his career.
Being a Founder and Leader
DeGaris has been a founding partner of multiple successful firms. He has led discussions and engagement in multiple associations and presented to legal professionals and broader audiences. Perhaps most importantly, DeGaris has instilled his work ethic and passion for justice in others.
"I really believe in the importance of passing down knowledge and showing a sense of responsibility within the profession," DeGaris said. "In the same way that I was nurtured and mentored, I want to do the same with the next generation of legal professionals through education and by my example."
Annesley DeGaris' journey as a founding partner of DeGaris Law, LLC, his dedication to justice, and his contributions to the legal field and legal education have done just that. His impact resonates through his legal practice, leadership, mentorship, and international endeavors. With a career spanning several decades, DeGaris has left a prominent mark on the legal field and the education of future legal professionals.
