Karl Rivas Email & Phone Number

Entering my third decade of practice, I have represented automakers, airplane, off-road RV, and heavy construction equipment manufacturers, insurance companies, municipalities, doctors, innkeepers, and retailers. I have shepherded cases that resulted in voluntary dismissals, summary judgments, and defense jury verdicts. I have managed teams of lawyers responsible for trial and for nationwide discovery. Sitting as first, second and third chair at trial, I have demonstrated that I am a versatile team player.For the past few years, my practice focused on the technical defense of automakers faced with claims of defects in SUVs, trucks, automobiles and commercial vehicles. I have built a reputation on being firm in discovery, tough in hearings, and devastating on experts. I have had the privilege of working in the automotive industry since the late 1970s, and this experience has put me in personal contact with the finest engineers in the field. Adding to this experience is my university-level training in science and accident reconstruction. Clients appreciate my depth of understanding of the most arcane technical issues in cutting edge cases such as brake/ throttle override, lack of electronic stability control, rollover occupant protection, lack of laminated side window glazing, and non-deployment of airbags in catastrophic injury cases. I have also served as part of several nationwide, multi-firm teams handling recurrent product allegations, class actions, and Multi-District Litigation (MDL).

Listed skills include Product Liability, Trials, Litigation, Appeals, and 39 others.