Forrest E. Guedry

Forrest Guedry is an attorney in the Casualty and Mass Tort Litigation group at Kean Miller, based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His practice centers on the defense of complex civil matters, including catastrophic industrial accidents, premises liability claims, Product Liability Litigation – Defendants, automobile and trucking accidents, commercial contract disputes, eviction proceedings, and workers’ compensation claims. He represents a broad range of clients, including national retail establishments, oil and gas refineries and pipeline operators, transportation and trucking companies, restaurants, casinos, manufacturers of industrial and safety-related products, durable medical equipment suppliers, telecommunications support companies, contractors, municipalities, business owners, employers, and landlords.

Forrest regularly assists businesses at every stage of litigation, from early investigation and emergency response following serious incidents through trial and appeal. His experience includes matters involving fatal accidents, amputations, burn injuries, soft tissue injuries, alleged civil rights violations, municipal liability, manufacturing and design defect claims, and construction defect disputes arising from industrial projects. He also advises clients on legal issues connected to industrial maintenance and construction contracts, oil and gas loss events, and retail premises liability matters such as slip-and-fall claims.

Through detailed preparation and careful analysis of the facts, Forrest develops defense strategies tailored to the specific risks facing each client. He is frequently called upon to act quickly in high-exposure matters, implementing negotiation approaches and litigation strategies designed to address both immediate concerns and long-term objectives. His work often involves coordinating litigation and trial planning in a manner that promotes efficiency and clear communication among all parties.

Forrest’s approach emphasizes the evaluation of factual evidence and measured decision-making throughout the litigation process. He is experienced in taking and defending depositions and in advocating for his clients during discussions with opposing counsel. His ability to identify alternative arguments and procedural opportunities allows him to position cases for effective resolution.

In addition, Forrest evaluates legal theories that may narrow, eliminate, or reduce asserted claims. His experience includes defense verdicts, dispositive motion practice, and negotiated resolutions that address client goals while managing litigation risk.

Forrest has substantial experience serving as trial counsel, including delivering opening and closing statements, examining witnesses, and participating in hearings related to summary judgment and evidentiary issues. He has conducted mock jury exercises and has represented firm clients in significant trials and mediations.

Before joining Kean Miller, Forrest practiced insurance defense and workers’ compensation defense in Lafayette, Louisiana. Early in his career, he gained hands-on courtroom experience by taking depositions, presenting oral arguments, and serving as lead counsel in trials, experience that continues to inform his representation of clients today.