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    Jena M. Wise

    Partner

    Pensacola/Destin
    850-202-1683
    jena.wise@phelps.com
    Areas Of Focus
    LitigationHealth Care LitigationProfessional Liability

    Jena Wise defends businesses and health care professionals whose livelihoods and reputations are on the line. When medical providers, facilities and licensed professionals face inquiries, investigations and litigation, Jena manages the process as an ardent advocate in civil court and Florida’s administrative forums.

    Jena applies a decade of experience resolving tort claims and allegations involving standards of care, health care malpractice and vicarious liability. Her research into, and application of, the nuances of agency issues within consent and contract language is valuable in reducing the risks and exposure of health care clients.

    Clients look to Jena’s effective presence in Florida’s Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH). In investigating claims of malpractice, she readily evaluates the risks and benefits of arbitration for clients and can lead them through the process. Jena resolves administrative complaints and lawsuits alleging harm and injury from pre-suit through trial to appeal. She also defends commercial general liability claims. Jena represents elite medical professionals and institutions, including:

    • Accountants
    • Attorneys
    • Doctors
    • Hospitals
    • Nurses
    • Physician groups
    • Surgery centers

    Jena addresses clients’ profound concerns over their case outcomes and professional fates. She backs reassurances with empathy, clear communication and high-level client education. Prior to her practice of law, Jena taught public elementary school where she saw firsthand the benefits of individualized approaches to maximize results. 

    Clients look to Jena’s effective presence in Florida’s Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH). In investigating claims of malpractice, she readily evaluates the risks and benefits of arbitration for clients and can lead them through the process. Jena resolves administrative complaints and lawsuits alleging harm and injury from pre-suit through trial to appeal. She also defends commercial general liability claims. Jena represents elite medical professionals and institutions, including:

    • Accountants
    • Attorneys
    • Doctors
    • Hospitals
    • Nurses
    • Physician groups
    • Surgery centers

    Jena addresses clients’ profound concerns over their case outcomes and professional fates. She backs reassurances with empathy, clear communication and high-level client education. Prior to her practice of law, Jena taught public elementary school where she saw firsthand the benefits of individualized approaches to maximize results. 

    Experience

    • Achieved a defense verdict that eliminated liability for a hospital facing a $40 million claim for alleged nursing negligence and physician negligence.
    • Persuaded district appellate court on issues of agency and non-delegable duty to strengthen defense of hospital in litigation.
    • Settled high-demand damage claims in a medical malpractice trial in Escambia County, reducing the threat for defendant hospital.
    • Served on defense team for physicians in medical malpractice litigation, filed by an NFL athlete, and achieved a confidential settlement.
    • Negotiated settlements with governing boards for clients facing professional licensure complaints.

    Insights

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    Education

    • University of Florida, Levin College of Law, J.D., cum laude, 2005
    • University of Florida, B.A., Education, 1997
    • University of Florida, Levin College of Law, J.D., cum laude, 2005
    • University of Florida, B.A., Education, 1997

    Credentials

    • Florida
    • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Florida
    • U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida
    • Florida
    • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Florida
    • U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida

    Memberships and Affiliations

    • Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association
    • The Florida Bar, Health Care Section, Trial Lawyers Section
    • Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association
    • The Florida Bar, Health Care Section, Trial Lawyers Section
    • Overview
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    Related Services

    • Litigation
    • Health Care Litigation
    • Professional Liability
    • Commercial General Liability
    • Health Care
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