Lauderdale By The Sea, FL

Jo Ann Hoffman

Jo Ann Hoffman was the firm's founder and a pioneering injury attorney, dedicating over 45 years to justice for her clients in personal injury and workers' compensation law. She founded Attorneys Jo Ann Hoffman & Associates, P.A. in 1985. A Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Indiana University, she earned her MBA and Law Degree with honors. She was known as 'The Queen of Comp' and received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Workers’ Compensation from the Broward County Bar Association in 2023. She passed away in July 2025.

Javier Ruiz

Javier Ruiz is a litigating attorney specializing in personal injury, workers' compensation, Longshore, and Defense Base Act cases. He is known for aggressive representation and providing essential advice to injured individuals. A native of Miami, Florida, he is fluent in Spanish and graduated from Florida International University School of Law with degrees in Finance and Economics.

Erik C. Bower

Erik C. Bower practices personal injury and workers' compensation law, with a focus on Defense Base Act cases. He earned his B.A. in Criminology from the University of Florida and his law degree from Nova Southeastern University, where he was inducted into The Order of Barristers. He previously worked at the Broward State Attorney's Office.

Maria S. Fischer

Maria S. Fischer is dedicated to helping injured individuals through trial advocacy and extensive litigation experience, seeking justice and optimal outcomes. She began her career as an Assistant State Attorney, gaining strong litigation skills, and later focused on products liability and personal injury, recovering millions for clients. She earned her J.D. from the University of Florida and B.S. from the University of Miami.

Angel R. Kirkconnell

Angel R. Kirkconnell exclusively represents injured individuals and their families, known for aggressive advocacy and compassionate understanding. She gained experience representing insurance carriers before focusing on injured parties. She graduated with honors from Nova Southeastern University in 1997 with her law degree and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

Vance B. Moore

Vance B. Moore worked zealously in both personal injury and workers’ compensation law for 20 years with the firm until his passing in August 2014. The firm remains committed to his high goals of compassionate client service.

Christie Hoffman Gibbons

Christie Hoffman Gibbons is an associate attorney with a diverse background and a profound commitment to helping individuals navigate intricate legal matters. She graduated from Harvard Law School in 2023 and specializes in Defense Base Act cases, representing injured workers globally. She also holds an MBA from the University of Florida and a B.A. from Georgetown University.