Shook Mourns the Passing of Jad T. Davis

It is with profound sadness that we share that our partner, colleague and friend Jad Davis passed away April 2.

Jad joined Shook in 2019 and quickly became an integral part of the Orange County office, which he led as managing partner from 2024-2026, only stepping down in January to become co-chair of the firm’s Environmental & Toxic Tort Litigation Practice.
 
“From the moment he arrived at the firm, Jad was a force for engagement, collaboration, excellence and camaraderie. He brought excitement and energy to each day and participated in every firm and office initiative with a high level of commitment,” said Madeleine McDonough, chair of Shook. “We extend our deepest condolences to Jad’s family and loved ones.”
 
Jad represented clients from family-owned businesses to multi-national corporations in diverse industries in a wide range of environmental matters. A first-chair trial counsel for more than a decade, Jad and his team successfully tried the first CERCLA/RCRA federal jury trial in the history of the United States in 2024. Among his many professional accolades, Jad was named “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers for Environmental Law in Orange County (2026), and he was listed in Chambers USA (Environmental Law) and Best Lawyers (Environmental Law and Environmental Litigation) for more than a decade.
 
In addition, Jad represented clients before state, regional and local agencies, including the California and U.S. Environmental Protection agencies. He was also a sought-after mediator in the areas of environmental, stormwater, construction and civil rights, and served as a pro bono mediator for the ADR Panel of the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. 
 
Throughout these engagements, Jad was a mentor and champion to the next generation of lawyers. He served pro bono on several ad hoc legal task forces for the Orange County Business Council and defended the City and County of Los Angeles in various civil rights lawsuits brought against officers and deputies.
 
Jad was a graduate of the George Washington University Law School (LL.M.) and Pepperdine University School of Law (J.D.). He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of California San Diego in political science.
  
“Jad was full of energy and life, and his sudden passing is devastating on both a personal and professional level. He was not only a valued colleague, but a dear friend who brought boundless enthusiasm, creativity and care to his clients, our firm and everyone who worked with him. He was also a devoted husband and father, and he will be deeply missed,” said Jamie Thompson, co-chair of Shook’s Environmental & Toxic Tort Litigation Practice.
 
“Jad was a fearless attorney and unwavering champion for his clients and colleagues. His dedication to others was only surpassed by his profound faith, which served as the cornerstone of his life and the foundation of his beloved family.  As we remember him, let us carry forward his legacy of faith, love and support for one another,” shared long-time friend and Orange County partner Kristy Schlesinger. 
 
 Our thoughts are with Jad’s wife Michelle and his three children during this difficult time.