Cate is an attorney in Shook’s General Liability Litigation Group. In addition to her years of experience as a civil litigator, Cate brings an insider’s knowledge of the Missouri appellate court system and the federal court system. Cate represents clients in all cycles of litigation, with an emphasis on researching, drafting and arguing pretrial motions in complex commercial and general liability disputes. Cate has secured dismissals in both federal and state courts for national and international corporate clients, avoiding the expense of discovery and trial. She also regularly assesses new cases, develops legal strategy, drafts pleadings, manages discovery, prepares witnesses for depositions and participates in alternative dispute resolution. Cate has represented clients in a wide range of industries including insurance, construction, infrastructure, maritime, automotive and consumer products. Prior to joining Shook, Cate served as a law clerk to the Honorable Henry Edward Autrey of the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Missouri and to the Honorable Lisa Van Amburg of the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District.
In addition to her commercial practice, Cate dedicates a significant portion of her time to pro bono causes. She serves as a specially appointed prosecutor in St. Louis County, Missouri to hold perpetrators who violate court orders of protection accountable. Cate also serves the community as a board member for a local domestic violence shelter, a junior board member of a major art museum in St. Louis and a foster parent for homeless pets.