Kay Gonzalez is a dynamic trial lawyer who uses her courtroom skills, savvy negotiation tactics, and sound judgment to help people who have suffered grave injuries. A Partner in the firm’s personal injury and medical malpractice groups, Kay has recovered millions of dollars for clients in car accident, premises liability, catastrophic injury, and workers’ compensation cases.

Kay has represented clients in hundreds of New Jersey Superior Court cases, serving as lead counsel in numerous jury trials. On top of her extensive trial experience, Kay has presented arguments before the New Jersey Appellate Division and Supreme Court of New Jersey. Her notable appellate victories include a precedential ruling that a chaperone lacked authority to sign an arbitration agreement waiving a minor’s right to a jury trial over injuries suffered at a trampoline park. Gayles by Gayles v. Sky Zone Trampoline Park, 468 N.J. Super. 17 (App. Div. 2021). When she isn’t advocating for her clients, Kay regularly speaks on trial practice and procedures, novel legal issues, and emerging trends in personal injury law.

Kay previously served as the Assistant Commissioner for Consumer Protection Services in the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. In that role, she protected New Jersey consumers from unfair practices of insurance companies while managing a staff of over 90 employees. Kay began her legal career as a law clerk to the Honorable Jamie D. Happas, P.J.Cv. (Ret.).

Q. What year did you join NJAJ?
A. I joined NJAJ in 2017 when I was clerking in Middlesex County.

Q. Why did you join NJAJ?
A. I joined NJAJ because I was interested in becoming a Plaintiff’s attorney, and I wanted to attend the Boardwalk seminar. (I’m totally serious about that lol – not just an ad for Boardwalk). I attended the Women Trial Lawyers Caucus luncheon at Boardwalk that year!

Q. Why did you become involved in the WTLC?
A. During law school, I was part of the Women’s Rights Law Reporter. As long as I can remember, I’ve had an interest in women’s interests and initiatives, so joining the Women Trial Lawyers Caucus was a no-brainer! The WTLC has helped me form so many great relationships with lawyers in the field, and sharing experiences with them has been invaluable for growing my career.

Q. What is your favorite vacation spot.
A. The Jersey Shore! My favorite beach is Manasquan – you will find me there all year round! When I’m lucky enough, you’ll find me at Club Kizis. (But also, if I’m being honest, Hawaii is a VERY close second.)

Q. What do you like to do in your free time?
A. My favorite hobbies are gardening and fishing! I currently have 16 tomato plants (did I mention I love NJ?), eggplants, green beans, peppers, cantaloupe, carrots, shallots, and my beloved fig tree (see the photo below which also showcases my sweet Charlie girl). I also consider myself a salty sea dog – I love to go offshore fishing every chance I get.