Jerry Lehocky's daily routine doesn't involve an alarm clock. Instead, each day begins with a passion for aiding society's injured and disabled—a commitment he's upheld for over 30 years, tirelessly fighting for the legal rights of workers in the face of adversity.
Despite his professional confidence and calming presence, Jerry's roots trace back to the small blue-collar community of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, where his father, a plumber, instilled in him the value of hard work. Spending weekends assisting his father in installing toilets and water heaters, Jerry learned early on about the significance of labor and dedication.
An internship with the District of Columbia Public Defender's Office during college ignited Jerry's interest in the law, leading him to Temple University School of Law, where he graduated in 1985. His career took off in 1983 when a law school professor offered him a position in the workers' compensation department of Philadelphia's City Solicitor office. This opportunity allowed Jerry to gain practical experience defending the City in workers' compensation cases.
Over the years, Jerry held various positions, culminating in defending employers and insurance companies at one of Philadelphia's largest corporate law firms. Realizing his desire to help workers rather than corporations, he switched sides, exclusively representing claimants in workers' compensation and Social Security disability cases.
Motivated by personal experiences witnessing his father's health struggles, Jerry aimed to build the largest workers' compensation practice in Pennsylvania. His goal wasn't just professional; it was deeply personal, rooted in a commitment to assist families facing the same challenges his own had endured.
Jerry's path crossed with Sam Pond, a friend from law school, during his career transition. Their collaboration at a leading workers' compensation firm marked the beginning of a partnership that challenged each other to be the best in all aspects of life.
After about 13 years of working together, Jerry, Sam, and Tom Giordano realized there was a better way—a better way to fight for workers' rights, to build a law firm that provided comprehensive legal and medical assistance, and to create a winning culture that attracted top talent. In 2010, armed with a belief in themselves and each other, they founded Pond Lehocky Giordano, now the largest workers' compensation and disability law firm in Pennsylvania.
Jerry's commitment to his clients goes beyond office walls; he continues to meet them face to face, understanding their situations and crafting effective legal strategies. His presence in the courtroom is marked by a zeal for advocacy, evident in the notable $4.4 million settlement he secured in 2020, one of the highest workers' compensation settlements that year.
Beyond the courthouse, Jerry's influence extends to the state house. His efforts in persuading the Pennsylvania Legislature resulted in the creation of the Uninsured Employers Guaranty Fund, providing protection for injured workers when employers fail to carry active workers' compensation insurance.
Jerry's public service and contributions to the legal community include chairing the Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Workers' Compensation Section for 12 consecutive years, advising governors and legislators on workers' compensation issues, and serving in various leadership roles. His accolades reflect his dedication, including the 2017 Milton J. Rosenberg Award and recognition in the Super Lawyers® Top 100 lists.
An ambitious leader, an approachable litigator, and a seasoned colleague, Jerry Lehocky remains driven by a burning desire to make the world a better place for his clients and all of society's injured and disabled—an unwavering commitment that ensures his daily wake-up call goes far beyond the need for an alarm clock.
