From left to right: Honorable José Rodríguez, Jennifer Laucirica, Michael J. Skoler, Juan P. Bauta, Natalie Bauta, Nari Bauta, Alvin Lodish, Matthew Casbarro
ALTON, Ill. – Simmons Hanly Conroy, a national leader in the legal representation of mesothelioma patients and their families, is pleased to announce that Juan P. Bauta II, a partner in the firm’s Miami office, has received the “Unsung Heroes” award at the Daily Business Review and Law.com’s 2026 Florida Legal Awards ceremony, held April 29 in Miami.
The “Unsung Heroes” category recognizes meaningful and often unseen contributions to legal practice. Bauta was honored among other distinguished members of Florida’s legal community at the annual awards ceremony, which celebrates those who have made a significant impact on the state’s legal industry.
“Juan is extremely dedicated to his practice and his clients, and this recognition is a true reflection of his leadership and commitment,” said Simmons Hanly Conroy Managing Partner Laurence V. Nassif. “We are incredibly proud of Juan and grateful for everything he does to advance our clients’ interests.”
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition,” said Bauta. “This award belongs to my clients. The mesothelioma patients and families who trust us to fight for them. Their strength and resilience inspire everything I do, and I remain committed to making sure their voices are heard and their cases are handled with the care and urgency they deserve.”
Bauta played a significant role in Simmons Hanly Conroy establishing its Miami office. The firm has tapped into his proven leadership and more than 30 years of trial experience to lead the effort and steer strategy, not only in Florida, but across the country. Bauta created a process to identify and advance overlooked but well-supported cases.
Bauta focuses his practice on helping individuals and families affected by mesothelioma seek the justice and compensation they deserve. With a commitment to excellence and a deep-seated passion for helping others, Bauta has recovered significant compensation for mesothelioma patients and their loved ones over the course of his career.
He has secured individual settlements ranging from $1 million to $29 million and has tried more than 50 cases to verdict.
