Francis Waguespack efficiently evaluates claims and the related legal issues to achieve the client’s goals in a cost-effective and timely fashion while keeping the client both informed and in control. When litigation is necessary, Francis has the skills and helpful relationships that come with experience, regularly appearing before the United States Department of Labor, the Office of Administrative Law Judges, and the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs, as well as the Louisiana Office of Workers’ Compensation.
Francis focuses his practice on the defense of cases arising under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), Defense Base Act (DBA), Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA), Federal Employer Liability Act (FELA), admiralty and maritime law, employment discrimination, and the Louisiana Workers’ Compensation Act. Prior to working in private practice, Francis Waguespack served as an Attorney Advisor to the Honorable Clement Kennington with the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Administrative Law Judges. His work with Judge Kennington focused on issues arising under the Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, Defense Base Act, Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, Black Lung Benefits Act (BLBA), and whistleblower cases arising under the Federal Rail Safety Act (FRSA), Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), Surface Transportation Assistance Act (STAA), and several other acts.
In his free time, Francis enjoys attending LSU football and baseball games and enjoying life in New Orleans, including visiting the city’s many restaurants.
Presentations & Publications
•“The Impact of Prior Claims on Settlements,” Loyola University College of Law and the U.S. Department of Labor, 2025
•“Hot Topics in State Workers’ Compensation and Longshore Claims: State Workers’ Compensation and Longshore Navigating Complex Claims,” presented CEU, July 31, 2024
•“Workers’ Compensation in Louisiana: Critical Essentials from Both Sides of the Aisle,” presented to LA workers’ compensation adjusters, June 30, 2021
•“Handling Ethical and Moral Dilemmas,” presented to LA workers’ compensation and liability adjusters - October 14, 2020
•“Effective and Recorded Statements,” presented to adjusters who handle Louisiana state workers’ compensation and LHWCA claims, October 16, 2019
Awards & Recognitions
•Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America - Labor and Employment Law - Management, Oil and Gas Law, Workers’ Compensation Law - Employers, 2026
•LSBA Young Lawyers Division Top 40 Young Lawyer Award Recipient, 2024
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