We’re Proud to Welcome Kat Rito, Expanding Our Capabilities in Medical Malpractice and Complex Litigation

Simon, Peragine, Smith & Redfearn is proud to welcome Kathy “Kat” Rito to the firm.

Kat brings nearly two decades of civil litigation experience with a strong emphasis on medical malpractice, professional liability, and premises and casualty defense. She has represented hospitals, insurers, and healthcare professionals, major retailers and trucking companies in complex and sensitive matters across Louisiana and Mississippi, delivering trusted counsel and sharp litigation strategies.

In addition to her courtroom advocacy, Kat is a sought-after speaker and advisor in risk management, and the healthcare and startup sectors. Kat curates and teaches in-house and continuing education seminars on various risk mitigation topics for in-house counsel, claims managers, and third-party administrators. She regularly presents on risk management, founder agreements, and contractual pitfalls—leveraging her litigation experience to help mission-driven organizations avoid future disputes. Her recent work with Startup Prize: Focus on Health reflects her growing footprint in the healthcare innovation space.

A double graduate of Tulane University, Kat earned her J.D. from Tulane Law School in 2007 and her B.A. in Sociology and Latin American Studies in 2004. She is admitted to practice in Louisiana and Mississippi.

At SPSR, Kat will focus on expanding the firm’s professional liability practice, building on her experience in medical malpractice. She will also continue to advise clients in high-stakes litigation and risk-sensitive disputes.

We’re thrilled to welcome Kat to the team and excited about the leadership she brings to our growing healthcare and liability practice areas.