About Gerald Hayes
Gerald Hayes Clark is the principal attorney at Clark Law Firm, PC, situated in Belmar, New Jersey. With over 28 years of legal experience, he has built a robust practice focusing on personal injury, business law, consumer law, and products liability. Admitted to the New Jersey State Bar in 1997, Mr. Clark is also licensed to practice in New York and before the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, as well as the U.S. Supreme Court. His extensive qualifications allow him to navigate complex legal fields effectively.
In 1997, Mr. Clark earned his Juris Doctor from Fordham University School of Law — Prior to that, he obtained his Bachelor of Arts from Villanova University in 1994. These academic credentials laid the foundation for a successful legal career that has garnered significant recognition. From 2013 through 2026, he has been named a "Super Lawyer," a distinction awarded to only a select group of attorneys. Additionally, he was honored as a "Rising Stars Super Lawyer" from 2006 to 2012, further underscoring his commitment to excellence in the legal field. Mr. Clark's practice emphasizes complex litigation, including class actions and civil rights cases.
He has developed a particular expertise in personal injury cases, especially those involving traumatic brain injuries and construction-related incidents. His experience as lead attorney in several significant mass tort and class action lawsuits has positioned him as a advocate. Notably, he played a crucial role in the largest groundwater contamination case in New Jersey, showcasing his ability to handle high-stakes litigation. In one of his most notable achievements, Mr. Clark was instrumental in securing a settlement valued between $1 billion and $3 billion in a consumer fraud class action against Cooper Tire & Rubber Company. This landmark case not only highlights his legal acumen but also his dedication to protecting consumer rights. His work has had a lasting impact on the community, demonstrating the importance of accountability in corporate practices.
Beyond his legal practice, Mr. Clark is actively involved in professional organizations. He has served on the Board of Governors of the New Jersey Association for Justice, contributing to the advancement of legal standards in the state. His recognition in the New Jersey Law Journal's "40 Under 40" feature further exemplifies his influence in the legal community. Fluent in both Spanish and Portuguese, Mr. Clark is committed to making legal services accessible to clients. His office, located at 811 Sixteenth Avenue, Belmar, NJ 07719, continues to serve as a resource for those seeking justice and expert legal representation.