Our Legal Team

Dedicated Professionals Supporting You Every Step of the Way

We understand that each case is unique, so we take the time to get to know our clients and their specific needs. With a focus on achieving justice and maximum recovery, we combine expertise in personal injury and our dedication to zealous advocacy to ensure your rights are protected and your voice is heard.

An avid traveler and former NCAA football scholarship athlete, Shawn Hairston came to Miami to launch his legal career and experience everything the city had to offer—from its dynamic legal scene to its legendary beach clubs. As a former defense attorney, he brings firsthand knowledge from working at the very firms he now has a passion for defeating. His experience on both sides of the courtroom gives him the strategic edge to take on corporations, insurance companies, and powerful institutions, ensuring his clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

In addition to leading the firm’s Miami practice, Shawn manages the Washington, D.C. office, leveraging his experience on Capitol Hill to navigate complex legal and policy issues. When the big players try to push you around, you need an attorney who knows how to push back—harder.

Duane A. Crooks, Esq. is a trusted attorney known for passionately advocating for his clients. After earning honors from the University of Miami School of Business, Mr. Crooks continued his academic journey at the University of Florida Levin College of Law, excelling in his studies and paving the way for a successful legal career.

After graduating, Mr. Crooks gained valuable experience working at several law firms specializing in personal injury and worker’s compensation. In 2003, he took a bold step and founded his personal injury law firm where he dedicated himself to recovering millions for his clients.

Recognized for outstanding achievements, Mr. Crooks is a proud member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100. His commitment to justice and pursuit of excellence have solidified his stellar reputation.

Outside of the courtroom, Mr. Crooks enjoys exploring game theory and testing his strategic skills at the poker table.

Contact Mr. Duane Crooks if you’re looking for an attorney who will prioritize your needs and fight for the best possible outcome.

Amber Baker Hope Baker is our Georgia barred attorney. She is a Texas native and an experienced litigation attorney whose background combines courtroom advocacy, strategic legal analysis, and a strong commitment to client service.

Amber began her career as a public school teacher before pursuing law, earning a Masters in Educational Leadership from the University of West Georgia and her Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School. She later completed a Masters in Taxation Law from the Dedman College of Law at Southern Methodist University. Her legal education also includes international study through the Howard University School of Law International Fellows Program, where she trained in constitutional and criminal law under South African Supreme Court Justice Zachary Yaccobs.

Amber’s professional experience includes serving as a state prosecutor, where she gained extensive courtroom experience, refined her trial skills, and learned to build clear, persuasive case strategies. She has also handled estate planning matters, including wills and trusts, which further strengthened her attention to detail and client centered approach.

Amber brings her litigation experience and passion for advocacy to Hairston & Crooks Legal Group as Of Counsel. Her focus will be on personal injury matters, where she looks forward to helping clients navigate the legal process, protect their rights, and secure the results they deserve

Meet with our team

Deborah Antenor

Deborah Antenor is a highly skilled legal professional with extensive experience supporting clients, managing complex case logistics, and maintaining steady communication across all stages of a matter. She has spent years working directly with individuals in need, developing a strong ability to guide clients, anticipate issues, and keep cases moving efficiently. Her background includes leadership roles in business operations, counseling-style support work, and hands-on experience navigating fast-paced, detail-driven environments — all of which translate seamlessly into her work in our office.

Boitumelo Malao

Legal Intake Specialist Boitumelo is a dedicated Legal Intake Specialist with an LL.B from the University of South Africa. As the first point of contact for new cases, she plays a vital role in guiding clients through the intake process with compassion, clarity, and professionalism. Boitumelo brings valuable experience in supporting attorneys during the early stages of personal injury matters, including client consultation, case evaluation, and gathering the information needed to build strong claims. Her client-focused approach ensures that every individual feels heard, supported, and confident as their case moves forward.

Prathistha Juneja

Prathistha Juneja is a case manager with deep experience in personal injury litigation and insurance negotiations. She’s known for transforming chaotic stacks of medical records into crisp, persuasive demands and guiding clients through their claims with steady patience and a well-timed sense of humor. With a strong background in personal injury and legal research, Prathistha delivers sharp analysis, clear writing, and dependable follow-through, even on the tightest deadlines.