San Diego Magazine’s 50 People to Watch in 2012

In a time when everyone is talking about head injuries in sports, top litigator Francavilla could help change the existing return-to-play procedures and policies for athletes. His big battle in 2012 will center on client, former Mission Hills High football player, Scotty Eveland, who collapsed during a game in 2007. Eveland now needs 24-hour care for the rest of his life. At 22, he is attempting to get his high school diploma using a touch screen computer board while his mom holds his elbow. “Scotty knows what’s going on,” says Francavilla. “He is just a boy, imprisoned in his body.” The trial will get off the ground this month, and we’ll be following with interest.

Local talent: Francavilla is a graduate of USD and USD Law School.