By training and experience, I am a litigator. From the beginning of my career, I have been privileged to try cases in both State and Federal Court as well as represent clients in other adversarial proceedings (i.e., arbitration, mediation, governmental boards, etc.). In years past, I gained courtroom experience trying personal injury and criminal cases. However, for the last ten years or more I have primarily represented business clients regarding commercial matters.

Probably the most significant difference is that my business clients are more carefully focused on the "bottom line" when evaluating potential litigation. As a result, I best serve these clients by being more of a problem solver rather than just a pure litigator. Simply stated, a lawsuit is not always the answer to every problem. Particularly in commercial disputes, the direct and indirect costs of litigation can be extremely high. I find my clients appreciate an approach which views litigation as a last, rather than first, resort. Of course, having the known ability and willingness to litigate facilitates negotiated settlement of problems.

In addition to business litigation and consistent with my philosophy of problem solving, I also represent my clients in the field of business organization. While litigation remains the focus of my practice, I do devote a material portion of my practice to endeavors such as planning and formation of business entities, franchising, mergers and reorganizations, shareholder rights, and employment related issues.

The only other area in which I routinely practice is probate litigation. My practice in this regard includes prosecution and defense of will contests, trust litigation, and fiduciary surcharge actions. I have litigated probate related issues at all levels of our court system; including the Florida Supreme Court.

I view the practice of law as a profession; not a vocation. Therefore, both my firm and I are dedicated to scrupulous adherence to ethical and professional conduct. The practice of law is a privilege and I try to give something back to the profession which means so much to me. In the past, I have served on numerous Florida Bar committees and I am a past President of the Marion County Bar Association. I am currently in my third term of service representing the Fifth Judicial Circuit on the Board of Governors of the Florida Bar. As a member of the Board, I am proud to assist in charting the future of my profession.

If you have any questions regarding my firm, my practice, or me; please do not hesitate to ask.