by John D. Mills
BOOK REVIEW
Review Date: Nov. 29, 2015
A sordid divorce case leads to violence and an explosive courtroom trial. The latest Florida-based legal thriller by Mills (The Objector, 2016, etc.) begins with a confrontation all too familiar in the litigious 21st century: an acrimonious divorce. Dr. Stan Jacoby makes an unexpected return home from a golfing vacation to surprise his wife of seven years, Karen, with an expensive gift. Relations have been tense between them lately, since Karen discovered affairs Stan had been carrying on. Turnabout becomes fair play: when he gets back home, he walks in on her in flagrante delicto with another man. Mutually incensed, they proceed to court, where Karen is represented by divorce attorney Beth Mancini, who quickly comes to enjoy her client’s tart tongue and friendly nature. When Beth asks Karen what traits she desires in her next husband, she replies: “I want him to be closer to my age. He doesn’t need to be as rich as Stan, but I still want financial security. And most importantly, he can’t be an asshole, like Stan.” The two take a break from legal tensions at Karen’s beach cottage, where they’re confronted by an armed, masked attacker they naturally assume is Stan. In the resulting criminal trial, long-suppressed secrets from both sides of the aisle get dragged into the open. As in his previous novel, Mills effectively moves his plot along—this is a genuine page-turner despite sometimes-pedestrian writing on the line-by-line level. Two of the tale’s atmospheric staples, the Florida setting and the give-and-take of a courtroom, are confidently, vividly realized throughout. Mills is especially adept at capturing a sense of place, no mean feat even in a state as oft-chronicled as Florida. The natural, unforced picture he paints of the sometimes-spiky, uneven friendship between Karen and Beth is the most memorably written strand of the story and makes the tense, final-act revelations and plot twists feel grounded. The climactic courtroom sequences are well-served by the author’s experience in the Florida legal world; they not only feel entirely believable, but crackle with dramatic energy as well. The tricks of those scenes—unexpected rulings from the bench, surprise revelations on the witness stand, etc.—should be familiar to any reader who’s seen a Law & Order repeat on TV, but Mills makes them his own.
A gripping legal thriller pitting a cheating husband against a cheating wife.
The Trophy Wife Divorce, By John D. Mills
Drunk
Serious
Custody
Hurricane
Apartment Shootings
Gun
Courtroom Trials
Workers Compensation
Wrongful Death Cases
Pedestrian Accidents
Bicycle Accidents
Dog Bite Cases
Slip & Fall Accidents
Negligent Security Cases Settlements
It's Great to be a Florida Gator!
As a Double Gator, my love for the University of Florida runs deep! While I know some of you Seminoles out there are rolling your eyes, I don’t mind, because I proudly bleed orange and blue.
To me, the beginning of football season marks the start of fall. And while fall is packed with dodging hurricanes, outdoor festivals, pumpkin patches and haunted everything, Saturdays at my house revolve around what time the Gator game begins and what kind of food we are going to eat!
I love the SEC rivalries, the storied traditions, the recognizable mascots and the delicious food that each team brings to the table. Whether it’s the largest cocktail party in the world, the 12th man, the Champions Walk or tailgating in the Grove, the SEC is second to none in bringing the fun!
As we all know, the law profession is very demanding and each of us must discover activities we truly enjoy to help release those feel good endorphins that refresh our minds and bodies! In my office, on casual Friday, you will often see our PD team donning the colors of their favorite college or pro teams. A little bit of healthy competition and friendly rivalry builds friendships and a sense of camaraderie that we all need to not only survive, but thrive, in life!
Hopefully, you were able to attend our August membership lunch, where Sia Baker-Barnes, our Florida Bar President-Elect, gave us some insights on how she maintains balance in her life and how she remains present for her friends and family, but still excels in our chosen profession. Her commitment to service and to making The Florida Bar work for every lawyer in our state was truly inspirational. In a word, she is a force!
So, let’s all take a page out of her songbook and find what brings us joy! You’ll be happier and healthier by doing so.
So, cheer with me: Two bits, four bits, six bits, a dollar… All for the Gators, stand up and holler!!!
ADMINISTRATION
LEE COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION
Executive Director
Lauren Baugh
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
President
Hon. Kathy Smith
Vice President
John Miller III, Esq.
YLD President
Joseph Coleman, Esq.
BOARD MEMBERS
Erin Casey, Esq.
Jerry Olivo, Esq.
Megan Strayhorn, Esq.
Doug Szabo, Esq.
COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Bench-Bar Gala
Diana “Dawn” Maselli, Esq.
Diversity and Inclusion
TBA
Health and Wellness
Hon. Kimberly Davis Bocelli
Ashley Kogan-Weed, Esq.
John Miller III, Esq.
History
Hon. Jenna Persons-Mulicka
E. Bruce Strayhorn, Esq.
Megan Strayhorn, Esq
Law-Related Education
T. Terry Rankin, Esq.
Law Week
Hon. John Carlin
PRACTICE SECTION CHAIRS
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Anne Dalton, Esq.
Alexandra Kleinfeldt, Esq.
Appellate Law
TBA
Corporate Law
TBA
Criminal Law
Asma Anwar, Esq.
Agnieszka Osowicka, Esq.
Elder Law
Lisa Gelman, Esq.
Blake Hampton, Esq.
Family Law
Kayla Richmond, Esq.
Danielle Seitz, Esq.
General Civil and Business Litigation
Administrative Assistant Mairelis Tamayo
President Emeritus
Spencer Cordell, Esq.
Secretary
Dawn Maselli, Esq.
Treasurer John Dommerich Jr., Esq.
JUDICIAL LIAISONS
Hon. Robert Branning
Hon. Devin George
LCBA Foundation Charity
Golf Tournament
Meredith Jones, Esq.
Vanessa Fernandez, Esq.
Mock Trial
Maria Alaimo, Esq.
Shaina Zuppke, Esq.
Paralegal
TBA
Pro Bono
Andrew Banyai, Esq.
Peter Dennis, Esq.
Mental Health Initiative Committee
Holly Cosby, Esq
Dawn Maselli, Esq.
Immigration law
Pablo Hurtado, Esq.
Nirupa Netram, Esq.
Intellectual Property Law
Mark Nieds, Esq.
Land Use and Governmental Law
Zachary Liebetreu, Esq.
Sarah Spector, Esq.
Real Property, Probate and Trust Law
Kenneth Kemp, Esq.
Peter Knize, J.D., L.L.M.
Robin Merriman II, Esq.
Solo & Small Firm
Conor Foley, Esq.
Tort Litigation
Diana “Dawn” Maselli, Esq.
Hon. Kathy Smith, LCBA President kathleens@pd20.org | 239.533.2911
Joel Hyatt, Esq.
Kara Jursinski Murphy, Esq.
Time Flies
I know I say this often, but real talk, how is it September already?! Time really does fly when you are having fun, and we have been having fun this year!
Last month was a whirlwind! For starters, I got engaged!!! Between that happy occasion, my 41st birthday, my fifth anniversary of working at the LCBA, the Baseball with The Bar event, our YLD Junk Food with Judges event, welcoming Florida Bar President-Elect Sia Baker Barnes and surprising everyone with our FL Bar President, Roland Sanchez Medina Jr.
Now we are in September, which means gearing up for the special events held in the fall. You are not going to want to miss any of them!
Each year in October, the LCBA celebrates pro bono work as our membership are nominated by their peers to be recognized as Pro Bono Superstar. This year is no exception, but with a twist! Kathy and I have really shaken things up. Rather than a luncheon, we are expanding our “event palette” and doing a Pro Bono Awards Happy Hour!
We are hosting the Pro Bono Awards Happy Hour at Downtown Fort Myers’ newest hot spot to eat, drink and be happy: Bay Street Yard. Want to know more about them? Check out page 26 to get “the dish” on this upscale, outdoor dining venue! Come join us for this FREE event, and see page 26 for full details.
Shortly after our Pro Bono Awards, we will be celebrating another momentous event at our annual Bench Bar Gala: the LCBA’s 75th anniversary. The theme is “Under the Stars.” Our celebration will be held at The Veranda, or as most of us call it, “Courtroom V.”
Tickets are limited, so do not hesitate. Once we announce tickets are available, get them while they last! One way to guarantee your tickets is to sponsor! 10 out of 10 recommend sponsoring this event. See page 30 for full details.
Lastly, we’re already thinking ahead to next year. If you have any ideas about how the LCBA can improve your membership or sponsorship experience, please reach out to me and let’s talk. Cheers to a great month ahead!
The official award-winning publication of the Lee County Bar Association, which serves citizens and the legal community since 1949.
STAFF
Publisher
Teri Hansen, APR
Advertising Account Executive
Elise Rose
Editor
Sarah Nadal
Associate Editor
Kathy Becker
Alan Zagier
Editors In Law
Hon. Kathleen Smith
Lauren Baugh
Creative/Art Director
Christi Finger
Graphic Designer
Lynsey Gill
Contributing Writers
Gabriel Arbois
Lauren Baugh
Jada Bigord
Casey Gartland, Esq.
Hon. Russell Kirshy
Rich Montecalvo
Henry Lee Paul, Esq.
T. Terry Rankin, Jr., JD, LLD
Hon. Kathy Smith
Res Gestae is an award-winning magazine published monthly by Priority Marketing in partnership with the Lee County Bar Association. All editorial, advertising and photos may be submitted for consideration through email to rgeditor@prioritymarketing.com. To advertise, contact Elise Rose at (239) 267-2638 or rgsales@prioritymarketing.com. For billing inquiries, call (239) 334-0047.
We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but we cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. Opinions expressed by writers and advertisers are not necessarily opinions shared by LCBA, Res Gestae or Priority Marketing.
Copyright©2024 Lee County Bar Association, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No portion of the publication may be reproduced in part or in whole without prior written permission from the Lee County Bar Association. To inquire about such permission, please contact Lee County Bar Association at info@leebar org.
Lauren
Baugh, Executive Director
Board Certified in Civil Trial Law by The Florida Bar
Represented Plaintiffs and Defendants
Former Plaintiff-side Personal Injury Attorney
Former Medical Malpractice Defense Attorney
Southwest Florida Resident Since 2005
Office in Collier County, Florida
Chad T. Brazzeal, Esquire Chad@BrazzealMediation
SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR SAVE THE DATE FOR 2024
As you plan ahead for 2024, here are special LCBA events to note for your calendar. All dates are subject to change and any updates will be posted on LeeBar.org.
SEPTEMBER 2024
2 Labor Day – LCBA and courts closed
6
LCBA YLD Lunch & Learn: AI Series Part Two
Time: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A.
Topic: AI Showcase, as presented by Westlaw and LexisNexis
Speakers: Westlaw and LexisNexis
Sponsors: Westlaw and LexisNexis
13
LCBA ADR & RPPTL Virtual Lunch & Learn
Time: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Topic: Florida Tax Certificate Sales: What Every Lawyer, Mediator, and Property Owner Needs to Know
Speaker: Lee County Tax Collector, Noelle Branning, Esq.
OCTOBER 2024
3 Rosh Hashanah – LCBA and courts closed
17 Pro Bono Awards Happy Hour
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Location: Bay Street Yard
Sponsors: Florida Rural Legal Services, Lee County Legal Aid Society
See page 25 for more details.
26 Bench Bar Gala
Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: The Veranda
See page 30 for more information
NOVEMBER 2024
11 Veterans Day – LCBA and courts closed
16
LCBA Gen. Civil & Business Lit. Virtual CLE
Time: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Topic: Concierge Court: Utilizing a Private Judge Under Section 44.104
Speaker: Hon. Christi Underwood (9th Circuit—Retired) and Hon. John Thornton (11th Circuit—Retired)
28-29 Thanksgiving – LCBA and courts closed
DECEMBER 2024
6 LCBA and YLD Holiday Party at Millennial Brewing
24-26 Christmas Eve & Christmas – LCBA and courts closed
How a Lawyer Defends Against a Bar Complaint
Can Result In Discipline
The Florida Supreme Court has made it clear that it expects a lawyer to have candor throughout the disciplinary process. In The Florida Bar v. Grieco, SC20-1118, the Court upheld a recommendation of a violation of Rule 4-8.4(c) (Dishonesty, Fraud, Deceit, Misrepresentation) and imposed a oneyear suspension for conduct including lack of candor in the disciplinary process.
The Court found that there were inconsistencies in public statements made by a lawyer prior to the Bar complaint and a subsequent statements made during the disciplinary process. The Court adopted the referee’s findings of lack of candor which stated that: “It is clear that [Grieco’s] narrative and testimony…change depending on the audience to whom it is presented…”
Grieco was also found liable for violating Rules 3-4.3 (Misconduct), 4-8.4(b) (Criminal Conduct – Honesty, Trustworthiness, Fitness) in addition to 4-8.4(c). He was a lawyer and a sitting Miami-Dade city commissioner who was running for mayor when he plead no contest to a misdemeanor. He had accepted an illegal campaign contribution that was donated by an individual in the name of another. Adjudication was withheld and the case was later expunged. The disciplinary case was based on the misdemeanor.
The Court imposed more severe discipline due to a lack of candor during the disciplinary process.
Even though the crime did not involve the practice of law, the Court admonished the respondent for propounding shifting and conflicting versions of his conduct. Although the crime itself did not contain the element of dishonesty, the Court found the crime, coupled with the respondent’s inconsistent statements, reflected adversely upon respondent’s “honesty, trustworthiness and fitness as a lawyer.” In so finding, the Court made it clear that even conduct unrelated to the practice, if essentially dishonest, will support the imposition of serious discipline.
The dishonest conduct was aggravated by the finding that Grieco engaged in the “submission of false evidence, false statements, or other deceptive practices during the disciplinary process.” The Court emphasized that candor in the defense of a Bar complaint is an important consideration in the determination of discipline. A scorched-earth style of defense may result in adverse consequences to a lawyer defending a bar complaint.
Another issue of interest in this case is the argument made by the respondent that The Bar should have been prevented from introducing evidence regarding the misdemeanor, because it had been expunged. The respondent argued that because Bar disciplinary proceedings are not specifically identified in the statute as a proceeding in which documents from an expunged case may be introduced, that they were prohibited evidence. The Court rejected this argument and found that F.S. 943.059 does not prohibit introduction of evidence of expunged criminal records in Bar proceedings.
Instead, the Court limited the application of the statute to protect a beneficiary of an expungement from a charge of perjury in the event of denial of the crime. It should also be recognized that Rule 3-7.2 requires a lawyer to report an determination of guilt to The Florida Bar, including cases in which an plea of no contest is entered and in which adjudication of guilty has been withheld.
practice matters.
represents applicants in all matters before The Florida Board of Bar Examiners.
Henry Lee Paul, Esq. is a former Bar Counsel who now represents lawyers in all matters before the Florida Bar and offers risk management services on all legal
He also
By Casey Gartland, Esq.
HOW TO AVOID BURNOUT
WHILE SURFING THE TALLAHASSEE TSUNAMI
Casey Gartland is a litigationtrial attorney at Garvin Injury Law Firm, headquartered in Fort Myers, where he represents clients who have been catastrophically injured or killed as the result of negligence, greed or carelessness. He specializes in car and truck crashes, premises liability, insurance bad faith, property damage claims, product defect and traumatic brain injury (TBI) cases. Casey recently served as LCBA’s own YLD president in 2023.
Back on March 24, 2023, Governor DeSantis signed House Bill 837 into law. It was the largest and most comprehensive tort reform legislation our state has seen in many decades. The law went into effect on the very date it was signed by the Governor, and with the quick signature from the almighty pen, millions of Floridians’ rights were likely forever taken away.
After the passage of this rights-grabbing bill, I drafted an article that broke down how the rushed passage of this comprehensive bill and its instantaneous and large effect on the tort laws of Florida would create a great surge in litigation – contrary to the politicized purpose of the bill that it would decrease tort litigation in Florida. In that article, I coined the term the “Tallahassee Tsunami” and explained how the short, intermediate, and long-term implications of the botched roll out of House Bill 837 were going to drastically affect the legal landscape of our state. Almost a year and a half later, here we are!
Since House Bill 837’s passage, the Tallahassee Tsunami caused by tort reform has rapidly
changed the legal landscape in Florida.
The impacts have been felt everywhere, from clerks’ offices to the judiciary to lawyers on both sides of the courtroom and, most sadly, injured Floridians.
The judiciary, grappling with record-sized and backlogged dockets with aging cases, is increasingly emphasizing case management efficiency. If you are a practicing tort lawyer, expect things to get worse before they get better. The judiciary has hinted at changes to Case Management Plans coming in January of 2025. We all know what that means: more busy work for lawyers, and less time to do it on every case.
The goal of docket efficiency makes sense from the judicial perspective, but the unintended – or perhaps intended – consequences of this translates into heightened pressure and stress for tort lawyers. The noble goal of moving cases more swiftly, whether through settlement, mediation, non-binding arbitration and/or trial for both plaintiff and defense attorneys is worthwhile, but what this academic endeavor is going to do to the average practitioner means more grey hairs and stress for all of us.
The challenge is formidable: balancing the demands of aggressive and efficient litigation with the need to avoid professional burnout.
Navigating Discovery Issues and Disputes
Discovery, particularly in complex cases, often becomes a battleground. It is often where you win and lose your case. The push for expedience by the judiciary means that discovery disputes must be resolved efficiently. Good luck getting hearing time, though, as that problem isn’t likely to change. Time-consuming motions to compel or protracted battles over requests for production can derail progress and drain resources.
Practice Tip for Discovery: Develop a proactive approach to discovery. Before formal requests, engage in a thorough review of the case with your client to anticipate potential discovery disputes. A well-drafted discovery plan that is shared with opposing counsel can often preempt conflicts. When disputes arise, consider tailoring broad requests either in the breadth of what you are asking for, or in the time period you are seeking materials from. Usually, a quick phone call with opposing counsel can allow both sides to work together without the need for motion practice. Use this phone call as your required meet and confer to help streamline the path to a hearing when necessary.
Depositions and Mediation: Balancing Aggression with Strategy
Depositions are another area where time, money and energy can be easily sapped. While aggressive deposition strategies can be effective when the facts of a case call for it, they can also lead to burnout if not managed carefully. Depositions are the new trial, so with that, most cases allow you to be much more efficient and effective with your time. Depositions on typical auto or premises cases should not normally take 5 or 6 hours. Similarly, mediation and/or non-binding arbitration, while often viewed as a step towards settlement, can be a draining and expensive process if not approached strategically with the right players.
Practice Tip (Depositions): When preparing for depositions, focus on the key witnesses and core issues that will drive your case. Avoid the temptation to depose every possible witness, as this can lead to diminishing returns. Each case should not be run through the same deposition outline, because the facts of each case are always unique and different; no two cases are exactly the same in every legal aspect. Stop treating depositions like a cookie-cutting procedure. Depositions are trial—if you treat them as such, you will realize a lot of what tort lawyers typically do in deposition is just making up for poor written discovery practices. With depositions, get in, get what you need, and get out. Keep it tight, just like it will be at trial. This work will also make trial preparation, when necessary, much more streamlined.
Practice Tip for Mediation: In mediation and/or non-binding arbitration, be realistic about your goals. Be realistic with your client about the case, which includes the facts, liability, causation, injuries and damages for your typical car crash or premises liability matter. Lawyers need to stop playing chicken with each other. The facts are what they are, so stop fighting with each other when the facts are undisputed. This is a time waster and will almost always guarantee a worse result than one you could negotiate for your client if you were to work more collaboratively.
Practice Tip for Time-Sensitive Settlement Opportunities: A well-timed and well-crafted litigation demand, or Proposal for Settlement (PFS), can push the opposing party towards a resolution without necessitating drawn-out and expensive alternative dispute resolution sessions. Remember, the goal is to resolve cases efficiently and get your client the best result possible under the law and facts, not to litigate every issue to exhaustion.
Preparing for Trial and Expert Discovery
As cases progress, expert discovery becomes crucial, particularly in trial preparation. The judiciary's push for efficiency means that timelines for expert disclosures and depositions are tighter than ever and come January will likely be even less workable. This can lead to stress and burnout if not managed effectively.
Practice Tip for Experts and Trial Prep: Spot trial cases early. During the intake process, assess the likelihood of a case going to trial and start preparing accordingly. For cases that are clearly headed for trial, begin expert discovery early. Identify trial cases early and do not budge; if it is a trial case on day 1, it is a trial case on the morning of trial. Do not take the easy way out; go get justice for your client. Identify and retain your experts as soon as possible. Develop a clear timeline for disclosures and depositions. Try to keep your experts to a minimum. Expert witnesses get expensive quickly, so be strategic about how many you need —sometimes, less is more. By staying ahead of the curve, you can avoid the last-minute rush that often leads to burnout.
Settlement Strategies: Knowing When to Push and When to Settle
Not every case is destined for trial, and lawyers on both sides of the courtroom need to stop acting like every case is going to verdict. In fact, settling cases that can be settled efficiently is key to managing your workload and avoiding burnout. Additionally, getting cases settled quickly is also the most cost-effective way to get your client’s claim resolved so they can move on in their life and put what mess led to the case behind them. Helping clients heal after a loss is part of what we do. Some clients will appreciate a quick resolution for fair value more than a long expensive litigation and trial. The challenge here is in identifying which cases to settle and which to push to trial.
By Casey Gartland, Esq.
Practice Tip for Settlement v. Trial: Develop a clear settlement strategy for each case. This should be part of your initial case evaluation. For cases where settlement is likely, use the PFS and litigation demands strategically. A well-timed demand, particularly in conjunction with a strong discovery showing, can pressure the opposing party into settling without the need for further litigation. For cases where trial is likely, a PFS early on for an amount that you can beat at trial that the other side will not accept is also a wise move. Put the other side on a fee clock early and work your case. Also, for cases that are clearly trial bound, don’t be afraid to push hard where and when it is needed, but also understand that just because it is a trial case, you don’t need to push hard on everything. Knowing which fights are worth having is more important than fighting all the time. The key is in knowing your case and your client’s goals and acting accordingly to get them the best result.
Surfing the Tsunami Without Burning Out
The "Tallahassee Tsunami" of litigation is not just a metaphor – it’s the reality facing attorneys as the judiciary pushes for
quicker resolutions and streamlined case management in light of the surge of cases after House Bill 837’s passage last year. The upcoming changes to CMPs will only intensify this pressure.
To survive, and indeed thrive, in this environment, it’s crucial to develop strategies that allow you to push cases forward efficiently without burning out. Remember the work will be there tomorrow, and there will always be another case. Try hard to find balance despite being stuck in this tort reform mess Tallahassee created.
Stop working until 8 p.m. unless necessary. Limit the amount of time you work on weekends when you can. Find time for the “you” that is not a lawyer. We become what we feed, and we deserve to have life and time outside of the office or courthouse.
Until then, continue to “hang ten” out there and take care of yourselves outside of work. The Tallahassee Tsunami is still here, but it won’t be forever… “mahalo.”
Laura Streyffler
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HEAR YE, HEAR YE JNC Applications Welcome
By the Hon. Russell Kirshy and Richard Montecalvo
The 20th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission (JNC) consists of nine members. All are appointed by the Governor. Four are chosen from lists provided by the Florida Bar. Five are appointed by the Governor directly. The commission is tasked with receiving applications, investigating, interviewing and, ultimately, nominating highly qualified members of The Bar to the Office of the Governor for appointment to the County or Circuit Court bench following the announcement of a vacancy.
The Governor is responsible for directing the JNC to convene. That occurs after he receives a letter of resignation or retirement from a judge who will be leaving before the end of their term, or when a new position is created by the legislature. The JNC has 30 days to do their work and forward a list of names to the Governor. However, the Governor may extend that time for an additional 30 days. Once the list is forwarded to the Governor, he has 60 days to appoint one of the nominees to the bench.
Our circuit is in the middle of a historic year regarding the judiciary. There are five judicial races, which will be determined by the voters. The Legislature created one new Circuit judgeship for the 20th Circuit. Finally, in addition to the new Circuit Court judgeship, Circuit Court Judges Joseph Fuller, Lee Schreiber and Margaret Steinbeck have submitted their resignations following honored service to the citizens of Southwest Florida.
By virtue of those resignations and the legislatively created judgeship, the JNC anticipates interviewing candidates for four judicial vacancies by the end of 2024. As of the date of this writing, the Governor has yet to give the JNC direction regarding the timing of such interviews, nor the number of vacancies for which the JNC will interview.
Notwithstanding those details, your humble scribes wish to remind you, the reader, that these vacancies will be announced soon and for you to consider applying! Any attorney who has been a member in good standing of the Florida Bar for at least five years may apply to be appointed.
The Application Process
Applying to be appointed as a judge starts with the completion of an Application for Judicial Appointment. It is available at FLGov.com. The application is submitted to the Chair of the JNC electronically. Each member of the commission will receive a copy of each submitted application.
One commissioner will be assigned as the investigator for each application. That person will be tasked with performing an in-depth review of the candidate. The investigating member will also be the first person to question the candidate if they are selected for an interview. Commissioners speak to members of the judiciary, bar and public about each candidate in order to get a full picture of the candidate’s background.
The commission will then meet to determine which applicants will be interviewed. All interviews are generally conducted on the same day. However, there have been occasions when the interviews needed to be spread over two or three days, depending on the number of applicants. Interviews are open to the public, and in recent years, have also been livestreamed.
After the interviews are completed, the JNC goes into an Executive Session, where the
commissioners discuss each of the candidates. Executive Sessions are not open to the public and are strictly confidential. This permits the JNC to have candid discussions about the qualifications of each candidate and share information that was received.
One important aspect of the deliberations is that while the comments made to commissioners are shared, the person making the comments is not. This gives individuals who are providing information the confidence that no one will know what they have said. In turn, it allows people to be honest in their evaluation of a candidate.
The JNC is required to send to the Governor’s Office a list of between three and six candidates for each open position. When the JNC is filling more than one position at the same time, it is permissible to give separate lists for each position, or one list for all of them. For example, if there are two openings, the JNC can provide two lists of three to six candidates each, or one list of six to 12 candidates.
The members of the JNC notify the candidates by phone if they have been placed on the “short list.” Traditionally, once the Governor’s Office receives the lists, each candidate is requested to travel to Tallahassee to interview with the Governor’s counsel.
Both authors have been asked for advice on how to be successful in the process. That could fill another entire article! Rather, we will leave you with a couple of suggestions:
• Start preparing your application early so you have plenty of time.
• Fully answer all of the questions.
• For every person who is listed in the application, include an accurate email and phone number.
• Proofread your application carefully.
• Talk to others who have gone through the process to be prepared for the interview.
A Circuit Court judge assigned to the Collier County Family division, the Honorable Russell Kirshy served as a member and chair of the 20th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission for eight years. He then served as a member of the 2nd DCA Judicial Nominating Commission for two years. When the 6th DCA was created, he served on the 6th DCA JNC for eight months, which ended with his appointment to the bench.
Rich Montecalvo serves as the chief assistant state attorney at the Office of the State Attorney, 20th Judicial Circuit. Montecalvo has also served as a prosecutor for more than 30 years in the 20th Judicial Circuit, assisting State Attorney Amira Fox in leading the office since 2019. He was appointed to the 20th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2020 and currently serves as chair.
We hope to see many of you apply and wish you success in the process!
Apply now to be appointed as a judge by completing the Application for Judicial Appointment online at FLGov.com.
Judge Russell Kirshy
Rich Montecalvo
MILESTONES & ANNIVERSARIES
Special Advertising Section
This special advertising section showcases Lee County firms celebrating a special anniversary or milestone this year. Join us in celebrating these milestones and anniversaries!
AS WE CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF SERVICE , we’re honored to have played a small part in the legal landscape of our community.
We’d like to express our gratitude for the opportunities you – our colleagues – have given to us to serve as counsel to your clients. Your referrals have been invaluable to our firm, and we greatly appreciate the confidence you have in us. We’re dedicated to reciprocating this trust by actively cross-referring clients to our fellow members, and to fostering relationships built on mutual respect and collaboration – just as we’ve done for the past 100 years.
Admitted to practice in Southern District, Middle District and United States Supreme Court
Litigated cases throughout the United States
Some of our achievements: Former 20th Judicial Circuit
Elected State Attorney ◆ Former President of the Lee County Bar Former Chair of the Florida Bar Grievance Committee 20th Judicial Circuit ◆ Former City Attorney of Fort Myers ◆ Original
Master and Founding Member of the Calusa Inn of Court ◆ Voted 2017 Lawyer of Distinction-Top 10% in the United States ◆ Former Lee County Court Division Chief of the State Attorney’s Office ◆ Founding Member of National DUI College ◆ Thompson Reuters Super Lawyer ◆ AVVO “10” Rating by Reviews ◆ Death Qualified for Death Penalty “AV” Preeminent Rated by Peers in Legal Ability and Ethical Standards ◆ Former Head of the Hendry/Glades County State Attorney’s Office ◆ All 3 Partners Voted by peers as SW Florida’s Top Lawyers in Naples Illustrated ◆ Collier County Lion of the Law Judicial Award for Professionalism ◆ Former Lee County Circuit Court Division Chief of the State Attorney’s Office ◆ 2020 Top 40 Under 40 National Trial Lawyers ◆ Current Member of the Florida Bar Unlicensed Practice of Law Committee 20th Judicial Circuit ◆ Current Board Member of the City of Fort Myers Police Citizen Review Board ◆ All Partners were Former SWFL Prosecutors ◆ Former Deputy Public Defender, Head of the Homicide Unit and Child Victim Crimes Unit ◆ Voted one of Gulfshore
Life’s Top Lawyers in SWFL ◆ Media appearances on Dateline, NBC, Fox, CNN, Dr. Drew, News-Press, Naples Daily News and USAToday.
Ringsmuth, Day & O'Halloran Celebrates 10 Years
May 6th marked the 10th anniversary of the formation of the Criminal Defense firm of Ringsmuth, Day & O’Halloran, PLLC. Peter Ringsmuth, Donald Day and Danielle O’Halloran recognized that they could be even more effective and successful in defending clients by joining their individual offices and efforts into one firm. Finding ways to better serve their clients was then, and is now, what motivated these three lawyers.
When the idea of joining together as partners first originated, both Ringsmuth and Day had already individually become legendary as two of the very best criminal defense attorneys in the area. Mr. Ringsmuth had been one of the top criminal defense attorneys in Southwest Florida for almost 40 years. Day had stood at the top of his profession as a renowned criminal defense litigator in Southwest Florida for over 30 years. While both men believed in quietly representing their clients without drawing attention to themselves or exploiting those clients through the media, their reputation for being the best of the best traveled rapidly through word of mouth at a loud volume.
After reflection and much discussion, Ringsmuth and Day agreed that combining their experience and talents would benefit the people of Southwest Florida who needed criminal representation at the highest caliber. This was the genesis of RDO.
As the two men developed the blueprint of the new firm, an attorney well known to both of them as an experienced and respected former prosecutor, and now a formidable criminal defense attorney, stood out as a perfect cornerstone of their new endeavor. O’Halloran was that attorney who could stand with Ringsmuth and Day to become partners in this new firm. O’Halloran’s knowledge, ability and professionalism soon saw her named as managing partner of RDO.
Having established themselves as a powerful and well-respected criminal defense firm, Ringsmuth, Day
and O’Halloran recognized that adding more of the best of the best attorneys could only benefit their clients and the firm. Over the past decade, Ringsmuth, Day & O’Halloran endeavored to do just that and have been more than successful.
Marquin Rinard was asked to join RDO in 2015. Rinard has served as the former Deputy Public Defender and was the head of the Homicide and Child Victim Crimes Unit. He is also one of a small minority of private criminal defense lawyers in the area who are Death Penalty Certified. Rinard has over 30 years’ experience solely in criminal law and continues to enhance RDO’s successes.
Larry D. Justham retired from the Office of the State Attorney after a combined 25 years as an Assistant State Attorney in Southwest Florida. Justham also served as Fort Myers City Attorney for Public Safety and as an associate with Ringsmuth for 12 years before returning to the State Attorney’s Office as head of both the County Court Division and Circuit Court Division in Lee County. After his retirement from the State Attorney’s Office, the Partners encouraged Justham to bring his talent to the firm. He agreed and is a valuable asset with over 45 years’ experience solely in criminal law.
Stephen B. Russell retired after serving 16 years as the elected State Attorney for the 20th Circuit in 2019. Following his retirement, the partners of RDO encouraged him to use the skills and knowledge he developed over 45 years in the legal profession, specializing solely in criminal law by joining the firm. Russell, through his career, has done it all. Russell is an incredible asset to his clients and RDO.
Ringsmuth, Day & O’Halloran are proud to have served the SWFL community for the past decade and look forward to many more years of protecting our clients.
An associate in Hahn Loeser’s litigation practice area, Gabriel represents clients in complex commercial litigation. He is involved in cases through all stages of litigation, including legal research and drafting pleadings, motions and discovery. Previously, he worked for a one of Florida’s largest civil defense firms and clerked for the Honorable Judge Migna Sanchez-Llorens in the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida.
By Gabriel Arbois, Esq.
MEMBER
BENEFITS
IN THE FLORIDA BAR
AND THE LEE COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION
Membership in the Florida Bar and the Lee County Bar Association (LCBA) provides a wealth of benefits designed to enhance professional development, foster networking opportunities and support the practice of law. For members of the Florida Bar, one of the primary benefits is free access to Fastcase, a leading legal research platform that offers an extensive database of case law, statutes and regulations. Additionally, the Florida Bar provides trust account management software to ensure IOTA compliance at no additional cost to members.
The Florida Bar also offers a wide array of Continuing Legal Education (CLE) programs. These programs are essential for attorneys to stay updated on the latest legal trends, ensuring they remain compliant with licensure requirements. The CLE courses cover various legal topics and, in many cases, are free to members.
Another significant benefit of Florida Bar membership is the Lawyers Helpline, a confidential service that offers mental health and wellness support. Recognizing the stresses and challenges of the legal profession, this
service provides members with access to counseling and mental health resources, promoting overall well-being. Additionally, the Florida Bar offers a “Counsel to Counsel” mentorship program designed to support new attorneys. This program pairs novice lawyers with experienced practitioners who can provide guidance, advice and insights into the legal profession.
The Florida Bar also negotiates discounts on a range of professional services, including insurance, office supplies and office management software, helping members manage their practices more efficiently and cost-effectively. Members also get discounts for travel, rental cars and hotels.
The Lee County Bar Association complements the offerings of the Florida Bar by providing benefits tailored to the local legal community. LCBA members gain access to a free library of Continuing Legal Education and Continuing Mediation Education courses on CD format. The LCBA regularly organizes networking events, social gatherings and community service projects, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and professional solidarity among members. These events are not only opportunities to build professional relationships, but also serve as platforms for sharing knowledge and best practices.
The LCBA is dedicated to enhancing access to justice and promoting civic engagement. The LCBA offers members the ability to enroll in its Lawyer Referral Service (LRS). The LRS program links members of the public to private attorneys, while also offering a low fee panel, so that individuals who do not qualify for pro bono services have access to legal advice. The LCBA also has a Foundation that is designed to improve our community at large by supporting local nonprofit organizations via contributions through your LCBA membership and various fundraising events.
The LCBA also facilitates involvement in various committees and practice sections that address different areas of law and community concerns. Participation in these committees allows members to contribute their expertise to the development of the local legal community and stay engaged with legal and social issues impacting Lee County. The Young Lawyers Division (YLD) is one such group that is designed to support young attorneys in their career development and community engagement.
If you have any questions regarding member benefits or any general questions about the Young Lawyers Division of the Lee County Bar Association, feel free to contact garbois@hahnlaw.com.
Lauren Baugh
HUNGRY FOR ADVENTURE? HEAD TO
For many years in Downtown Fort Myers, there lay a patch of grass off Bay Street that was often used as spillover parking for various projects or meetings. It was unassuming and nothing to look at as you drove by. Frankly, I do not think anyone, even the creative businessmen and women in our area, gave it much thought or saw its potential. But a few did!
Those few made their vision of Bay Street Yard a reality, and boy, were they visionaries! They knew that Downtown Fort Myers is where you come to hop around and try something here and there. While many of the locally owned and operated restaurants have much to offer, this casual, yet upscale, outdoor entertainment venue, bar and dining concept adds its own unique flavor to the area!
Located between the Bay Street parking garage and the commercial building on Dean Street, your eye will be drawn to Bay Street Yard’s urban-chic architecture first. When you walk out of the parking garage, you'll be enticed by bright lights, great music and all kinds of yummy food. We needed something exactly where Bay Street Yard is, and this provides a great way to introduce people to Downtown Fort Myers with casual outdoor dining.
The same way your landscaping offers curb appeal with selling or buying a home, a restaurant should offer that same touch. This place certainly has that, and then some! From the architecture outside, you are left with curiosity about Bay Street Yard. Is it a restaurant? An event venue? A bar? It is all those things, and more!
Lauren Baugh is the Executive Director at Lee County Bar Association and can be reached at LBaugh@leebar.org.
Walk in through Bay Street Yard’s cool, contemporary wooden gate, which has their logo carved in it, and you are greeted with so much more than you expect! The 12,000-square-foot venue has seating for over 300 people, with two full-service bars. It puts an emphasis on entertainment, with a covered stage for live performances, an 8-foot by 13-foot LED TV screen to view sporting events and other performances, and a variety of outdoor games, such as cornhole, ping pong, bocce and more. Bay Street Yard also offers The Loft, a second level for VIP seating and exclusive experiences.
And, the most unique part of all, there are three giant food trucks serving up tailored menu options that include American, Mexican and Asian street cuisine!
Now let’s say you are out with a group of friends, and each friend wants something different to eat, so you are stuck trying to decide which restaurant offers what everyone wants. It is complicated to appease all tastes indeed, but Bay Street Yard has you covered.
First, there’s the Bay Street Butcher, which is going to be your go-to choice for the carnivore of your group. They can munch on a wagyu smash burger, or perhaps a foot-long German glizzy! There are many more options, including surf and turf frites and a vegetarian buffalo bleu burger.
The second food truck option is Rick’s Taco Cartel. Their menu features some amazing items, such as hatch chili queso with chips and a variety of tacos. I love, love, love chorizo, so that would be my immediate go-to choice!
Now the last one may surprise you: Bonzai Asian Street Cuisine. Now one thing about me is that I love Asian food. Frankly, you can find it anywhere these days, but it is usually the same old
fried rice, a soup of some sort, and perhaps some variety of dumpling, and those are usually good, or okay. Meanwhile, this menu has a little bit of those typical Asian dishes, but with not-so-typical flare, such as their kung pao chicken dumplings or their Korean fried chicken sandwich. Of course, if you are looking for a lighter or meatless option, their Bonzai noodles look delicious.
Now what is cool about this concept, or rather one of the cool things about this concept, is you can order your dish, or a dish from each and then go to the bar and get a drink of any sort— they have it all and can make it all—and then sit with friends and each enjoy exactly what you want to eat and drink, without anyone compromising on the type of fare they wanted!
Most often, Bay Street Yard has live entertainment on their stage, which offers a party atmosphere. Why not take a stroll over to the cornhole area after enjoying your burger and see which of your friends is the most competitive? And, for arguably the best part, you can bring your fur babies!
Just touring this space is fun in and of itself, as it is all so well put together and clearly very well thought out. As I walked the space a few weeks back, the most adorable golden retriever greeted me with a doggo nose boop, and it was so adorable!
Although the space is not that large from a bird’s eye view, the team managing Bay Street Yard not only offers nightly specials, but have made the place into the prime spot to watch sporting events - all presented within
a clever concept that reuses, reduces and recycles. I had noticed that there were these bunker-like structures and thought, were they restrooms? But I discovered that these large containers are actually used as storage areas and staff offices, creating walls and barricades that enclose the venue space without compromising the land. This was beyond creative, and I have never seen anything like it!
Destination: Bay Street Yard
Another aspect of this space that really intrigued me from a professional perspective is that you can rent the space out for events. It is not just for corporate events, but for your own events, too.
Now as you may know, I plan and put together each and every event the LCBA hosts, with the help of some great people. Thus, I am always trying to think about whether a space can suit our needs. When I went to Bay Street Yard, I had an event in mind. So, I walked around visualizing
my event, and it was easy to translate the vision in my head to the space in front of me.
Therefore, the LCBA is pleased to announce that this year, we will be hosting our 2024 Pro Bono Awards as a Happy Hour in The Loft, the upstairs area of this venue! It offers privacy and the layout that we need to accomplish this, and we will have our very own private bar area with a dedicated bartender. How cool is that? Talk about a VIP experience! Get ready for a great time and mark your calendar to join your fellow LCBA members on October 17 at Bay Street Yard for our Pro Bono Awards.
You, too, can have this same treatment, and your guests will love the space as much as we do! If you have not already, go take a walk for happy hour down to Bay Street Yard and bring a friend! Or, come on a Saturday evening with a date and, of course, your furry best friend to grab some amazing nosh, get a few drinks, and enjoy life and this locally owned business that is new to our area. You will not be disappointed.
By T. Rankin Terry, Jr., JD, LLM
CLE Filing Requirements, Windstorm Insurance & AI
T. Rankin Terry, Jr. is a longtime Southwest Florida practitioner.
Board certified in civil trial for 35 years, he has been a certified mediator for 40 years. His bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering was obtained from the University of Kentucky, followed by his juris doctor from Washington University in St. Louis. He also earned an LLM in tax from the University of Florida.
September 2024 marks my 53rd year at The Bar. For the topic of this guest column, let’s consider CLE filing requirements, windstorm insurance and artificial intelligence (AI).
CLE Filing Requirements
Some years ago, due to financial problems, The Florida Bar moved CLE reporting from a one-year cycle to three-year cycles. It also reset everyone’s renewal date from one date to one of twelve, and outlawed “carry over” of credits. The 10 credits per year requirement effectively remained.
Early this year, my Bar site reported that I had met my three-year, 30-credit requirement. I had until September 30 to go. There were several areas of interest that I thought needed catching up on, so I plowed ahead. I suggest that we petition the powers that be to allow a 5-to-10-hour “carry over,” starting with the end of our second year.
Do not forget that our obligation to stay competent and current is not automatically met with 30 CLE credits every three years, but some flexibility is needed.
Windstorm Insurance
As of mid-August 2024, no hurricanes have visited. Being an election year, the political class is touting that they have “mitigated” Florida’s continuing windstorm insurance problems and crisis. They and we should admit that effective, solid “mitigation” has a high probability of being
wishful thinking. The demise of similar wishful thinking created Federal Flood Insurance.
The reality is that windstorm policies have become contracts to replace every roof every 15 to 20 years (metal, longer, but twice as expensive when the time comes). It will go down hard, but “Citizens for All!” is probably coming.
Artificial Intelligence
On Monday, July 22, Mike Corso gave an excellent presentation sponsored by the Young Lawyers Section. He spoke about the issues arising when artificial intelligence (AI) intersects with what lawyers do and are supposed to do. Mike has thought and studied more about these issues than anyone that I know. He can be considered an authority on both what is known and what is unknown. Watch for the date of his next fall presentation!
I expect that in time our malpractice carriers will issue dictates about what we can and cannot do with AI. Expect these dictates to put us at a competitive disadvantage.
“The Great Internet-at-Law Firm!” will have no such dictates.
We are lawyers, selling our knowledge and judgment, not “scriveners of internet content.” What goes out over and under our names is ours, however created, including by “Generative AI.” Generative AI easily becomes “the monkeywriting, phony Shakespeare.” We are in for a long, rough ride!
BENJAMIN ABDULNOUR, ESQ. Pendas Law Firm
DEREK DI CRESCIENZO Law Student
JOHN EDMONDS, ESQ. Law Office of John T. Edmonds, PA
MINERVA POBLET, ESQ. Poblet Legal, PLLC
Shelley R. PERRY, JD
Linda O. FLORES , CDP
Raising Awareness & Support for National Childhood Cancer Month
National Childhood Cancer Month is observed every year in September. Barbara’s Friends raises awareness and support for children fighting cancer at Golisano Children’s Hospital. This ensures no child is denied care due to an inability to pay.
Barbara’s Friends helps families with children receiving cancer treatment by providing gas cards for daily treatments, medications when insurance will not cover at-home chemo or pain relief drugs, or meals so parents can stay by their children during treatment. There are also college scholarships, so that survivors can apply for college funds. Donations also help fund medical advances in technology and care, such as pediatric neurosurgical services at Golisano Children's Hospital.
Each year in September, Barbara’s Friends hosts Clips for Cancer, and this year it will be a free community event offering family friendly activities, including games, animal encounters, a first responder meet-and-greet with touch-a-truck opportunities, and tours of the Golisano ambulance for the whole community. Learn more at BarbarasFriends.org/ClipsForCancer.
Held at Bell Tower on Saturday, Sept. 21, Clips for Cancer also features childhood cancer survivors and patients shaving the heads of community leaders to help raise money and awareness, demonstrating that being bald is not a sign of weakness, but rather strength in the long fight through chemotherapy treatment. The goal is to remind local kids that they aren’t fighting alone!
IS YOUR FIRM PART OF THE 100 CLUB?
Any firm with two or more attorneys and 100% membership in LCBA qualifies. If you feel your firm is eligible, email a listing of your attorneys to admin@leebar.org and we will let you know.
Absolute Law, P.A.
All Injuries Law
Aloia, Roland, Lubell & Morgan, PLLC.
Arend & Sisk, P.A.
Associates & Bruce L. Scheiner, P.A.
Boy Agnew Potanovic Miller, PLLC.
Boyle & Leonard & Anderson, P.A.
Burandt, Adamski, Feichthaler & Sanchez, PLLC.
Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law
City of Fort Myers Attorney’s Office
Freidin & Inglis, P.A.
Garvin Law Firm
Goldberg, Noone, Abraham Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A.
GrayRobinson, P.A.
Green, Schoenfeld & Kyle, LLP
Hahn, Loeser & Parks, LLP
Kagan Law Firm
Knott Ebelini Hart
Law Offices of Dennis L. Webb, P.A.
Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, Criminal Lawyer
Law Offices of Scott T. Moorey
Lee County Legal Aid Society, Inc.
Light Path Law, P.A.
Linde Law Group
Men’s Rights Law Firm
Osterhout & McKinney, P.A.
Patrone, Kemp & Bentley, P.A.
Pavese Law Firm
Roetzel & Andress, L.P.A.
Holz-Santospirito Family Law
Scarmozzino/King Trial Lawyers
School District of Lee County
Sheldon E. Finman, P.A.
Sheppard Law Firm
Simmons & Cook, PLLC
Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.
Strayhorn, Persons-Mulicka & Fisher, P.L.
Viles & Beckman, LLC
Wilbur Smith, LLC
Yeslow, Koeppel & Anderson
Scott T. Moorey
Criminal
Attorneys
THINGS
YOU DON'T KNOW ABOUT ME u Vee Leonard
1. Before I came to Southwest Florida because of a job offer, I didn’t know anything about this part of Florida. Living here is great because I don’t hear sirens after I've retired for the evening, unlike the nightly howl I had grown accustomed to in Central Florida. Now, when the sun has set, I can see the stars in the night sky. And when I awaken in the morning, I hear the birds singing. For me, it is a peaceful place to live.
2. I root for the Golden State Warriors because, even though they had star players, they played as a team. They had a cohesive group of players who worked together for the whole.
3. My greatest academic and professional accomplishment is that after dropping out of college, 20+ years and 5 children later, I earned a bachelor’s degree and JD. With those credentials and blessed beyond measure, I rose in my career to become a vice president and general counsel.
4. My favorite hobby is gardening. I find it most rewarding because when I finish, I can see the resulting work. Additionally, while I am working in the garden, my mind is not invaded with thoughts of work. Gardening is actually a great relief from stress.
5. Don’t stress over what you have no control. Just do your best and walk away with no regrets. You deserve to be here. And when you start practicing, don't be afraid to speak up for yourself. Don't let others create your narrative or paint a picture that is not who you are. Remember, people do what you let them do.
IN THE NEWS
A NEW CHAPTER
A fifth-generation native of Fort Myers, attorney and LCBA member John Mills grew up fishing the waters of Pine Island Sound. Inspired by these experiences –and his legal career as a prosecutor for the State Attorney’s Office – he recently authored a murder mystery set in a familiar Lee County location – South Seas Resort on Captiva Island, Florida. It’s his ninth novel! His books are sold in some of the most iconic destinations in the barrier islands.
A LIFELONG LEGACY
LCBA would like to extend special congratulations to LCBA Past-President Robert “Bob” Pritt, Esq., who was recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Florida Municipal Attorneys Association (FMAA). Grant Alley presented the award to Pritt during the annual FMAA conference in Naples, Florida. The award has only been given out a few times in the past 15 years.
EMBRACING AI
AN ETHICAL APPOINTMENT
Jason Hunter Korn, managing shareholder of Dentons Cohen & Grigsby’s Naples office, has been appointed by the Florida Supreme Court as incoming Chair of The Florida Bar’s Professional Ethics Committee (PEC). The PEC is a standing committee of the Bar responsible for reviewing and publishing ethics opinions to guide Bar members in their conduct. Korn brings over 30 years of experience and specializes in complex litigation, covering business, corporate, product, professional liability, estates and trusts, civil, and construction litigation.
LCBA’s Young Lawyers Division recently kicked off a two-part speaker series about artificial intelligence (AI), beginning with a luncheon sponsored by Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A. The July luncheon featured keynote speaker Michael Corso, Esq., who shared his insights about navigating the legal landscape of AI, including its legal relevance, privacy concerns, liability issues, ethical considerations and intellectual property rights.
JUNK FOOD WITH THE JUDGES
LCBA’s Young Lawyers Division gathered in early August for an exclusive event that connected YLD members with the Judiciary for food, fun and good conversation. Junk Food With the Judges took place at the Lee County Justice Center and provided a free pizza lunch for anyone who donated at least one canned good to benefit one of Lee County’s local food pantries.
ON THE MOVE
Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz recently welcomed Kristin Stocks to its team. Kristin brings 17 years of personal injury litigation experience to the firm. She is responsible for litigation of personal injury, wrongful death, motor vehicle accident, motorcycle accident, slip and fall and other injury cases. She has a long track record of representing the injured due to the negligent conduct of others and obtaining them the recoveries they need and deserve.
ALERT! NEW LEE CLERK FEATURE
The Lee Clerk’s office has updated its Property Fraud Alert service to include another layer of security to help your clients protect their most valuable asset. This additional security feature provides more coverage and additional notifications in case someone files a fraudulent deed for their property. This new feature will send a fraud alert any time their Parcel ID, also known as a STRAP number, is referenced in a recorded public document. The free service notifies registrants within 24 hours when a deed, mortgage or other document with their name or Parcel ID has been recorded. For more information, please visit www.leeclerk.org/fraudalert.
IT’S A HOME RUN!
LCBA recently welcomed members for a Baseball with The Bar event to kick off the month of August. Guests enjoyed air-conditioned box seating while watching the game and eating traditional stadium food. It’s all thanks to the Law Offices of Spencer Cordell, who stepped up to the plate with a generous event sponsorship!
If you have legal news to share, we want to hear from you! Please send press releases to RGEditor@ PriorityMarketing.com.
FAMILY DRAMA
Roetzel & Andress, LPA offers solutions for your most puzzling trust and estate matters. As a leading law firm located in Naples and Fort Myers, our attorneys regularly represent beneficiaries, fiduciaries and corporations in all aspects of estate and trust administrations. Then, if family drama ensues, Roetzel’s team of trust and estate litigators and appellate attorneys will be ready to protect your interests.
SPONSORS
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Whether a client is struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, substance use disorders, eating disorders, or multiple disorders, the Treatment Placement Specialists® (TPS) team can help. TPS is comprised of behavioral health professionals dedicated to supporting local families, clients and clinicians seeking treatment for those in need of higher-level mental health and addiction programming. As a trusted and impartial resource, the TPS team offers free, comprehensive guidance to ensure that every client in need of mental health treatment has access to the tools they need for a positive recovery outcome.
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It’s
(239) 334-0047 Fax (239) 334-0523
LOCAL DECISION MAKERS.
A BETTER WAY TO BORROW.
Like Thomas Edison, we believe there is always “a better way.” To us, that means being attentive, invested and involved in the efforts of our community’s business owners and residents as we provide them with lending services that empower them to reach their goals.
As a bank with a 5-Star Superior Rating from Bauer Financial, we are standing strong with money to lend. With a history of long-term stability and resilience, we are absolutely committed to remaining well-positioned to honor our promises and protect our banking customers.
