SRQ Magazine | September 2024: Elite Top Attorneys
SARASOTA
LAKEWOOD RANCH
WELCOME
The Sarasota and Bradenton Area region is home to a robust cadre of legal minds. As part of the annual SRQ Magazine Elite Top Attorneys program, we invited attorneys from Anna Maria and Lakewood Ranch down through Downtown Sarasota, Venice and North Port to nominate the peers who had garnered their utmost respect—whether on the same or opposite side of the negotiating table—and they answered. The respect of one’s peers, especially in the discerning legal profession, reflects a defining level of great achievement. We are humbled by the overwhelming number of thoughtful nominations we received from this community of professionals this year and are pleased to share the results with you, our readers.
In SRQ Magazine’s 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide and awards section you will meet this year’s honorees whose skills have helped their clients realize their goals. Many of our honorees share their expertise with the community as noted by their philanthropic and leadership contributions. The legal profession is part of a proud and long lineage that has been vital in establishing our modern world. The quality of a society can be judged in part by the measure of fairness manifested in how individuals are treated by our system of laws. Conscientious and skilled litigators are the reliable engines of our legal system, and the smart, skilled men and women represented in this peer-review program ensure the inevitable conflicts of human life can be dealt with in a manner that is equitable and honest. We hope you enjoy meeting SRQ Magazine’s 2024 Elite Top Attorneys—congratulations are in order.
Daniel L. Tullidge is a shareholder with Fergeson Skipper, P.A. and board certified in Wills, Trusts, and Estates by The Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization. Tullidge’s practice focuses on estate planning, estate and trust administration, wealth transfer and preservation, and related philanthropic, asset protection, and business succession issues. He takes a practical approach to all aspects of representation and avoids cookie-cutter solutions, with the ability to implement complex techniques when required and defaulting to simplicity when warranted.
His clients appreciate his ability to distill complex issues, help them assess available options, and craft solutions best suited to their needs and goals. Tullidge’s experience and track record make him a soughtafter legal professional, while his professionalism and reputation in the community have earned him respect among his peers. He was recently named a 2024 Best Lawyers in America for Trusts and Estates.
Mission Statement
We are a full-service law firm specializing in federal and state taxation, wills, trust, and estates. The attorneys at Fergeson Skipper believe that relationships matter most. We provide detailed legal analysis, personal attention, and skill in finding options for solutions for a range of legal matters.
FLORIDA BAR
DATE OF ADMISSION
October 2, 2013
Published in the 8th Edition of Asset Protection in Florida a volume published by the Florida Bar as well as an active member of the Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section of the Florida Bar for whom he regularly writes and speaks.
PRACTICE AREAS
Tax & Estate Planning Business Organization
Estate & Trust Administration
DEGREES
Levin College of Law, Gainesville, Florida
LL.M. in Taxation – 2014
University of Florida
Levin College of Law, Gainesville, Florida
J.D. cum laude – 2013
University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
B.A. cum laude – 2009
LAW FIRM
Fergeson Skipper
FEATURED HONOREES
ADOPTION LAW
Paul J. Consbruck
Paul J. Consbruck Attorney at Law 871 Venetia Bay Blvd | Ste 202 Venice, FL 34285 866-558-7285
Debra M. Salisbury
Law Office of Debra M. Salisbury PA 3293 Fruitville Rd | Unit 101 Sarasota, FL 34237 941-366-1616
Susan L. Stockham
Florida’s Children First 2813 Forest Ln Sarasota, FL 34231 941-924-4949
FIRST EDITION Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.
Alvin K. Brown
Brown Brown & Kuhn
1001 3rd Ave W | Ste 375 Bradenton, FL 34205
941-953-2825
John W. Chapman
The John Chapman Law Firm PA 1515 Ringling Blvd | Ste 870 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-404-4616
Dunlap & Moran PA 22 S Links Ave | Ste 300 Sarasota, FL 34236
941-366-0115
Timothy J. Rudge
Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP
240 S Pineapple Ave | 9th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236
941-364-2785
Michael E. Siegel
Shutts & Bowen LLP
1858 Ringling Blvd | Ste 300 Sarasota, FL 34236
941-552-3775
Brian L. Trimyer
Harllee & Bald PA 202 Old Main St Bradenton, FL 34205
941-744-5537
Michael J. Wilson
FEATURED HONOREES
Charles W. Denny IV
Dickinson & Gibbons PA 401 N Cattlemen Rd | Ste 300 Sarasota, FL 34232 941-366-4680
Lori M. Dorman
Dorman Law PA
410 43rd St W | Ste N Bradenton, FL 34209 941-375-3565
Andrew L. Douberly
Dickinson & Gibbons PA 401 N Cattlemen Rd | Ste 300 Sarasota, FL 34232
941-366-4680
Matthew S. Francis
Fergeson Skipper PA
Attorneys at Law 1515 Ringling Blvd | 10th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236
941-957-1900
Williams Parker Attorneys at Law 50 Central Ave | 8th FL Sarasota, FL 34236
941-536-2043
CIVIL LAW LITIGATION
Kimberly A. Bald
Harllee & Bald PA
202 Old Main St Bradenton, FL 34205
941-744-5537
Scott H. Carter
Dunlap & Moran PA 22 S Links Ave | Ste 300 Sarasota, FL 34236
941-366-0115
Sara Castro
Castro Potts Law Firm PLLC
1990 Main St | Ste 750 Sarasota, FL 34236
941-300-9595
Aaron B. Crittenden
Harllee & Bald PA 202 Old Main St Bradenton, FL 34205
941-744-5537
FIRST EDITION Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.
Adam Mohammadbhoy
Harllee & Bald PA 202 Old Main St Bradenton, FL 34205
941-744-5537
Hunter G. Norton
Daniel C. Guarnieri
Berlin Patten Ebling 3700 S Tamiami Trl Sarasota, FL 34239 941-954-9991
Mark A. Hanson
Lobeck & Hanson PA 2033 Main St | Ste 403 Sarasota, FL 34237
Dickinson & Gibbons PA 401 N Cattlemen Rd Ste | 300 Sarasota, FL 34232
941-366-4680
Ryan W. Owen
FIRST EDITION Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.
Douglas E. Walker
Williams Parker Attorneys at Law 50 Central Ave | 8th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236
Boyer & Boyer PA 46 N Washington Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 941-365-2304
Edwin M. Boyer
Boyer & Boyer PA 46 N Washington Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 941-365-2304
FIRST EDITION Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.
Butler Elder Law PA 11023 Gatewood Dr | Ste 104 Bradenton, FL 34211 941-254-6611
Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg PA 2033 Main St | Ste 600 Sarasota, FL 34237 941-366-8100
Stephanie L. Murphy
Stephanie B. Sandaire
Black Rock Legal Group PLLC 1215 Manatee Ave W | Ste 101 Bradenton, FL 34205 941-254-6814
The Murphy Law Group 2127 Ringling Blvd | Ste 102 Sarasota, FL 34237 941-584-9570
Dan Policastro
The Law Office of Dan Policastro PL 355 W Venice Ave Venice, FL 34285 941-882-4367
Kenneth M. Poole Jr Syprett Meshad PA 1900 Ringling Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 941-365-7171
FIRST EDITION Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.
Michael A. Connolly
Philip J. Schipani
Schipani, Norman & McLain PA 1605 Main St | Ste 1110 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-499-8154
Edward B. Sobel
Edward B. Sobel PA 4900 Manatee Ave W | Ste 206 Bradenton, FL 34209 941-746-1203
Kyle Stalnaker
Stalnaker Law 6704 Professional Pkwy Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240 941-359-7825
How Do You Represent, Protect and Support Your Clients?
Estate and Tax Planning can be complex, and the specific legalese used in these areas of law can often be di cult for clients to apply to their own situation. It’s important for my clients to feel confident and comfortable with their estate plan, which can only be accomplished by thorough understanding of each document. Many clients appreciate the time I take to breakdown these complicated topics and explain them in a way that they can understand without feeling talked down to.
Mission Statement
To o er innovative legal strategies for life's biggest occasions.
In 2019 Matthew was admitted to the Florida Bar and brought his expertise back home to the Sarasota area. Since then, he’s focused his practice on estate, tax planning, probate, and trust administration. Beyond his legal contributions to clients, Matt is an active member of several professional organizations, including the local Bar Associations, Estate Planning Councils, and Young Lawyers Divisions where he currently serves on the Board of Directors, reinforcing his commitment to the betterment of the legal fraternity.
FLORIDA BAR
DATE OF ADMISSION
April 29, 2019
PRACTICE AREAS
Estate Planning
Estate and Trust Administration
Business Succession Planning Tax Planning
DEGREES
Bachelor of ScienceFinance from University of Central Florida, 2014 Bachelor of ScienceSports Business Management from University of Central Florida, 2014
J.D. from St. Thomas University, 2017
LL.M. in Taxation from University of San Diego, 2018
LAW FIRM
Berlin Patten Ebling, PLLC
FEATURED HONOREES
Jason P. Ramos
Law Offices of Jason P. Ramos PLLC
306 N Rhodes Ave | Ste 109 Sarasota, FL 34237
941-876-5454
INSURANCE
Vanessa Ross Ross Legal Group
1800 2nd St | Ste 892 Sarasota, FL 34236
941-275-1998
Rachel Schadt
Ross Legal Group
1800 2nd St | Ste 892 Sarasota, FL 34236
941-275-1998
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Douglas A. Cherry
Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP
240 S Pineapple Ave | 9th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236
941-364-2738
Adam B. Portnow
Law Office of Adam B. Portnow PL
100 Wallace Ave | Ste 310 Sarasota, FL 34237
941-373-1797
Elizabeth M. Stamoulis
Williams Parker Attorneys at Law 50 Central Ave | 8th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236 941-552-5546
LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT
Anne Willis Chapman Blalock Walters PA 802 11th St W Bradenton, FL 34205
941-748-0100
FIRST EDITION Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.
Over the last 25 years, attorney Barbara H. Gormley has proudly represented only individuals that have been injured as a result of the negligence of another. Ms. Gormley is rated “AV Preeminent” which is the highest level of peer rating and means that her peers, lawyers and judges, have ranked her at the highest level of professional excellence for her legal knowledge, communication skills and ethical standards. Ms. Gormley has provided the highest quality of legal services both inside and out of the courtroom since 1999 and is known for treating every case as if it is going to trial. She represents clients throughout the State of Florida.
Her practice involves personal injury, including serious and catastrophic injuries, wrongful death as a result of automobile and trucking accidents, pedestrians and bicyclists hit by a motor vehicle, motorcycle accidents, trip/slip and fall cases on commercial and residential properties, negligent security resulting in injury cases, as well as nursing home and assisted living facility abuse cases.
Tell us about yourself.
Juris Doctor Nova Southeastern University, Shepard Broad Law Center, Davie, Florida, Deans List Member of the Nova Southeastern University’s Moot Court Honor Society State Bar of Florida, Admitted 1999 U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida Florida Bar Association, Trial Lawyers Section Member Eagle Member of the Florida Justice Association Sarasota County Bar Association Martindale-Hubbell® AV Preeminent® Since 2014 to the present 2024.
FLORIDA BAR
DATE OF ADMISSION
April 16, 1999
All Florida State Courts and the Federal Middle District of Florida
PRACTICE AREAS
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Trucking Accidents
Motorcycle, Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents
Negligent Security resulting in injury
Slip/Trip and Fall Accidents
Nursing Home and ALF abuse
DEGREES
Juris Doctor, Nova Southeastern Shepard Broad Law Center
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
25 Years
AV Rated Eagle Member of the Florida Justice Association
Fernandez Murphy & Walsh 2822 University Pkwy Sarasota, FL 34243
941-954-1234
Courtney Flandreau
Mallard Perez PLLC
889 N Washington Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 941-952-1682
FIRST EDITION Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.
Christina A. Goldberg
Luhrsen Goldberg LLC 6954 Professional Pkwy Sarasota, FL 34240 941-265-1513
David L. Goldman
Goldman Babboni
Fernandez Murphy & Walsh
3550 S Tamiami Trl | 3rd Fl Sarasota, FL 34239
941-954-1234
Barbara H. Gormley
Barbara H. Gormley PA 2831 Ringling Blvd Ste | 214E Sarasota, FL 34237
A fifth generation Sarasota attorney with more than 40 years of experience, Bill Robertson has a lengthy and robust background focusing on personal injury and wrongful death claims throughout Florida. He spent much of his career at one of Sarasota’s oldest law firms –including a decade-long tenure as CEO – before establishing his own legal practice in 2020. His extensive experience in handling auto and motorcycle accidents, bicycle and pedestrian accidents, plane crashes, trucking accidents, slip and fall, propane and natural gas explosions and defective products, he has recovered over $250 Million for his clients throughout his career.
Bill is a community-based lawyer being recognized both locally and nationally, for his dedication to helping our national heroes and veterans, and his e orts in fighting against the opioid crisis which brought him national attention including a feature and a report by Fox News journalist, Geraldo Rivera. Additionally, Bill previously hosted a local call-in radio show called Let’s Talk Law with Bill Robertson on WSRQ. A member of the Florida Justice Association, he dedicates countless hours to help people navigate the legal system on a pro bono basis. He has been recognized by his peers in the industry for his excellent legal skills and accomplishments, including receiving an AV preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell magazine for the highest level of professional excellence for 20 years and has received recognition from America’s Top High Stakes Litigators, National Lawyers of Distinction and America’s Most Honored Lawyers, Super Lawyer in Florida, Top Lawyers in Florida, Top Attorneys in Florida, and Top Attorneys in Tampa Bay.
Testimonial
When my son was hit by a car last year while sitting at an intersection on his bicycle, I knew we would need legal help. I felt dealing with someone who had been involved with Personal Injury law in this area for over 30 years was a better option for us than some of the big box law firms. It proved to be a good decision. Bill, his sta , and associates did a masterful job of getting my son a healthy settlement. I don’t think you could have a better representative fighting for your well being than the Robertson Law Firm, P.A.
FLORIDA BAR
October 18, 1984
DATE OF ADMISSION
PRACTICE AREAS
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Wrongful Death, Traumatic Brain Injury
DEGREES
Stetson University College of Law, St. Petersburg, FL; Juris Doctorate
Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL; Bachelor of Science, Government
LAW FIRM
The Robertson Law Firm PA
Nancy E. Cason
Syprett Meshad PA 1900 Ringling Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236
941-365-7171
Kelly Causey Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg PA 2033 Main St | Ste 600 Sarasota, FL 34237 941-907-0006
FIRST EDITION Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.
Scott W. Dunlap
Dunlap & Moran PA
22 S Links Ave | Ste 300 Sarasota, FL 34236
941-366-0115
Jamie A. Ebling
Berlin Patten Ebling
3700 S Tamiami Trl Sarasota, FL 34239
941-954-9991
Sheryl Edwards
The Edwards Law Firm PL
500 S Washington Blvd | Ste 400 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-363-0110
Ryan A. Featherstone
Dunlap & Moran PA
22 S Links Ave | Ste 300 Sarasota, FL 34236
941-366-0115
Sarah Ferlazzo
Berlin Patten Ebling
Jennifer L. Grosso
Bentley Goodrich Kison
783 S Orange Ave | Ste 300 Sarasota, FL 34236
941-556-9030
Michael T. Hankin
Hankin & Hankin
3700 S Tamiami Trl Sarasota, FL 34239 941-954-9991
Christa L. Folkers
Williams Parker Attorneys at Law 50 Central Ave | 8th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236 941-552-5554
Alexandra Glauser
Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos PA 1819 Main St | Ste 610 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-954-4691
Crystal D. Golm
Golm Law Firm 4916 26th St W | Ste 132 Bradenton, FL 34207
100 Wallace Ave | Ste 100 Sarasota, FL 34237
941-957-0080
Ryan T. Harris
Blalock Walters PA
802 11th St W Bradenton, FL 34205
941-748-0100
Michelle Lajoie Hermey
Fergeson Skipper PA
Attorneys at Law 1515 Ringling Blvd | 10th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236 941-957-1900
I arrived in Bradenton in 1989 and have provided legal services to entrepreneurs, regional businesses, and individuals for over 35 years on the west coast of Florida. I was certified as an expert in business litigation by the Florida Bar in in 1997 and have committed myself to working with my clients to obtain the best results in complex business matters recognizing their concerns for an expeditious and cost e ective path to resolution.
1990 Main St | Ste 725 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-479-3006
Amanda C. Tullidge
Blalock Walters PA 802 11th St W Bradenton, FL 34205 941-748-0100
Juan C. Villaveces
FEATURED HONOREES
Kristen D. Worrell
Williams Parker Attorneys at Law
50 Central Ave | 8th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236
941-552-2572
Jessica S. Zelitt
Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP
240 S Pineapple Ave | 9th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236
813-676-7218
SECURITIES LAW
Worth Graham
Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg PA 2033 Main St | Ste 600 Sarasota, FL 34237
941-366-8100
Michael S. Taaffe
Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP
240 S Pineapple Ave | 9th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236
941-364-2720
FIRST EDITION Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.
Michael D. Horlick
Horlick & Corbridge PA 1314 E Venice Ave | Ste D Venice, FL 34285
Christopher J. Fowler Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos PA 1819 Main St | Ste 610 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-954-4691
Rose-Anne B. Frano
Williams Parker Attorneys at Law 50 Central Ave | 8th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236 941-536-2033
Richard R. Gans Fergeson Skipper PA
Attorneys at Law 1515 Ringling Blvd | 10th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236 941-957-1900
Dana Laganella Gerling
Affordable Attorney
Douglas J. Elmore
Williams Parker Attorneys at Law 50 Central Ave | 8th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236 941-329-6637
Gerling Law Group 6148 State Rd 70 E Bradenton, FL 34203 941-756-6600
JENNIFER J. HENSLEY
HONOREE | Wills & Trusts
CONTACT 5190 26th Street West | Suite D | Bradenton, Florida 34207 941-755-8583 | Firm@jenhensleylaw.com | jenhensleylaw.com
BIO
My passion for serving others ignited at an early age, inspired by personal struggles which often mirror those of my clients. I’m committed to empathy and unwavering dedication. Estate Planning holds a special place, valuing everyone’s voice and protecting what matters most. Advocacy defines my practice, putting client needs fi rst. Together, we build lasting legacies founded on trust and steadfast support, bridging professional excellence and heartfelt compassion.
FLORIDA BAR
DATE OF ADMISSION April 15, 2020
DEGREES Juris Doctorate
PRACTICE AREAS
Estate Planning Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney
Probate and Trust Administration Adversarial Matters
LAW FIRM Hensley Law Offices, LLC
FEATURED HONOREES
Rodney Gerling
Affordable Attorney
Gerling Law Group 6148 State Road 70 E Bradenton, FL 34203 941-756-6600
Whitney C. Glaser
Whitney Glaser Law 3027 Manatee Ave W | Ste B Bradenton, FL 34205 941-241-8266
Williams Parker Attorneys at Law 50 Central Ave | 8th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236 941-329-6625
FIRST EDITION Recognizing the attorneys in the region who garnered the respect of their professional peers as honorees for the 2024 Elite Top Attorneys Legal Guide.
Alisa M. Heedy
Williams Parker Attorneys at Law 50 Central Ave | 8th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236
941-552-2569
David B. Heedy
Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP
240 S Pineapple Ave | 9th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236
941-364-2794
Jen J. Hensley
Hensley Law Offices
5190 26th St W | Ste D Bradenton, FL 34207
941-755-8583
Ashley S. Hodson
Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP
240 S Pineapple Ave | 9th Fl Sarasota, FL 34236
941-364-2723
Bryan Kessler
Jenna Kyle Meltzer
Blalock Walters PA
802 11th St W Bradenton, FL 34205 941-748-0100
John A. Moran
Dunlap & Moran PA 22 S Links Ave | Ste 300 Sarasota, FL 34236
Berg & Kessler 1872 Tamiami Trl S | Ste D Venice, FL 34293 941-493-0871
Stephen Berlin Berlin Law Firm LLC 200 N Washington Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 941-777-7000
Rosemary B. Eure
Lancaster & Eure 711 N Washington Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 941-365-7575
Paige M. Hazeltine Hazeltine Law Firm 205 W Venice Ave Venice, FL 34285 941-203-6020
Edward Murphy Legler, Murphy & Battaglia LLP 2411 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, FL 34205 941-748-5599
CHARLES W. TELFAIR, IV
HONOREE | Personal Injury
CONTACT 2075 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34237
941.404.8909 | andrew@teamflg.com
BIO
Charles W. Telfair IV is a Personal Injury Attorney. Telfair began his career at Holland and Knight back in 1989. Holland and Knight chose to relocate to Tampa and Lutz, Bobo and Telfair opened its doors in April of 1992. Through his career Telfair has had the privilege of working with some of the biggest corporations in the world: Tropicana, Volvo Penta, Stanely Bostich, to name a few. Telfair believes accessibility and honesty are what his clients appreciate the most. Personal Injury law is personal. Telfair puts forth his energy, knowledge and time to ensure the best possible outcome for his clients.
MISSION Telfair and Lutz, Bobo and Telfair are rated AV by Martindale Hubbell. This means that our peers have given us the highest rating for both ethics and legal ability. Here at Lutz, Bobo & Telfair we are privileged to work with you, and we are honored to share our experience with you. At Lutz, Bobo and Telfair we treat our clients the way we prefer to be treated.
CYNTHIA RIDDELL
BIO
Cynthia A. Riddell is the managing attorney at Riddell Law Group. She is admitted to practice in Florida as well as the U.S. District Court in and for the Middle District of Florida and the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in and for the Middle District of Florida. She focuses her practice on transactional residential and commercial Real Estate Closings and Title Insurance. She is a Director on the Board for the Sarasota County Bar Association and a member of the Real Property Probate and Trust Law Section of the Florida Bar as well as the Business Law Section of the Florida Bar. She received her B.A. in History from University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida and her Juris Doctor from Stetson College of Law, St. Petersburg, Florida. Cynthia grew up in Sarasota and returned to the area after law school to join her father, Je Riddell, in the practice areas of real estate, bankruptcy and estate planning. Prior to attending law school, Cynthia worked as a Florida licensed title agent for Riddell Title & Escrow, closing both residential and commercial real estate transactions.
FLORIDA BAR ADMISSION May 10, 1991
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science, University of Tampa on a full ROTC scholarship, in 1987
Attended Officer Basic School at Fort McClellan 1988
Juris Doctorate, Stetson University College of Law in 1990, Stanley Milledge Award
Retired from the US Army Reserves as Captain in 2000
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
33 years
LAW FIRM
Lutz, Bobo & Telfair, Trial Lawyers
FLORIDA BAR ADMISSION April 21, 2008
DEGREES
Juris Doctor, Bachelor of Arts
PRACTICE AREAS
Estate Closings
Insurance
JAMES FOWLER
HONOREE | Criminal Defense
FLORIDA BARADMISSION
September 26, 2008
DEGREES
Bachelor of Science, Ferrum College, 2002
Juris Doctorate, Coastal School of Law, 2008
PRACTICE AREAS
Criminal Defense
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Forty Carrots
Key to the Cure
Lakewood Ranch Young Leaders Alliance
Americans Inn of Court
Sarasota County Bar Association
Manatee County Bar Association
Florida Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
FLORIDA BAR
DATE OF ADMISSION
January 3, 1994
DEGREES
Juris Doctorate
PRACTICE AREAS
Healthcare Litigation
Business Litigation
LAW FIRM
Rosenberg Law PA
CONTACT 2075 Main Street | Suite #38 | Sarasota, FL 34237 941.404.8909 | jfowler@teamflg.com | thefowlerlawgroup.com
BIO
James Fowler is the founding partner of Fowler Law Group, P.A. James draws upon his diverse criminal law experiences to defend adults and juveniles involved in all types of criminal law matters, including federal and state crimes, DUI o enses, driver’s license suspensions and tra c cases. He is a 4th generation native of Sarasota County with strong ties to the local community. James served as a prosecutor with the O ce of the State Attorney in both Sarasota and Manatee Counties. As a prosecuting attorney he handled numerous DUI, misdemeanor, felony and juvenile cases and received specialized training from the Florida Tra c Safety Resource Prosecution Program in the areas of drugged drivers and DUI refusal cases and Motion Practice. He has been recognized as a “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” and “Top 40 Under 40” by the National Trial Lawyers Association from 2014 – 2020. He has been named to Super Lawyers Magazine list of “Rising Stars” from 2014 – 2020. James has also been nominated for Judicial Appointment by the 12th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission three times in as many years. James has been featured in numerous publications throughout his career; most notably Forbes, Entrepreneur, Hu Post, and Business Insider.
BRUCE S. ROSENBERG
HONOREE | Business and Health Law
CONTACT 1895 Floyd Street | Suite B | Sarasota FL 34239 941-373-6777 | rosenberg@rosenberglawpa.com | rosenberglawpa.com
BIO
Bruce Rosenberg, founding partner at Rosenberg Law, PA, brings over 35 years of legal expertise in healthcare, business, and cannabis law, including civil racketeering and fraud defense. His work spans litigation and transactional law, including contract review, negotiation, compliance, and corporate startups. A Super Lawyer in healthcare law for over a decade, he prioritizes proactive legal strategies and e ective risk management. His involvement in the Florida Bar Technology Committee and charitable endeavours underscores his dedication to legal trends and societal impact.
ANDREW POUGET
HONOREE | Criminal Defense
CONTACT 2075 Main Street | Suite #38 | Sarasota, FL 34237
Andrew Pouget is a lifelong student of the law and vigilant advocate for justice. He understands that success is earned by hard work, determination, quality legal research, and framing arguments with precision and articulation. His passion for law is the driving force that compels him to take the extra step, and he does not quit until he achieves the best possible result for his clients. Since matriculating in 2018, Andrew has continued the firm’s legacy of providing high-quality criminal defense to Sarasota, Bradenton and Tampa. Andrew’s depth of legal knowledge and proficiency in legal writing provides an essential element to FLG’s comprehensive approach to criminal defense, and his aptitude for appellate practice sets FLG apart as a full-service criminal defense fi rm in the SRQ area.
VANESSA ROSS
HONOREE | Civil Litigation
CONTACT 1800 Second Street | Suite 892 | Sarasota, FL 34236
Vanessa Ross has spent her legal career handling insurance claims, resolving questions of coverage and getting insurance companies to pay the money that her clients deserve. For 20 years, she and her team have recovered proceeds relating to homeowner's claims, catastrophic building damage, fi re loss, windstorm and hurricane losses, construction defects, water damage, and personal injury. She handles complex litigation all the way through jury trial. Ms. Ross attended Law School at the Florida State University College of Law, and was member of the Mock Trial Team. Ms. Ross also graduated cum laude from the University of Florida. She resides full time in Sarasota, FL.
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE 17 years
DEGREES
University of Detroit Mercy, Suma Cum Laude, Majors in philosophy, political science, and pre-law Detroit College of Law, Magna Cum Laude, Juris Doctorate
Certificates in Trial Practice and Criminal Law
PRACTICE AREAS DUI Defense, Criminal Appeals Criminal Law
RECOGNITION 4th year SRQ ‘Elite Top Attorneys’
FLORIDA BAR
DATE OF ADMISSION September 21, 2006
DEGREES
Florida State University College of Law
PRACTICE
FLORIDA BAR
DATE OF ADMISSION
December 26, 2006
DEGREES
Albany Law School of Union University, 2004
PRACTICE AREAS
Car, Truck, Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents
Pedestrian Accidents
Slip & Fall Injuries
Child Abuse
Nursing Home/ALF Abuse
Medical Malpractice
Construction Injuries
Boating Accidents
LAW FIRM
Mallard Perez, PLLC
COURTNEY FLANDREAU, ESQ.
HONOREE | Personal Injury
CONTACT 889 N. Washington Blvd | Sarasota, Fl 34236
Courtney has been a trial attorney for over fifteen years, representing both plainti s and defendants in personal injury cases throughout Southwest Florida. Earlier in her career, Courtney served as senior sta attorney for one of the largest insurance companies in the state of Florida and represented hundreds of defendants in automobile negligence cases. She became a Plainti ’s attorney in 2017 and now exclusively advocates for the wrongfully injured in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.
MISSION
Our mission at Mallard | Perez, PLLC is to passionately advocate for the rights of our clients leveraging our trial experience and excellent results.
FLORIDA BAR
DATE OF ADMISSION
April 30, 1991
DEGREES
J.D. Stetson University College of Law 1990.
PRACTICE AREAS
Car, Truck, Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents
Pedestrian Accidents
Slip & Fall Injuries
Child Abuse
Nursing Home/ALF Abuse
Medical Malpractice
Construction Injuries
Boating Accidents
LAW FIRM
Mallard Perez, PLLC
DAMIAN MALLARD, ESQ.
HONOREE | Personal Injury | Managing Partner
CONTACT 889 N. Washington Blvd | Sarasota, Fl 34236 941-952-1682 | damian@mallardperez.com | mallardperez.com
BIO
Damian Mallard is the Managing Partner of Mallard | Perez, PLLC. He has practiced law for 34 years, beginning his career for 22 years working for Insurance Companies defending Personal Injury cases. He is a Board-Certified Trial Lawyer, a distinction held by less than 2% of attorneys in Florida. He has tried cases all over Florida and handles Catastrophic Auto Accident cases, Medical Malpractice, Nursing Home Abuse and Institutional Child Abuse cases state-wide.
MISSION
Our mission at Mallard | Perez, PLLC is to passionately advocate for the rights of our clients leveraging our trial experience and excellent results.
ALAN PEREZ, ESQ.
HONOREE | Personal Injury
CONTACT 889 N. Washington Blvd | Sarasota, Fl 34236
Alan distinguishes himself in the legal realm by blending innovative ideas with traditional values to craft his recipe for success. His approach in the courtroom encompasses leveraging cutting-edge technology and unconventional strategies to advocate vigorously for his clients. Alan stands out through his unparalleled dedication to providing personalized attention and exceptional service to each individual he represents. This commitment not only di erentiates him but also generates positive word-of-mouth referrals, a testament to his unwavering advocacy.
ELIZETE VELADO, ESQ.
HONOREE | Personal Injury
CONTACT 889 N. Washington Blvd | Sarasota, Fl 34236
A member of the Florida Bar since 2012, Elizete initially decided to become an attorney because she viewed it as an opportunity to work on behalf of disenfranchised individuals. She continues this pursuit at Mallard | Perez, PLLC by protecting the legal rights of those who have been severely injured and are being mistreated by an insurance company. She is in the process of working towards board certification in Civil Trial Law.
FLORIDA BAR
DATE OF ADMISSION
November 4, 2008
DEGREES
J.D. | University of Dayton
B.A. | St. Mary’s University
PRACTICE AREAS
Car, Truck, Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents
Pedestrian Accidents
Slip & Fall Injuries
Child Abuse
Nursing Home/ALF Abuse
Medical Malpractice
Construction Injuries
Boating Accidents
LAW FIRM
Mallard Perez, PLLC
FLORIDA BAR
DATE OF ADMISSION
September 27, 2012
DEGREES
Florida State University
College of Law, with honors, 2012
PRACTICE AREAS
Car, Truck, Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents
Pedestrian Accidents
Slip & Fall Injuries
Child Abuse
Nursing Home/ALF Abuse
Medical Malpractice
Construction Injuries
Boating Accidents
LAW FIRM
Mallard Perez, PLLC
CHRISTINE SENSENIG
FLORIDA BAR ADMISSION
February 22, 1996
DEGREES
University of South Florida,
B.A., B.A., 1988, and MLA 1992
University of Florida
Levin College of Law, J.D. 1995
RECOGNITION
Florida Trend Magazine
Legal Elite, 2009-2024
SuperLawyer, 2015-2024
University of South Florida
Alumni Leader of the Year, 2009, AV Rated by Martindale Hubbell
LAW FIRM
Sensenig Law Firm
HONOREE | Labor & Employment
BIO
Christine Sensenig is the managing partner of The Sensenig Law Firm, P.A. She provides human resources and employment law advice as well as litigation defense to employers of all sizes in all aspects of the employment relationship. To build strong long-term relationships with clients, the Firm explores the “why” behind a client’s concerns. In employment law, clients have needs in “real time” and the Firm believes in being an accessible resource to our clients.
Christine Sensenig is grateful to have been recognized in her community by colleagues that she respects and admires as a member of SRQ Magazine’s Elite Top Attorneys.
“I do my best because I am counting on you counting on me.”
— Maya Angelou
June
KYLE STALNAKER
FLORIDA
DEGREES
UC Berkeley (Undergrad) and Stetson Law
PRACTICE AREAS
Family Law
Personal Injury
LAW FIRM
Stalnaker Law, P.A.
HONOREE | Family Law
BIO
Kyle Stalnaker received his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley and his law degree from Stetson Law. Having played collegiate lacrosse at Cal Berkeley, attorney Stalnaker has shifted his aggressive style to the legal representation of his clients.
For over 12 years, Kyle has gained his clients’ trust through relentless advocacy, responsive communication, and results driven performance.
What Sets Your You/Your Firm Apart From Others?
Family law and personal injury clients seek out a lawyer because they need help with a divorce, a child related issue, or have been injured in an accident. A keen awareness that these complicated issues require constant communication and compassion is what sets Stalnaker Law apart from other attorneys at the onset. Once the client’s actual case gets going, attorney Stalnaker’s courtroom confidence and sharp legal knowledge results in continued success.
Mr. Colburn’s Florida-based boutique law practice is devoted to the acquisition, disposition, development and redevelopment of real estate. Casey assists landowners with zoning and permitting of retail shopping centers, waterfront, hospitality and residential projects. He helps property owners and governments to properly apply FEMA’s “50% Rule” as well as other environmental, wetland, protected species, dock and navigation regulations. He leads due diligence teams for investor and portfolio deals. Casey also participates in the development and implementation of zoning and environmental rules, cleanup actions, renewable energy technologies, ethical practices, conservation and sustainable strategies. He has lectured about his experience with these topics. A significant part of his practice now involves co-counsel relationships with other lawyers and law fi rms from across the country and helping individuals and businesses relocate to the free state of Florida. “Assisting a colleague’s valued client is a high honor, much like being recognized again this year by my talented local peers. Thank you, SRQ.”
BETSY PENNEWILL
Honoree | Estate Planning, Trusts, Real Estate
FLORIDA BAR ADMISSION
September 17, 2003
Also licensed in Pennsylvania
PRACTICE AREAS
Zoning | Land Use
Environmental | Real Estate
Sustainability | Due Diligence
FEMA | Development
Permitting | Wetlands Green Building | Waterfront
Permitting | Conservation Riparian Rights | Docks
Contaminated Site Remediation
Redevelopment | Code
Enforcement | Ethics | Copyright Shopping Center Law
LAW FIRM
The Colburn Firm, PL
CONTACT 2635 Fruitville Rd | Sarasota, FL 34237
941.556.7152 | cfsarasota.org
BIO
Betsy Pennewill serves as General Counsel at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, working with donors and professional advisors to craft planned giving agreements and ensuring compliance with IRC regulations for foundations. She is also skilled in real estate transactions and estate planning matters. Pennewill is a member of the Public Policy Committee of Philanthropy Southeast and the past board chair of Charitable Gift Planners of Southwest Florida.
Tell us about yourself and your firm. Community Impact Powered by Philanthropy: The Community Foundation of Sarasota County unites people and organizations to create opportunities across generations to improve lives. Each one of us has the potential to impact a person, cause, community. Be The One.
FLORIDA BAR ADMISSION September 24, 1998
EDUCATION
Stetson University College of Law and Miami University
PRACTICE AREAS
Charitable 501(c)(3) vehicles and Planned Giving Techniques
Compliance with Regulations Concerning Foundations
