Lake County Lawyers

Brandon S. Vesely is the founding member of The Florida Appellate Firm, P.A. in St. Petersburg, Florida. Certified in appellate practice by The Florida Bar since 2009, and rated AV Preeminent by Martindale Hubbell for over 20 years, Mr. Vesely has earned a reputation as one of the top appellate attorneys in the state. In 29 years of appellate experience, Mr. Vesely has won hundreds of appeals involving a wide range of legal matters, including personal injury, business litigation, family law, creditors' rights, evictions, and more. Mr. Vesely is a graduate of Dartmouth College and Stetson University College of...

Ethan F. Kominsky is a veteran of over 65 trials in Florida and Illinois. Ethan has practiced insurance defense, representing the same side he now fights daily. His experience working for the other side has given Ethan valuable insight into their tactics and methods. He uses this knowledge to the advantage of his clients.

He began representing injured individuals and their families when he moved to Florida, having been recruited by a name partner at one of South Florida’s largest injury law firms. Ethan has a passion for representing the underserved and underrepresented members of society. He has seen firsthand how...

Juris Doctorate, 4 Clinical Service Practices, Seattle University School of Law
Judicial Externship
Bachelors of Science, cum laude, high honors, University of Oregon

Licensure
Washington State Bar Association:
WSBA.org License No. 31068
In good standing, no bar disciplinary sanctions
Former drafter for WSBA Special Disciplinary Counsel

John Abrams’ lifetime mentorship began early as the son of a public interest trial lawyer, Sol. A. Abrams, whose constitutional law precedents include the case that established the fourth amendment bedrock law of The Fruits of the Poisonous Tree Doctrine, and was portrayed by Christian Slater in the Hollywood movie Murder in the First (Warner Bros. 1995, starring Christian Slater and Kevin...

Don Cahall prides himself on being extremely passionate about every one of his clients’ cases no matter whether the damages involved are small or large. Don’s clients are victims who have been harmed by others’ negligent or intentional wrongdoing. To obtain justice for his clients, Don’s objective is to attempt to recover his clients’ financial damages as quickly as possible. It has been said that the wheels of justice turn slowly. The culpable parties often seek to obstruct and delay justice and courts are regularly inundated with heavy caseloads. Thus, to meet his objective, Don utilizes an aggressive approach to...

My name is Barbara Cusumano and I am a compassionate, experienced bankruptcy attorney serving Gainesville, Florida and surrounding communities. To help ease your stress, my bankruptcy law firm offers in person and online bankruptcy filings and a free credit rebuilding program. Over the past 25 years, I have helped thousands of clients discharge millions of dollars of debt. I truly love helping people obtain a financial fresh start! We have all had financial ups and downs. I understand the stress associated with loss of work, divorce, and unexpected illness. I truly feel for my clients...

Born and raised in Sarasota, Florida, Richard Ellis graduated with honors from the University of Florida in 1976 and received his law degree from Loyola University New Orleans in 1979. Mr. Ellis has served on the City of Sarasota Planning Board, City of Sarasota Board of Adjustment, and currently serves as Special Magistrate for the City of Sarasota, a position he has held since 1999.

Mr. Ellis has filed in excess of 5,000 Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases over the past three decades and has handled hundreds of family law matters since beginning practice in 1979.

Mr. Ellis spends his...

I am Brian C. Malone, a forward-thinking and dedicated immigration attorney with a comprehensive background in various immigration law disciplines. I began pursuing a certificate in Immigration and Citizenship Law and Practice in 2014, which I earned in 2017. Since then, I have handled a diverse and unique set of immigration cases. I consistently go above and beyond in family-based cases, appeals, and representation before various court systems, USCIS, ICE, and CBP. I am committed to building partnerships based on trust, respect, and honesty, truly embodying a 'client-first' approach with a real-time case management portal that fosters transparency and efficient communication....

Yohan is the Attorney of Center for U.S. Services (CFUIS) Bradenton Office. With about 60 years of combined experience in Immigration law, CFUIS provides immigration services to families and businesses. Yohan’ s goal is to help clients realize their dream of living in the United States. Yohan speaks Spanish, Portuguese, French and Creole. His ability to speak various languages enables him to effectively assist immigrants from diverse background. Yohan is from the Caribbean Island of Guadeloupe and came to the U.S. as a student. He went through the immigration processes and personally knows how the immigration process can be very stressful,...

Anthony G. Ryan provides aggressive criminal defese in State and Federal Courts throughout the state of Florida. He is a board certified criminal trial attorney with over twenty years of experience. Call him today: 941-954-7132

I am a Southwest Florida attorney board certified in labor and employment law by the Florida Bar. My practice focuses on employment law, insurance claims, whistleblower representation, and civil litigation.

Much of my law practice involves the representation of current and former employees denied proper compensation; victimized by discrimination or retaliation in the workplace; or requiring legal assistance with non-compete agreements. I'm also heavily involved with the representation of families and businesses denied appropriate insurance coverage following Hurricane Irma. Additionally, I provide representation for Medicare fraud whistleblowers, sexual abuse victims, and most business litigation matters.

I have...

Carol Avard is a member of the Medical Malpractice, Social Security, Federal Torts, and Motor Vehicle Collision sections of the American Association for Justice (formerly the Association of Trial Lawyers of America). She is also a member of the Bad Faith, Disability Law, Employment Law, ERISA Litigation, Insurance Law, Medical Negligence, Nursing Home, PI/Wrongful Death, Products Liability, Professional Negligence, and Social Security Disability Law sections of The Florida Association for Justice. Additionally, she is an Accredited Veterans Disability Attorney. Carol is a member of the NOSSCR Board of Directors – a professional association of Social Security Disability practitioners.

Sophisticated construction and business representation without the formality and cost that often accompanies the large firm experience. From St. Johns County's local residents and businesses, to international businesses and high net worth individuals, Pamela, provides strategic and informed counsel in a variety of areas of law, including but not limited to, construction, business, commercial, construction, employment and non-competes, health care, medical practices, litigation and appeals in state and federal court, maritime, intellectual property, commercial and residential real estate, yachts and aircraft. Pam is the current chair of the Construction Law Committee of the Jacksonville Bar Ass'n and serves in...

With over 15 years of experience, I have handled thousands of cases. I am both skilled and knowledgeable in Criminal Defense, Foreclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Family Law, and Injury Law matters. I provide personal attention and zealous representation to meet my clients' legal needs and goals. I am committed to protecting and fighting for their rights and interests.

As a former Deputy District Attorney, I prosecuted a broad range of criminal matters from misdemeanors to serious felonies. My extensive knowledge and insight into the criminal law system has assisted in the successful defense of many clients. I also advocate for clients...

The overwhelming majority of my immigration law practice derives from repeat business and a very strong referral base of “happy customers” and a large supporting professional network. As such, it is important to me that my clients report back to me frequently with feedback. To me, there is no substitute for a happy referral by my clients and contacts to others who may need my services or advice. I welcome all referrals. While there is no substitute for a face-to-face meeting with me, in order for you to decide if I am the right lawyer for you,...

R. Michael Pierro, Jr. ("Mike") is a Florida Bar Board Certified labor and employment attorney based in St. Petersburg, Florida. He is one of only 5 lawyers in St. Petersburg holding the distinction of Board certification in the area of labor and employment law. He represents both employers and employees. Mike is also a certified Florida circuit civil and federal court mediator. With over 20 years of litigation experience, Mike is well-suited to effectively mediate employment-related disputes. Mike welcomes the opportunity to discuss your employment matter.

Mr. Hesser was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1975. He attended Penn State University where he received degrees in both Political Science and Media Studies in 1997. Mr. Hesser then attended Wake Forest University School of Law in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where he obtained a Juris Doctorate in 2000. Mr. Hesser spent his final year of law school in Gainesville studying at the University of Florida Levin College of Law. Mr. Hesser practices in the fields of bankruptcy, employment, and workers’ compensation law. Prior to forming Schatt & Hesser, PA with his longtime colleague in Ocala, Ted Schatt, Ken...

Michael Perenich is a third-generation personal injury lawyer. Guy Perenich, his grandfather, founded a personal injury law firm in Clearwater, Florida, in 1955, and Michael's father Mark Perenich is a personal injury lawyer as well. Born in Clearwater and raised in Tarpon Springs, Michael currently resides in Palm Harbor. He went on to complete his philosophy degree at the University of South Florida. Following his graduation from USF, Michael, like his father, enrolled in Loyola University's New Orleans College of Law. Michael interned as a law student for Honorable Judge Robert Morris of the Second District Court of Appeals. In addition, he participated in...

Jennifer Zumarraga is well-versed in a wide variety of labor and employment law issues and has been with the Sass Law Firm since 2005. Her legal experience and excellent credentials make her a valuable asset. With over 20 years of experience, she has become an integral part of the firm’s success and reputation. Ms. Zumarraga is a staunch advocate of employee rights, and brings a unique and excellent set of skills to the table. In addition to her keen mind, she possesses the rare ability to easily grasp convoluted scenarios and facts, and boil down complex...

Jacqlyn joined Perenich, Caufield, Avril & Noyes as an associate attorney in 2012 and became a partner at the firm in 2018. She focuses her practice on personal injury claims, including Workers Compensation. Jacqlyn has tried cases in both Circuit Civil jury trials and Workers Compensation bench trial.

While in law school, Jacqlyn received an award in trial advocacy for Best Advocate in a Preliminary Round in the American Association for Justice, Civil Trial Competition. She also received the William F. Blews Pro Bono Service Award, Who’s Who Among American Colleges & Universities, the Book Award (Highest Grade) in Race &...

James has built his reputation as a relentless trial lawyer for his work ethic and thorough preparation for trial.

James Holliday has been selected and named as one of the “Best Attorney” Lifetime Charter Members in Florida. Less than one percent (1%) of the attorneys of America have been invited to be a member. Membership is extremely selective, carefully screened, and limited to the most qualified and accomplished attorneys in the United States. Rue Ratings’ Best Attorneys of America invites lawyers to become a “BEST ATTORNEY” after that attorney has been endorsed by a Charter Member, Nominated by a Member of...

Mr. Wells has been a member of the Florida Bar for over 30 years and has represented both insurers and their insureds over the course of his career. Mr. Wells handles bodily injury cases and insurance coverage claims, including first party property matters (fire, sinkhole, hurricane, windstorm, and water damage claims), other insurance claims (life, disability and other direct actions against insurers), bad faith claims (claims against an insurer for improper claim handling), and insurance agent negligence cases, in both the state and federal courts. Mr. Wells is an experienced litigator, having litigated matters statewide, including the...

John M. Hemenway is a founding partner of Bivins & Hemenway, P.A. John serves as a trusted legal advisor to business owners, real estate investors, and families seeking to preserve and pass down their wealth and values. His practice focuses on estate planning and probate, small and closely held businesses, and real estate, combining experience in each of these areas to provide a comprehensive approach to transactions and planning.

John earned his law degree, cum laude, from the University of Florida. John regularly presents at legal education seminars on both probate and estate planning topics, and is published on estate planning...

Since 1991, Claire Hancock has helped Tampa injury victims get back their lives after accidents involving wrongful death, auto accidents and slip-and-fall injury cases. As a wife and mother of two young adult daughters, Claire brings a compassionate perspective to exceeding the expectations of our clients. • Licensed to practice law in Florida and Washington, D.C. • Florida Bar: Editorial Board of Florida Bar News and Florida Bar Journal • North Tampa Bar Association • Carrollwood Area Business Association • Florida Justice Association, Women’s Caucus • Tampa Bay Trial Lawyers Association • Florida Association of Women Lawyers, Mattie Belle Davis Society • Hillsborough Association of Women Lawyers • North Tampa Chamber of Commerce • Hernando County Chamber of Commerce • Hernando...

Manny is a graduate from Thomas M. Cooley Law School (1990) and was admitted to the Florida Bar in May of 1990, as well as the United States Middle District Federal Court. He is a certified Circuit Civil Mediator performing numerous private meditations in the area of Workers’ Compensation and Personal Injury in West Central Florida. Mr. Franco is a member of the Florida Bar Workers’ Compensation Section, Florida Workers Advocates, as well as the Hillsborough County Bar Workers’ Compensation Section. He has lectured on the topic of workers’ compensation mediation. He is a member of the Hillsborough County Bar...

Vincent R. Pawlowski, Esq. is an exceptional client advocate with more than 20 years experience in the areas of personal injury and wrongful death litigation, automobile accidents and injuries, workers compensation, criminal defense, DUI / DWI, and drug charges. He founded the Pawlowski // Mastrilli Law Group in 1995 in the heart of Tampa's Ybor City, with satellite offices in Westchase, New Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Lakeland. As managing partner of the firm, Vincent ensures that every member of his legal team holds the same core values and vigor to defend and fight for our clients case...

Adam S. Towers is a shareholder with the Central Florida law firm of Bogin, Munns & Munns. In 2007, he was the founding attorney at the firm's Gainesville office.

Adam S. Towers specializes in Business Law, Commercial Litigation, Real Estate, Civil Litigation, and Estate Planning & Probate. Since 2001, he has handled a wide variety of cases such as insurance claims, eminent domain, contract disputes, code enforcement, and residential evictions & foreclosures.

He belongs to both the Florida and the California bars, and received his J.D. from California's University of the Pacific. He is on the Board of Directors...

Arrested? Call a former prosecutor that is ready to fight for you. Cameron is a Tampa Bay area native who received his law degree Florida State University where he specialized in Criminal Law. Prior to working as a defense attorney, Cameron worked as a prosecutor and handled countless cases and every type of crime from DUI to Murder.

Kris became a member of the Florida Bar in 2008 and is a graduate of Marshall University and Florida Coastal School of Law in Jacksonville, Florida, where he was member of its award-winning moot court team. After graduation, Kris worked as a staff attorney for the Jacksonville Area Legal Aid and assisted domestic violence victims in securing domestic violence injunctions.

In 2009, Kris was hired as an Assistant State Attorney with Florida's Sixth Judicial Circuit which is located in the Clearwater/Saint Petersburg area. As a state prosecutor, Kris tried 42 jury trials, hundreds of evidentiary motions, and a handful of appeals....

Brett M. Schwartz, Esq., a leading Miami criminal defense lawyer, is well-known for his expertise and dedication in court. Influenced by his father's work as a defense attorney, Brett has a strong understanding of the legal system. He has worked both as a prosecutor and a defense lawyer, giving him a broad view of criminal cases. His education includes a degree from the University of Miami and a law degree from South Texas College of Law. Brett is highly recognized in his field, with awards like The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 in 2022, Top Attorneys in Florida in 2019,...

Mr. Bonamo received his Juris Doctor degree from Stetson University College of law in St. Petersburg, Florida in 1995. While in law school, Mr. Bonamo was extensively involved in Stetson’s trial practice and clinic programs. Prior to attending Stetson University, he received his Bachelor of Arts degree, with honors, from the University of Florida in 1992. Due to Mr. Bonamo’s academic achievement while at the University of Florida he was selected for membership in Phi Beta Kappa national academic honor society. He has been selected as an "Advisor" for the Florida Bar's Lawyers Advising Lawyers Program (LAL).
Prior to joining...

Matthew C. Shapiro is a seasoned attorney concentrating in wills, trusts, estates, and civil litigation. Mr. Shapiro graduated with honors from Florida International University, ranking in the top ten of his class. His distinguished academic background laid a strong foundation for his legal career, where he has consistently demonstrated expertise and excellence. During his career, Mr. Shapiro has provided comprehensive estate planning services to thousands of clients, expertly drafting crucial documents such as revocable living trusts of varying complexities, wills, powers of attorney, health care surrogates, living wills, enhanced life estate deeds, trust amendments, and codicils. Having served as the lead or...

Since establishing The Law Firm for Family Law in 2005, Attorney Gary E. Williams has handled over 1,800 family law cases. He is a board certified specialist in marital and family law, and has earned an AV Preeminent® Rating by Martindale-Hubbell®. Whether you are filing for divorce or need assistance with a matter involving child custody or alimony, you can count on the professional service Attorney Williams will provide you with. To learn more about the representation offered by a Clearwater family lawyer, be sure to contact The Law Firm for Family Law.

Before founding my own law firm, I gained valuable experience working in-house for legal departments and at a boutique law firm concentrating on commercial litigation. During this time, I managed a variety of business disputes. This background in litigation equipped me with a thorough understanding of the critical components that agreements must include to withstand legal challenges and how to effectively safeguard my clients' rights. My background in business has been crucial in integrating legal counsel with business strategies. Being a small business owner myself, I am committed to assisting other entrepreneurs in expanding their businesses while reducing risks and addressing...

I am a personal injury attorney with Farah and Farah.

I have always thought that if every person on this earth focused their energy doing what they are best at and most passionate about, the world would be a great place. From the moment I encountered the world of tax resolution/ tax defense, I found the field where my energy should be focused. I developed a strong understanding of the legal and tax concepts and a passion for learning more about it. I also developed a passion for helping those struggling with tax issues; for helping them resolve the problem, learn how to move past it in a financially healthy...

The Law Office of Ama N. Appiah currently represents those seeking assistance in state appeals, trademark & copyright registration, and entertainment & creative arts law. Ms. Appiah earned her Bachelor of Science degree at the State University of New York College at Buffalo, cum laude. Prior to attending law school, Ms. Appiah worked as a legal assistant and paralegal for the U.S. Small Business Admin. - Disaster Assistance Office in Niagara Falls, NY. The office provided federal loans and grants to those who suffered physical and/or economic damage to their homes and/or businesses as a result of natural...

Chase earned his J.D. and M.B.A. degrees at Stetson University College of Law in 2021, where he graduated Valedictorian of his class, with Magna Cum Laude honors. Chase also earned his Business Law Concentration and was a Senior Associate of Stetson Law Review. While in law school Chase earned a 4.0 high grade distinction in the following courses: Property Law, Business Entities, Federal Income Taxation I, Administrative Law, Sales and Leases, and Products Liability. During law school, Chase was a Judicial Intern to the Honorable Edward C. LaRose of the Florida Second District Court of Appeal and clerked with Fisher...

Justin is patent attorney concentrating in patent prosecution with an emphasis on mechanical devices. He also prepares infringement and non-infringement opinions in a multitude of fields, including medical devices and nutraceuticals. Justin has experience with challenging pending patent applications using third-party submissions and issued patents using the Inter Partes Review process. He is also able to discuss foreign filing options and strategy with an eye toward the best protection at the lowest cost. His professional experience was in the field of petrochemicals, particularly liquefied natural gas or LNG. Responsibilities included fire system design, cryogenic butterfly valve vendor selection...

Sean Lopez founded Lopez Law Group Accident Injury Attorneys to provide client-centered legal representation to all accident victims. Mr. Lopez is an experienced St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer serving clients throughout South Florida. Mr. Lopez represents victims in all types of personal injury cases involving injuries resulting from the negligent or intentional actions of other parties. He handles claims involving car accidents, product liability, slip & fall accidents, and more. Over his career, he has secured millions of dollars in injury compensation for hundreds of accident victims. Mr. Lopez and Lopez Law Group often accept clients who get turned down by other...