Manatee County Lawyers

BIOGRAPHY Jim Purdy is a highly accomplished attorney with over 30 years of experience, a master negotiator, and an expert in the art of conflict resolution. His robust legal background equips him to work on any case from beginning to end while keeping his clients informed throughout the lifecycle of their case. Mr. Purdy received his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and history from the University of Minnesota’s College of Liberal Arts in 1989. He remained at his alma mater to pursue his law degree at the University of Minnesota Law School, where he earned his Juris Doctorate with...

Joe focuses on business and commercial litigation, real property disputes, landlord representation, title insurance claims, trust and probate litigation, and corporate and business disputes, including shareholder derivative and dissolution actions. In addition, Joe represents community associations, such as homeowners’ associations and condominium associations. Joe’s diverse experience also includes general probate administration, drafting of wills and trusts and transactional matters. Licensed in 2003, Joe has been awarded the prestigious AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest such recognition possible for a lawyer, and one which reflects the opinions of members of the bar and judiciary. Joe has also been...

Will Cantrell is an attorney who has spent his entire career representing businesses and individuals in matters relating to unfair competition, deceptive business practices, employment law and related business disputes. From jury trials and arbitrations, to dispositive motions and bench trials, he has an extraordinary track record. For five years in a row, he has been listed by Florida Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star.” Will completed his undergraduate studies at Mercer University. He received a master’s degree, cum laude, in international economics from Florida State University. He received his law degree, magna cum laude, from Florida State University College of...

Pablo B. Morla is dedicated to serving the interests of his clients in a wide array of cases involving personal injury, wrongful death; divorce and family law; Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy; and civil litigation matters. Prior to establishing Morla Law Group, P.A., Pablo worked for a large defense litigation firm, representing insurance companies and large businesses. That experience gave Pablo the practical knowledge and drive to establish Morla Law Group, P.A. in order to prosecute and defend cases on behalf of his clients in a wide array of practice areas. Read more at www.MORLALAW.com.

Alison is an associate at Johnson, Newlon & DeCort, P.A. She joined the Firm in August 2021 as a law clerk during her final year of law school. Alison focuses her practice in the areas of business and commercial litigation, concentrating primarily on contract and other general business disputes. Alison attended the Florida State University College of Law. While in law school, she was an Executive Editor for the Florida State University Law Review, Chair of the Law School Council, a Student Ambassador to the Admissions Office, and an extern for the Honorable Judge Mark W. Klingensmith of the Fourth District...

Françoise (Fran) M. Haasch has over two decades of experience representing victims of personal injury, as well as the surviving family members and loved ones of individuals who were wrongfully killed. With 100 percent of her practice focusing on plaintiffs’ personal injury and an emphasis on car and motorcycle accidents, Ms. Haasch provides devoted legal support for individuals and families throughout the Greater Tampa Bay Region and beyond. Her firm, The Fran Haasch Law Group, represents clients in Clearwater, Tampa, Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, New Port Richey, and the surrounding areas.

Don DeCort entered private practice in 1994 after an illustrious career in the U.S. Army, which culminated with his retirement as a colonel. He practiced with the firm of Anderson & Artigliere, PA from 1994 to 1995 and spent eight years as a partner in Holcomb & DeCort, P.A., from 1995 to 2003. He opened the Law Office of Donald P. DeCort, P.A. in 2003 and, along with Kristin R. H. Kirkner, Esquire, opened DeCort & Kirkner, P.L. July 1, 2010, and continues to concentrate his practice in the areas of family law, including military aspects of divorce and small...

Dan Larson is an aggressive, highly skilled trial attorney who has limited his practice to representing Plaintiffs in catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death cases. During the last 29 years, Mr. Larson has had numerous multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in cases throughout Florida, South Carolina, as well as other states. Mr. Larson is AV “Preeminent” Rated by Martindale-Hubbell, evidencing the highest rating for legal skills and professional ethics. Mr. Larson has been featured on the front cover of Florida Lawyer Magazine, and was recognized as one of Florida’s Legal...

Bauer Crider Pellegrino & Parry was proud to add Mike as its newest associate in June 2009 due to the strength of his reputation as a powerful litigator. After a successful career as an Assistant State Attorney with the Sixth Judicial Circuit in New Port Richey, Florida, Mike decided to enter private practice with BCPP. Mike's experience in many areas of criminal law allows him to develop powerful cases using strong research and investigative skills. His attention to detail combined with his experience as a state attorney, gives his clients' the advantage of having an attorney who knows both sides...

Civil trial attorney and Florida Bar complaint defense attorney. Originally from Ohio. Bachelor of science degree from Bowling Green State University, law degree from Stetson University College of Law (1995). In law school, interned with United States District Court Judge, Hon. Elizabeth A. Kovachevich, served as executive editor of Stetson Law Journal, worked as Teaching Fellow in legal research and writing. Served as ethics attorney for the Florida Bar and then entered private practice in 2002 with The Geer Law Firm, L.C.

GREGORY R. HANEY is a partner in the real estate practice group in the Tampa, Florida office of Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP. Mr. Haney is AV® Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell, and was recognized by Super Lawyers as a 2009 Florida Rising Star. Mr. Haney has substantial experience in handling negotiation, financing, title, and all other aspects of commercial real estate transactions involving shopping centers, office buildings, retail centers, multi-family housing projects, and hotels, as well as related land use issues. Mr. Haney also has substantial experience in representing both landlords and tenants in commercial leasing transactions involving office, retail,...

Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, moved to Tampa in 1956. Attended Plant High School. Graduated from the University of Florida in 1963 with a degree in Pharmacy. Practiced pharmacy for 2 years then went to Stetson University, College of Law. Graduated in 1969 from Stetson with a Juris Doctor degree. 1970 went to work with the State Attorney's Office as an assistant State Attorney in Hillsborough County. In 1973 was made Chief Assistant State Attorney pursuing drug importation into the State of Florida and presented same to the First State wide Grand Jury for prosecution. In 1975 entered the...

Joe Southron is a distinguished attorney and Partner at Southron Firm, where he has been providing comprehensive legal services for over nine years. With a focus on intellectual property, business litigation, complex transactions, and corporate formation, he combines a wealth of knowledge and experience to help clients navigate even the most intricate legal challenges. What sets Joe apart is his commitment to remaining at a small law firm. By choosing this model, he ensures that each client receives the attention and dedication necessary to achieve the best possible outcomes. He believes that staying small allows for a more hands-on approach, enabling...

Michael P. Brundage Profile Biography Mike has been a member of the Florida Bar since 1986. During the first 31 years as a lawyer, Mike practiced law in large law firms and flourished as a business litigator and creditor’s rights and bankruptcy specialist. Mike was the practice group leader of the bankruptcy and creditors rights practice area of one of the most prestigious law firms in the State of Florida for many years and also led the Bankruptcy Practice group at a large southeast regional law firm located in Tampa. Over the years, Mike’s practice has been concentrated in the...

Brian joined Forizs & Dogali in 2009. He has focused his litigation practice on commercial, construction , personal injury, ADA discrimination, civil rights, insurance coverage and criminal law. Prior to joining Forizs & Dogali, Brian worked as an associate attorney at a local law firm, concentrating on insurance defense. Brian has handled various facets of litigation including depositions, motion practice, mediations, trials and appeals. Brian has also previously been a prosecutor, handling over 300 cases at any given time for the State Attorneyâs Office, and sitting first chair in over 30 jury trials, as well as...

Michael J. Faehner is the founder of Faehner PLLC, based in Oldsmar, Florida. With over 25 years of legal experience, he focuses his practice on estate planning, corporate, and tax law, serving clients throughout the Tampa Bay area. Michael earned bachelor’s degrees in Finance and History from the University of Notre Dame. He went on to receive his law degree from Valparaiso University Law School, and obtained a Master of Laws degree in taxation from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. He is admitted to practice before all Florida state courts, the U.S. District Court for the Middle District...

Julia McGrath is a civil trial attorney and personal injury lawyer at Dolman Law Group, a highly recognized Florida law firm. Her practice focuses on representing those who have been injured as the result of someone else's negligence, including personal injury, motorcycle collisions, traumatic brain injuries, wrongful death and insurance carrier bad faith. Julia is a graduate of The University of Tampa, earning a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Criminology. Before starting law school, Julia worked in the legal field gaining valuable insight into the area of insurance litigation and interned for the...

Peter A. Sartes is a shareholder of the Law Offices of Tragos & Sartes. Mr. Sartes is one of Tampa Bay's most resourceful, up-and-coming attorneys. His vast formal education includes a finance degree and an MBA along with his law degree. His extensive education coupled with his years of training in tactic and strategy gained during his tour of duty as a United States Army Cavalry Officer provided the foundation necessary for his development into an effective trial strategist. Since joining the Law Offices of George E. Tragos in 2001, Mr. Sartes has represented clients in both criminal and personal injury...

I serve exclusively as a certified mediator and arbitrator in civil litigation throughout the State of Florida, including personal injury and wrongful death, product liability, insurance coverage and property claims, commercial, real estate and nursing home cases. My experience is built on 34 years as a practicing litigator, prosecuting and defending cases from pre-suit through verdict and appeal, and includes attendance and negotiation at countless mediations and arbitrations.

The geographic scope of my services includes all Circuits from the Fifth through and including the Thirteenth Circuits, the Twentieth Circuit, and by telephone appointment, the Fifteenth, Seventeenth and Eighteenth Circuits.

As I enter my 29th year of practice as a criminal practitioner, I feel stronger than ever that my role in the criminal justice system is as critical as any time in history. Criminal defense attorneys represent the last hurdle against over-reaching by the government to take one's liberty. I find my role to be one of holding the government to their burden of proof using admissible evidence. I help people that are both under investigation, have been arrested and later charged. It is always critical to get a lawyer during the investigation phase in order...

I have the unique ability to listen and connect with people. Whether its a judge, jury, witness, or potential client ... there is an opportunity to connect and its within that connection that true results take place. My diverse experiences in both the business and legal professions allows a better understanding of business owners and clients. The goal is to utilized these unique abilities to create real relationships with long-term clients.

Ms. Calta was born in Miami, Florida and raised in Staten Island, New York, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude from St. John's University in 1988. In 1991, Ms. Calta graduated from Brooklyn Law School where she earned the American Jurisprudence Award in Evidence and immediately began her legal career as an Assistant District Attorney with the Kings County District Attorneys' Office, where she litigated misdemeanor and felony trials. In October of 1994, Ms. Calta relocated to Florida and in 1995, began representing injured persons against insurance companies. Ms. Calta's zealous dedication to...

Jamila Little is an attorney licensed to practice law in Florida, Washington DC and in the Caribbean. Her practice areas include Immigration, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury and Business Law. Jamila continues to represent her clients in State court and Federal Immigration court. She hails from the beautiful twin isle of Trinidad and Tobago. Jamila graduated with honors from Spelman College in Atlanta, GA, where she majored in Economics and minored in Business Administration. She obtained her Masters in Business Administration (MBA), with a concentration in Finance, from Clark Atlanta University School of Business. She worked in the Banking...

Board Certified Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney serving Hillsborough, Pasco and Polk County, Florida for over 25 years! Michael Barnett is a bankruptcy lawyer representing consumers and small businesses in Chapter 7, Chapter 11, Chapter 12, and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases in west central Florida. Mr. Barnett is board certified by the American Board of Certification in consumer bankruptcy law, and has been board certified since January 1993. While the main office is in Tampa, appointments are also available in Dade City. Mr. Barnett has achieved the AV Preeminent rating by the premier lawyer rating organization, Martindale-Hubbell. Only about 10% of attorneys achieve this rating. AV®...

While attending law school at the University of Florida, Ghada served as a research assistant for a professor of law, a Law Clerk at the Clerk of Circuit Court in Hillsborough County and as a Summer Associate at Gray Robinson. After graduating, cum laude, she returned to her native Tampa to serve as the general counsel of a family-owned manufacturing and export corporation. Since co-founding Lieser Skaff Alexander, Ghada has concentrated her practice in the area of business law. Ghada assists Tampa businesses on a wide range of complex transactions, such as: purchase and sale agreements, franchise agreements,...

Kent Whittemore graduated from Stetson University College of Law in 1973. Kent was first introduced to mass tort litigation against drug and pharmaceutical manufacturers when he represented multiple clients for injuries suffered as a result of taking the diet pill combination fen-phen. He has continued to represent clients in class actions and mass tort cases, including groundwater contamination cases, transvaginal mesh cases, the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, data breach cases, and most notably, the Engle-progeny tobacco cases. Kent is available to serve as counsel or co-counsel in any civil litigation matter in personal injury cases as well as complex commercial real...

Scott Davis is a respected and committed family law attorney practicing in Tampa, FL. No case is too big or too small for him to take on. Whether you are going through a divorce or a child custody dispute, give Scott Davis a call and see how he can help you.

Nicole joined Keane, Reese, Vesely & Gerdes in 2010. Nicole focuses her practice on civil appeals, commercial and business litigation, and personal injury law. Nicole has practiced throughout the state of Florida, including appellate matters before the First, Second, and Fifth District Courts of Appeal and the Florida Supreme Court. Prior to joining Keane, Reese, Vesely & Gerdes, Nicole was an associate at the Law Office of Rod McIntyre in Jacksonville, Florida handling real estate litigation, contract disputes, family matters, and foreclosure defense. Nicole was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2009. ...

Adriana Dinis is an attorney with the Immigration Law Group of Florida, P.A. (“ILGF”). She previously represented undocumented children through the GLS CHILD (Children’s Immigration Legal Defense) Project of Gulfcoast Legal Services where she represented children in immigration proceedings, before the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services and in dependency actions. Adriana also provides training to law enforcement, community based organizations and attorneys on the immigration benefits available to children. Prior to working at Gulfcoast Legal Services, Adriana was an intern at the Attorney General’s Office, Children Legal Services Division, in Tampa, Florida, a Diversity Fellow with Carlton Fields, PA...