2024-2025 Annual Reports of Sections & Divisions of The Florida Bar
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Established in 2010, the Alternative Dispute Resolution Section of The Florida Bar serves members of The Florida Bar who practice mediation and arbitration, and lawyers who practice before mediators and arbitrators, and members of The Florida Bar who are interested in alternative dispute resolution. In addition, because many ADR Section members are also Florida Supreme Court certified mediators, who are, therefore, subject to regulation by the Dispute Resolution Center (DRC), the ADR Section serves these members by offering courses which may also satisfy some mediation certification requirements or Continuing Mediator Education (CME).
It is an objective of the section to represent the interests of all of its members while serving as an indispensable authoritative voice in the substantive area of dispute resolution in Florida.
In a few short years, the ADR Section has gone from a period in which the ADR Section experienced an operating budget deficit to a time in which the ADR Section has generated operating surpluses sufficient to build a reserve of approximately $420,000. The ADR Section accomplished this by imposing a measure of fiscal discipline, implementing a program to recruit new members, offering a robust slate of continuing legal education (CLE) programs and recruiting sponsors.
Collaboration: The ADR Section seeks to increase collaboration, communication, and connection between it, the DRC, the Supreme Court Committee on ADR Rules and Policy, and all other sections of The Florida Bar. To that end, the ADR Section actively engages in efforts to enhance dialogue with these groups on all levels and to cross-promote and co-sponsor events.
Mentoring Academies: Florida attorneys are encouraged to mentor other practitioners. In order to meet this aspirational goal, the ADR Section has created two signature programs, a Mediation Mentoring Academy, the first of which was held in 2019, and an Arbitration Advocacy Institute, the first of which was held in 2020. During this Bar year, past-ADR Section Chair Christina Magee and ADR Section EC member John Salmon will lead the section’s third Mediation Mentoring Academy, in person, at Carlton Fields in Tampa.
Continuing Legal Education: Through the efforts of section CLE Committee Chair Hadas Stagman, along with Megan Moschell and Kim Torres and the ADR section CLE Committee as a whole, the ADR section maintains a robust roster of educational programs. Many of the ADR section’s CLE offerings have a dual purpose, providing CLE credits to members of The Florida Bar, as well as providing CME credits to ADR section members who are also certified mediators. Approximately 10 courses will be offered during this fiscal year on a range of topics from mediator’s proposals to using special magistrates.
In 2023, the ADR Section’s Arbitration Committee created a new monthly virtual program to facilitate dialogue among arbitrators — the Arbitrator Forum. The monthly forums were so successful that in 2024, the ADR Section’s Mediation Committee began hosting an equivalent Mediators Forum. Each forum is an open discussion of topics of interest to those interested in the respective fields of arbitration and mediation. This year, the arbitrator forums were again moderated by ADR Section EC member Patricia Thompson, with the support of Arbitration Committee Chair Chardean Hill. The mediator forums were hosted by section Treasurer and Mediation Committee Chair Shari Elessar, with the assistance of several guest moderators. In March, we partnered with the Young Lawyers Division to host, “Navigating Arbitration” and “Navigating Mediation,” forums aimed at young attorneys.
Finally, the section sponsored the creation of a video, “The Voice of the Client.” A first of its kind initiative led by Harold Oehler and Jay Castle, chairs of the Outreach Committee, the video includes interviews of actual mediation clients sharing their experiences and feedback after going through the process.
Communications: The ADR Section communicates with its members and with the public through four different methods: 1) Flabaradr.com — the section’s website, which provides up-to-date information on section events and news; 2) Common Ground — the section’s bi-annual newsletter, which showcases scholarly articles on ADR-related topics; 3) News and Tips — the section’s monthly email newsletter, which provides announcements, updates, and time-sensitive information; and 4) Social Media — the section’s regular and frequent communications on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
Membership Recruitment and Retention: ADR Section Past Chair and Membership Chair Christy Foley has spearheaded the section’s efforts to expand its membership. The ADR Section’s membership efforts have had a dual focus of adding new members and retaining existing members. The ADR Section also implemented a “free dues” period for new members of The Florida Bar to encourage interest in the ADR Section early in these new lawyers’ legal careers. The ADR Section intends to continue to market itself through programming directed to lawyers who wish to improve their skills during mediation or arbitration. This year, the section also implemented a special initiative to recruit law school ADR instructors to take advantage of the opportunity for affiliate member status.
Community Outreach: To celebrate Alternative Dispute Resolution Week, during the month of October, the ADR Section held a number of mixer events in Florida. The events were designed to friend-raise and draw attention to the ADR Section and its mission of serving members of The Florida Bar who practice mediation and arbitration, as well as lawyers who practice before mediators and arbitrators
This year, the ADR Section held its first-ever Out of State Annual Retreat, visiting the civil rights sites in Alabama.
Budget and Sponsorships: The ADR Section is a relatively new section of The Florida Bar. To improve the ADR Section’s financial footing, for the past few years, the section’s executive council focused on its budget. By increasing its membership, providing cost-effective, quality continuing legal education programs, and employing fiscal responsibility, the ADR Section has been able to achieve operating budget surpluses during the last few years. The section’s budget surpluses have augmented the section’s reserves, providing financial stability for the ADR Section. This year, the section implemented its first-ever sponsorship packet, an initiative spearheaded by ADR Section EC members Rebekah Taylor and Alicia Perez.
Recommendations as to Proposed Legislation and Proposed Rules Revisions: During this year, the ADR Section has commented upon numerous proposed changes that impact alternative dispute resolution rules or policies. In particular, the ADR Section filed comments with the Florida Supreme Court in SC2023-0962, detailing the types of ADR available in the case management order (rejected), SC24-0774, promoting the requirement of written designation for those authorized to appear on behalf of party under Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.730, SC2024-0442 re: who can be an arbitration panelist. During the 2025 legislative session, the section is also supporting legislation in the Florida House (H.B. 813) and Senate (S.B. 538) that favors the removal of the $1,500 per day arbitrator compensation cap in F.S. §44.103(2).
Strategic Planning: The section’s Strategic Planning Committee, led by ADR Section Chair-elect Natalie Paskiewicz, is tasked with implementing the ADR Section’s strategic plan, drafted from section member input by previous committee chair and ADR Section EC member John Salmon.
It has been my pleasure to provide this information about our section. Please feel free to contact me directly, if you have any questions.
Ana Maldonado, Chair
Appellate Practice
As chair of the Appellate Practice Section for 2024-25, I am honored to present this annual report, highlighting our section’s achievements and ongoing commitment to excellence in appellate advocacy, legal education, and professional development. The hard work of our members has made it an unforgettable year for the section.
Section Retreat in Rome, Italy: Having journeyed across the pond for our retreat under Past Chair Judge Carrie Ann Wozniak in 2022, the section was determined to recreate the magic of an international retreat this year. Rome did not disappoint. Fifty-one section members, including 17 judges, plus their guests, enjoyed an unforgettable time in the Eternal City at the end of February. Highlights included a private tour of the Vatican that allowed attendees time to bask in the splendor of the Sistine Chapel, a visit to the Italian Supreme Court capped off with a discussion with three of the justices, a lecture by Stefano Passeri from the law firm Chiomenti about practicing law in Italy (note to self: avoid asking for hearing continuances there!), and tours of multiple landmarks around Rome with exceptionally knowledgeable and engaging tour guides. Bravissimo!
CLE: Our section continued providing high-quality CLE programs designed to enhance the skills of appellate practitioners across Florida. The section offered two opportunities to gain in-depth insight into Florida’s appellate courts, with Beyond the Bar at the Fifth DCA in October 2024 and Beyond the Bar at the Sixth DCA in April 2025. These full-day live CLEs offered attendees a chance for close interaction with and education from the judges, staff, and experienced practitioners at these courts.
The section offered a host of virtual CLE programming as well. A new two-part webinar, Navigating Your First Appeal, presented soup-to-nuts insight to those undertaking the appellate process for the first time. Those interested in taking their expertise to the next level had the opportunity to attend the Appellate Practice Board Certification Boot Camp webinar in January 2025. Additionally, our monthly webinar series featured timely discussions on emerging issues in appellate practice, procedural updates, and practice tips to navigate the ever-evolving legal landscape.
We look forward to offering many more excellent programs in the next year. Many thanks to CLE Chair Bailey Howard, Vice Chairs Kimberly Berman and Allen Bonner, webinar Co-Chairs Diane DeWolf and Garrett Tozier, and every program chair and participant who made this year such a success.
Pro Bono: Section members continued to answer the call to serve through the Defending Best Interests project with Florida’s Guardian Ad Litem program. In these cases, members volunteer to draft answer briefs in appeals of cases where a judge has determined TPR is in the child’s best interests.
The section also reconnected with directors, coordinators, and program administrators of legal aid organizations throughout Florida. If those organizations need appellate representation, our Pro Bono Committee will seek volunteers to answer the call. These invaluable matches allow our members to provide necessary pro bono service to those most in need and permit these organizations to find a treasure trove of appellate experience.
Thank you to Pro Bono Chairs Samuel Alexander and Jamie Moses for their mighty efforts in ensuring those in need of appellate counsel have the opportunity to find it.
Publications and Communications: Our section continued to be at the forefront of legal scholarship through our contributions to The Florida Bar Journal. These publications provided insightful articles on key appellate issues, practice strategies, and significant rulings affecting appellate practitioners statewide. Additionally, Section members provided regular updates about practice, along with profiles of new and retiring appellate judges in our signature publication, The Record, which is available online. We also continued to work on updating the section’s Pro Se Handbook.
The section is so grateful for the work of Publications Committee Chair Chance Lyman, as well as our editorial staffs headed up by Sarah Roberge (Journal), Jay Yagoda and Eleanor Sills (Record), and Keith Upson (Handbook), in addition to all our authors and contributors.
What’s more, our social media and digital outreach efforts continued to inform and engage our members with the latest developments in the appellate world and section activities. Thank you to social media Chair Dineen Wasylik and website Chair Dimitri Peteves for their hard work.
Outreach and Programs: Under the leadership of Chair Brandon Breslow, our Outreach Committee offered numerous opportunities to connect with other practitioners and strengthen judicial relations. Our Table of Authorities program is a virtual lunchtime event offering a unique platform for informal discussions with appellate judges, allowing new appellate practitioners to gain valuable perspectives directly from the bench. This program has featured a judge from each of the six DCAs as well as one Supreme Court justice, and we are looking forward to starting a new cycle. So many thanks to each of the judges and moderators who took the time to engage with new appellate practitioners, fostering meaningful dialogue between the appellate bench and bar.
The section also hosted its first annual Board Certification Town Hall, where anyone interested in becoming certified or recertifying in appellate practice could find a plethora of details and insight from board certified attorneys. The town hall was free, virtual, and offered CLE credit.
Virtual happy hours and gatherings gave members plenty of opportunity to connect. Thank you to Brandon and the Outreach Committee for keeping us connected! More opportunities are ahead with the section’s Dessert Reception, scheduled as always to occur on the Thursday night of annual convention, June 27. We are not quite ready to say goodbye to Italy, so programs Chair Lindsey Lawton is busy planning a Venetian Masquerade to cap off our year. You won’t want to miss it!
Fellows: We welcomed 2024-2026 Fellow Stephanie C. Rodriguez into the fold at the 2024 annual convention. Our Fellows Committee headed up by Chairs Nicholas Lynch and Daniel Nordby is, at the writing of this report, commencing the search for our 2025-2027 Fellow. Information about the program and the application can be found online.
Excellence in Appellate Practice: Each year, we recognize outstanding contributions to appellate law through our John R. Hamilton Pro Bono Award and the James C. Adkins Award. These awards celebrate those who exemplify professionalism, skill, and dedication to appellate practice. Our 2024 award winners were Khairiya C. Bryant (Hamilton) and Joel D. Eaton (Adkins). At the time of the writing of this report, we are soliciting nominations for the 2025 awards by emailing our section administrator at [email protected]. Those awards will be presented at our Chair’s Reception, which will take place Wednesday, June 26, during annual convention.
As we conclude another successful year, our section remains committed to advancing appellate practice in Florida. Looking ahead, we will continue to innovate, expand educational opportunities, and enhance the value we provide for our members. We encourage all appellate practitioners to become involved in our initiatives and contribute to the continued growth of our section.
A round of great thanks is owed to our tremendous officers, Chair-elect Joe Eagleton, Treasurer Elaine Walter, Secretary Mary Walter, and Immediate Past Chair Hon. Kansas Gooden. Last but far from least, so many thanks to our new section administrator, Amy Walker, who hit the ground running when she joined the Bar in October and helped us bring all these amazing ideas to life. We couldn’t have done any of this without her. Thanks as well to program administrators Whitney Bledsoe and Gabrielle Hermesman for assisting in our transition. The section is in wonderful hands for years to come.
Finally, thank you to our dedicated members, sponsors, and judiciary for your support and engagement. Together, we strengthen the appellate community and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and collegiality. Cheers to a great year!
Courtney Brewer, Chair
Criminal Law
It has been a pleasure to serve as the 2024-2025 chair of The Florida Bar Criminal Law Section. I am honored to provide an historical account of the section’s major projects and accomplishments. The section’s 2,259 members, include prosecutors, public defenders, judges, defense attorneys, and professors. Our membership is a unique cross-section of individuals involved in the criminal justice system. The section does not advocate on behalf of any particular sector of the criminal justice system. Instead, the section advocates on behalf of the practice of criminal law in Florida as a whole. The section strives to improve the practice of criminal law and Florida’s criminal justice system. That mission shines through in the highlights of the section’s accomplishments this year.
PROPOSED “OPPOSING PARTY STATEMENT” AMENDMENTS TO §§90.801: This year, the section provided comments on an alternative amendment to §90.801 because the original proposed amendment to §90.801 did not state that an opposing party’s statement was not hearsay, which is necessary in order to clarify the point when such a statement’s admissibility is litigated. The section’s alternative amendment corrected a scrivener’s error and provided language that was consistent with the existing language regarding a declarant’s prior statement, as found in §90.801(2).
PROPOSED “RESIDUAL EXCEPTION” AMENDMENT TO §90.807: The Criminal Law Section objected to the proposed “Residual Exception” amendment to §90.807. The section questioned the impetus, the need, the constitutionality, and the practicality of the proposed changes. Specifically, the section believed that the current iteration of the hearsay rule functions well. Additionally, it was the position of the section that the proposed “Residual Clause” would negate the remainder of the rule, would run afoul of a criminal defendant’s right to confrontation, and would create a logistical nightmare for criminal trial courts.
Communication: The Criminal Law Section revived its monthly newsletter and caselaw updates. The section maintains active social media profiles on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and Instagram, and uses these platforms to share news and announcements of interest to practitioners.
Young Lawyer Committee: This year the Young Lawyer Committee was created to attract young lawyers to the section and get them involved. The committee immediately took off running with a marking campaign to get young lawyers to take advantage of the 100 free memberships the section offers young lawyers. The committee also developed the application and criteria for a Fellowship Program to spur interest, retain, and foster young lawyers’ participation in the section. The program will provide young lawyers with the opportunity to develop specialized skills in criminal law through hands-on experience and mentorship. Lastly, the committee developed two CLEs, Guidelines about Guidelines, and The Basics of Federal Sentencing.
Legislative Positions: H.B. 95, Unserved Warrants of State Prisoners. The Criminal Law Section has taken the legislative position to support it. The statute allows prisoners to file a notice of unserved warrant in the appropriate circuit for the court to hold a hearing for the state to advise the court whether an unserved warrant exists, if so, to order the defendant returned to the jurisdiction for the proceedings to initiate.
Increased Salaries: The section has taken a position to lobby for increased salaries for assistant state attorneys, assistant public defenders, and judicial staff attorneys.
H.B. 629, Criminal Conflict and Civil Regional Counsel Senior Management Service Class: The Criminal Law Section supports assistant regional counsels classification as senior management class of the Florida Retirement System.
Increased Pay Rates for Private Court Appointed Counsel in Criminal Cases: The section elected to support the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers’ request for increased pay rates for private court appointed counsel in criminal cases. The pay rates for court appointed counsel in adult criminal cases had not been increased in nearly 10 years. The existing pay rates may cause fewer attorneys to accept appointments due to the low pay rates.
Florida Court Clerks and Comptrollers’ Campaign to: “Fund the Whole Courtroom” — The Criminal Law Section elected to support the Florida Court Clerks and Comptrollers in their “Fund the Whole Courtroom” campaign to educate the legislature and the general public on the need for comprehensive funding across the courts to ensure a fully functional, efficient, and just judicial system for all Floridians.
The Section’s Commitment to Strengthen the Section’s Voice in the Florida Legislature: Immediate Past Chair Joseph Spataro, the executive council, and my commitment to strengthen the section’s voice in the Florida Legislature brought together criminal justice stakeholders to collaborate on funding needs of the criminal justice system, and to promote a unified effort in future legislative sessions. The meeting forged relationships and the understanding of each stakeholder’s needs. Rising out of the meeting the Criminal Law Section has joined the Florida Court Clerks and Comptrollers in their “Fund the Whole Courtroom” campaign.
In addition, the section planned the second annual legislative update CLE, Inside the Florida Legislature, September 26, 2024, in Tampa, the free CLE maxed out the room compacity and a hybrid program was established. However, the CLE presentation was foiled by Hurricane Helene.
Lastly, in January 2025, I met with various legislators and discussed the section; answered questions as to why assistant state attorneys, assistant public defenders, and staff attorneys’ salaries should be increased, and provided out-of-the box ideas that would draw attorneys to the State Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, etc. In addition, I returned to the Capitol the week of March 24 to advocate for the above-listed Criminal Law Section’s legislative positions.
Continuing Legal Education: The section’s Continuing Legal Education Committee, chaired by executive council Past President H. Scott Fingerhut, continues to put on some of the state’s best CLE programming in the area of criminal law.
This year, the Criminal Law Section continued its partnership with the University of Florida Levin College of Law for the Gerald T. Bennett Prosecutor/Public Defender Trial Training Program. Involvement in this program underscores our commitment to ensure that young practitioners continue to receive the same quality trial advocacy training that the program has provided for over 40 years.
The section partnered with the Animal Law Section for a three-part free CLE series; Evidence Collection and Maintaining Chain of Custody in an Animal Cruelty or Animal Fighting Case; Animal Cruelty: What is it and Which Animals are Protected?; and Hunting, Fishing, and Trapping in Florida: Civil and Criminal Issues.
The Criminal Law Section’s additional CLE offerings included 2024 United States Sentencing Commission Guidelines Amendments; Ufferman Files series — A Conversation with Three of the Best: Brian Cavanagh, John Frusciante, and Jeff Harris; Hot Topics in Evidence; and Experts on DUI.
Each year, the section bestows the Selig I. Goldin Award on a deserving candidate. As noted on the section’s website, “As an attorney, Selig was always tops. Dedication and zeal were his trademarks. He accepted many cases and many clients others turned down, because he felt those cases had to be defended and he believed in the person and the cause.” Those few words, spoken at Selig Goldin’s funeral by his brother, Philip, capture what members of the criminal defense bar knew of this young Gainesville lawyer who died of cancer before his time — that he was a man of great ability and great compassion. In 2024, the section bestowed the honor of this award on Judge Stanford Blake. Judge Blake began his legal career as an assistant public defender in 1973. After five years, he entered private practice. In 1995, he returned to public service as a circuit judge for the 11th Judicial Circuit. Judge Blake spent 22 years presiding over complex cases and numerous high-profile trials in the civil, family and criminal divisions.
In addition to the Selig I. Goldin Award, the section presented the 2024 Student Scholarship Awards to four recent law graduates. Each was honored with an award and a $2,500 cash scholarship. The scholarships are awarded annually to students or law graduates who have shown dedication to and interest in the criminal justice system as trial and appellate practitioners. The 2024 recipients are FSU Law graduates Emma Hirschy and Fabrizia Wade, Thomas M. Cooley Law School graduate Sarah Tanner, and University of Miami School of Law graduate Arianna Diaz Wightman.
The Criminal Law Section will continue our goal of strengthening the section’s voice in the Florida Legislature, increasing the number of CLEs, implementing of the Fellowship Program, and increasing the social media presence of the section.
Patricia Dawson, Chair
Elder Law
The Florida Bar Elder Law Section has made significant strides this year, and we are proud of our collaborative efforts within the section, as well as our ongoing partnerships with other Florida Bar sections and leadership.
This year’s key focus areas included: 1) Maintaining a balanced budget; 2) Expanding outreach to young lawyers and increasing membership; 3) Passing our Stop the Scammers legislation; 4) Updating our section bylaws; 5) Delivering a comprehensive annual educational program for new elder law practitioners, titled “Essentials;” and a two-day advanced program, “Annual Update,” which included a special program for senior attorneys; and 6) Mentoring our Fellows Program members.
We are pleased to report that we maintained a balanced budget for 2024-25, through increased revenue and reducing spending. As a result, we have not dipped into our reserves. We greatly increased our sponsorship dollars this year to support our reduced available funds.
Our collaboration with the Bar’s Young Lawyers Division (YLD) has continued this year. Our partnership with YLD aligns with our strategic objective to engage more young attorneys in elder law, and to demonstrate the value of joining the Elder Law Section. Additionally, our efforts to enhance member benefits and improve retention are key to our ongoing success.
The Elder Law Section’s Fellows Program has been a tremendous success, with four fellows participating. Through mentorship and support from seasoned members, the program has allowed fellows to establish projects and CLEs that advance our section.
After several years of work, we have successfully amended our bylaws. The most notable change is the introduction of additional executive leadership positions, providing more opportunities for emerging leaders. Historically, only the secretary position was available for election each year, but now we are offering expanded leadership roles. Our leadership team now includes all chairs of our substantive and administrative committees, with some leaders rotating as chairs of these committees. This diversity strengthens our section and enhances our ability to act swiftly and effectively.
The Legislative Committee has been highly engaged this year, including our Stop the Scammers legislation, which has passed both House and Senate committee votes. The section has played a vital role in advocating for legislative positions, particularly in efforts to protect vulnerable populations. Our engagement with Florida legislators and legislative staff has been essential in advancing positive changes to Florida law. We could not have achieved this without our lobbyists, Brian Jogerst and Tom Griffin, whose expertise, persistence, and excellent relationships have been invaluable.
This year, we expanded our outreach efforts to educate others about elder law, and foster collaboration on key issues. Our outreach included participation in a panel at the National College of Probate Judges, involvement in the YLD Summit, and engagements with law students at events. Additionally, we participated in the Florida State Guardianship Association’s annual conference, attended The Florida Bar’s Board of Governors meetings, and collaborated with other sections of The Florida Bar on mutual goals and continuing legal education. Our section also reached out through media channels, addressing issues such as long-term care, exploitation, guardianship, and the unlicensed practice of law related to Medicaid planning.
The standout program this year was our “Essentials” and “Annual Update” program. Our annual educational program included an interactive day focused on the Essentials of elder law for newer attorneys and a two-day Annual Update covering a range of advanced topics, including life care planning, artificial intelligence, and mental health support for attorneys.
Our Past Chairs Committee remains deeply involved, providing valuable insight and support. This year the committee put on its own half-day program during our “Annual Update” event geared for elder law attorneys who have been practicing for more than 20 years, about how to leave the practice of law. It was highly attended and well received.
I am incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication demonstrated by all our members and section leaders. The collaborative spirit and camaraderie within our section make it a pleasure to work together toward finding solutions. For more information or to get involved, please join the section or follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/FloridaBarElderLawSection/ or on X: @FlaElderlawSec.
Shannon M. Miller, Chair
Environmental and Land Use Law
In 2024-2025, the Environmental and Land Use Law Section (ELULS) continued its focus on connection, education, and scholarship. Over the last year, our section committees have all worked hard to advance the section’s goals in these areas.
First, two of our committees are hard at work on strengthening connections between section members and with other organizations. Our Events Committee hosted events such as a tour of Tall Timbers research station in Tallahassee with the Florida Association of Environmental Professional and planned several upcoming events for this spring, including a tour of Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, a networking event series with the Florida Brownfields association, and another networking event series with the Administrative Law Section in Southeast Florida. The Website, Social Media, and Technology Committee established a Discourse webpage for the section, which section members are using to discuss upcoming events and topics related to environmental and land use law.
On the education front, our excellent CLE Committee organized an in-person CLE event at the June 2024 Annual Florida Bar Convention that included a Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH) caselaw and ethics update from Judge Gar. W. Chisenhall and Judge Cathy M. Sellers; a legislative update from Larry Sellers and Janet Bowman; a General Counsel Roundtable, presented by several agency general counsels; and a keynote address from Rep. Keith Truenow. The CLE Committee also organized a “lunch and learn” event with Judge Cathy Sellers, Judge Suzanne VanWyk, and Judge Hetal Desai from DOAH in December of 2024 and planned several lunchtime seminars addressing topics including agritourism, sovereign submerged lands, contamination, environmental enforcement, a legislative forecast, public beach access, and the state stormwater rules, among others. They are also planning for our in-person CLE event at the Annual Florida Bar Convention in June and other CLE offerings this fall.
Finally, several of our committees focused their attention on scholarship. The ELULS maintains two publications — the ELULS Treatise, and the ELULS Quarterly Reporter. The ELULS Reporter is a quarterly digital publication that offers short-form legal articles on relevant and timely topics in the environmental and land use law space, caselaw updates from relevant Division of Administrative Hearings and appellate court cases, and information important to our members. The Environmental and Land Use Law Treatise provides in-depth articles on dozens of Florida environmental and land use law topics. The treatise is available in a three-volume paper version and is also available on the Lexis platform. Our Treatise Committee has begun evaluating what the next iteration of our treatise should contain and how it should be organized. Our Public Interest Committee is also working to identify candidates for the section’s scholarship to the University of Florida’s annual Natural Resources Leadership Institute program, and our Law Schools Subcommittee continues to coordinate with law schools around the state for events related to environmental and land use law.
As section chair, I thank our members for their hard work, dedication, and for the positive spirit they bring to our section. None of our accomplishments over the last year would have been possible without these contributions.
Malcolm N. Means, Chair
Family Law
The Family Law Section has had a very busy and very successful year thus far. The theme for this Bar cycle is “Mental Health & Wellness” and we have worked diligently to incorporate that theme into each of our major events, retreats, publications, and certain of our CLE’s.
The first event of the new Bar cycle was the section’s biennial Leadership Retreat at the Westin Cape Coral, on July 24-27, 2024. Coinciding with our fall meetings, the event drew an estimated 150 attendees from across the state. While primarily designed to educate new and existing executive council members and committee leaders and members on section history, parliamentary procedure and advocacy, we included a seminar on mental health, yoga, dolphin cruise, and tacky t-shirt contest. Thank you to our attendees, sponsors and Jack Moring, Matthew Thatcher, Matthew Lundy, and Willie Mae Shepherd for making the event a success.
The second event of the year was the Out of State Retreat in Asheville, North Carolina, which was scheduled October 2-6, 2024, and which was unfortunately cancelled due to hurricanes and flooding. A record number of section and non-section members registered, and we raised significant sponsorship dollars. The theme was mountaintop mindfulness. Thank you to our registrants, sponsors and Chelsea Miller, GM Beth Luna, Marck Joseph, and Willie Mae Shepherd for what would have been a phenomenal time.
The third event of the year was the Marital and Family Law Review Course and Mid-Year Meetings, in Orlando, January 22-25, 2025. This event, in which we partner with our friends at the AAML-Florida Chapter, occurs annually and draws attendees from all over the state. This year, we had approximately 1,900 attendees at the Review Course and approximately 150 attendees at the committee meetings. Jorge Cestero received the Melinda Gamot Award, presented annually by the section and the Academy to an individual who embodies kindness, and selfless dedication to lawyers and leaders of the next generation. Also, Kimberly Rommel Enright received the Visionary Award, presented annually by the section to the individual who embodies the dedication and drive to push for meaningful changes in the legal system for the benefit of the public and professionals alike. Thank you to our registrants, sponsors, presenters and Laura Davis Smith and Susan Stafford at the AAML, and Julia Wyda, GM Autumn Graham, Jack Moring, Carolyn Ware, and Willie Mae Shepherd for making this event epic.
The fourth event of the year was the live-CLE in Jacksonville on February 21, 2025. The CLE, “Consultation to Courthouse Steps,” was designed to provide new and existing lawyers tips and tricks to better represent their clients from initial consultation to pre-trial procedures. This CLE was designed in tandem with the section’s biennial Trial Advocacy Workshop and it drew approximately 90 live and webinar attendees. Thank you to our registrants, sponsors, presenters, and Cash Eaton, Alexander Bottone, Jamie Epstein, Anastasia Mahone, and Willie Mae Shepherd for ensuring success.
The fifth planned event of the year is our anticipated In State Retreat at the W Fort Lauderdale on May 1-4, 2025. At this event, we will be focusing on beachfront Zen. We have planned a variety of events including an evening of video games and go-karting, receptions, a dinner, and presentations and CLE’s. Registration is open, sponsorships are available. Thank you to our existing and anticipated sponsors and registrants, and to Jamie Epstein, Kristin Kirkner, Yanae Borroso, and Willie Mae Shepherd for your hard work and dedication.
Lastly, the sixth and final event of the year will coincide with the Annual Florida Bar Convention in Boca Raton. We will have committee meetings scheduled, along with our Annual Installation & Awards Banquet where we recognize the achievements/achievers of this year and install the officers for next year. Additionally, as chair, I will present my Honorarium to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, in recognition of their world-class research programs and their dedication and selfless service to children and families.
In keeping with my theme this year, we have attempted to infuse our publications, CLE’s and events with kindness, inclusivity, and compassion. We have had articles in each of our publications on mental health and well-being. We have used our section’s various social media platforms, for instance, Facebook, for our Mindful Mondays quotes (thank you, Julie Mullen), and presented Facebook Lives (thank you, Amber Kornreich) on mindfulness, better sleep strategies, and empathy. We have recognized monthly holidays and special days on our website’s banner (thank you, Holly Clark). We have presented CLEs on suicide prevention, bar grievances, becoming board certified, and we anticipate a section-service CLE on substance abuse. We have had 12-step meetings and zen/yoga rooms at our live events. We have given out stickers, fidget spinners, stress balls, and inspirational pens and pencils to attendees at our live events.
In keeping with the section’s dedication to improving the practice of law in the state, we have awarded scholarships and stipends to defray the costs of attendance at events. For instance, at the Leadership Retreat and the Marital & Family Law Review Course, we awarded almost 30 combined scholarships. Additionally, this year, we partnered with law schools in the state and awarded stipends for one law student from each accredited law school to attend the Marital & Family Law Review Course. Lastly, coupled with the FFLA to award four summer intern scholarships for recipients at legal aid offices, handling family law matters, in the state. It bears noting that, we have been able to provide such scholarships, stipends and awards, in part, by way of the extra revenue we have raised through our section sponsorships.
It would not be possible for me to personally thank each and every one of the individuals who have helped make this year a success. As such, I recognize a few special individuals who have been truly instrumental this year. First, thank you to Executive Committee TEAM Members Aimee Gross, Tenesia Hall, Andrea Reid, and Sarah Kay, who have attended weekly meetings and helped guide me and the section. Thank you to Executive Council TEAM Members, who choose to devote their time and energy to the section and Florida’s families, Judge Lauren Alperstein, Trisha Armstrong, Yanae Borroso, Alexander Bottone, Rueben Doupe, Cash Eaton, Jamie Epstein, Anthony Genova, GM Barb Goiran, Lindsay Gunia, Lindsay Haber, Marck Joseph, Ronald Kauffman, Kristion Kirkner, GM Beth Luna, Matthew Lundy, Shannon McLin, Michael Mendoza, Chelsea Miller, Jack Moring, William Norville, Jennifer Patti, Kimberly Rommel-Enright, Philip Schipani, Michelle Klinger Smith, Anya Stern, Sarah Sullivan, Amanda Tackenberg, Matthew Thatcher, Michael Tupper, Carolyn Ware, and C. Debra Welch. Second, thank you to our Publications TEAM Members, Chelsea Miller, Anya Cintron Stern, Michael Mendoza, Carolyn Ware, Zoe Chaitoff, Alexander Bottone, and Jerry Rumph, Jr., for ensuring the quality content and timely delivery of our monthly FAMSEG newsletter and our quarterly Commentator magazine. Third, thank you to CLE TEAM Members Jamie Epstein and Anastasia Mahone, for ensuring the successfulness of our monthly webinars and live CLEs. Fourth, thank you to our Legislation TEAM Members, Michelle Klinger Smith, Kimberly Rommel-Enright, Lisa Hurley and Sarah Bascom, for guiding us through the legislative session, ensuring that the section’s priorities are achieved and its reputation maintained. Fifth, thank you to Appellate TEAM Members for their work on our Amicus Brief filed in the Florida Supreme Court in the matter of Rivera v. Salas, Jennifer Pattie, Matthew Thatcher, Christie Mitchell, Jennifer Kipke, Shannon McLin and Erin Newell. Sixth, thank you to Reuben Doupe, Cash Eaton, and Ronald Kauffman for their monthly Cash Law Updates in FAMSEG. Seventh, a very special thank you to the best program administrator a section (or chair or frankly anyone) could hope for, Willie Mae Shepherd.
Also, a final thank you to our annual sponsors: Signature Sponsors- Florida Appeals, Schipani, Norman & McLain, PA, and Smolin — Advisory, Tax, Accounting; Platinum Sponsors — Ari Harper, CPA and OurFamilyWizard; Gold Sponsors — DPA Family Legal and Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP; Silver Sponsors — Green Cardigan Marketing and Psychological Affiliates; and Bronze Sponsor — Milestone Reporting Company. I appreciate each of you and your willingness to support the Family Law Section.
Thank you for this opportunity to showcase the section and its members.
Christopher W. Rumbold, Chair
Government Lawyers
It is my great pleasure as chair of the Government Lawyers Section to submit this report on behalf of the section. I am happy to report that the year has been a busy one for the section. At the start of the year, our collective goal was to increase benefits for our members, and we’ve made significant progress towards achieving that goal.
We began with a focus on building the right leadership team. Through extensive outreach, we added many new faces to our executive council, and they eagerly assumed their posts among our veteran leadership. Our leadership team is diverse, including lawyers in a variety of fields, both civil and criminal, and from state and local government entities that are located throughout the state, not just Tallahassee. It was particularly important for us to include leaders from areas across the state. We recognize that government lawyers are increasingly likely to reside in cities other than Tallahassee, and before we can attract members from those areas, we must have leaders from those parts of the state.
With a strong and enthusiastic leadership team in place, we began going after our main goal — delivering benefits to our section members. We divided those benefits into five categories: 1) consistently and effectively communicating with members; 2) delivering more CLE opportunities; 4) continuing and building upon a robust array of awards; and 5) increasing membership, with a particular focus on young lawyers (a demographic lacking from our current membership ranks). We are making noteworthy progress in each of these areas.
We have taken steps to achieve our goal of consistent communication with our members. First, we created a section bulletin that we issue electronically bi-monthly that reports on section activities and announces important dates and upcoming events. It includes a regular wellness section, a topic we have prioritized with the assistance of our Health and Wellness Committee to improve the practice of law. Second, we held two social events, one in Tallahassee and the other in Tampa, and we have plans to hold more in the upcoming year. Both events were jointly sponsored with other sections. Outreach to other sections is also an important priority for us, and we’re constantly looking out for partnership opportunities. Finally, we revived the “Voice,” which has traditionally been the official publication of the section. Unfortunately, it fell out of regular publication, but we issued a new edition at the end of January and will issue a second addition in the summer. The January edition was filled with useful and entertaining articles for our members.
A foundational benefit a section can provide for its members is CLEs, and we have put on several successful CLEs already and plan to put on one a month for the rest of the year. In partnership with the Young Lawyers Division, we sponsored a program on public service. Over 300 people attended the program, and we assume it included a large number of young lawyers, a target demographic in our outreach plans, as mentioned above. A second CLE in December, a Legislative Update, was also very well attended and a success. Other CLEs included a program on state tax law and another on health and wellness. Each CLE was free for members, and they led people to join the section.
Along with communication and CLEs, another crucial benefit is recognition of excellent government lawyers and public servants, and the new year is our time to do just that. We’re preparing for awards season during which we will recognize government lawyers through our Claude Pepper Award, our Outstanding Government Lawyer Award and Lifetime Achievement Award. This year marks the third time we are awarding the Bob Butterworth Scholarship to a deserving law student who intends to embark on a career in public service. The scholarship has been an excellent way for our section to reach out to law students and young lawyers.
The scholarship is not the only way we connect with law students. We also will hold public service panels at law schools throughout the state. Our first panel was held in February at Nova Law School, with similar panels to follow at Florida State University, the University of Florida, the University of Miami, St. Thomas University School of Law, and Stetson. We hope these panels will not only introduce students to careers in public service, but to Bar service, and our section in particular. Our outreach efforts will extend to the broader government lawyer community as well. In addition to attracting new members through our CLEs, we will hold social events geared toward bringing in new members during the spring, reaching a pinnacle in April, which we’re identifying as “membership” month.
In closing, our section, with the dedication and hard work of an exemplary leadership team, has made admirable strides this year, and we will build on this momentum in the year to come.
John J. Bajger, Chair
Health Law
The Health Law Section of The Florida Bar is devoted to supporting health law practitioners throughout the state by providing education, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
In an effort to increase member engagement within the section we have organized the following activities and events: 1) Top 20 under 40 list; 2) Pickleball Tournament; 3) Section Retreat to Nashville, TN; 4) Member Spotlights videos; 5) new CLE offerings; 6) March Madness Tournament; and more. Recipients of the 20 under 40 award will receive trophies at the Annual Florida Bar Convention executive council meeting and recognition in an email blast to our members.
The Health Law Section held a Pigskin Pick’em NFL tournament and a virtual Wellness Program with guided meditation offered to members in an effort to promote mental and physical well-being. The Health Law Section team walked for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walk and raised money through charitable donations that are being put towards finding a cure. The section will continue to support other charitable organizations in the years to come.
The section also remains committed to our long-range plans and the chair of the Long-Range Planning Committee has dutifully spearheaded our efforts to meet our intended goals by target deadlines.
The Legislative Committee is actively advocating for our members and has engaged a lobbyist who is making progress with revising the recently updated law that has negative implications for many of the section members’ clients.
The Education Committee has planned the iteration of our marquee CLE events, such as: 1) Advanced Health Law Topics Certification & Review Course (in-person/virtual); 2) Representing the Physician (in-person/virtual); and 3) Healthcare Regulatory & Compliance (virtual). The committee has decided to relocate the 2025 Advanced Health Law Topics Certification & Review Course to Stetson University in Tampa to bring down costs and to increase the financial profitability for the event. We continue to encourage our members to promote our CLE events to increase attendance and are offering new opportunities to obtain Professional Responsibility, Ethics, and Technology credits for our members. The Education Committee is also collaborating with volunteer bar associations, such as CABA, to offer new CLE courses. Included in these new CLE offerings will be discussions on artificial intelligence in healthcare and other technology focused educational opportunities.
The Section’s financial report indicates that we are financially solvent and we have recently voted to increase our annual dues to $75 (set to take effect in 2026) with the expectation that the increased revenue will allow the section to offer additional member benefits.
I have personally arranged to visit Florida law schools so that we can encourage a new crop of attorneys to pursue a career in health law. I have been presenting, “A Day in the Life of Healthcare Lawyer,” during these visits, which ends with a Q&A session. Additionally, the section will continue to support the Robert A. Butterworth Public Service Scholarship to all eligible law students, which includes a $1,000 stipend that may be used for law school tuition, course materials, or other law school-related expenses.
The section created a mentorship program during the COVID-19 pandemic. After a brief hiatus, the mentorship program has been revamped and has returned successfully with 10+ mentors who have matched with mentees thus far. The chair of the Mentorship Program Committee has been working closely with the Young Lawyers Division (YLD) to promote this Mentorship Program to Young Lawyers and to 3L law students. We are also collaborating with the YLD to offer: 1) Practice Series Webinars through the Transition to Practice Committee; and 2) Basic CLEs with a health law orientation. The YLD will select one of its members to serve as the YLD liaison to the Health Law Section, which will be a first in recent history for the section.
The section is also planning its first ever section retreat. The retreat took place in “Music City” Nashville, TN, April 2025. The agenda included CLE events, teambuilding activities, and networking opportunities. We are seeking sponsors to offset the costs of the retreat and will offer various sponsorship levels.
The Sponsorship Committee has secured two sponsors through our new sponsorship program. We offer sponsorship opportunities, including: 1) annual sponsorships; 2) section retreat sponsors; 3) CLE sponsors; 4) YouTube video sponsors; and 5) End of Year Award sponsors. Annual section and section retreat include Silver, Gold, and Platinum Sponsorship levels. The section is hoping that this will be the first year that we are able to secure sponsors. We have created a sponsorship brochure with all pertinent information that a potential sponsor would need to review prior to making its financial commitment to our section. We hope that our sponsors find that this is a mutually beneficial opportunity. The section will receive the generous sponsorship fee and the sponsor will in turn have the opportunity to market their services to our members.
The Technology Committee has made improvements to our section’s website for ease of use for its visitors.
We have connected with the president of the Out of State Division and assigned liaisons to our respective section/division with the hopes that we will foster a collaborative relationship.
Finally, but most importantly, I acknowledge our program administrator, Emily Young, for all of the hard work that she puts in to ensuring that the Health Law Section is successful in its endeavors. Emily’s professionalism, attentiveness, and skillset are instrumental in helping us to achieve our goals and we hope to continue to work with her for years to come.
Jamaal R. Jones, Chair
Labor and Employment Law
The 2024-25 term marked a reformative year for the Labor and Employment Law Section. With changes in our program administrator position, the section focused on revamping its structure and programming to include free CLEs, more social events to encourage networking, and initiatives to attract new membership.
The section delivered exceptional educational content to its members through multiple platforms. The section’s free webinar series garnered remarkable attendance figures with specialized topics including: 1) FTC and Employee Noncompete Law (August 28, 2024); 2) Fair Labor Standards Act (October 25, 2024); 3) Pregnancy Workplace Fairness Act (November 20, 2024); 4) Muldrow v. City of St. Louis (December 4, 2024); 5) Changes to the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure: What Employment Lawyers Need to Know (January 29, 2025); and 6) Expanding Intercultural Skills to Resolve Today’s Increasingly Multi-Cultured Disputes (February 19, 2025).
The 50th anniversary of the Public Employee Labor Relations Forum was celebrated in October 2024 at Disney’s Coronado Springs. This milestone event, co-sponsored with the City, County and Local Government Law Section, included a complimentary pre-conference special magistrate session for in-person attendees.
In January 2025, the section hosted its 25th Labor and Employment Law Annual Update and Certification Review in Tampa. The event featured a networking reception at a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey game, providing members with both educational and social engagement opportunities.
Following hurricane-related delays and resulting low registration, the previously planned December 2024 Litigation Skills and Technology seminar was restructured and reformatted as a full-day webinar held on March 5, 2025. The virtual format attracted 30 registrants and provided CLE and technology credits, with additional revenue generated through aftermarket sales.
The section’s Advanced Labor Topics conference was April 25-26, 2025, at Hawk’s Cay, Duck Key. The conference has been approved for nine CLE credits and remains a favorite seminar. The next executive council meeting was on April 24, 2025, in Duck Key (with a virtual attendance option).
The section also successfully executed collaborative events with several other organizations: 1) Jacksonville Bar Association’s Labor and Employment Law Section (December 3, 2024); 2) Joint event with Hillsborough County Bar Association and Clearwater Bar Association (February 27, 2025) which attracted 30 registrants and was a successful collaboration between the different sections on Top Employment Law Updates for 2025; and 3) Judges Webinar in Palm Beach County on Employment Law (April 25, 2025).
Publications and Member Resources: The section maintained its commitment to providing valuable content through its publication, The Checkoff, as well as contributions to The Florida Bar Journal. A special edition of The Checkoff was published to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Public Employee Labor Relations Forum. These publications ensured members stayed informed about the latest developments in labor and employment law.
Outreach and Scholarship: The section enhanced its law school outreach efforts by restructuring its scholarship program. The updated program now offers $20,000 in awards to promising labor and employment law students, demonstrating the section’s commitment to supporting the next generation of legal professionals.
Special Initiatives: The section’s executive council agreed to sponsor the ADR section’s Mediation Program at the 2025 Annual Florida Bar Convention in June, reflecting the section’s commitment to cross-sectional collaboration.
The section was a sponsor for the Young Lawyers Divisions annual AOC conference at Gaylord Palms.
Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 term, the section initiated planning for a section retreat and is conducting a membership survey to gather input on future programming priorities. This proactive approach ensures the section remains responsive to member needs and continues to provide high-value services.
Yvette D. Everhart, Chair
Public Interest Law
PILS provides an organization open to all who have a common interest in advocacy and enhancement of constitutional, statutory, or other rights that protect the dignity, security, justice, liberty, or freedom of the individual or public, and a forum for discussion and exchange of ideas leading to increased knowledge and understanding of the areas of public interest law.
The 2024-25 Bar year has seen PILS go through significant changes due to the lack of Bar funding. PILS has implemented budget reductions and fee increases to cover operating expenses and prevent operating the section on reserves. PILS has also struggled, like many sections, with participation at an all time low. These factors combined to make the 2024-25 Bar year a struggle for survival and solvency for the section.
PILS, like many other sections, has struggled with a lack of participation in substantive workgroups and committees. This lack of participation has led to changes which, while disheartening, are necessary. One of these changes is that PILS has combined the Engagement, Networking, and Recruitment committees into one committee in order to streamline the efforts and resources of these committees. Also, PILS has stood down the Non-profit Workgroup. PILS is also considering combining other workgroups such as combining Immigration with civil rights.
PILS has, however, maintained a strong and robust CLE program. Since July 2024, PILS has successfully hosted nearly 30 CLE training courses, providing vital professional development opportunities for public interest attorneys across Florida. These sessions have covered a broad spectrum of topics, including but not limited to education law, litigation skills, legislative updates, housing law, attorney wellness, pro bono engagement, legal technology, appeals, family law, student loans, and consumer protection. Through these efforts, PILS has equipped legal advocates with the knowledge and tools necessary to better serve low-income and vulnerable communities, reinforcing our commitment to access to justice and professional excellence.
One standout training, Avoiding Bad Law — Advocating on Behalf of Consumers and Tenants Before the Florida Legislature (Nov. 18, 2024), played a key role in strengthening advocacy efforts by leading to the creation of a dedicated listserv for public interest, consumer, and tenant advocates. This listserv has since fostered real-time collaboration and strategic engagement, directly contributing to a significant legislative victory that preserved critical consumer protections.
Our advocacy to protect consumers in Florida remains strong. PILS’s Consumer/Tenant Workgroup joined with a statewide network of legal aid/legal services consumer protection attorneys as well as private bar consumer attorneys to help defeat a controversial amendment to S.B. 232, which would have weakened Florida’s Consumer Collection Practices Act (FCCPA).
The Public Interest Law Section has been actively increasing engagement through networking events and outreach efforts. We hosted two successful networking events — one in Orlando and one in Doral — both of which saw higher turnout than any of our previous events in recent years. Additionally, we have expanded our efforts to engage members and recruit non-members through increased outreach via social media and law school collaboration.
PILS Children’s Rights Workgroup’s submission was selected for the Presidential Showcase at the Annual Florida Bar Convention. The seminar, “Our Kids are Online — What Lawyers (And Parents) Should Know About Legal Limits on Social Media Accounts and What Lawyers (And Parents) Should Know About AI and School,” is a review of the legal frameworks and legal issues surrounding digital issues and our children and youth. This seminar will explore what lawyers need to know about the age restrictions on social media accounts as well as what possible challenges might be made to the law and the current enforcement structure with civil liabilities. Further than just possibly being involved in a case representing a child, parent, social media provider, this CLE will help guide the many Florida Bar members who may be parents, guardian, and caregivers of children.
Jamos “Jay” Mobley, Chair
Real Property, Probate and Trust Law
As one of The Florida Bar’s largest and most active sections, the Real Property, Probate and Trust Law (RPPTL) Section is dedicated to serving the legal profession and Florida’s citizens with distinction. With over 288 executive council members and dozens of specialized committees working tirelessly throughout the year, our impact extends far beyond our membership. From developing crucial legislative initiatives and providing exceptional continuing legal education to expanding pro bono services and mentoring the next generation of legal professionals, the RPPTL section remains committed to excellence in every facet of our practice areas. This report highlights our achievements, ongoing initiatives, and vision for the future as we strive to be Florida’s preeminent authority and trusted resource on all aspects of real property, probate, trust, and related fields of law.
The section’s committees are divided into three divisions: the General Standing Division, the Probate and Trust Division, and the Real Property Division.
The general standing committees assist with internal section business and matters of interest to all members. The Probate and Trust Division committees touch on every conceivable area of estates, trusts, and guardianship planning, administration, and litigation practice. The Real Property Division committees focus on a broad array of real property issues, such as title insurance and standards, construction law, residential real estate, commercial real estate, leasing, development and land use, and real estate litigation.
Our section committees create a collaborative environment where members share expertise, discuss developments, and debate ideas to form well-considered positions on important legal matters. This committee structure serves as the foundation of our legislative process, as most section initiatives originate at the committee level, where they undergo thorough development, debate, and vetting. These refined proposals then advance to the full executive council for comprehensive review, ensuring that our legislative recommendations represent the highest quality work product for Florida’s citizens.
Some highlights of the RPPTL section’s activities over the past year include the following.
Law Student and Young Lawyer Mentoring: The section remains deeply committed to developing the next generation of legal talent through robust mentoring initiatives, including on-campus outreach and our signature Fellows program. This two-year Fellows program provides eight attorneys with personalized mentorship and financial support to attend Section meetings, creating pathways for participation by emerging lawyers who might otherwise lack access to these valuable professional development opportunities. The program’s remarkable success is evidenced by its alumni, many of whom have risen to section leadership positions, now chairing our most significant committees and establishing themselves as recognized authorities in their practice areas through their writing and speaking engagements.
Continuing Education: The section maintains high enthusiasm for its CLE programming, offering 38 on-demand CLE programs. This year, 13 new programs have been produced, with 13 more in progress. While most are video webcasts, hybrid programs remain popular. For instance, the 2024 Probate Law program had over 200 attendees, and the Attorney-Trust Officer Conference drew about 450 attendees. Annual certification review courses in various legal areas attracted over 150 attendees.
For the first time, the Condominium Certification Review Course was held during The Florida Bar’s Winter Meeting, receiving positive feedback. The section also provides timely, cost-effective education through one to two-hour webcasts, such as a full-day webcast on the 2024 amendments to the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure and a follow-up webinar on foreclosure under the new rules.
This spring, the section will partner with Florida Legal Services and the Public Interest Law Section for “Expanding Pro Bono Partnerships in Florida,” producing two CLE webinars on pro bono opportunities. Part I, “Connecting with Civil Legal Aid,” was on April 9, 2025, and Part 2, “RPPTL’S Pro Bono Initiatives and the Certified Lawyers on Call (CLOC) Program,” on May 9, 2025. Both programs are approved for CLE credits.
The section will also produce a series of “Basic 101” courses for new practitioners, covering topics like probate, estate planning, and real property. Up to 15 programs are anticipated by the end of 2026.
The CLE Coordination Committee meets monthly to review and plan programs, and holds an annual strategic planning session. The section expresses gratitude to Hilary Stephens, Jeremy Citron, and the many dedicated speakers and committee members for their contributions to high-quality continuing legal education.
Pro Bono Efforts: The section’s at large members (ALMs) lead projects like No Place Like Home, the Heirs’ Property Project, and disaster relief assistance. This year, they continued the No Place Like Home program with a two-hour CLE on handling quiet title cases for inherited property. They also support legal aid efforts statewide through the Heirs’ Property Project, including establishing a clinic at the University of Florida College of Law. ALMs assist with title issues, landlord-tenant disputes, probate, insurance, and contracts, and work with judges in the 15th Circuit to aid guardians. The section is also considering forming a standalone Pro Bono Committee to enhance these efforts.
Additionally, this past year, the section’s Fellows partnered with the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County to collect and assemble backpacks and school supplies for students in Palm Beach County. The Fellows also staffed a wills and advance directives clinic in partnership with Jacksonville Area Legal Aid.
Legislative Initiatives: As of this annual report submission date, the section is currently monitoring the progress of more than 35 bills that have already been filed and are of interest to section members. Section initiatives before the Florida Legislature this session include C.S./S.B. 262 and its companion H.B. 384, which are intended to improve several different areas of trust law.
Additionally, as in recent years, the section continues to receive regular requests for technical advice on other legislative initiatives from members of the legislature, other Florida Bar sections and industry organizations, and will continue to provide such assistance and technical advice in accordance with Florida Bar policies on those proposals that are within the section’s purview.
Looking ahead, the section is working on bills and initiatives that address a wide scope of topics, including:
1) A rewrite of the Florida Guardianship Code, which would replace existing F.S. Ch. 744; 2) Changes to Florida’s pretermitted laws; 3) Potential revisions to clarify the procedure for acceptance by a designated representative and the authority and fiduciary status of a representative; 4) A potential summary process allowing trustee discharge in non-adversarial trust administrations without the need for judicial process; 5) Potential legislation to revise F.S. §196.01 to clarify that a provision in a lease that is for a term of 98 years or more, which operates to terminate the leasehold interest of the lessee upon the death of the lessee will not cause the leasehold interest to fail to meet the requirements of the statute regarding homestead; 6) Potential codification of a statutory mechanism and process that will allow parties to transfer real property upon the death of an owner of real property without having to go through probate; 7) Potential amendments to F.S. Ch. 718, to provide more flexibility for nonresidential condominiums; and 8) Potential revisions to legislation regarding director elections and recall procedures and to authorize execution of certain documents by electronic means.
Publications: ActionLine is a quarterly magazine published by the RPPTL section. It is read by attorneys, professors, consultants, and others who are active in the areas of real estate, guardianship, probate and trust law, primarily throughout Florida. ActionLine’s publications include current real property and probate case summaries, legislative updates, section meeting schedules and highlights, feature articles, and articles about section members or active community members. ActionLine is distributed online and by mail to members of the RPPTL section and to non-members who have subscribed to the publication. In addition to ActionLine, the section’s substantive committees and members routinely produce quality articles in The Florida Bar Journal.
Technology: As set forth in the new Strategic Plan, the section is committed to thoughtfully embracing technology to enhance communication and connectivity with our members. For example, many committee meetings are held in person and via Zoom, and the four in-state Executive Council meetings are also held in person and via Zoom. In addition, the section hosts numerous CLE programs, nearly all of which are available by simultaneous webcast. The section is in the process of updating its website.
As we reflect on our accomplishments over the past year, the RPPTL section remains focused on our mission to serve as Florida’s preeminent authority and trusted resource in our practice areas. Through continued legislative advocacy, expanded educational offerings, enhanced mentoring programs, and increased pro bono initiatives, we are committed to advancing both the legal profession and the public interest. We extend our sincere appreciation to our dedicated executive council members, committee volunteers, and Bar staff whose tireless efforts make our work possible. With the implementation of our new strategic plan and ongoing commitment to excellence, we look forward to building on these achievements in the coming year as we continue to serve Florida’s legal community and citizens with distinction.
John C. Moran, Chair
Solo and Small Firm
The Florida Bar Solo and Small Firm Section (SSFS) continues to play a vital role in supporting Florida’s legal professionals through high-quality educational opportunities, technological guidance, professional development and fostering a vibrant legal community for our members. We strive to cultivate a big network for Florida attorneys who have solo and small firms. Our mission is to equip practitioners with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in today’s dynamic legal environment. Thanks to the dedication and efforts of our executive council, this year marked several significant advancements for our section.
Transition to Digital Magazine Format: This year, the Publications Committee, under the direction of SSFS Executive Committee member Michelle Gilbert, and our new Communications Committee, led by SSFS executive council member Alicia Perez, collaborated with our PR and Marketing consultant, Lisa Tipton, to launch “The SOURCE,” our newly rebranded digital magazine. Published three times per year, the innovative digital magazine format has transformed our traditional publication into a more interactive and visually appealing platform. This change enhances member engagement and accessibility to critical resources, while also allowing our sponsors to have a more robust platform to showcase their products and services. We also rebranded our QuickSOURCE, the biweekly newsletter that provides insights on technology and business management and updates on Section events.
Social Media Engagement: The section continues to expand its digital presence, maintaining active engagement on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Threads, and Instagram. We also maintain active groups on Facebook and LinkedIn. We extend our sincere appreciation to Lisa Tipton of PR Florida for her outstanding work in managing our digital outreach in promoting our CLEs and events.
Expanded CLE Programs: CLE programs remain a cornerstone of our member services. This year, we offered a range of virtual seminars on key topics such as artificial intelligence, ethical practices, professional development and mental health to improve the practice of law. We are especially grateful to our CLE Committee, under the direction of SSFS executive council members Amanda Barton, chair; and Linda Calvert Hanson, CLE consultant, who curated an excellent CLE lineup, including: 1) Fifteen virtual CLE webinars in the fall and 16 virtual CLE webinars in the spring; 2) Annual Ethics and Professionalism Update (October 25, 2024): “Digital Dilemmas: Ethical and Professionalism Considerations for Attorneys in a Tech-Driven World;” 3) Annual Solo and Small Firm Virtual Technology Update (March 7, 2025), “TECHniques: AI Solutions for Law Firms;” 4) Destination CLE Trip to Canada (May 26-31, 2025), exploring tools for remote practice; and 5) Annual Convention “Florida Law Update” (June 26, 2025), featuring a newly introduced Meet the Speakers panel discussion.
Additionally, our popular Wednesday Wisdom webinars continue to provide valuable on-demand content at no cost to members, complementing our paid CLE programs. A special thank you to Suwannee County Judge Jennifer Kuyrkendall Griffin, for extending her role in moderating this series. We also thank the Caribbean Bar, Wilkie D. Ferguson Jr. Bar, and Miami Dade Bar for their assistance in creating and moderating the seminar, “Corporate Transparency Act: What Law Firms Need to Know Before the End of the Year.” We remain committed to delivering relevant CLE programs that address the evolving needs of our members.
Technology Initiatives: The Technology Committee, led by SSFS executive council member Liz McCausland, introduced several initiatives to enhance legal technology skills and their ethical application. “Tech Thursdays,” chaired by SSFS executive council member Zack Zuroweste, provides practical CLEs for insights into using technology ethically and efficiently in practice. Additionally, the Technology Committee launched monthly Zoom “Coffee Chats” for our members and solo and small-firm practitioners from around the state to talk about technology resources and ideas, to ensure members stay ahead of emerging trends and leverage technology to optimize their practices.
Membership Engagement and Growth: Despite some economic challenges, our section experienced membership growth, thanks to proactive outreach and newly enhanced communication strategies. Through grassroots communication, events, and our revamped publications, we aimed to strengthen our community and support solo and small firm practitioners, while attracting new members. To support The Florida Bar’s Counsel to Counsel Mentoring Program and create other mentoring resources, we established a Mentoring Committee, co-chaired by SSFS executive council members Zack Zuroweste and Masimba Mutumba. Additionally, we sponsored the Voluntary Bar Leaders Conference and YLD Affiliate Outreach Conference to interact with leaders throughout the state.
Support for Legal Aid and Pro Bono Programs: The section continues to support legal aid and pro bono programs through its annual L. Michael Roffino Awards, which recognize the organizations within the state that put together the best pro bono service programs during the past year. The Florida Pro Bono Coordinators Association nominates five programs for consideration. The section’s Pro Bono Awards Committee selects three finalists, one of whom is named the winner and receives $4,000, while two other finalists receive $2,000 each. The winner of the 2024 L. Michael Roffino Pro Bono Award was the Three Rivers Legal Services, and the runners-up were the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County and Seminole County Bar Association Legal Aid Society. Since 1990, the section has awarded over $200,000 in grants through these awards. SSFS executive council member Chrissy Davis along with Chair-elect John Maceluch headed up our Pro Bono Awards Committee this past year.
Sponsorship: Our Sponsorship Program continues to be a success thanks to SSFS executive council members Rebekah Taylor and Starlett Massey, who co-chair the Sponsorship Committee. Our 2024-25 section sponsors include: Florida Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company (annual level), InfoTrack (advocate level), Clio (supporter level), Aligned CPA LLC (supporter level), and U.S. Century Bank (friend level). Additionally, the following firms and companies supported our section through sponsorship, advertisements and events: Alonso Appeals, Gilbert Garcia Group, Massey Law Group P.A., RT & AP Mediation and Law Group, and Feld Legal, CIO.LEGAL and Milestone Reporting. We are deeply grateful for their contributions, which allow us to continue providing exceptional programs for our members. Our accomplishments this year included expanding professional development opportunities, enhancing our communication platforms, and fostering a stronger community among our members. We are fortunate to work with Gabrielle Hermesman as our new Bar program administrator. She worked with The Florida Bar’s Research, Planning, and Evaluation Department prior to coming to our section, and has proven invaluable. She is poised to help propel our section to even greater success.
The Solo and Small Firm Section remains dedicated to supporting our members and advancing their professional success. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead such a dedicated group of professionals and for the steadfast support of our executive council. As I pass the leadership of the section to incoming Chair John Maceluch, I am enthusiastic about the future of our section. I am truly thankful for the opportunities the section has afforded me and am grateful for serving as your chair.
Renée E. Thompson, Chair
Tax Law
The theme for the 2024-2025 year is, Back to the Future with Sunsets and Artificial Intelligence. This theme entails looking back to things that the section has successfully done in the past, while simultaneously reaching forward to the future. During this fiscal year, the Tax Section continued to monitor both federal and state level tax issues for possible comment and other involvement. In addition to our upcoming meetings in Washington, D.C., which is further discussed below, the section considered several initiatives and proposals associated with Florida statutes, legislative changes, and Department of Revenue-oriented matters.
By the end of the fiscal year, the Tax Section will have completed four in-person substantive meetings. Similar to the past 40 years, we held our organizational meeting at the Omni Amelia Island Resort and Spa over the July 4th holiday weekend. Amelia Island is an important and historic oceanfront wildlife preserve where we encourage attendees to bring their families for building a sense of community and cherished memories through the generations. Our Ullman Year in Review program gives new tax attorneys an opportunity to give a presentation on whatever issues they believe are important. This year, we honored Maricarmen Cuello, an international area director for the IRS Independent Office of Appeals, with the Marvin C Gutter Outstanding Public Service Award.
Our fall meeting was at the Margaritaville Beach Resort, Hollywood Beach, where we held a full day educational program, chaired by Christopher Callahan and Traci Pumo, on the integration and ethical use of artificial intelligence in the tax practice. This was the first time the section had a program specifically concentrated on using AI, including real time ChatGPT demonstrations and well-known speakers in various industries conceptualizing the use, benefits, and challenges that could cause anxiety. At this meeting, we honored James H Barrett with the Gerald T. Hart Outstanding Tax Attorney of the Year Award.
Our Directors Meeting was at the Pier House Resort & Spa, Key West, where Cristin Keane reprised our popular Past Chairs program, giving an opportunity for them to share their wisdom in a variety of meaningful topics. Though this meeting is usually attended by section leadership only, this year we invited and showed appreciation to new tax lawyers that have been active in our divisions and committees in various roles and responsibilities. Highlights of this meeting included the sunset catamaran cruise and a trolley tour around the entire island.
For our final meeting, as the old adage goes, we have saved the best for last. In April, we traveled to Washington, D.C., the seat of our government and home to many agencies that we visited and met with staff, agents, and officials. Formed more than two years ago, the WDC Committee, chaired by Steve Hadjilogiou, has been planning the substantive program. This is an extremely important opportunity for section members to be visible and able to meet with tax policy makers, interpreters, and enforcers (Senate, House of Representatives, Treasury, Justice, and Tax Court). We identified five areas of focus, including: 1) income tax (pass-throughs, corporations, and personal); 2) transfer tax (gift, estates, and trusts); 3) international tax (individual and corporations); 4) tax exempt organizations; and 5) tax controversy. We developed whitepapers for submission to the relevant agencies for consideration in improving regulations and other interpretive pronouncements. The section last visited WDC in 2017, where some of our work product was officially adopted. I thought this was a great year to return due to an election and the impending sunsetting of current tax policy at the end of 2025.
The Tax Section also coordinated and conducted our popular virtual continuing legal education series, which are provided free to section members. Over the past 12 months, we offered 16 programs, with a particular focus on integrating topics that align with the content covered in the tax board certification exam and lead-up CLEs in advance of larger conferences or events. Our board certification topic series included corporate taxation, navigating tax issues in formation of partnerships and joint ventures, income tax treaties, Circular 230 and ethics in a tax practice, passthrough taxation of S corporations, as well as state and local tax procedure. Other presentations of interest delved into retirement planning, IRA beneficiary designations and the proposed regulations associated with the SECURE Act, the new landscape for the wealth industry since the Mexican election, tax disputes in bankruptcy, ethical use of artificial intelligence in a tax practice, tax penalties, planning and pitfalls in international taxation, and the taxation of private trust companies.
The International Tax Conference, our “crown-jewel” CLE program coordinated with the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, commemorated its 43rd iteration. In addition, the basic primer sister program, the International Tax Boot Camp, celebrated its 10th year. With over 800 attendees, these hugely successful programs attract professionals from around the world. The presenters are an all-star lineup of some of the more important people in the industry. Equally important, these programs give many members the opportunity to network, as well as presenting their wisdom and thought provoking ideas.
The Tax Section’s Directors Committee and executive council strive to increase member experiences, services, benefits, and education. I am so grateful to the many people helping plan the events, including Whitney Bledsoe, Lisa Tipton, and Janette McCurley Driscoll. Gerard ‘JJ’ Wehle is the current chair-elect and is planning an exciting slate of events. Michael Wilson is the chair-elect designee who I expect will do everything to keep improving the section’s gravitas.
Our efforts to get younger members enthusiastically involved and in leadership roles have worked. New tax lawyers are applying for our revised Fellowship program assistance in record numbers. I am pleased to tell you that the Tax Section is stronger than it has ever been, and has a fantastic future.
Mark Scott, Chair
Trial Lawyers
For over five decades, the Trial Lawyers Section of The Florida Bar has been committed to promoting the art of trial advocacy, access to the courts, preserving the independence of the judiciary, and protecting the constitutional right to a trial by jury. With these pillars as our framework, the Trial Lawyers Section advocates for the interests of all Florida trial lawyers, whether for the plaintiff or defendant, and whether in the private or public sector. We provide unique, high-level resources on skills for advocacy both inside and outside of the courtroom. As the legal field constantly evolves, including as remote and virtual technologies become a common part of practice, the Trial Lawyers Section addresses the needs of our members by providing up-to-date case law, continuing-education opportunities, and advocacy training to help our members adapt.
During the 2024-25 year, the Trial Lawyers Section has continued its long tradition of providing trial attorneys, law students, and teachers with outstanding programs, including the following.
Trial Lawyers Section Membership Retreat: This year’s retreat was, “New Starts, New Ideas: Innovations for Future Success,” at the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort on October 31 to November 2, 2024. The retreat focused on tools to help courtroom advocates take their practice to the next level, from practical trial skills to substantive legal updates to technology and ethics. Presenters included leading trial lawyers and judges from across the state. By combining broadly applicable presentations with more focused breakout sessions, the schedule allowed attendees to participate in sessions most interesting and helpful to them. Each participant earned 7.5 general CLE credits and one ethics, technology, professionalism, and board certification credit. The retreat began with a presentation from our esteemed panel of jurists and a Halloween-themed welcome reception for participants and their families, complete with refreshments and a build-your-own-candy bar for children. After the seminar, participants enjoyed fireworks and a private excursion to Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure at Epcot. This year’s retreat would not have been possible without the leadership of Whitney Untiedt and Rachel Walters.
Advanced Trial Advocacy: Thanks to Chuck Ingram, Dennis O’Connor, and Mike Feiler, our highly regarded Advanced Trial Advocacy program will be held again this year at the University of Florida Levin College of Law in May 2025. This unique program provides trial lawyers with at least five years of experience the opportunity to improve their advocacy skills. The program lasts one week and includes both didactic presentations and simulations. The prestigious faculty, which consists of talented and experienced trial lawyers and judges, provides insight and instruction on each part of a civil trial. Participants then prepare and perform each stage of a civil trial and receive detailed feedback. Attending this program alone provides 40 hours of CLE credits.
Civil Trial Update and Board Certification Review Course: Held each February, the Board Certification Review Course prepares trial lawyers for the upcoming board certification examination. Attending this program each year also provides trial lawyers with the information they need to be current on the law concerning all aspects of client representation, civil procedure, and trial techniques. Two days of lectures from the finest Florida trial lawyers and judges address aspects of a civil case from start to finish and provide participants with over 500 pages of written resource materials. The Trial Lawyers Section appreciates Ed Cheffy for chairing this very successful CLE program for the past 20 years. With special thanks to Debbie Crockett for her leadership coordinating this year’s program in Tampa.
Teachers’ Law Symposium: Every January the Trial Lawyers Section produces the Teachers’ Law Symposium, a civics-education seminar for middle- and high-school civics, social studies, government, and law teachers from throughout Florida. This year’s program was successfully chaired by Jennifer Lester and Suzzette Russomanno in Orlando. From its inception in 2012, the program has consisted of presentations from trial lawyers, judges, and legislators who have expertise in the justice system. The program provides the teachers with resources and tools to educate, encourage, and inspire the next generation of students about the functioning and importance of the justice system. The presentations are modified slightly each year but commonly include the following: analyzing the First Amendment and school issues, the role of the Supreme Court in our constitutional democracy, the independent lawyer, an overview of the state and federal court systems, and anatomy of a criminal trial.
Chester Bedell Memorial Mock Trial Competition: The event is one of the most important mock-trial competitions of the year. Every Florida law school is invited to send multiple teams to this competition, which is held in concert with the Teachers Law Symposium each January. This year’s program was held in Orlando. In this competition, the best advocates among the Florida law schools compete to determine each year’s top trial advocacy team. The Trial Lawyers Section thanks Whitney Untiedt, Rachel Walters, and Anisha Patel for leading this very successful competition.
Florida Handbook on Civil Discovery: With special thanks to Judge Christine Marlewski, Jeremy Branning, and Wes Smith, a new Civil Discovery Handbook was published this year through the joint efforts of the Trial Lawyers Section, the Conference of Circuit Judges, and the Conference of County Court Judges. The handbook aims to curtail perceived discovery abuses and is provided to all approximately 1,300 members of the state and federal judiciary in Florida. Most judges have a copy at their bench as a commonly used resource.
Additional CLE Programming: The Trial Lawyers Section continues to provide extensive CLE programs, which will be both online and in person during the upcoming year. Past programs have included, Hot Topics in Evidence and Advanced Medical Malpractice, among many others.
This year, the Trial Lawyers Section has provided impressive and exclusive benefits to its members. Through its programs, online resources, and CLEs, section membership is essentially a one-stop shop for Florida trial lawyers. The Trial Lawyers Section is poised to continue its great tradition with future leaders including Braxton Gillam and James Gassenheimer. The Trial Lawyers Section appreciates the support provided by President Roland Sanchez-Medina, Jr., President-elect Rosalyn Sia Baker-Barnes, Joshua E. Doyle, executive director of The Florida Bar, and the staff at The Florida Bar.
Geddes D. Anderson, Jr., Chair
