In all matters, the Firm’s focus is on achieving the client’s objective quickly and in a cost-effective manner. We zealously represent our clients through verdict or settlement and will recommend alternative dispute resolution procedures when in the client’s best interest. We utilize flexible fee arrangements depending upon the circumstances of the case, taking into consideration the objectives of the litigation and the client’s particular circumstances.
The Firm represents business entities and individuals in a wide variety of matters within the following areas:
- Business Disputes
- Insurance Litigation
- Construction Litigation
- Mediation & ADR
- Marital & Family Law
- Personal Injury
- Employment Discrimination
- Environmental Law
- Alternative Dispute Resolution
Business Dispute Litigation
The Firm represents clients in diverse types of complex business cases, from shareholder or partner disputes, to mortgage loan frauds and guarantee defaults and bankruptcy. These types of cases require a high degree of analytical skills, attention to detail, sound judgment and a commitment to excellence. We have substantial experience in litigating matters in Florida and other jurisdictions. We are well qualified to handle complex investigations and cases through discovery and trial. We can assist you in the following areas:
- Shareholder & Partner Disputes
- Loan and Guarantee Defaults and Lender Liability
- Business Disputes
- Secured Transaction Matters
- Fraudulent Transactions
- Corporate Governance Issues
- Contract Disputes
- Real Estate Litigation
- Bankruptcy Matters
- Commercial Landlord/Tenant Disputes
Non-Compete/Trade Secrets
We also represent business entities and individuals in restrictive covenant and trade secrets disputes. We recognize the harm which can flow from misuse or theft of trade secrets and violations of noncompete agreements and when individuals are wrongfully prevented from obtaining new employment or pursuing new opportunities. We work quickly when necessary to obtain injunctions in state and federal courts or in alternative dispute resolution forums (or oppose them, as needed).
Franchise Litigation
The Firm has handled complex business litigation on behalf of franchisees involving issues such as franchisee termination, enforcement of post-termination covenants, intellectual property, trade secret, unfair competition, and trademark infringement and dilution. We are sensitive to the many nuances of the franchise relationship that affect the dispute resolution process and, when appropriate, actively explore opportunities to resolve disputes through mediation or arbitration.
We are able to help you in a wide range of franchise and distribution disputes, including claims for wrongful termination, breach of contract, tortious interference, fraud and misrepresentation, fraudulent earnings claims, unfair competition, trademark infringement, breach of confidentiality covenant, and breach of non-compete covenants.
Insurance Litigation
The Firm represents insureds and self-insureds in a wide variety of insurance related matters. We have litigated cases arising out of commercial and personal lines policies, including property and liability policies, workers compensation, title insurance and group and individual life and disability income insurance policies, in various federal and state courts through appeal.
We have represented clients in a broad array of matters including coverage disputes, retrospective premium disputes, premium finance frauds, title agent fraud, and first party matters. We are available to assist you in the following areas:
- Commercial General Liability
- Homeowners
- Builders Risk
- Insurance Fraud Matters
- Construction
- Workers Compensation
- Aviation
- Life & Disability
- Premium Finance Disputes
- Retrospective Premium Issues
- Subrogation
Construction Litigation
We assist developers, owners, general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers with construction matters. The Firm also assists these clients with coverage issues related to construction activities and litigates those issues when necessary. We have significant experience in construction defect litigation. We focus on developing creative approaches to resolving these cases. We can assist clients with the following construction matters:
- Architect & Engineer Liability Claims
- Construction Defect Claims
- Construction Insurance Issues
- Construction Site Accident Litigation
- Indemnity Issues
- Insurance Coverage Disputes
- Design Professionals Claim
- Environmental and Mold Claims
- Subrogation Issues
Employment Discrimination
The Firm represents individuals and businesses in employment discrimination matters including complex civil rights actions and whistleblower cases. We routinely handle sexual harassment, race, gender, age, disability, nationality, religious discrimination and retaliation claims. We also represent clients in wage claims, such as claims for overtime, minimum wage, and failure to pay compensation. Additionally, the Firm represents clients in state and federal civil rights actions and claims relating to freedom of speech, association, or mistreatment by state and federal officials.
Personal Injury
The Firm represents persons injured in automobile, truck, and motorcycle accidents. Whether the case involves complex legal issues or facts, the Firm is well positioned to bring experience and ability to bear on the case. The Firm also represents persons injured as a result of dangerous conditions on commercial or other property, including criminal assaults and trip and falls. We also handle serious injuries caused by medical malpractice and other professional liability matters.
Environmental Law
The firm represents individuals, families and organizations in claims for illness, disease, and other harms caused by environmental pollution of air, water and groundwater. We also represent the public, homeowners and organizations in public interest environmental matters to prevent or ameliorate harmful pollution or environmental destruction.
Marital & Family Law
The firm represents individualsin all aspects of marital and family law. The Firm’s marital law attorneys are frequently called upon for complex, difficult family law matters.
Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution
The Firm has provided alternative dispute resolution services since 1997. Terrance E. Schmidt, Esq., is a full-time mediator and AAA mediator/arbitrator who has also acted as a court-appointed special master and statutory mediator/arbitrator with respect to all aspects of civil disputes.