September 16, 2024
Congratulations to Marsha Moses of our Tampa office on her well-deserved appointment as Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Inns of Court! The Tampa Bay Inn of Court is committed to promoting professionalism, ethics, civility, and excellence within the legal community. Through its emphasis on example, education, and mentoring, the Inn works to advance the rule of law and elevate professional standards.
Marsha, who has been a member of the Tampa Bay Inn of Court for over a decade, is honored to take on this leadership role for the next two years.
To learn more about the American Inns of Court, please visit www.innsofcourt.org.
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September 15, 2024
We are proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, each year from September 15 – October 15.
Some of our own team members are a testament to the rich Hispanic cultural tapestry. Their individual stories and experiences highlight for us how Hispanic traditions and culture continue to shape and enhance our daily lives and work environment, making our firm not only more diverse but also more connected to the communities we serve.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage, we are reminded of the strength and beauty found in diversity.
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Some of our own team members are a testament to the rich Hispanic cultural tapestry. Their individual stories and experiences highlight for us how Hispanic traditions and culture continue to shape and enhance our daily lives and work environment, making our firm not only more diverse but also more connected to the communities we serve.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage, we are reminded of the strength and beauty found in diversity.
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September 12, 2024
Michelle Krone from our Fort Myers office will be attending the First Quarterly Meeting & CLE event hosted by the Virgil Hawkins Florida Chapter of the National Bar Association, alongside her KD colleague Tracie Reese from our Tampa office.
Michelle will be presenting "Rainmaking Mastery: Leveraging Networking for Legal Success," focusing on the critical role of relationship building in the legal profession.
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September 9, 2024
On September 4, 2024, the Third District Count of Appeal issued its opinion in Citizens Property Insurance Corporation v. Cheria Walden, which granted a writ of certiorari and quashed an order denying Citizens 's Motion to Dismiss the Complaint for failure to comply with pre-suit notice requirements under section 627.70152 of the Florida Statutes. The trial court denied the Motion to Dismiss on the basis that Florida Statute, Section 627.70152’s pre-suit notice requirements do not apply to a declaratory judgment action. The Third DCA determined that the trial court departed from the essential requirements of the law by denying the Motion to Dismiss, as the Complaint effectively alleged a breach of contract claim against Citizens, triggering the pre-suit notice requirements. This ruling means that property insurance carriers can seek dismissals if the pre-suit notice requirements of Florida Statute, Section 627.70152 are not met, even if a declaratory judgment action is pled that is a thinly veiled breach of contract claim. View the opinion here.
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August 20, 2024
The sky is the limit for Mark Young, of our West Palm Beach office, who received an invitation from the American Society of Civil Engineers to tour the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This exclusive tour offered Mark an insider’s view of critical aerospace infrastructure, including Launchpad 39B and the Vehicle Assembly Building.
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August 19, 2024
Back to school ready! Our teams in Orlando, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach rallied together to collect essential supplies for local students. Together, we're helping to ensure a successful start to the school year.
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August 15, 2024
We are proud to have several lawyers recognized in the 2025 editions of The Best Lawyers in America ® and the Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch™ in America.
For more information on the U.S. News - Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” rankings, please visit the “Best Law Firms” website here.
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For more information on the U.S. News - Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” rankings, please visit the “Best Law Firms” website here.
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August 13, 2024
We pride ourselves on supporting the growth and achievements of not only our team members but also, their families. We are thrilled to share the exciting accomplishments of Brooke Taylor, the daughter of one of our dedicated paralegals in Ft. Myers, Nigel Taylor.
Brooke is currently a standout student at UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management, where she is majoring in entertainment management with a minor in digital media. Her hard work and passion have led her to an incredible opportunity as a social media coordinator intern for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Based at NBC Sports headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, Brooke plays a crucial role in bringing the excitement of the Olympics to fans around the world.
In her role, Brooke is responsible for crafting engaging content that helps amplify the stories of athletes and celebrity hosts like Mike Tirico, Michael Phelps, Kelly Clarkson, and Snoop Dogg.
We are proud to see the next generation making waves in their respective fields, and Brooke’s success is a shining example of what can be achieved with determination and the right support system. Congratulations to Nigel and Brooke on her impressive accomplishments—we can’t wait to see what the future holds for her!
Read more about Brooke here.
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Brooke is currently a standout student at UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management, where she is majoring in entertainment management with a minor in digital media. Her hard work and passion have led her to an incredible opportunity as a social media coordinator intern for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Based at NBC Sports headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, Brooke plays a crucial role in bringing the excitement of the Olympics to fans around the world.
In her role, Brooke is responsible for crafting engaging content that helps amplify the stories of athletes and celebrity hosts like Mike Tirico, Michael Phelps, Kelly Clarkson, and Snoop Dogg.
We are proud to see the next generation making waves in their respective fields, and Brooke’s success is a shining example of what can be achieved with determination and the right support system. Congratulations to Nigel and Brooke on her impressive accomplishments—we can’t wait to see what the future holds for her!
Read more about Brooke here.
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August 7, 2024
We are proud to announce that several of our women attorneys have been recognized in the 9th Annual Best Lawyers® Women in Law Business Edition. This prestigious publication honors the exceptional achievements of women in the legal field, including those recognized as "Ones to Watch."
Laurie Adams- Personal Injury Litigation
Caryn Bellus- Appellate Practice
Angela Flowers- Appellate Practice
Jane Rankin- Real Estate Law
Leeza Newman- Construction Law and Insurance Law
These women exemplify leadership and dedication, and their inclusion in this edition reflects their hard work and commitment to excellence. Congratulations to all!
Best Lawyers is the oldest and most respected peer-review organization in the legal profession. It compiles its rankings through extensive surveys, where tens of thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their peers in local markets and specialties.
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Laurie Adams- Personal Injury Litigation
Caryn Bellus- Appellate Practice
Angela Flowers- Appellate Practice
Jane Rankin- Real Estate Law
Leeza Newman- Construction Law and Insurance Law
These women exemplify leadership and dedication, and their inclusion in this edition reflects their hard work and commitment to excellence. Congratulations to all!
Best Lawyers is the oldest and most respected peer-review organization in the legal profession. It compiles its rankings through extensive surveys, where tens of thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their peers in local markets and specialties.
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August 2, 2024
Congratulations to Mark Young, our newest Florida Bar Board Certified attorney in Construction Law! With a focus on complex construction law matters, Mark excels in representing a diverse clientele, from owners to contractors, in intricate disputes and high-stakes projects. His strategic counsel minimizes liability, making him an invaluable asset to clients.
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July 31, 2024
We are beyond proud to have earned the #2 spot in Law 360’s Annual Diversity Survey among firms with 101-250 attorneys!
This is a testament to our commitment to creating a space where everyone can succeed, grounded in our belief that strength comes from diversity. We look forward to continuing our efforts and making our team even stronger.
View opportunities to join the KD Family here! https://www.kubickidraper.com/careers
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This is a testament to our commitment to creating a space where everyone can succeed, grounded in our belief that strength comes from diversity. We look forward to continuing our efforts and making our team even stronger.
View opportunities to join the KD Family here! https://www.kubickidraper.com/careers
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July 29, 2024
In Univ. Prop. & Cas. Ins. Co. v. Qureshi, No. 4D2023-1338 (Fla. 4th DCA July 24, 2024), the Fourth District reversed a final judgment awarding damages based on an insurer’s failure to pay for water leak damage, holding that the insureds were erroneously permitted to present evidence of estimated repair costs when the repairs had not been made. The Court held that the plain language of the policy and section 627.7011(3)(a), Fla. Stat., requires payment for repairs “as work is performed and expenses are incurred.” The Court also declined to apply the doctrine of prevention of performance, which it described as “the circular argument that [an insurer’s] failure to tender payment for the estimated damages prevented the insureds from performing the repair work.” Instead, it certified conflict with the Third District’s decision in Citizens Prop. Ins. Co. v. Tio, 304 So. 3d 1278 (Fla. 3d DCA 2020), on which Judge Warner relied in a dissenting opinion. Thus, in the Fourth District, it appears that insureds cannot seek damages for estimated property repair costs unless the repairs were actually made or costs incurred. However, in the Third District, such damages may be available. We recommend objecting to an insured’s request for estimated repair costs damages in all districts when those damages have not been made or costs incurred. View the opinion here.
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July 24, 2024
Under section 44.103(5), Fla. Stat. (2021), “An arbitration decision shall be final if a request for trial de novo is not filed within” 20 days as required by Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.820(h). Since 2006, when the Fourth District decided Nicholson-Kenny Cap. Mgmt., Inc. v. Steinberg, 932 So. 2d 321 (Fla. 4th DCA 2006), it has not required a party to file a motion for trial de novo as long as there is “some notice” of their intent to reject an arbitration award and demand a trial. In Lawnwood Med. Ctr., Inc. v. Rouse, No. 4D2022-2637 (Fla. 4th DCA July 3, 2024), the Fourth District (en banc) receded from Nicholson-Kenny, finding that it conflicted with the plain language of section 44.103(5) and rule 1.820(h). The Court also ruled that motions for trial de novo with mere scrivener’s errors should not be rejected and that relief from a missed deadline was still available under Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.540(b). The Court certified conflict with two Second District decisions applying Nicholson-Kenny and noted that its decision was consistent with the First District’s approach. Thus, in the Fourth and First Districts, strict compliance with section 44.103(5) and rule 1.820(h) is required, but in the Second DCA it is not.
Considerations in application to our client's review of similarly situated scenarios include:
- If the client is requesting trial de novo, a motion for trial de novo must be filed within twenty days in the First and Fourth District's jurisdiction or it will not be granted.
- If the client misses the 20-day deadline, it may obtain relief by filing a motion for relief from judgment under rule 1.540(b).
- If the opposing party files an untimely motion for trial de novo, it should be opposed in all jurisdictions.
View the opinion here.
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July 23, 2024
We are proud to be recognized by the Daily Business Review and earn a spot on their coveted DBR 100 Rankings list.
This honor reflects our commitment to diversity, as we are the only firm on the list led by a team composed of over 50% women.
This achievement marks our ongoing journey toward a more impactful tomorrow.
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This honor reflects our commitment to diversity, as we are the only firm on the list led by a team composed of over 50% women.
This achievement marks our ongoing journey toward a more impactful tomorrow.
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July 22, 2024
Our Chief DEI Officer, Charles Watkins, presented, "Can We Prevent Human Bias From Becoming AI Bias?" as part of the ClaimsXchange Education On Location series. He presented with esteemed colleagues Maria Abate of Colodny Fass and Dwight Geddes of Metro Claims Management.
The series provides industry professionals the opportunity to network and share discussions regarding the industry's top themes.
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The series provides industry professionals the opportunity to network and share discussions regarding the industry's top themes.
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July 10, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our partner, colleague, and dear friend, Michael Sundance Walsh, on July 1, 2024. Mike was not only a remarkable attorney whose contributions, dedication, and spirit helped shape our journey and success, he was a cherished friend who had a smile for absolutely everyone.
Mike was one of a kind, and for over 25 years at KD, where he started as an associate and ultimately became an equity partner, his commitment to excellence and unwavering advocacy for our clients earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues, judges, clients, and his very devoted team. But it was sense of humor, genuine kindness, and desire to befriend everyone, that set him apart. He was the life of the party, always ready with a joke, and had more friends than one could count.
Mike was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, and earned his Juris Doctorate Degree from St. Thomas University. He was a faithful and vociferous Celtics and Patriots fan, always ready to prove their prowess to anyone at any time. He had a soft spot for animals, and was a steadfast supporter of local shelters and the Humane Society.
Mike enriched our lives in countless ways. As we mourn this tremendous loss, we also celebrate Mike’s life and legacy. We invite clients, colleagues, and friends to join us in honoring Mike’s memory.
In these difficult times, our thoughts and prayers are with Mike's family. We extend our deepest condolences to them and ask that you keep them in your thoughts as well.
Calling hours for Mike were held on Saturday, July 13th from Noon until 3:00 p.m. at O’Connor Brothers Funeral Home, 592 Park Avenue. In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to the Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden Street, Worcester, MA 01606.
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July 3, 2024
We are pleased to announce Ananta Rampersad, of our West Palm Beach office, has been appointed to the Florida Registered Paralegal Enrichment Committee of the Florida Bar Association.
The committee is dedicated to enhancing the professional development and educational opportunities of Florida Registered Paralegals through various outreach programs and educational initiatives.
Ananta brings a wealth of experience to this role, having served as a Florida paralegal prior to pursuing her law degree at St. Thomas University. Her background uniquely positions her to contribute to the committee’s mission, and we look forward to her valuable insights and active involvement.
For more information about the paralegal committee, click here.
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The committee is dedicated to enhancing the professional development and educational opportunities of Florida Registered Paralegals through various outreach programs and educational initiatives.
Ananta brings a wealth of experience to this role, having served as a Florida paralegal prior to pursuing her law degree at St. Thomas University. Her background uniquely positions her to contribute to the committee’s mission, and we look forward to her valuable insights and active involvement.
For more information about the paralegal committee, click here.
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July 2, 2024
Mark Young, from our West Palm Beach office, attended a Hindu Guru event presented by the Asian Pacific American Bar Association (APABA) and hosted by Holland & Knight.
Mark experienced a transformative presentation by Siddh Guru titled "Lessons on Peak Performance, Health, and Family." Siddh Guru enhanced his teachings with insights gained from his extensive travels to over 192 countries, all dedicated to the benefit of humanity.
Did you know?
Hinduism has 1.2 billion followers, making it the third largest religion in the world, following Christianity and Islam.
Thank you, Mark, for participating in this enlightening event and bringing back valuable insights for us to learn and grow from.
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Mark experienced a transformative presentation by Siddh Guru titled "Lessons on Peak Performance, Health, and Family." Siddh Guru enhanced his teachings with insights gained from his extensive travels to over 192 countries, all dedicated to the benefit of humanity.
Did you know?
Hinduism has 1.2 billion followers, making it the third largest religion in the world, following Christianity and Islam.
Thank you, Mark, for participating in this enlightening event and bringing back valuable insights for us to learn and grow from.
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June 27, 2024
We are pleased to announce Benjamin Bourdon's appointment to the Diversity and Inclusion Committee of the Palm Beach County Bar Association.
The committee's mission is to advance diversity and inclusion in the local legal community through educational initiatives, community outreach, and social engagement, promoting an inclusive environment that respects people of varied backgrounds, religions, sexual orientations, and abilities. We look forward to Benjamin's impactful contributions in furthering these goals!
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The committee's mission is to advance diversity and inclusion in the local legal community through educational initiatives, community outreach, and social engagement, promoting an inclusive environment that respects people of varied backgrounds, religions, sexual orientations, and abilities. We look forward to Benjamin's impactful contributions in furthering these goals!
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June 25, 2024
Tracie Reese, from our Tampa office, recently participated in a series of events at the Annual Florida Bar Convention.
On the first day, she attended the Blue and Gold E-Board Installation Gala, hosted by the Florida Association for Women Lawyers (FAWL). Tracie is set to serve as the 2024-2025 Journal Committee Chair.
On the second day, she was sworn in as Secretary of the Virgil Hawkins Florida Chapter of the National Bar Association.
Additionally, she participated in FAWL’s Executive Board Retreat and attended the Henry T. Latimer Awards Luncheon, formerly known as the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee Luncheon.
We are proud of Tracie's dedication to networking and professional growth, and we congratulate her on her achievements!
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On the first day, she attended the Blue and Gold E-Board Installation Gala, hosted by the Florida Association for Women Lawyers (FAWL). Tracie is set to serve as the 2024-2025 Journal Committee Chair.
On the second day, she was sworn in as Secretary of the Virgil Hawkins Florida Chapter of the National Bar Association.
Additionally, she participated in FAWL’s Executive Board Retreat and attended the Henry T. Latimer Awards Luncheon, formerly known as the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee Luncheon.
We are proud of Tracie's dedication to networking and professional growth, and we congratulate her on her achievements!
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