J. Stephen McDonald
Partner

Recognized by Martindale-Hubbell as an AV-rated attorney, Steve specializes in commercial litigation, appellate practice, civil trial practice and complex business litigation.

Handling a broad spectrum of litigation cases, Steve typically represents business entities or individuals involved in everything from shareholder and contract disputes to employment issues like non-competes. Much of his time is also spent in trust and probate litigation, along with real estate and construction litigation.

With going to trial being an obvious reality of litigation, Steve relishes the idea of “being called in when a case becomes contentious.” As such, he is tough, diligent and detail oriented. At the same time, he takes pride in avoiding trial when it is in the client’s best interest by negotiating settlements or mediating disputes. Not coincidentally, Stephen is among the 2008 Legal Elite, as selected by Florida Trend magazine.

Stephen is a member of the Orange County Bar Association; Florida Bar; American Trial Lawyers Association; Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers, President’s Club; Senior Counsel, American College of Barristers; Senior Counsel, The College of Master Advocates and Barristers; and Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

Admission
Admitted to Bar 1985, Florida; U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida, 1985; U.S. Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit, 1988; U.S. Court of Appeals, D.C. Circuit, 1994.

Education
University of Florida, B.A., 1981; Member: Golden Key Honor Society; Florida State University College of Law, J.D., 1984; Law Clerk to Chief Judge Richard W. Ervin (1984) and Chief Judge Anne Cawthon Booth (1985), Florida First District Court of Appeal.

Awards
2009, Legal Elite, Florida Trend magazine.

Martindale-Hubbell Rating:
AV