Garrett Tozier, a partner in Shutts & Bowen LLP’s Tampa office, moderated the “Judges Turned Litigators and What They Learned from Their Time on the Bench” CLE for the Appellate Practice Section of The Florida Bar on September 17, 2024.
The program explored the unique insights and perspectives that these former appellate jurists bring to their present-day litigation practices, discussing how their judicial experiences have shaped their strategies in litigation, negotiation, and client counseling. The program also covered practical tips for litigators on framing and presenting arguments, dealing with amicably with your opposing counsel, and handling the courtroom in a manner that avoids annoying the presiding judge or judges.
The objective of attending the session was for individuals to better understand how former judges interpret legal arguments and evidence; refine attendees’ approach to case preparation and presentation in court based on the panelist personal experience and advice; acquire techniques and strategies for effective appellate advocacy informed by the firsthand judicial experience of the panelists, including tips on persuasive legal writing and oral argument; and follow examples and case studies showing how these former judges have successfully applied their judicial experience to achieve favorable outcomes in litigation.
The course was approved for 1 Appellate Practice CLE credit.
To learn more about the CLE or to download the audio, click here.
About Garrett Tozier
Garrett A. Tozier is a partner in the Tampa office of Shutts & Bowen LLP, where he is a member of the Appellate Practice Group. Garrett represents clients in a wide range of appellate and litigation matters involving commercial disputes, business torts, real-property litigation, and class action and insurance defense. He is experienced in appellate advocacy and procedure in state and federal appellate courts, and routinely prepares briefs on merits, on jurisdiction, and for extraordinary writs in original proceedings. Garrett also provides pre-trial and trial support to litigators, assisting in the development of legal arguments and ensuring adequate preservation of issues necessary for appellate review.