Department profile
Akerman LLP

Litigation: Appellate

USA Guide 2026 : Florida


Akerman LLP

Rankings

About

Provided by Akerman LLP

Akerman’s appellate practice is a national powerhouse with demonstrated success in handling appeals related to complex commercial litigation. Akerman’s team has handled thousands of matters in federal and state appellate courts, particularly in the areas of financial services, insurance, healthcare, and real estate. The team has experience in numerous jurisdictions and can effectively handle class actions throughout the U.S.

Team members frequently assist trial lawyers during all phases of litigation, preserving errors for appeal, drafting motions and responses, and providing strategic advice on the best approach for seeking relief on appeal. The team also represents clients in highly specialized administrative appeals involving high-profile issues, and we promote their interests through amicus curiae briefs when they are not a party to an appeal but have a substantial interest in the outcome.

Service Offerings:

  • Appeals in federal and state appellate courts
  • Assess trial records and evaluate issues for appeal
  • Consult with trial lawyers throughout litigation to preserve issues for appeal, including attending key hearings and trial where warranted
  • Provide guidance and feedback for optimal brief and oral argument preparation through Akerman Bench, led by a distinguished team of former appellate and trial court judges, experienced advocates, and former state and federal law clerks

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Litigation: Appellate - Florida

Band 1

Band 1


What the Team is Known For

Akerman maintains an excellent reputation for its strong appellate practice, composed of former judges and highly experienced attorneys. The firm routinely represents clients at both federal and state levels and offers expertise in a wide range of commercial disputes, including shareholder derivative actions.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Akerman advised Carnival Cruise Lines in litigation that saw the US Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit overturn a $440 million judgment against multiple cruise operators.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Akerman has a strong bench throughout the state.

    Litigation: Appellate respondentUSA

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Gerald Cope
    Band 1Gerald Cope

    Gerald Cope

    Gerald Cope has a wide-ranging practice, which includes acting as an arbitrator and consultant as well as representing individuals and large organisations in local and federal appeals.

    • Gerald can capture what resonates and get the attention of judges. That's the gift that he has, based on his experience as a judge.

      Litigation: Appellate respondentUSA
    • Gerald identifies issues I've never thought of. His briefing, work product and argument are all top-notch.

      Litigation: Appellate respondentUSA
    • When I think of an appellate practitioner, Gerald is the pinnacle of greatness, finding the issues and drilling down into them, communicating succinctly and identifying the themes that resonate.

      Litigation: Appellate respondentUSA
  • Band 2Kristen Fiore
    Band 2Kristen Fiore

    Kristen Fiore

    Kristen Fiore is an experienced appellate attorney who handles a wide range of appeals, including bankruptcy, insurance and real estate-related disputes.
    • Kristen is a tough litigator.

      Litigation: Appellate respondentUSA
    • She is a fierce advocate for her clients and works very hard for them.

      Litigation: Appellate respondentUSA
  • Band 3Diane DeWolf
    Band 3Diane DeWolf

    Diane DeWolf

    Diane DeWolf adeptly handles civil and administrative appeals before both the Florida Supreme Court and district courts.

Ranked Individuals at Akerman LLP (3)

Florida

Members

Provided by Akerman LLP

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