Local Counsel for South Florida Business Litigation
Practical Support for Attorneys Handling Florida Matters
For attorneys handling Florida matters
Local Support. Clear Responsibilities.
When your client’s dispute brings you to South Florida, a clear division of responsibilities and familiarity with the forum can help keep the matter moving.
Matthew Fornaro works with outside attorneys on business litigation, providing local support tailored to the case and the agreed scope of representation.
Based in Coral Springs, the firm serves attorneys handling matters in Broward County and South Florida.
Support that fits your matter
Local Counsel Services
Local procedure & coordination
Review applicable local rules, court procedures, and case requirements with counsel familiar with the jurisdiction.
Coordinate assignments, communications, and upcoming dates so the team understands who is responsible for each task.
Litigation assistance
Discuss assistance with hearings, discovery, motion practice, or other parts of a commercial dispute.
The scope depends on the matter, scheduling, court requirements, and the engagement agreed upon by counsel and the client.
Pro hac vice coordination
For attorneys not admitted in the relevant court, discuss the applicable admission process and local counsel requirements.
Admission is subject to the court’s rules and approval; requirements differ between state and federal courts.
Set expectations early
Define the Working Relationship
Address the work to be performed, review and filing responsibilities, hearing attendance, client communications, and fees before the engagement begins.
Local counsel’s obligations are governed by applicable professional and court rules as well as the engagement. A limited assignment should not be assumed to eliminate responsibilities imposed by those rules.
Topics to discuss
- Court, division, and case number
- Parties and counsel for a conflicts review
- Case posture and upcoming deadlines
- Requested hearings or discovery assistance
- Admission status and procedural requirements
- Communication, staffing, and billing
A business litigation perspective
Work with the Existing Legal Team
Matthew’s practice includes contract disputes and other commercial litigation. Local assistance can bring another perspective to the documents, arguments, and practical decisions in a case while supporting coordination with the existing legal team.
Your questions, answered
Local Counsel FAQs
Can lead counsel remain involved?
Yes. Local counsel can work alongside the existing legal team. The allocation of work, client communications, and court responsibilities should be discussed and documented at the outset.
Can I request help with a specific hearing or task?
Discuss the requested assignment, court, date, and preparation needed. Acceptance depends on availability, conflicts, the scope of the matter, and applicable court and professional requirements.
Does retaining local counsel authorize an out-of-state attorney to appear?
No. Any required admission must be obtained through the relevant court’s process. Local counsel arrangements and pro hac vice admission are related but distinct questions.
What should I provide when making an inquiry?
Start with the parties’ names for a conflicts review, the court, case number if available, general nature of the dispute, requested assistance, and upcoming dates. Coordinate the exchange of substantive case materials after the initial review.
Discuss Your Florida Matter
Contact the firm to discuss the assistance your team needs and the next steps for a potential engagement.
Related Business Legal Services
Business Litigation · Arbitration & Mediation · Business Transactions
