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Profile of Thomas H. McGowan—Attorney at Law

Representing Florida clients in the St. Petersburg area

I began practicing law in Florida in 1977. I have been based in St. Petersburg for over 30 years, and I have managed my own law practice for more than ten years. Throughout my legal career, I have enjoyed representing the underdog and prevailing in cases such as—

  • Helping people who suffered financial loss in business through the fault of others
  • Guiding spouses through divorce to a better result than they expected
  • Showing family members that an estate dispute can be handled effectively
  • Defending those who exercised First Amendment rights in an unpopular way

I focus on these types of cases because they allow me to do the most good for my clients.

Looking at every possible solution to resolve disputes

I believe that the art of negotiation is a skill necessary to obtain good results. I always look for ways to avoid using the courts as the first resort to problem solving, and I help you conduct your personal and business affairs in ways that can protect you from litigation. However, when there is a need to use the court system, you can count on me to advocate your position in court—no matter who or what the opposition may be.

Practice areas

Admitted to practice

  • All Florida state courts, 1977
  • 11th Circuit Court of Appeals
  • United States Court of Claims
  • United States Supreme Court
  • U.S. District Court
    • Southern District of Florida
    • Middle District of Florida

Education

  • Nova University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Juris Doctor, 1977
  • Florida State University
    • Master of Arts in International Affairs, 1971
    • Bachelor of Arts in History, Government and Religion, 1970

Teaching and lecturing

  • Caring and Sharing of Pinellas County and Suncoast AIDS Network, Inc., speaker and pro bono counsel, 1995–1996
  • Nova Southeastern University Law Center, Adjunct Professor, Legal Writing and Research, 1978–1979
  • Caring and Sharing, Inc., regular speaker on Americans With Disabilities Act

Affiliations

  • St. Raphael's Church
  • National Moot Court Trial Practice Competition, judge since 1990
  • City of St. Petersburg Labor Arbitration Program, special master since 1979
  • Florida Bar, member since 1977

Get legal counsel from an experienced attorney in St. Petersburg

To schedule an appointment with me, please contact the office of Thomas H. McGowan, P.A.—Attorney at Law.