MARKS GRAY, P.A. - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- of Counsel
- Professional Staff Member
Carol leads the team handling complex auto liability insurance coverage matters and related litigation as well as auto insurance extra-contractual litigation. With more than 25 years of experience practicing insurance law, she has litigated and tried cases in the state and federal courts throughout Florida.
Today, Carol focuses her practice on representing insurance carriers in first and third-party insurance bad faith claims, extra-contractual claims, and other insurance coverage matters. She also offers assistance and advice to her clients concerning pre-suit matters, including multi-claimant exposures, conditional settlement demands, civil remedy notice responses, and coverage opinions.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- American Inn of Court, Associate
- American Inn of Court, Master
- Inn of Court, Alumni Member
- Inn of Court, Associate
- Inn of Court, Emeritus Member
- Inn of Court, Master
Courtney M. Johnson is a partner at Marks Gray, P.A. Her practice focuses on the defense of cases involving premises liability, products liability, trucking and auto liability, and general negligence claims.
Mrs. Johnson also practices in the areas of Surrogacy and Assisted Reproductive Technologies. Following a six-year infertility journey, Mrs. Johnson and her husband used a gestational surrogate to carry and deliver their son, who was born in 2020. She understands firsthand the pain of infertility and uses her personal and professional knowledge to compassionately advocate for those seeking to grow their families through surrogacy and assisted reproductive technologies.
Job Titles:
- Professional Staff Member
- Shareholder
Shareholder Crystal Broughan's practice focuses primarily on intellectual property (IP) matters such as trademarks, trade secrets, copyright infringement cases, and domain name disputes. She prepares and files trademark and copyright applications, licensing agreements, non-compete and non-disclosure agreements for a wide variety of clients. In addition, she represents clients before the Trademark Trials and Appeals Board on trademark disputes and the World Intellectual Property Organization on domain name disputes.
Ms. Broughan also manages third-party and first-party insurance defense cases, insurance investigations and litigation on behalf of insurance companies' special investigation units and multiple claims investigation units.
Job Titles:
- Professional Staff Member
- Senior Attorney
Mr. Birk has practiced with Marks Gray, P.A. since June 1999 and as a partner in the law firm since January 2003. Mr. Birk is a News Media & First Amendment attorney. In addition, he represents clients in municipal liability, E.R.I.S.A. Benefits; Employment; Fair Labor Standards Act; and Products Liability.
Previously, he served as a law clerk to U.S. District Judge Lacy A. Collier. Before becoming a lawyer, Mr. Birk worked as a reporter and editor for The Associated Press in Boston, Miami and Tallahassee from 1983 to 1989. He also worked for the Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles, as Public Information Administrator from 1989 to 1992.
Job Titles:
- Partner
- Professional Staff Member
Mr. Booth is best known for his Aviation Law practice that includes crash litigation, representation of clients before the FAA and NTSB, and serving as legal counsel to airport authorities and aircraft owners and operators. He was the first attorney in Florida to become Board Certified in Aviation Law by the Florida Bar. Mr. Booth is a frequent guest commentator on Jacksonville's WJXT Channel 4 on topics related to aviation and air safety and appeared on national and international news on matters related to air disasters.
Mr. Booth's general litigation practice focuses on handling complex civil litigation involving product liability, trucking and transportation, construction, premises liability, and asbestos. His former prosecutor experience strongly positions him to defend white collar criminal matters. Mr. Booth has tried over 50 jury trials in federal and state courts and has received the highest Martindale Hubbell AV rating.
As an experienced pilot and aircraft owner with a multi-engine Air Transport License and over 3,600 hours of flight experience, Mr. Booth has firsthand knowledge of aircraft operations, issues and regulations.
Frederick H. Kent III serves as the firm president and leads the real estate law practice area at Marks Gray. He has extensive experience in the areas of commercial real estate and secured/real estate lending. He and his team, represent corporations and individuals with the purchase and sale of real estate. He also represents lenders and borrowers in connection with financing the purchase and construction of improvements on real estate.
Mr. Kent's practice includes drafting and negotiating commercial leases, construction and construction lien law, mortgage/lien foreclosures, residential real estate matters, title insurance and the clearing of title defects. Mr. Kent supports other areas of the firm's commercial practice including commercial litigation and estate and probate matters.
Jerry Weedon's practice is focused on litigation and business law including all aspects of insurance, automobile and trucking liability, business torts, premises liability, real estate, foreclosure and banking law, products liability, contracts, corporation and estates, and trusts. He is board certified by the Florida Bar in both civil and business litigation.
Job Titles:
- Professional Staff Member
- Shareholder
Giselle Carson is a recognized corporate immigration and compliance attorney. She partners with employers to help them hire and retain global talent and develop effective immigration strategies to remain competitive and compliant in a global economy.
As a two-time immigrant, Ms. Carson has experienced the challenges and joy of immigration. She was born in Cuba, escaped to Canada and later immigrated to the U.S. She now uses her personal and professional experience to help employers and foreign nationals save time, effort and stress by helping them navigate the complexities of immigration law with client-attentive efficiencies and strategic partnership.
Her practice is focused on business immigration. Her work includes helping businesses and individuals obtain work visas, permanent residence status ("green card") and naturalization. She also guides organizations on immigration compliance including Form I-9 and government audits.
She is a published author and renowned speaker on immigration matters. In 2017, she published her book Beyond the H-1B: A Guide to Work Visa Options for Employers, Foreign Nationals, and Graduating Students. Described as "very well written book, easy to read, easy to understand! This book helps clarify the complex categories of work visas beyond the H-1B. A must read if you are involved in hiring foreign nationals."
She is married to Jeff, a physical therapist. They are both accomplished Ironman Triathletes and Marathoners. She is fluent in Spanish, French, and English.
Janice Richardson's practice focuses on Estate Planning, helping families financially plan for their future and assisting with the financial security of their future generations. She received a B.S. from Middle Tennessee State University and her J.D. from the Shepard Broad Law Center at Nova Southeastern University. Richardson is admitted to practice in Tennessee and Florida.
Jep Barbour handles a wide variety of high exposure, complex civil litigation cases including medical malpractice, professional liability, product liability, general tort liability, and commercial litigation. He received a B.B.A. from Stetson University and his J.D. from Stetson University College of Law in 1982. Barbour is a Jacksonville native and has practiced law at Marks Gray, P.A. since 1982.
Job Titles:
- Professional Staff Member
- Shareholder
Jep Barbour handles a wide variety of high exposure, complex civil litigation cases including medical malpractice, professional liability, product liability, general tort liability, and commercial litigation. He received a B.B.A. from Stetson University and his J.D. from Stetson University College of Law in 1982. Barbour is a Jacksonville native and has practiced law at Marks Gray, P.A. since 1982.
Job Titles:
- of Counsel
- Professional Staff Member
Attorney John R. Crawford is Board Certified by the Florida Bar in Tax Law. He counsels professionals and business owners in the business, tax, and asset protection, as well as individuals in estate and tax planning matters and elder law issues from both his downtown Jacksonville and The Beaches offices.
His practice also includes substantial probate matters as well as formation and reorganization of business entities (including corporations, limited liability matters, and limited family partnerships) and preparation of contracts, including merger/acquisition, and buy/sell agreements.
Mr. Crawford is a past Chairman of the Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of St. Augustine. He is currently a member of the Board of Directors of the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Foundation. He is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. Mr. Crawford has been selected to Florida's Super Lawyers® list in 2006, 2007, and 2011-2017. Only 5% of the lawyers in Florida earn the Super Lawyers honor.
Mr. Crawford is admitted to practice in the United States Tax Court, the. U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida, and All Florida and Georgia state courts.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Professional Staff Member
Julianna Favale's practice focuses on intellectual property, municipal liability, medical malpractice defense and insurance defense. Julianna received her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a specialization in Law Studies from the University of Florida. She received her law degree l at Florida State University College of Law. During her time at Florida State University College of Law, Julianna was a member and national finalist on the FSU Law Trial Team, Treasurer of the Student Bar Association, President of the Women's Law Symposium and Chapter Representative of the Florida Association of Women Lawyers. Prior to joining Marks Gray, Julianna was a law clerk for the General Counsel for the Executive Office of the Florida Governor.
Outside of practicing law, she finds joy in volunteering, running, snowboarding, playing intramural flag football, and immersing herself in live music.
An avid baseball fan, she dreams of visiting all 30 MLB Baseball Stadiums. Julianna's adventurous spirit has led her to hike the Inca Trail and camp on the breathtaking Andes Mountains.
Kendall Manini is an associate who practices in the areas of government liability, medical liability, insurance defense, commercial litigation, and employment and labor law. Mrs. Manini received her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Political Science, cum laude, from Georgia College & State University in 2017. She attended law school at the University of Florida Levin College of Law and received her Juris Doctor in 2020. In her free time, she likes to cheer on the Atlanta Braves and go to NHRA drag races.
Kevin P. Russell joined Marks Gray in April of 2019 as its Chief Operating Officer. With over 25 years of experience managing law firms he is responsible for all financial, business and marketing operations for Marks Gray. Prior to joining Marks Gray he served as the COO for a Miami-based litigation firm for 6 years as well as other firms in Florida, the Midwest and New England.
Education
University of Idaho, B.S. in Political Science with honors
Professional Affiliations
Association of Legal Administrators, International
ALA Jacksonville Chapter
ALA Central Florida Chapter
American Bar Association
Charitable and Community Involvement
First Coast Cultural Center, Board Member, 2020 to Present
Beaches Habitat for Humanity, Crew Leader, 1996 to Present
Cleveland Orchestra-Miami, Advisory Board Member & Secretary, 2015-2019
Job Titles:
- Member of the Vestry and Executive Committee
- Chalice Administrator
Job Titles:
- Partner
- City of Jacksonville As an Assistant General Counsel
Leigh F. Rosenbloom was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2010. She is a member of the Jacksonville Bar Association, Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association, and the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. Ms. Rosenbloom is a seasoned litigator with significant experience in multiple areas of Florida Law including, but not limited to, criminal law, civil defense of governmental entities, personal injury defense, civil and constitutional rights claims, administrative hearings, and prosecution of civil and criminal citations.
Ms. Rosenbloom began her legal career with the Office of the State Attorney for the Fourth Judicial Circuit where she handled thousands of cases varying from municipal ordinance violations to capital felonies. There she tried more than 30 jury trials to verdict in numerous specialty divisions including Juvenile, the Special Victims Unit, and the cold case sexual assault unit (SAKI).
After nearly ten years as a prosecutor, Ms. Rosenbloom joined the City of Jacksonville as an Assistant General Counsel in the torts, employment, and regulatory department where she represented the City and its independent agencies in both state and federal court.
When not practicing law, Leigh enjoys reading, playing tennis, and spending time on the St. Johns River with her husband, Carter, and their two children. They also enjoy cheering on the Florida Gators and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Logan K. McEwen is a partner who practices in the areas of intellectual property, commercial litigation, tort liability, and real estate. He assists businesses in navigating registration and licensing of intellectual property, regulatory compliance, consumer relations, business-to-business agreements, and litigation. He advises on a wide array of topics from transactional reassessment, operating contracts, insurance coverage, premises liability, to corporate internal governance disputes and mergers and acquisitions. A native of Pensacola, Florida Mr. McEwen resides in Jacksonville with his wife, Darci, and two daughters. When not practicing law, he enjoys reading, playing music, and woodworking.
Mallory Curtis is the marketing coordinator for Marks Gray, bringing a variety of experience and enthusiasm to her role since joining the team in July 2022. Before embarking on her marketing journey, Mallory worked as a paralegal for five years at a local law firm, developing an understanding of the legal industry and client needs.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Mallory finds joy in the simple moments spent with her husband and two daughters. Whether soaking up the sun at the beach, venturing into a state park, or creating cherished memories at home, Mallory values quality time with her family above all else.
Education
University of North Florida, B.S. in Communication, Public Relations, 2020
Florida State College at Jacksonville, A.A., with honors, 2016
West Nassau High School, 2011
Certifications
Digital Marketing Certified - Good2bSocial Academy
Professional Affiliations
Legal Marketing Association
Public Relations Society of America
Marlana J. Johnson joined Marks Gray as an associate attorney in August 2022. She primarily focuses her practice on matters involving medical malpractice, but also handles a wide variety of other civil litigation claims. Mrs. Johnson graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Drake University in 2014, majoring in Management with concentration in Law and Business. She then earned a Juris Doctor, cum laude, from the University of Florida, Levin College of Law in 2017. While in law school, Mrs. Johnson was a Dean's List scholar and received a Book Award in Trial Practice. She was also Co-President of the Employment and Labor Law Society and a member of the Alternative Dispute Resolution competition team. Mrs. Johnson was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2017 and is a member of the Jacksonville Bar Association. When not practicing law, she loves touring wineries, going to the beach, and kayaking.
Mary Bland Love practices medical and general civil liability. Ms. Love represents the defense in hospital and physician liability cases and physicians before the Department of Health. She enjoys contributing to community organizations which serve the intellectually and developmentally disabled. She serves on the St. Vincent's Riverside Patient and Family Advisory Council. She is an Elder and former Clerk of the Session at her church, St. Johns Presbyterian. At leisure, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, enjoying the outdoors and traveling.
Job Titles:
- Senior Attorney
- Head of the Marks Gray Business Practice Group
Nick is the head of the Marks Gray Business Practice Group and serves as "outside general counsel" for many businesses, corporations, and professionals including banks, medical practice groups, doctors, investment advisory companies, real estate development companies, general contractors, military contractors, and law firms. He also handles business acquisitions and mergers, business organization, estate planning, and trusts, consulting on environmental issues, leases, employment agreements, shareholder agreements and assisting clients in most other business-related matters.
Job Titles:
- of Counsel
- Professional Staff Member
Rhonda was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1989 after graduating top of her class from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. Her undergraduate degree was also obtained from the University of Florida where she was an Outstanding Four Year Scholar with a 4.0-grade point average. She began her legal career as a commercial litigator in a full-service Jacksonville, Florida firm, representing corporations and individuals in the areas of business torts, antitrust and unfair competition, class actions, mortgage brokerage receiverships, professional liability, administrative disciplinary matters, bid protests, and real estate litigation. Boggess focuses on insurance coverage issues, defending extra liability claims and appeals in the state and federal courts. In June 2019, Rhonda obtained her Board Certification in Appellate Practice by The Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization and Education.
Additionally, she has received an AV® Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has been recognized as a Florida Super Lawyer in the area of appellate law by Super Lawyers for the years 2015 through 2023.
When Rhonda isn't busy practicing law, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband, Ken, and four children.
Job Titles:
- Professional Staff Member
- Retired Shareholder
Stephen B. Gallagher focused his practice on civil litigation, with particular emphasis on cases involving personal injury, medical malpractice, and municipal liability.
Mr. Gallagher joined Marks Gray in 1993. He is a member of the Florida Bar, California Bar, Florida Defense Lawyers Association, and Jacksonville Association of Defense Counsel (Past President). The Martindale-Hubbell organization has conferred upon Mr. Gallagher an AV Preeminent® peer review rating, its highest rating, after receiving extensive input from his peers in the legal profession. He is on the Board of Directors of the Notre Dame Club of North Florida and serves on the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Mandarin, Florida.
Education
University of Notre Dame, B.A.
University of Pennsylvania's Wharton Graduate School, MBA
University of Florida, 1977, J.D.
Job Titles:
- Professional Staff Member
- Shareholder
Ms. Erdelyi has litigated claims for wrongful termination, disability, age, race and gender discrimination, sexual harassment, wage and hour, whistleblower, First Amendment discrimination, due process, unpaid wages, and other employment and civil rights issues. As the former City Attorney for the City of Jacksonville Beach, Ms. Erdelyi represents public entities, including municipalities and counties. She also represents private employers and employees, on a selective basis. Ms. Erdelyi is also a frequent speaker on employment law topics at seminars and client presentations.
Tyler J. Oldenburg's practice is focused on litigation, including all aspects of business disputes, business torts, creditor's rights and collection work, shareholder/partnership disputes, non-compete litigation, bankruptcy, real estate litigation, and trade secret litigation. Mr. Oldenburg also handles a variety of transactional matters, including real estate transactions, business organization, acquisitions and mergers, leases, employment agreements, and shareholder agreements.
Job Titles:
- Professional Staff Member
- Retired Shareholder
William Corley has a practice focused on civil litigation specializing in brain injuries, drugs and medical devices, mass tort litigation, products liability, and motor vehicle litigation. His clients include Jacksonville University, Stetson University, Medtronic Inc., Baxter Healthcare, Dow Corning, Abbott Laboratories, and Medmarc. Mr. Corley has practiced law with Marks Gray since 1982.