Mateer Harbert Partner Francis Pierce Named President of Florida Defense Lawyers Association

Francis Pierce, a partner at the Mateer Harbert law firm, has been named president of the Florida Defense Lawyers Association (FDLA). Pierce has been involved with FDLA for more than 30 years.
Founded in 1967, the FDLA was formed to bring together civil defense attorneys and to provide a forum for its members to exchange information and elevate the level of trial practice – thereby promoting the improvement of justice in Florida.
“During my term, I want to see members get the most ‘bang for their buck’ – the best return on their investment,” said Pierce. As president, he will uphold the Association’s founding principles as both a professional and family-friendly organization, but will also strive to cultivate a high level of practical educational and networking opportunities.
Pierce’s involvement in FDLA began in 1979, shortly after he began practicing law. He has previously served the Association as chair for the professional liability committee, secretary/treasurer and president elect.
As a partner at Mateer Harbert, Pierce leads the expanded medical malpractice and insurance practice areas. Pierce earned his undergraduate degree and his juris doctorate from the University of Florida. In addition to his participation in multiple professional associations, he has been admitted to The Florida Bar, United States District Court of Florida (Middle and Northern), 5th and 11th United States Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. He also actively lectures to a variety of legal and insurance professionals.