My education and work experience includes a B.A.Degree from Bethune-Cookman University (1980), Juris Doctor Degree from Stetson University College of Law (1983), Florida Bar Admission (1983),Board Certification in Crimnal Law (1994), Assistant Public Defender/Division Director, Managing Attorney and Lead Trial Counsel (1984-1996), Senior Attorney , Lead Trial Counsel, In House Counsel for State Farm Insurance Company.  As an attorney, I have tried more than 130 criminal and civil cases including 12 Death Penalty Hearings.  I have presided over thousands of cases since my appointment as a Pinellas County Judge in 2006.  My teaching philosophy is to promote academic excellence and encourage every student to enter college to learn and depart to serve.  My interests include golfing, mentoring, reading, writing, sports, and chess.