Founding Partner

David Hayes

David is an experienced litigator who represents clients in complex business disputes, including shareholder disputes, derivative actions, contract disputes, and other business torts. David develops client-specific litigation strategies focused on achieving each client’s unique business and legal objectives. He also has significant experience litigating privacy and reputation disputes, and intellectual property matters in both state and federal court.

  • Florida State University, J.D., 2011
  • Florida State University, M.B.A., 2011
  • University of Michigan, B.A., 2008
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit
  • U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida
  • U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida
  • All Florida state courts
  • Obtained summary judgment for publicly traded company in a breach of contract case where plaintiff was seeking over $2 million in damages.
  • Obtained complete dismissal of breach of contract case in which plaintiff was seeking more than $400,000 in damages.
  • Defended internet affiliate marketing company in class action lawsuit alleging deceptive and unfair trade practices and claiming $7 million in damages. Obtained nominal settlement after demonstrating that the plaintiff could not certify a class.
  • Represented members of limited liability company in dispute among shareholders.
  • Represented agriculture and equipment dealer against manufacturer.
  • Represented securities broker-dealer through trial successfully prosecuting misappropriation of trade secret claims.
  • Represented small business owner in false advertising case and obtained $500,000 settlement.
  • Crossroads for Florida Kids, volunteer attorney ad-litem
  • American Inns of Court, Cheatwood Inn
  • Hillsborough County Bar Association
  • Hillsborough County Bar Association Leadership Institute
  • American Bar Association
  • Florida Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2020-2022
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Direct: (813) 868-6651
Main: (813) 834-9191

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5 Tips On Horse Buying From An Equine Lawyer

For most horse people, few things are as exciting as purchasing a horse. Unfortunately for some, buying a horse can be a difficult experience– emotions cloud buyer’s judgment, sellers...

5 Tips When Using Waivers in Your Horse Program

By Kimbrell J. Hines, Esq. Interacting with even the most gentle horse always involves some risk—accidents happen.  Horse owners and professionals can help protect their businesses by requiring...

A Lawyer’s Guide to Buying and Selling Horses

As the costs of purchasing and keeping horses continue to rise, so too are the number of lawsuits related to horse sale disputes. For far too many buyers and sellers, what should be an exciting...

WARNING: Posting A Sign Will Not Protect You

At your next visit to a barn or show, look around, and you will probably see at least one "WARNING" sign citing the state's equine law. Aside from Maryland and California, every state has an equine...

Heads Up on Florida Equestrian Helmet Law

By Kimbrell J. Hines, Attorney at Law Florida law requires individuals under the age of 16 to wear a properly fit, securely fastened, American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) certified...

So You Wanna Be a Cowboy, Huh?

With the growing popularity of shows like Yellowstone and 1883, there have been an increasing number of people taking an interest in horses and equestrian activities. Here in Florida, before saddling...