My Lengthy Practice
Since 2012
I've displayed the adaptability and patience as a Certified Mediator for six years. In that time, I've advocated, taught, and mediated civil disputes, Florida Bar Grievance & Ethics disputes and foreclosures, thus enhancing the necessary alertness and objectivity. My lengthy practice background as both a defense attorney and a plaintiff's attorney have given me the credibility and understanding of each side's unique issues. Lastly, my experience on The Florida Bar Board of Governors and in community service have given me the leadership and organizational skills to be effective and successful in alternative dispute resolution (ADR). In order to better serve you, I dedicate my time exclusively to Mediation Practice.
Background & Experience
Beginning practice in a large firms' Litigation Dept., I moved from there to the U.S. Attorney's Office, ultimately becoming Chief of the Criminal Division. In addition to supervision, I prosecuted primarily white collar and public corruption cases.
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Returning to private practice as a civil trial attorney, I've handled litigation for both plaintiffs and defendants, with some emphasis in the defense of product liability, medical malpractice, negligence, personal injury and complicated commercial issues. In addition to numerous equipment manufacturers, I have represented in pharmaceuticals and chemical matters. I've also represented self insureds and carriers (primary and excess).
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More recently, I've maintained a diverse litigation agenda, encompassing virtually all areas of plaintiff's representation from commercial transactions to personal injury.
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Serving as a court appointed Abitrator/Mediator on matters involving the Uninsured Motorists Fund and inter-insurance company coverage issues has helped my background knowledge here.
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My experience and background are diverse. I've participated in arbitrations/mediations involving construction contracts, commercial, and accounting matters. I have represented medical and dental professionals before licensing and regulatory Boards; defended police officers in Sec. 1983 actions; assisted parties in labor issue arbitration; and testified as an expert in seaworthiness/seamanship of recreational vessels.
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I enjoy presenting in the Bar's CLE Programs and Inns of Court and sharing trial practice techniques with colleagues and local high school trail teams.
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I've very honored to be accepted as an Adjunct Professor; Trial Team Coach; Advocate of ABOTA; and author.
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I would feel privileged to serve as your Certified Civil Court Mediator or Approved Arbitrator.
Personals
Richard A. Tanner
I recently migrated a southerly course from New Jersey to Tallahassee to Sarasota.
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Currently living in Sarasota, I enjoy local comedy clubs, bands, theater, and teaching in Florida Bar Groups and local high school Trial Teams.
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When not mediating or teaching, I also enjoy recreational boating, kayaking, fishing with my son, and RV camping in Florida’s State Parks and historic sites.
And when the weather prevents those outdoor activities, I'm always content with the company of friends and family over a home cooked meal or a pizza.
