About Me

I was born in New Orleans and raised in St. Petersburg to educator parents who instilled a strong sense of justice and believed in public service. After graduating from Bishop Barry High School (now known as St. Petersburg Catholic High School) I obtained a Bachelors degree from Xavier University of New Orleans and my law degree from University of Florida. I became the first African American prosecutor in Pinellas County and practiced law in my own firm. I lived in Chicago for several years under the mentorship of the civil rights activist priest, Father George Clements.

After returning to Florida I was elected President of the St. Petersburg Branch NAACP where for 3 terms over 5 years I led the charge for justice and people's rights. I continued to serve the public by being selected to the transition teams of Attorney General and then Governor Charlie Crist.

This public service and prominence in fighting for the rights of others resulted in my being elected to the Florida House of Representatives (2008 - 2016) representing Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota and Hillsborough Counties. Then in 2016, I was elected to the Florida Senate, District 19, serving portions of Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties.

In 2017 because of my passion for helping others I was appointed to the very powerful Constitutional Revision Commission (CRC) which meets every 20 years to consider changes to the Florida Constitution.

With Rubenstein Law, I proudly join a team of dedicated hard-charging, personal injury professionals who fight for the injured. 

Expertise

Personal injury including but not limited to:

• Auto Accidents
• Negligence and Premises Liability
• Serious Injury cases
• Medical Negligence 

Education and Accolades

• Bishop Barry High School (NKA St. Petersburg Catholic High)
• Xavier University of New Orleans
• University of Florida Law School

Elected and Appointed Office

• 2008 Florida State Representative, D-70
• 2016 Florida Senator, D-19
• 2007 Commissioner, Tax And Budget Reform Commission
• Fred G. Minnis Bar Assoc
• Florida Bar
• National Bar Assoc, Virgil Hawkins Chapter