James Joanos

Serving the State of Florida for over two decades as a judge on the First District Court of Appeal, including serving as Chief Judge from 1991-1993, James E. Joanos’s practice at Akerman focuses on advising clients in civil and administrative appeals. Prior to serving as appellate judge, he served as a trial judge on the Second Judicial Circuit of Florida for eight years.

A member of Akerman’s Appellate Practice, Jim’s deep experience helps clients in a range of appellate activities, including preparing lawyers for oral arguments and other hearings throughout the United States.

In addition to assisting appeals, he serves as a member of Akerman Bench: Mock Oral Arguments & Appellate/Trial Support and frequently provides guidance in mock oral arguments both within the firm and for other firms.

Education :

• LL.B., Yale Law School, 1962
• B.S., Florida State University, Public Administration , 1956

Bar Admissions : Florida

Court Admissions :

• U.S. District Court, Northern District of Florida

Professional Experience :

• Florida State University, School of Criminology and Justice, Adjunct Professor, Courses in Native American Justice, 2001-2003
• First District Court of Appeal, State of Florida, Judge, 1980-2000
• Florida Judicial College, Faculty, 1985-2000
• Florida State University, College of Law, Adjunct Professor of Law, Courses in federal Indian Law, 1999-2000
• First District Court of Appeal, State of Florida, Chief Judge, 1991-1993
• Florida Supreme Court Gender Bias Study Commission, Member, 1987-1990
• Florida Crime Prevention and Law Enforcement Study Commission, Member, 1988-1990
• Florida State University, College of Law, Adjunct Professor of Law, Courses in trial practice, 1968-1973
• Government Organization and Efficiency Committee, Florida House of Representatives, General Counsel, 1968-1971
• District Court of Appeal, First District, Law Clerk, 1962-1963