Our dedicated trial team, led by Aubrey O. Dicus, Jr., Alec M. Waid, and Alexander T. Lewis, with the help of Paralegals Tiffany Ubele and Rodica Marinescu, successfully secured a Final Judgment in favor of Mirror Lake Place, LLC on all claims, including Negligent Misrepresentation, Trespass, Quiet Title, and Declaratory Judgment.

Our client is a developer who had invested in and developed a new condominium building in Downtown St. Petersburg. However, after they broke ground, they discovered that, although Frontier Communications had told them there were no lines running under the property, a large conduit was in fact running through the middle of the construction site. After a three-day trial, the Court awarded Mirror Lake Place, LLC over $1.98 Million in damages and ordered Frontier to remove its facilities from the client’s property within six-months at Frontier’s cost. This judgment affirms our client’s clear ownership of their St. Petersburg property and holds Frontier accountable.

This outcome is a testament to our team’s relentless pursuit of justice and deep expertise in complex property disputes. We are thrilled to deliver such a favorable result for our client!

Contact a Litigation Attorney in Florida

Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. is a U.S. News and World Reports Tier 1 law firm in Florida and has been helping Florida residents since 1958. With award-winning experienced attorneys, we provide litigation in a wide variety of services from civil litigation to commercial and real estate. Schedule a free consultation today to get started or to get any questions answered.

#TrialVictory #PropertyLaw #StPetersburgLaw #CivilLitigation #TrialLawyers #BattagliaRossDicusMcQuaid #JusticeServed #RealEstateLaw #PinellasCounty

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Sean K. McQuaid (Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2023)

• Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs

Aubrey O. Dicus, Jr. (Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2010)

• Commercial Litigation
• Criminal Defense – General Practice
• Criminal Defense – White-Collar
• Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants
• Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs

Jonathon Douglas (Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2023)

• Insurance Law
• Litigation – Insurance

Robert Kapusta, Jr. (Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2023)

• Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law
• Corporate Law
• Mergers and Acquisitions Law
• Real Estate Law
• Trusts and Estates

Bruce Marger (Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2009)

• Litigation – Trusts and Estates
• Trusts and Estates

Andrew R. Pardun (Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2023)

• Corporate Law
• Litigation – Real Estate
• Real Estate Law

C. Hunter Rawls (Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2025)

• Litigation – Trusts and Estates
• Trusts and Estates

Caitlin C. Szematowicz (Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2023)

• Commercial Litigation

Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America (2026 Edition):

Lama Alqasemi

• Elder Law
• Trusts and Estates

Ranger Jackson

• Criminal Defense – White-Collar
• Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs

Alec Waid

• Commercial Litigation
• Criminal Defense – General Practice

Sean K. McQuaid

Sean K. McQuaid has been named to Best Lawyers in America in 2026 for his work in Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs. He currently serves as President and Managing Partner of Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A., and previously held the role of President of the St. Petersburg Bar Association from 2020 to 2021. In 2025, he was also recognized as one of St. Pete’s Best Personal Injury Attorneys. His practice spans a range of areas, including personal injury, wrongful death, and criminal defense.

Aubrey O. Dicus, Jr.

Aubrey is honored in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers in America for his work in Criminal Defense – General Practice, Criminal Defense – White Collar, Commercial Litigation, and Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs and Defendants. With nearly five decades at the firm, he brings unparalleled experience, having represented clients in cases ranging from minor disputes to highly complex, high-profile matters. He has also been named to the 2025 Florida’s Super Lawyers list.

Jonathon Douglas

Jonathon Douglas, recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers in America for Insurance Law and Insurance Litigation, is also a Florida Super Lawyer and St. Petersburg native. He has devoted his career to advocating for policyholders in complex insurance disputes and currently serves as a partner at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A., concentrating on personal injury and insurance litigation.

Andrew R. Pardun

Andrew R. Pardun has been recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers in America for his work in Real Estate Law, Real Estate Litigation, and Corporate Law. His practice also includes commercial and residential title insurance and business law. For the sixth year in a row, he also earned a spot on the Florida Super Lawyer’s Rising Star list.

Robert Kapusta Jr.

Robert Kapusta, Jr. has been named to Best Lawyers in America in 2026 in multiple categories, including Closely Held Companies, Family Businesses Law, Corporate Law, Mergers and Acquisitions Law, and Real Estate Law. Trusts and Estates his work in Real Estate Law and Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law. His practice further includes mergers and acquisitions, business and corporate law, along with tax and estate planning. Not only is he an accomplished attorney, but an active community member, serving as chair of the Executive Committee for the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership.

Bruce Marger

Bruce Marger is recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers in America for his expertise in both the categories of Trusts and Estates and Litigation – Trusts and Estates. His practice spans estate planning, estate and gift tax planning, income tax preparation for estates and trusts, probate and trust administration, real property law, and probate and trust litigation. He also provides specialized guidance to clients on planning qualified IRA distributions.

C. Hunter Rawls

C. Hunter Rawls is listed in Best Lawyers in America for his excellence in Litigation – Trusts and Estates, as well as in the category Trusts and Estates. A sixth-generation Floridian, he is part of the firm’s Wills, Trusts, and Estates division, where he combines extensive estate planning experience with a strong record in litigation. In 2024, he was also appointed to a three-year term on The Florida Bar Sixth Circuit Grievance Committee “D”, which contributes to upholding ethical standards in Florida’s legal community.

Caitlin C. Szematowicz

Caitlin C. Szematowicz has been recognized in the latest edition of Best Lawyers in America for her work in Commercial Litigation. Since joining the firm in 2012, she has provided outstanding legal representation in civil and commercial litigation, appeals, and employment law for employers. A Rising Star to Florida’s Super Lawyers list since 2018, and a Florida Super Lawyer since 2024, Caitlin C. Szematowicz has been consistently recognized for her excellence in her legal practice.

Lama Alqasemi

Lama has been named a 2026 “Ones to Watch” honoree by Best Lawyers in America for her

work in Trusts and Estates, as well as Elder Law. She also focuses on charitable gift planning, business succession planning, guardianship, Medicaid eligibility, and qualified income trusts. In 2025, her commitment to her clients was also recognized when she was named to Florida’s Super Lawyers Rising Stars list.

Ranger Jackson

Ranger Jackson has been named to Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America for Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs, and for 2026, he also earned recognition for his work in Criminal Defense – White Collar. He brings a broad background in personal injury, criminal defense, and civil litigation, including experience as a prosecutor in both Pinellas County, Florida, and the San Francisco Bay Area, where he handled high-profile cases and led an electronic investigations unit.

Alec Waid

Alec Waid is a first-time addition to Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America for Commercial Litigation and Criminal Defense – General Practice. He was previously a prosecutor in the Pinellas County State Attorney’s Office, where he tried over 25 jury trials, handling cases ranging from complex financial fraud to major legal violations. Alec now represents individuals and businesses in civil disputes and criminal defense matters, bringing extensive courtroom experience and trial advocacy expertise.

Why Choose Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A.

Since 1958, Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. has been a trusted legal name, providing dedicated representation for Florida residents in cases of all sizes and complexities. Founded by the late Anthony Battaglia on principles of service, integrity, and community involvement, the firm has built a long-standing reputation for excellence. Today, our attorneys continue this legacy, providing skilled legal counsel across a wide range of practice areas while actively contributing to the community. Get in touch with us today for expert legal guidance, and learn more at: https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/

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Sean joined the firm in 2000, quickly proving himself to be a valuable asset. His dedication and legal prowess led him to become a shareholder in 2006 and a partner in 2013, the fastest rise of any lawyer in the firm’s history. Beyond his leadership role, Sean’s accomplishments include being a Martindale Hubbel AV-rated attorney, a Tier 1 lawyer by U.S. News and World Report, and a Florida Super Lawyer since 2014. He was named “Best Attorney” in Creative Loafing’s Best of the Bay in 2022. He is also a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and has been recognized as Florida Trend Legal Elite and Notable Managing Partner in 2023.

Under Sean’s leadership, the firm has achieved remarkable success, including being named the Tampa Bay Times Best of the Best for seven consecutive years in 6 categories. A cornerstone of his impact has been the exponential growth of our personal injury division, which now operates in multiple states and has expanded to 14 locations, with ambitious plans for further expansion.

Sean’s commitment to our clients and our community is unwavering. He served as the President of the St. Petersburg Bar Association from 2020-2021 and has held various community and board positions. His unwavering dedication and vision have been instrumental in shaping the firm’s direction and success over the last quarter-century.

Please join us in congratulating Sean McQuaid on this incredible achievement and thanking him for his invaluable contributions. We look forward to celebrating many more years of success under his guidance.

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The Tampa Bay Times “Best of the Best” People’s Choice Award

The “Best of the Best” is determined through a rigorous community voting process. Local residents cast their nominations and votes for businesses that demonstrate exceptional service in the Tampa Bay area.

Being granted this honor for seven straight years highlights our firm’s consistent delivery of outstanding legal services. The award reinforces our position as a trusted legal partner for Tampa Bay residents seeking expert representation across multiple practice areas.

Legal Practice Areas Recognized by the Award

Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. received top honors across six categories thanks to your votes:

1. Best Law Firm: Leading the Tampa Bay legal community, as a full-service law firm equipped to handle diverse legal challenges.
2. Best Title Company: Excellence in real estate transactions with trusted title services, seamless closings, and meticulous attention to detail.
3. Best in Business Law: Experts in commercial litigation and all legal matters related to business management.
4. Best in Defense Law: Skilled criminal defense from DUI charges to arrest warrants, drug offenses, and white-collar crimes; we offer representation from minor charges to high-stakes cases.
5. Best in Personal Injury Law: Dedicated advocacy for accident victims, including car accidents, commercial trucking collisions, and wrongful death, among other types of incidents.
6. Best in Estate Law: Comprehensive estate planning solutions, probate services, and trust administration tailored to protect your legacy and ensure peace of mind.

Client-Centered Approach Backed by a Proven Track Record of Success

Our firm stands out through our personalized approach to legal representation. Each client receives direct attorney access and customized legal strategies tailored to their unique circumstances. We maintain consistent communication, ensuring clients stay informed throughout their legal proceedings.

This client-first philosophy is reinforced by our strong reputation for exceptional courtroom advocacy and a history of successful outcomes. We skillfully manage our cases with the experience, dedication, and strategic insight needed to consistently deliver results that exceed expectations.

Our Commitment to Community Engagement

Beyond our exceptional legal services, our firm maintains deep roots in Florida. Our attorneys serve on various local boards and committees, contributing their expertise to shape policies benefiting local residents.

We consistently aim to benefit local community initiatives by fundraising, raising awareness, and offering boots-on-the-ground support when needed. For example, last year, after Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene ravaged the Tampa Bay area, we jumped into action to organize a hurricane relief drive to those affected by the storms.

Our firm’s commitment to public service and civic involvement is a tradition that traces back to its founding. As a result, each of our firm’s distinguished attorneys brings a strong sense of responsibility to their communities.

Further Awards and Industry Accolades

Our firm’s excellence goes well beyond local recognition, with 450+ awards earned both statewide in Florida and across the nation. We are a U.S. News & World Report Tier 1 law firm, placing it among the nation’s most prestigious legal practices.

Our attorneys continue to earn distinguished honors, such as:

• 7 attorneys named to Florida Super Lawyers 2025
• 12 attorneys recognized in The Best Lawyers in America
• Selected for Florida Trend Legal Elite 2024-2025
• Named to Lawyers of Distinction 2024

These accolades reflect our firm’s sustained commitment to legal excellence. The recognition from national organizations validates the trust Tampa Bay residents place in us through their “Best of the Best” votes.

The combination of national prestige and local trust positions us as a leading legal authority, ready to serve our clients.

Get in Touch Today

Whether you’re in Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, or anywhere else within the Tampa Bay area we are here to provide the trusted legal representation our firm is known for.

Call or text us at +(197) 0232-0268, (813) 639-8111 or visit www.stpetlawgroup.site to learn more.

Thank you for placing your trust in us!

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Super Lawyers, a division of Thomson Reuters, uses a rigorous selection process combining independent research and peer evaluations to identify top attorneys across the state of Florida.

Fewer than 5% of Florida attorneys earn recognition from Super Lawyers each year. This year, the firm celebrates the inclusion of Sean McQuaid, Aubrey Dicus, Caitlin Szemotowicz, and Robert Kapusta on this prestigious list. Andrew Pardun and Lama Alqasemi were also recognized as Rising Stars, an honor reserved for just 2.5% of Florida attorneys under the age of 40 or with less than 10 years of practice.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to these outstanding attorneys for their hard work, client advocacy, and meaningful contributions to the legal profession.

Introducing Our 2025 Florida Super Lawyers

Sean McQuaid

As President of Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A., Sean McQuaid exemplifies leadership and legal excellence. A Florida Super Lawyer for more than a decade, Sean specializes in personal injury and criminal defense. In addition to this accolade, Sean holds an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has earned recognition from Best Lawyers every year since 2014. He is also a member of the prestigious Million Dollar Advocates Forum and was named one of St. Pete’s Best Personal Injury Attorneys for 2025. Beyond the courtroom, Sean has contributed significantly to the community through leadership roles with the St. Petersburg Bar Association and the Make-A-Wish Foundation Executive Committee.

Caitlin Szematowicz

Celebrating her sixth consecutive year as a Florida Super Lawyer, Caitlin Szematowicz is known for her expertise in appeals, commercial litigation, general civil litigation, and labor and employment law. She is an active leader in the legal community, currently serving as Executive Director of the Barney Masterson American Inn of Court and previously as President of both the St. Petersburg Bar Foundation and the Pinellas County Trial Lawyers Association.

Aubrey Dicus
With nearly five decades of legal experience, Aubrey Dicus, former President and CEO of the firm, remains a distinguished Florida Super Lawyer. His broad expertise includes criminal defense, civil litigation, commercial litigation, and personal injury law. Recognized by Best Lawyers in America, Aubrey has also held key leadership positions with the Pinellas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Further underscoring his lasting impact on the legal community, he was also a founding board member of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, a Master of the Bench in several Inns of Court, and the recipient of numerous professionalism awards.

Robert Kapusta, Jr.

Repeatedly honored as a Florida Super Lawyer, Robert Kapusta brings expertise in business and corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, and tax and estate planning. A Certified Public Accountant, Robert actively contributes to the community, serving as chair of the Executive Committee for the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership. Outside of the courtroom, Robert volunteers to support various initiatives to promote local business growth, arts education, capital school improvements, and education programming in St. Petersburg. His blend of legal and financial expertise, as well as his commitment to the community, make him a leader both professionally and locally.

Andrew Pardun (Rising Star)
For the sixth year in a row, Andrew Pardun earns the Rising Star status for his work in real estate law, commercial litigation, and business law. He joined the firm in 2016 after receiving his Juris Doctorate Degree and MBA Degree from Stetson University College of Law. His involvement on the Executive Committee of the St. Petersburg Bar Association reflects his dedication to leadership, community service, and legal excellence.

Lama Alqasemi (Rising Star)
Honored as a Rising Star, Lama Alqasemi specializes in estate planning, tax planning, and probate and trust administration. Born and raised in Tampa Bay, she holds a Master of Laws in Taxation from the University of Florida and a Juris Doctor from George Mason University. Lama brings a rich legal background, including experience at the Department of Justice and Dentons in Prague. Since returning to the Tampa Bay area in 2022, she has actively engaged in community education and is passionate about delivering personalized legal counsel.

A Tradition of Legal Excellence in Tampa Bay

Since 1958, Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. has been a trusted name in the Tampa Bay area. Founded by the late Anthony Battaglia on the principles of service, integrity, and community involvement, it has long been recognized as one of Florida’s oldest and most respected law firms. This legacy continues today, with the firm’s attorneys delivering outstanding legal counsel across a broad spectrum of practice areas, including:

• Commercial Litigation
• Corporate & Business Law
• Criminal Defense
• Estate Planning & Probate
• General Civil Litigation
• Labor & Employment Law
• Personal Injury
• Property Damage & Insurance Disputes
• Real Estate Law
  

Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. goes beyond just legal practice, carrying forward a tradition of public service and civic engagement established by its founder. Every one of the firm’s accomplished attorneys pursues excellence in the courtroom, while also actively giving back to the community they serve. This is what makes the firm a pillar of the community.

For trusted legal representation from Florida’s most accomplished attorneys, contact Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. today.

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We are proud to announce that our attorney, Alexander T. Lewis, has been inducted into the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. This is one of the most prestigious legal organizations in the United States. This elite distinction is reserved for trial attorneys who have secured multi-million dollar verdicts or settlements on behalf of their clients. Fewer than 1% of attorneys nationwide qualify for membership. Therefore, Alex’s inclusion reflects not only his legal skill but his relentless dedication to justice and client advocacy.

About the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum

Founded in 1993, the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum recognizes excellence in high-stakes litigation. Attorneys must demonstrate real, documented success in achieving multi-million dollar outcomes for their clients. Members of the Forum are among the most accomplished trial lawyers in the country. They gain access to a national network of top-tier legal professionals for referrals and collaboration.

Alex’s Record of Success

Alex’s invitation to join this exclusive group is based on a history of impressive outcomes for injured clients across Florida. Since earning his Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law in 2014, Alex has built a reputation for securing substantial recoveries in cases involving personal injury, wrongful death, and commercial vehicle accidents. His sharp litigation strategies and tireless advocacy have resulted in multiple high-value settlements and verdicts, firmly establishing him as one of the most effective attorneys in the region.

You can learn more about Alex’s background and accomplishments on his attorney profile.

Community Involvement and Leadership

In addition to his courtroom success, Alex is highly active in the legal and local communities. He previously served as President of the St. Petersburg Bar Association Young Lawyers Section, contributing to the development of rising legal professionals.

Why This Recognition Matters

At our firm, we pride ourselves on delivering results that change lives. Alex’s recognition is more than just a title—it’s a reflection of our continued commitment to excellence, integrity, and client-centered representation. His membership in the Forum signals to clients, colleagues, and the courts that they are working with one of the top-performing personal injury attorneys in the nation.

About Our Firm

Our firm is based in St. Petersburg, Florida. We are known for strong, results-driven legal representation. We focus on personal injury, criminal defense, and civil litigation.

With decades of combined experience, our attorneys know how to win tough cases. We’re committed to protecting your rights and fighting for what you deserve. Clients trust us to deliver real results when it matters most.

Contact Us Today

We extend our congratulations to Alexander T. Lewis on this well-deserved achievement. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured and need a results-driven advocate on your side, contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.

Use our online form to reach out and get started.

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At Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A., we’ve seen these changes firsthand. As experienced Florida business attorneys, we help both employers and employees navigate this shifting landscape.

Understanding your rights under current non-compete laws is more important than ever. Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Non-Compete Agreements?

A non-compete agreement is a contract. It stops someone from working for a competitor or starting a similar business for a set time after leaving a job.

These agreements are meant to protect business interests like:

• Trade secrets
• Customer relationships
• Company training and investments
• Business goodwill

But in 2025, non-compete laws are facing more limits than ever before. Courts are looking at them more closely. Lawmakers are adding protections for workers.

Why Are Non-Compete Laws Changing?

More people are speaking out against unfair restrictions. Workers want the freedom to change jobs or start their own businesses. Employers want to keep their investments safe, but there’s a balance to strike.

As Florida business attorneys, we’ve helped many professionals stuck in unfair contracts. We’ve also guided business owners who need to protect their client base and confidential information.

That’s why the law is evolving. The goal is to protect both sides fairly.

What’s Happening at the Federal Level?

In 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) proposed a nationwide ban on non-compete agreements. The idea was to increase worker freedom and market competition.

But legal challenges slowed the plan. In early 2025, a court issued an injunction that paused the FTC’s rule. So, for now, non-compete laws remain up to each state.

The Department of Justice and the Biden administration also keep pushing to limit these contracts. They’ve flagged non-competes as harmful to innovation and job growth.

You can read more about the FTC’s rule proposal here.

What Florida Law Says About Non-Competes

Florida still allows non-compete agreements, but with rules. The agreement must:

• Protect a legitimate business interest
• Be reasonable in time, area, and scope
• Not be overly broad or unfair to the employee

Examples of legitimate business interests in Florida include:

• Specialized training paid for by the employer
• Client lists or key customer relationships
• Confidential information not known to the public

Florida courts often uphold non-competes if these conditions are met. But we’ve seen cases fall apart when employers push the limits.

If you’re an employer, we can help you draft an enforceable contract. If you’re an employee, we’ll help you understand what your agreement really means.

You can also explore more about our employment law practice and how we support both sides.

The Role of Consideration in Florida Non-Competes

In Florida, there must be “consideration” for a non-compete to be valid. That means the employee must receive something in exchange. For new hires, the job offer usually counts.

For current employees, the employer may need to offer a promotion, raise, or bonus. Without proper consideration, the non-compete may not be enforceable.

We help businesses ensure their agreements meet this standard. We also help workers who signed non-competes without receiving anything in return.

How Long Can a Florida Non-Compete Last?

Florida courts look at how long a non-compete lasts. In most cases, six months to two years is considered reasonable.

Longer time limits can raise red flags. Courts often strike down contracts that go too far. We’ve seen many employers lose cases because their agreements were too strict.

Our team works with clients to set time limits that are fair, legal, and enforceable.

What Areas Can Be Restricted?

Geographic restrictions must also be reasonable. For example, a Tampa-based business shouldn’t try to block a former employee from working anywhere in Florida or beyond—unless they truly operate in those areas.

The more narrowly tailored the area, the better. Courts prefer agreements that focus on where real business is done. We guide employers on how to define fair geographic boundaries.

Common Mistakes in Florida Non-Competes

Here are a few mistakes we often see:

• Using a one-size-fits-all agreement for every employee
• Failing to update contracts over time
• Including vague or overly broad language
• Not providing something of value in return for the agreement

Whether you’re writing your first agreement or reviewing an old one, we can help you avoid these traps.

Non-Solicitation vs. Non-Compete Agreements

Some employers may not need a full non-compete. A non-solicitation agreement may offer enough protection. This type of contract stops former employees from contacting your clients or staff.

Courts are more likely to enforce non-solicitation clauses than broad non-competes. They protect key relationships without blocking someone’s career path.

As Florida business attorneys, we help companies choose the right option for their needs.

Why This Matters to Job Seekers and Employees

Many professionals don’t realize they’ve signed a non-compete until it’s too late. Others are afraid to leave a job because of legal threats.

In 2025, employees need to be more aware than ever. Here’s what we recommend:

• Ask for a copy of any contract before you sign
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions about what’s included
• Contact a Florida business attorney if you’re unsure what the agreement means

We’ve helped countless workers negotiate better terms or get out of unreasonable contracts.

We also help clients respond to cease-and-desist letters or lawsuits. Many times, we can resolve the issue without going to court. Quick legal action makes a big difference in these cases.

What Business Owners Need to Know

Employers still have tools to protect their business. But outdated or aggressive non-competes can do more harm than good.

Here’s what we advise employers in 2025:

• Use clear, simple language in agreements
• Focus restrictions on real risks, not just competition
• Offer something of value in return for the agreement
• Keep contracts updated to match new legal interpretations

We’ve worked with many Florida businesses to build strong agreements that stand up in court.

You can also read our guide to business law services to learn more about protecting your company.

What Courts Look for in 2025

In our experience, courts reviewing non-competes now ask:

• Is the time limit reasonable?
• Does the agreement cover too broad a geographic area?
• Does it match the employee’s actual job duties?
• Is the employer really protecting something important?

Florida courts are generally business-friendly, but they still require fairness. Vague or overly broad restrictions may not hold up. We’ve seen many agreements fail because the employer didn’t show real harm from the competition.

For a broader view of worker rights and employer obligations, check out this helpful resource by the Department of Labor.

Employee Best Practices

If you’re asked to sign a non-compete, consider:

• Taking time to review the agreement
• Asking for clarification on unclear terms
• Consulting a Florida business attorney before signing

If you’re leaving a job and already bound by a non-compete:

• Don’t ignore the contract
• Avoid taking clients or using confidential info
• Speak to an attorney before joining a competitor

We help clients evaluate the risks and respond with a smart plan. Being proactive can save you from costly mistakes later.

Why Expert Guidance From a Florida Business Attorney Matters

Non-compete laws are changing fast. Mistakes can cost your job or business.

At Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A., we’ve been serving the Tampa Bay area since 1958. Our team of Florida business attorneys knows how to:

• Review contracts quickly and clearly
• Draft fair, enforceable non-competes
• Fight for your rights in and out of court
• Stay current on state and federal changes

We’ve handled hundreds of employment and business contract cases. Whether you’re an employee or employer, we’ll help you make smart legal decisions.

We work closely with clients to understand their goals and risks. Every case is different, so we tailor our advice to fit your needs. That’s what sets us apart.

Reach Out to Our Firm for a Free Consultation

If you’re unsure about a non-compete agreement, don’t wait. Get trusted legal advice today.

At Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A., we offer free consultations for employment and business contract matters. Our attorneys will listen, answer your questions, and guide you through your next steps.

Our history of legal excellence spans more than 65 years. We’ve earned the trust of professionals, business owners, and families across Florida.

Contact us to schedule your consultation. We’re here to help you protect your rights and your future.

Let’s work together to find the best path forward for you or your business.

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For the sixth year in a row, Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. has been named “Best of the Best” Law Firm and Title Company by the Tampa Bay Times! We couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of our loyal clients and hardworking team.

Now, it’s time to keep the streak going — voting is open again, and we’ve been nominated in a variety of categories. You can vote once a day, and it only takes a minute.

Please vote for us in these categories:

• Law Firm
• Business Law
• Defense Law
• Personal Injury Law
• Title Company
• Estate Law

All of the links are conveniently located in one page. Just click the link, SELECT ALL, and SUBMIT: https://votetbbotb.com/battagliarrossdicusmcquaid/

OR scan this QR code with your phone’s camera:

Your support means the world to us. Let’s do it again, Tampa Bay!

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A Strong Background in Law

Committed to Client Success

Leadership and Community Involvement

Proven Results

Areas of Practice

• Personal Injury Law – Catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, and commercial vehicle accidents.
• Business Litigation – LLC disputes, partnership litigation, and contract conflicts.
• Complex Legal Disputes – Handling high-stakes cases with precision and care.

About Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A.

A Bright Future at Our Firm

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About the Three Best Rated® Recognition

Sean McQuaid’s Commitment to Excellence

A Track Record of Achievements

Why This Recognition Matters

About Personal Injury Attorneys McQuaid & Douglas

Contact Us

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