Tampa, Fla. — As voters in Pinellas-Pasco prepare to elect a new circuit judge for Group 14, Nick Fiorentino emerges as a strong contender, bringing a robust legal background and diverse endorsements that underscore his readiness to handle the responsibilities of this important position. The role of a circuit judge is critical, dealing with significant civil disputes, felony criminal cases, and other sensitive judicial matters, requiring not just legal expertise but a balanced temperament and principled judgment.
Fiorentino, 45, is not only the managing partner of his law firm, but he also boasts substantial experience in family, probate, personal injury, and criminal law, which are key areas of focus for circuit judges. His extensive practice involving court trials over 21 years equips him with the necessary skills to manage court proceedings efficiently, earning him a reputation for being well-prepared and knowledgeable.
Holding degrees from the University of South Florida and Stetson University College of Law, Fiorentino’s roots in the community are deep. Moreover, his role as a critical incident attorney for both the Suncoast Police Benevolent Association and the Florida Police Benevolent Association involves representing law enforcement officers in a plethora of legal issues, from on-duty incidents to internal affairs, strengthening his understanding of law enforcement challenges.
Such dual roles might place an average attorney in a position of conflict, however, Fiorentino’s professional handling of these cases has garnered respect across the board. Notable endorsements from local law enforcement unions and figures like Pinellas Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, who sometimes finds himself at odds with Fiorentino’s clients, underscore his ability to remain impartial and professional—qualities imperative for a judicial role.
Additionally, Fiorentino’s endorsement list extends beyond law enforcement, including prominent local and state politicians from a broad political spectrum, enhancing his appeal to a diverse electorate. His training and certification as a Florida Supreme Court qualified arbitrator and a Financial Industry Regulatory Authority arbitrator further add to his qualifications, presenting him as a candidate proficient in resolving disputes—a daily task for a circuit judge.
Fiorentino’s competitor, Jenn Dubbeld, also presents a strong profile. At 44, Dubbeld’s 17-year tenure at the Pinellas-Pasco Public Defender’s Office offers her extensive courtroom experience, particularly in criminal law, with additional experience in civil law aspects such as risk protection and Baker Act orders. Her background would serve her well on the bench, catering especially to the circuit court’s criminal caseload.
However, when balanced against Fiorentino’s broader legal repertoire and administrative legal experience as a managing partner, Fiorentino appears to have a more versatile foundation for the diverse challenges of a circuit court judge. His achievements in gaining the highest number of votes in the three-person race in August further attests to his wide-reaching support.
In judging the best fit for the judge’s seat in such a critical jurisdiction, voters tend to consider experience, temperament, and community endorsement as indicators of a candidate’s readiness and suitability for the role. Fiorentino’s blend of legal expertise, proven leadership, and recognized impartiality in his professional dealings places him as a favored choice among constituents.
The recommendation process, backed by thorough candidate assessments including interviews, questionnaires, and background checks by local bodies, not only ensures that the candidates are vetted but also provides voters with transparent insights into their potential judges.
As the elections draw near, the community remains engaged, waiting to see whether Fiorentino’s comprehensive legal background and community-based endorsements will culminate in his election to a role where law, order, and justice converge on a daily basis.