GARY LESSER

MANAGING PARTNER, LESSER, LESSER, LANDY, SMITH & SIEGEL, WEST PALM BEACH

Lesser has served as managing partner of this nearly century-old law firm for nearly three decades. As Florida Bar president from 2022-2023, Lesser helped create Counsel to Counsel, the Bar’s mentoring program for newer lawyers. “With the legal profession being largely virtual, it’s very hard for newer lawyers to find mentors, which is crucial to professional development,” he says. He also serves on the board of directors of the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, is chair of the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County Community Relations Council and created the Jewish Lawyers Association of Palm Beach County following the Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

EDUCATION: George Washington University (BA), University of Miami School of Law (JD)

FIRST JOB: Working at a fast-food restaurant. My first meaningful job was working at Bentley’s Luggage. I had a boss who took time with me to explain the product we were selling and give me feedback on my performance. He was supportive of everyone who worked there, and I’m still in touch with him 40 years later.

SOMETHING SURPRISING: Growing up, I was a competitive tennis player.

PASSION PROJECT
“I’ve always loved history. ... My passion project is to write a history book.”