GARY LESSER

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

Unlike other law firms that represent injured clients, this one does no formal advertising. Instead, clients are referred by word of mouth. Lesser has served as managing partner of this nearly century-old law firm for nearly three decades. As Florida Bar president from 2022-23, he led efforts to create a statewide mentoring program for newer lawyers. Following the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, he helped create the Jewish Lawyers Association of Palm Beach County and worked with lawyers to build similar groups in Broward and Miami-dade counties.

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

NOTABLE TREND: AI is a game changer. I frequently lecture across Florida on AI and legal ethics, including the risks of hallucinated case law. Judges are rightfully sanctioning lawyers who fail to verify their work. Used responsibly, AI can improve efficiency, consistency and best practices, and our firm is using it successfully.

IN MY DOWNTIME: I most enjoy the peace that comes with reading a really good book (history preferred). An unsuccessful reading night turns to slumber. A productive night leads to gaining some really interesting perspectives. For example, read The Radicalism of the American Revolution and you will gain some new insights.

NEXT BIG FOCUS: I am really focusing my efforts going forward on fighting antisemitism, which has reached very dangerous levels. Antisemitism starts with Jews, but other groups are also always targeted as hatred rises. The key is to work with allies locally and nationally. If we are divided, the voices of hatred are louder. With allies working together, we can prevail against this tidal wave of hatred.