Earlier this month, Retired Judge Hugh D. Hayes of Collier County joined the firm as an of counsel attorney in its newly-established Naples office, focusing his work in the firm’s Alternative Dispute Resolution practice. Law360 Pulse and Business Observer covered Hayes’ move to Gunster.
“The attorneys, professional staff and the organizational leadership of Gunster, including those in Gunster’s new Naples office, put the interests and the welfare of their clients first, and treat all of the participants in Florida’s legal system with dignity and civility,” Hayes told both outlets. “His community service, alongside his more than four decades on the bench, bring a diverse and rich experience to Gunster’s clients and to our firm’s Florida-focused culture,” added Bill Perry, CEO and managing shareholder of the firm.
Hugh D. Hayes joined Gunster in 2023 as of counsel in the Naples office. He focuses his work in the firm’s Alternative Dispute Resolution practice, serving as a mediator, arbitrator and special master to select clients.
Hayes was the longest serving judge in Florida history and is a former Army intelligence officer. For 44 years, he served both as a member of the 20th Judicial Circuit and as a County Court judge. From 2003 to 2007, he served as Chief Judge of the Twentieth Judicial Circuit, and has served as the Administrative Judge for Collier County on multiple occasions.
