Jessica Russ began her legal career as an Assistant Public Defender in Tampa, Florida. Ms. Russ defended the Constitutional rights of the accused during the entire judicial process, from first appearance court through jury trial and sentencing. During her time at the Public Defender’s office, Ms. Russ tried to verdict over one hundred jury trials, acting as both lead and co-counsel in cases involving charges with possible penalties up to life in prison. She developed a reputation as a staunch advocate and fearless trial attorney.
Ms. Russ continued her career as in-house counsel for a national insurance company. During her time there she litigated cases involving Bodily Injury and Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist claims, again protecting the interests of her clients during all stages of litigation. Ms. Russ tried several cases before juries during her time there, but also developed a robust negotiation, mediation and arbitration practice to further serve her clients’ interests and obtain the best outcomes possible.
Ms. Russ received her Juris Doctorate from Florida Coastal School of Law. She graduated with Pro Bono honors. During her time at Florida Coastal she served as President of the ABA Student Association, led a fundraiser for the victims of the devastating hurricane in Haiti and organized Florida Coastal students to join the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations from Houghton College, where she was a member of the women’s basketball team and participated in a study abroad program in the Czech Republic.
In her time away from work, Ms. Russ relishes time spent with her family and friends, and also enjoys reading, listening to music, gardening, and participating in activities at the YMCA.
Areas of Practice:
Education:
Law School:
Florida Coastal School of Law
Juris Doctorate
College:
Houghton College
Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations
Contact Info:
Phone #:
727-327-2258 (o)
727-328-1340 (f)
Email: jessica.russ@fgclawfirm.com
Bar Admissions:
Florida
Territory of Practice:
State of Florida