In 2020, the Bedell Firm celebrated a 155-year milestone. As the oldest law firm in continuous existence in Florida, the Bedell Firm strives to continue its legacy of providing comprehensive and professional legal representation to every client. Learn more about the Bedell Firm’s extensive history.
2018-2019
Criminal Law Section Chair
David Barksdale served as Chair of The Florida Bar’s Criminal Law Section.
2016
Family Law Leader
Ashley Wells Cox assumed leadership of the family law practice and continues to do so today.
2016-2017
Chair of The Florida Bar’s Professional Ethics Committee
Brian Coughlin served as Chair of The Florida Bar’s Professional Ethics Committee.
2012
Florida Supreme Court Representation
Hank Coxe and Michael Lockamy represented three sitting Florida Supreme Court Justices in the dismissal of a matter brought by the Executive Branch, after which John DeVault won dismissal of a lawsuit aimed at removing the Justices from the merit retention ballot. Michael Lockamy was key to the success in both cases.
2006-2007
Coxe Served as Florida Bar President
Hank Coxe served as President of The Florida Bar.
1986
Webster Appointed Circuit Court of Duval County Judge
Partner Peter D. Webster was appointed by Governor Bob Graham as a judge to the Circuit Court of Duval County. Judge Webster in 1991 was appointed to the First District Court of Appeal.
1984
Bedell Firm Moves
The Bedell Firm relocates into the firm’s current home at the Jacksonville Library Building.
1977
Dobbert Trial
John DeVault and the firm successfully represented the guardians of two children of John Dobbert (convicted of the murder of two other of his children), against the City of Jacksonville for failure of police officers, and other city employees, to come to the aid of the children when notified of their abuse. 310 So.2d 19.
1974
Turner Trial
Charles Pillans represented Glenn Turner, criminally charged in 21 counts, in a nine-month trial before Judge Tjoflat resulting in a hung jury on all counts.
1963
Roosevelt Hotel Fire
The Bedell Firm represents the families of victims of the infamous Roosevelt Hotel fire in Jacksonville.
1959-65
Bedell, Bedell, & Dittmar
C. Harris Dittmar joins as a partner, creating Bedell, Bedell & Dittmar.
1927-59
Bedell & Bedell Formed
Bisbee leaves the firm. George Bedell’s son Chester joins as a senior partner, creating Bedell & Bedell.
1898-1927
A Partnership Formed
Bisbee partners with George Bedell.
1865
Bedell Firm Founded
The Bedell Firm is founded by United States Union Army Colonel Horatio Bisbee.
The Bedell Firm’s legacy of excellence continues just as it did 155 years ago. Today, the firm’s core practice areas include civil, criminal, and family law litigation. Learn more about the firm’s history and practice.
