Who we are: 

Cantrell Astbury Kranz, P.A. stands out as a prominent Florida law firm, specializing in exceptional representation in employment and business litigation. Our diverse clientele includes executives, professionals, physicians, and high-profile individuals seeking legal counsel. We excel in handling a wide range of legal matters, such as workplace discrimination, harassment, wage and hour disputes, wrongful terminations, investigations, contract negotiations, franchise agreements, ownership disputes, as well as litigation, arbitration, and mediation of cases.

Each attorney at our firm boasts an impressive track record, possessing over a decade of experience along with prestigious credentials, including graduating from Ivy League law schools or ranking in the top 10% of their law class. Many of our attorneys clerked for federal judges and have received numerous peer-review attorney awards.

At Cantrell Astbury Kranz, P.A., our demonstrated history of success showcases our ability to handle intricate legal challenges and secure favorable outcomes for our clients. Our highly skilled attorneys have extensive knowledge in employment and business laws, enabling them to develop effective strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. We place great emphasis on client satisfaction and maintain transparent communication throughout the legal process, ensuring our clients are well-informed and actively engaged.

Dedicated to safeguarding our clients’ rights and seeking fair resolutions, we offer a free initial consultation for those seeking our services. Feel free to contact us at (877) 858-6868 or coordinator@caklegal.com. 

Florida Frequently Asked Questions

What areas of law do you handle? 

Our seasoned Florida-based attorneys specialize in employment law and related business disputes. Some of the common legal situations we handle include:

Employment Law: Employment law encompasses a wide range of legal matters concerning the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees within the workplace. This includes issues related to wage and hour laws, hiring policies, discrimination and harassment, termination, employee benefits, restrictive covenants (such as non-compete, non-solicit, and confidentiality clauses), and severance agreements. Employment disputes in Florida are subject to federal law, state law, and local ordinances.

Business Law: We also handle various business-related matters, such as commercial transactions between businesses, vendors, and distributors, franchise agreements, ownership disputes involving assets, intellectual property issues, partnership agreements, shareholder agreements, and breach of contract cases.

Who do you typically represent? 

In Florida, our employment lawyers represent a diverse range of clients in employment-related matters. Our clientele includes individual employees, groups of employees, entrepreneurial business owners, and select larger companies. We have extensive experience in representing various professionals, such as C-suite executives (CEO, CFO, COO, etc.), educators, physicians, salespeople, attorneys, franchisees, brokers, CPAs, independent contractors, and individuals transitioning from their current jobs.

How much does litigation cost in Florida? 

The cost of litigating employment and business disputes in Florida can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the complexity of the case and the chosen legal strategy. Generally, litigation costs encompass attorney fees, court filing fees, and other associated expenses. The fees charged by attorneys may vary significantly based on their experience, reputation, and location. It’s worth noting that attorney fees in major Florida cities, such as Miami or Tampa, tend to be higher than the national average.

It’s essential to carefully evaluate the cost of litigation against the potential benefits and risks involved in the case. Depending on the circumstances, it might be possible to pursue alternative dispute resolution methods or negotiate a resolution that is more cost-effective. Seeking counsel from our experienced employment law and business litigation attorneys can provide valuable insights into the potential costs. We can assist you in developing an appropriate legal strategy aligned with your goals and resources.

What are your fees? 

We are committed to providing accessible and cost-effective employment and business law solutions for all clients seeking our services in Florida. Depending on the specific case, we offer different fee structures, including hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat fees. To get a better understanding of the costs involved, we encourage you to arrange a free initial consultation and obtain a personalized quote from one of our skilled Florida employment and business dispute lawyers.

How do I get in touch with one of your Florida employment or business attorneys?  

Getting in touch with one of our Florida employment or business attorneys is simple. You can either call us at (877) 858-6868 or email us at coordinator@caklegal.com. In most cases, prospective clients have the opportunity to speak with one of our Florida attorneys within one business day of initial contact.

Litigation Attorneys in Florida

Your Florida Employment Law and Business Litigation Law Firm 

Cantrell Astbury Kranz, P.A. is a reputable law firm based in Florida, known for its expertise in handling wrongful termination, employment law, and business litigation cases. With a team of experienced attorneys boasting a combined 35 years of experience and a track record of success in over 40 trials and arbitrations, the firm has secured significant financial compensation for clients facing employment and business disputes.  We possess extensive knowledge of various industries, including healthcare, insurance, franchises, and technology.

The firm’s focus on personalized attention and tailored legal strategies ensures that we understand the unique circumstances of each client’s case and develop an effective plan of action. Our expertise in Florida’s employment and business laws, as well as our established local connections, including knowing the courts, judges, and opposing counsel, allows us to navigate the legal process efficiently and effectively, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome for our clients. If seeking an employment or business disputes lawyer in Florida, Cantrell Astbury Kranz, P.A. is a reliable choice, offering the necessary legal expertise, local insights, and advocacy to protect clients’ rights and interests in employment or business disputes.

Florida Wrongful Termination

Your Florida Wrongful Termination Law Firm

In Florida, wrongful termination happens when an employee is fired in violation of state or federal laws. While Florida employers can generally terminate employees for any reason or no reason, termination becomes illegal if it is based on discrimination related to race, gender, age, religion, national origin, disability, or other protected categories. In such cases, the affected employee may have grounds for a valid wrongful termination claim. Handling these cases can be emotionally challenging and legally complex, which is why hiring a highly experienced attorney is crucial. A capable attorney can assess the strength of the case, identify legal violations, and build a strong argument in support of your claims.

At Cantrell Astbury Kranz, P.A. our employment lawyers have extensive knowledge of Florida’s employment laws and regulations, making them well-equipped to handle wrongful termination cases. Their familiarity with the local legal landscape and experience in negotiating and litigating enhances the chances of achieving a successful outcome. We offer assistance in cases of workplace discrimination or harassment, guiding clients through the documentation and reporting process, filing complaints with relevant agencies, and pursuing legal action to secure fair compensation. You can trust in our commitment to ensuring that unlawful workplace discrimination is addressed and justice is served.

If you experience wrongful termination or face workplace discrimination in Florida, Cantrell Astbury Kranz, P.A. provides the expertise and local involvement needed to protect your employee rights effectively. We have a long-standing history of representing victims of workplace discrimination and harassment, and our attorneys are deeply connected to the communities they serve. Remember that workplace discrimination is illegal, and you have the right to seek assistance and take action to address it.

Florida Non-Compete Experts

Your Florida Non-Compete Law Firm

Non-compete agreements can have a profound impact on one’s career prospects and professional opportunities, underscoring the necessity of seeking legal representation with expertise in this field. Our Florida non-compete attorneys possess an in-depth understanding of the state’s specific laws and regulations pertaining to non-compete agreements, enabling them to offer personalized guidance for clients operating within this jurisdiction. We possess a strong track record of successfully defending non-compete lawsuits and handling temporary injunction hearings in Florida state courts and local federal courts. 

Our team of skilled Florida non-compete attorneys is dedicated to assisting you in assessing the enforceability and validity of your non-compete agreement, while also identifying potential loopholes or defenses. We offer comprehensive reviews of non-compete agreements, focusing on guiding you towards avoiding litigation while transitioning to the desired job or launching your startup. We strive to develop a robust legal strategy that aligns with your best interests. 

With extensive experience in negotiating with employers or former employers, we aim to modify or release the non-compete agreement in a manner favorable to you. In the event of litigation, our non-compete attorneys can expertly navigate the legal process by compiling compelling evidence and presenting a persuasive case to safeguard your rights and mitigate potential adverse consequences.

Common Florida Employment Law FAQs

Is it possible to be released from a non-compete agreement in Florida?

In Florida, the possibility of being released from a non-compete agreement exists, but it depends on several factors, including the specific terms of the agreement and the circumstances surrounding its creation and enforcement. While Florida law generally favors the enforcement of non-compete agreements, there are limitations in place to ensure they are reasonable and protect employees’ rights.

Pursuant to Florida law, non-compete agreements are enforceable, but they must adhere to specific requirements under section 542.335 of the Florida Statutes. These requirements include:

• In Writing: The non-compete agreement must be written and signed by the employee or contractor.
• Legitimate Business Interest: The company must have a legitimate business interest in the provisions it intends to enforce. This may involve protecting confidential information, substantial customer relationships, customer goodwill associated with intellectual property or marketing, or specialized training.
• Scope: The provisions outlined in the agreement must be reasonable in terms of their geographic scope and duration.

Given the complexity of Florida’s non-compete law, it is highly recommended to seek the guidance of a specialized Florida attorney in this field. They can thoroughly review the agreement, assess its enforceability, and identify potential grounds for challenging its validity. They will evaluate factors such as the duration of the agreement, the geographical scope, and the extent of restrictions placed on your ability to work in a specific industry or location.

Our team of Florida non-compete attorneys boasts extensive expertise and stands ready to assist you in maintaining your employment and providing for your family.

What can I do if my Florida employer fails to pay my commissions? 

If your employer in Florida has not paid your commissions or bonuses, you should take the following steps:

1. Review your employment contract or any agreements regarding commission or bonus payments to understand your entitlements and rights.
2. Communicate with your employer in writing to inquire about the status of the payment and express your concerns.
3. Consult with an employment attorney who can advise you on your legal options and rights.
4. If necessary, pursue legal action to recover your unpaid commissions or bonuses, which may involve filing a wage claim or initiating a civil lawsuit.
5. Keep records of all communication with your employer and relevant documents related to your commission or bonus entitlements.

The timing of commission payments in Florida is typically determined by the terms of the commission agreement between the employer and the employee. If the agreement specifies a particular payment schedule or condition, both parties are expected to adhere to those terms. However, in the absence of a specific agreement, Florida law requires employers to pay commissions within a reasonable time after they become due and payable.

Do you represent individuals in franchise law disputes?

Yes, our firm represents individuals in franchise law disputes. We provide legal guidance and representation to franchisees (the individuals or businesses granted the right to operate under the franchisor’s brand). Our experienced franchisee attorneys help navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding franchising, including contractual, regulatory, and business considerations. We review franchise agreements, negotiate terms, ensure compliance with laws, and assist in dispute resolution between franchisors and franchisees to protect our clients’ rights and achieve favorable outcomes.

When is termination wrongful or illegal in Florida? 

In Florida, termination can be considered illegal or wrongful if it violates local, state, or federal anti-discrimination laws. Florida follows the at-will employment doctrine, which generally allows employers to terminate employees for any reason, as long as it is not discriminatory. When an employer fires an employee based on their age, race, gender, national origin, disability, religion, or other protected characteristic (as per Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Florida Civil Rights Act), then the termination is illegal. 

Furthermore, retaliation for engaging in protected activities, such as reporting workplace safety violations, filing a complaint of discrimination, or reporting illegal activities, is also considered wrongful termination. 

Finally, if an employee has a written or verbal employment contract that guarantees them a job for a specific period, termination before the agreed-upon time without good cause could be considered wrongful termination.