John Elliott Leighton

John Elliott Leighton is not just a lawyer; he’s a relentless advocate for those who have faced life’s most devastating moments. With over 38 years of experience, Mr. Leighton has dedicated his career to representing victims of catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and violent crimes. His clients have suffered immensely, and they need more than just legal representation—they need a fighter.

From high-profile sexual assault cases to complex medical malpractice claims, Mr. Leighton has secured some of the largest verdicts and settlements in Florida, including a record-breaking $49 million verdict for a sexual assault survivor. His expertise, compassion, and tenacity ensure that his clients not only find justice but also hope and closure during their darkest times.

Practice Areas

• Personal Injury (Car and Truck Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Construction Accidents, Slip and Fall, Brain Injury)
• Medical Malpractice (Birth Injuries, Misdiagnoses, Surgical Errors)
• Products Liability (Defective Drugs, Medical Devices, Motor Vehicle Defects)
• Negligent Security and Violent Crimes (Sexual Assault, Institutional Abuse)
• Wrongful Death
• Insurance Claims and Legal Malpractice

Professional Associations

• President, National Crime Victim Bar Association
• Chairman, Academy of Trial Advocacy
• Member, American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)
• National Association of Trial Lawyers for America (AAJ)
• Florida Justice Association
• Cooperative Association of Medical Malpractice Attorneys

Jurisdictions

• Admitted to practice in all Florida state courts
• Licensed in the United States District Courts for the Southern, Middle, and Northern Districts of Florida
• Admitted pro hac vice in multiple states, including Texas, Wisconsin, Georgia, New York, Indiana, North Carolina, Illinois, Arizona, and Kentucky

Achievements

• Over $49 million in record-setting verdicts, including some of the largest wrongful death and medical malpractice verdicts in Florida
• Selected for “The Best Lawyers in America” for over 18 years
• Florida SuperLawyers Top 100 since 2006
• Recipient of the Advocate of Justice Award from the National Crime Victim Bar Association
• Frequent lecturer and faculty at prestigious institutions, including Harvard Law School’s “Ultimate Trial Advocacy College”

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.), University of Florida, with honors (1985)
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), University of Florida, with honors (1981)

Soft Perks & Fees

• Free consultations
• Contingency fees—clients pay only if they win
• Compassionate and personalized client service, with a focus on making the legal process as stress-free as possible

Addresses

• Miami Office: 4000 Ponce de Leon, Suite 490, Miami, FL 33146
• Orlando Office: [Exact address not specified]