Judge James Stearns (AHS, 1974)
During my time at Anderson High School, class of 1974, I was actively involved as a member of the Student Council and the Tennis Team. I went on to graduate from the University of Florida in 1978, followed by earning my Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law in 1981.
My career began with three and a half years at the Office of the Public Defender, where I gained invaluable jury trial experience. This foundation enabled me to become a partner in a Dunedin, Florida law firm, and later, I established my own practice. My firm, which focused on criminal defense and family law, thrived through strong connections with local and statewide charitable organizations, including the National Ulcerative Colitis Foundation. Additionally, I served on the Board of Directors for the local hospital and retirement community, and held leadership roles such as President of the Rotary Club, President of the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce, and board member of the Dunedin Fine Art Center. My commitment to the community also extended to civic duties, including chairing the Local Planning Board and leading the local Bar Association.
Outside of my professional life, I cherished coaching my two sons in baseball, basketball, tennis, and golf. Some of my most memorable moments were spent poolside, supporting them in competitive swimming—culminating in our youngest son’s victories at the Florida State High School Championships and later watching him swim for Harvard University.
In 2014, I was honored to be elected as a Circuit Court Judge in the Sixth Judicial Circuit. My tenure included assignments in the Civil Division handling civil jury trials, the Unified Family Division where I oversaw dependency and adoptions (a personal favorite), and most recently, the Probate/Guardianship Division alongside Juvenile Delinquency Court.
As I approach retirement at the end of March 2025, I will be submitting my letter of resignation to Governor DeSantis. Looking forward, I plan to take on a very part-time role as a partner with a firm specializing in estate and trust planning, stepping away from the courtroom.
