Adams & Reese Expands National Construction Practice with Key Tampa Partner Addition
Adams & Reese strengthens its nationally ranked construction law practice with the addition of experienced litigator Ric Asfar, enhancing the firm's capabilities in Florida's growing construction market.
The AmLaw 200 firm Adams & Reese has expanded its construction practice with the addition of Richard "Ric" Asfar as partner in its Tampa office, marking another strategic move in the firm's national growth strategy. Asfar brings nearly two decades of experience in construction litigation, insurance coverage, employment disputes, and appellate advocacy, having represented individuals, government entities, and businesses across complex legal matters.
Asfar's arrival follows the 2022 merger between Adams & Reese and Cotney Attorneys & Consultants, formerly led by current Adams & Reese Tampa Partner and Construction Team Leader Trent Cotney. Under the leadership of Construction Practice Group Leader Chris Derden and Construction Team Leaders David Toney and Cotney, the firm's construction group has grown to nearly 100 attorneys licensed in more than 35 states. Construction Executive has ranked Adams & Reese among the Top 20 construction law firms for three consecutive years.
Cotney, who previously worked with Asfar, emphasized the significance of this addition: "Ric has a well-deserved reputation as an exceptionally detail-oriented litigator who stays ahead of the curve on litigation trends and legislative changes in construction law. His unparalleled familiarity with the local construction industry and the unique litigation landscape of Tampa makes him a tremendous addition."
The Tampa office now features close to 30 construction attorneys, including Florida Bar board-certified construction lawyers, certified arbitrators and mediators, former general contractors, and general counsels of roofing associations. This concentration of expertise positions the office as a hub for construction legal services in the region.
Asfar's practice encompasses complex construction defect cases, delay claims, insurance disputes, catastrophic injury claims, bond and lien matters, and employment issues. His recognition as an "AV-Preeminent" rated attorney by Martindale-Hubbell since 2016, along with accolades from Best Lawyers in America, Florida Super Lawyers, and Florida Trend's "Legal Elite," underscores his standing in the legal community.
"Why would any lawyer not want to join this team? They are an exceptional group, and I'm excited to join Adams & Reese," Asfar stated. "The Tampa office is unique in its construction focus with people at the forefront of thought leadership on the intersection of construction and law."
This expansion reflects the growing demand for specialized construction legal services in Florida's booming development market and strengthens Adams & Reese's position as a national leader in construction law.