In the realm of aviation law, where intricacies and complexities take flight, having a seasoned legal expert at the helm can make all the difference. Enter Richard L. Richards, a Florida aviation attorney with an impressive twenty-nine years of legal practice under his belt. His unwavering commitment to aviation and airport legal matters has not only earned him a distinguished reputation but has also made him a force to be reckoned with in the legal arena.

A Florida Legal Luminary

Mr. Richards’ legal journey has been nothing short of remarkable. He is, in fact, Florida Bar Board Certified in Aviation Law, a testament to his depth of knowledge and experience in this specialized field. His expertise spans a broad spectrum of aviation and airport-related issues, leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice and solutions for his clients.

The Versatility of Aviation Law

One of the hallmarks of Mr. Richards’ career is his extensive experience in handling a wide array of aviation legal matters. From litigation to transactions, trustee services for foreign ownership of U.S. registered aircraft to representing fixed base operators (FBO’s) and maintenance repair organizations (MRO’s), Mr. Richards has proven himself to be a legal polymath in the aviation world.

• Litigation: Mr. Richards has served as a legal champion in State, Federal, Bankruptcy, FAA, DOT, OFAC, and EEOC proceedings. Whether it’s resolving disputes or advocating for clients, his prowess in aviation litigation is second to none.
• Aircraft Transactions: His expertise extends to aircraft transactions, including purchase, sale, and leasing, as well as trustee services in title and voting trusts for foreign ownership of U.S. registered aircraft. His guidance in corporate restructuring and bankruptcy has been invaluable to clients navigating turbulent financial times.
• Airport Representation: Mr. Richards has lent his legal acumen to fixed base operators and other airport tenants and developers, providing guidance on leases, land use, development near airports, and other legal matters critical to aviation infrastructure.
• Advocacy and Lobbying: Beyond the courtroom, Mr. Richards has been a relentless advocate for aviation businesses in Florida. He’s played pivotal roles in lobbying efforts on behalf of clients and associations, working to effect legislative changes that benefit the aviation industry.

A Proven Track Record

Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Richards has consistently demonstrated his legal prowess and dedication to his clients’ needs. Notably, he served as the Chairman of the Aviation Department at the esteemed law firm of Stearns, Weaver, Miller, Weissler, Alhade & Sitterson, P.A., in Miami, Florida. His expertise has also been tapped as airport counsel to the Boca Raton Airport Authority and as vice president/general counsel of Arrow Air, Inc., a cargo airline based in Miami.

Championing Change

Mr. Richards’ impact extends beyond the courtroom. He’s been a driving force behind positive changes in Florida’s aviation landscape. Serving as President and on the board of the Florida Aviation Business Association, he spearheaded efforts to amend Florida’s aircraft lien law, eliminating the requirement for aircraft possession.

• General Aviation Representation: Handling litigation, transactions, and regulatory compliance in various legal arenas, including FAA, DOT, and EEOC proceedings.
• Aircraft Transactions: Facilitating aircraft purchases, sales, and leasing, with a focus on foreign ownership.
• Airport Representation: Guiding airport tenants, developers, and operators through lease negotiations, development, and compliance matters.
• Municipal Representation: Advising municipalities on airport noise issues.
• Financial Expertise: Representing banks and lenders in aircraft transactions, financing, and repossessions.
• Insurance Defense: Serving as insurer-appointed defense counsel in aviation-related cases, including wrongful death claims.
• Airport Counsel: Providing comprehensive legal counsel to airport authorities, including representation before the FAA.
• Corporate Restructuring: Effectuating corporate mergers and acquisitions, advising on corporate structures, and handling various employment and labor law matters.

Professional and Community Engagement

Beyond his legal practice, Mr. Richards is deeply involved in professional and community organizations. Notable affiliations include:

• Florida Bar Board Certified in Aviation Law
• Florida Aviation Business Association (FABA)
• Florida Bar Association, Aviation Law Committee
• District of Columbia Bar
• United States Courts (Southern District of Florida, Middle District of Florida, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, United States Supreme Court)
• National Business Aviation Association
• Plymouth Congregational Church, Coconut Grove, Florida
• Kiwanis Club of Coral Gables, Coral Gables, Florida
• Introducing Angelica D. Zolnierowicz: A Stellar Associate

In the constellation of legal talent at Richards Legal Group, Angelica D. Zolnierowicz shines brightly. With experience spanning the private and government sectors, Ms. Zolnierowicz is a formidable addition to the team. Her background includes roles at the New York State Office of the Attorney General’s Organized Crime Task Force, The World Bank’s Integrity Vice Presidency, and service as an Assistant District Attorney at the Kings County District Attorney’s Office.

Ms. Zolnierowicz’s multilingual abilities in Polish, French, Spanish, Czech, Ukrainian, and Russian provide a unique asset in serving diverse clients.

Bar Admissions:

• District of Columbia
• Maryland
• New York
• North Carolina

Court Admissions:

• United States District Court for the Northern District of New York
• Professional and Community Involvement:
• The Legal Mentor Network
• Women’s White Collar Defense Association (WWCDA)
• Georgetown Law National Security Crisis Law Fellow, Georgetown University Law Center

Education:

• Georgetown University Law Center, LL.M. in National Security Law
• The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law, J.D.
• Boston University, M.A. in International Affairs and Intelligence
• Boston University, B.A. in International Relations

A Legal Team You Can Trust

With Richard L. Richards and Angelica D. Zolnierowicz at the helm, the Richards Legal Group is a beacon of legal excellence in the aviation and legal worlds. Their commitment to advocacy, expertise, and community engagement make them formidable allies for clients navigating the complexities of aviation law and beyond. Whether you’re in need of aviation law guidance or facing complex litigation, Richards Legal Group has the experience and dedication to chart a course to success.

Visit the Richards Legal Group website to learn more and embark on a journey of legal excellence.