Bud Kirk, Aviation Attorney in Orlando, Florida
Over 58 years of legal practice · focused on Aviation, Business, and General · 5.0/5 rating from 1 verified client review
PartneratRumberger, Kirk & Caldwell Professional Association
Orlando, FL
Practicing aviation in Orlando since 1968.
- 58+
- Years practicing
- 5.0 ★
- 1 client review
- 1
- Bar admission
Are you Bud Kirk?
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Quick answer
Bud Kirk is a partner based in Orlando, FL. The practice focuses on Aviation, Business, and General. Bud has over 58 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell Professional Association. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.
- Based in
- Orlando, FL
- Experience
- over 58 years
- Known for
- Aviation · Business · General
- Handles Aviation, Business, and General matters from Orlando, FL.
- Over 58 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
- Recognized with AV Preeminent.
About Bud Kirk: Bud Kirk is a partner based in Orlando, FL. The practice focuses on Aviation, Business, and General. Bud has over 58 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell Professional Association. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.
Areas of practice
Legal matters Bud takes on
Bud concentrates on aviation, business, general, litigation, and product liability. Each area below outlines the kind of case Bud handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.
Aviation
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Business
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General
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Litigation
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Product Liability
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Aviation cases in Orlando, Florida
Bud takes aviation matters in Orlando, Florida. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Bud agrees to represent you.
Business cases in Orlando, Florida
Bud takes business matters in Orlando, Florida. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Bud agrees to represent you.
General cases in Orlando, Florida
Bud takes general matters in Orlando, Florida. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Bud agrees to represent you.
Litigation cases in Orlando, Florida
Bud takes litigation matters in Orlando, Florida. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Bud agrees to represent you.
Product Liability cases in Orlando, Florida
Bud takes product liability matters in Orlando, Florida. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Bud agrees to represent you.
Biography
Meet Bud Kirk — aviation lawyer in Orlando
Bud Kirk is a partner based in Orlando, FL. The practice focuses on Aviation, Business, and General. Bud has over 58 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell Professional Association. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.
One of the firm’s founders, Bud Kirk concentrates his practice in the areas of product liability, commercial litigation and professional liability.
A significant portion of Bud’s practice is devoted to the representation of clients in commercial litigation matters. He represents clients in commercial cases including those involving claims of contract breach, fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, negligence, and professional malfeasance. Among his clients are local and nationally known companies in the fields of law, accounting, real estate development and communications.
A seasoned trial lawyer with a national reputation, Bud’s product liability practice centered on high profile cases in which plaintiffs seek recovery of millions of dollars. He represented domestic and foreign manufacturers of passenger cars and trucks throughout the United States, as well as manufacturers in the aviation and heavy equipment industry. Bud represented clients in hostile territory in Florida and throughout the United States including Louisiana, Wisconsin, Maine, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and West Virginia.
Bud’s decades of defending professionals in the legal and accounting fields against malpractice claims earned him the moniker of the “Lawyer’s Lawyer.”
In 1996, Bud’s prowess in the courtroom was recognized by The National Law Journal in its annual edition of “Winning” which highlights ten top litigators in the country. Bud was asked to share his strategies for achieving success in the courtroom which he did in the article featuring him, “In Hostile Territory, Show You Trust the Jury.” In 1999, he was recognized by The National Law Journal again as being one of the “Top Litigators.” He has since been recognized for his advocacy skills in numerous articles and publications, including designation by Florida Trend magazine as one of the “Top Defense Counsel.” In 2010, Bud was named “Trial Lawyer of the Year” by the Central Florida Chapter of American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), and as a “Lawyer of the Year” in the area of personal injury litigation-defendants for Orlando by Best Lawyers in America in 2013 and 2018.
Recognized for his successful trial career, Bud was inducted as a fellow into the American College of Trial Lawyers, a prestigious by-invitation-only organization composed of the best of the trial bar from the United States and Canada.
In February of 1991, Bud was appointed by former President George H. W. Bush to the Board of Directors of the Legal Service Corporation which administers nearly a half billion dollars to programs throughout the United States rendering legal services to the poor. He served in that position for three years. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Florida Defense Lawyers Association and is a former member of the International Association of Defense Counsel.
Within the firm, Bud formerly served on the Executive Committee and as Managing Partner for thirteen years. In addition to his professional activities, Bud is active in the community in the After School Outreach program for Howard Middle School children. For many years, he served as a member of the Board of Directors for WMFE, the local public radio and television stations. He is also a member of Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Law’s Dean’s Advisory Council.
Following graduation from law school, Bud served as an assistant professor teaching courses in real property, legislation and water law.
Community
•WMFE Board of Directors
Former member, Board of Directors
•Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Law’s Dean’s Advisory Council
•University Club
•Board of Directors, 2007-Present
Certifications
•AV Rated by Martindale-Hubbell
Awards & Honors
•Best Lawyers 'Lawyer of the Year' for Personal Injury- Defendants in Orlando, 2013, 2018, 2025
•Listed in Best Lawyers in America. Personal Injury Litigation-Defendants; Insurance Law; Litigation - Insurance. 2010-2026
•Listed in Florida Super Lawyers, Business Litigation, 2006-2018, 2020
•Listed in Florida Trend Legal Elite 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2012, 2013
•Listed in Who's Who Legal of Product Liability Defense Lawyers 2009, 2010
•2010 Trial Lawyer of the Year by the Central Florida Chapter of American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)
•Recognized in Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for General Commercial Litigation
Articles & Presentations
•Speaker, Orange County Bar Association Member Perks, November 2020
•Florida Trend article “Florida Trend’s Florida Legal Elite” - Spotlighted - July 2004 and July 2005
•Florida Trend article regarding the top defense litigators - Spotlighted - February 2004
•In Hostile Territory, Show You Trust Jury,” in The National Law Journal’s annual edition of “Winning,” which presents the top ten litigators in the nation and their strategies for success in the courtroom - Featured in article - May 1996
•Justice Holmes and the Trial Lawyer: Malicious Prosecution, Bad Faith and . . . Excellence,” - Co-author - 1981
•Public Finance: New Test for Public Purpose,” - Author - 1967
Bud's News and Insights
08.21.2025
Firm News
27 RumbergerKirk Attorneys Named to the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America
Dan Gerber and Leonard Dietzen Named “Lawyer of the Year;”...
08.15.2024
Firm News
Best Lawyers in America 2025 Edition Recognizes 24 RumbergerKirk Attorneys
Two Named “Lawyer of the Year” and Two Named “Ones...
08.17.2023
Firm News
Best Lawyers in America Recognizes 24 RumbergerKirk Attorneys with Managing Partner Frank Sheppard Named Lawyer of the Year
ORLANDO, FL - August 17, 2023 - Best Lawyers has...
03.01.2023
Beyond the Bio
Celebrating Women’s History Month: Honoring a Legend of Our Own
A Closer Look at RumbergerKirk’s First Female Attorney - Lori...
08.19.2022
Firm News
23 RumbergerKirk Attorneys Named to Best Lawyers in America 2023
Orlando, Fla., August 18, 2022 - RumbergerKirk is pleased to...
08.19.2021
Firm News
Eighteen RumbergerKirk Attorneys Named to Best Lawyers in America 2022
ORLANDO - August 19, 2021 - RumbergerKirk is pleased to...
06.24.2021
Firm News
Florida Super Lawyers Names RumbergerKirk Attorneys to 2021 List
Three Attorneys Named “Rising Stars” RumbergerKirk is pleased to announce...
11.04.2020
Events
Bud Kirk Speaks at Orange County Bar Association Member Perks Virtual Event
One of the firm’s founders and Board Certified Civil Trial...
08.20.2020
Firm News
18 RumbergerKirk Attorneys Named to Best Lawyers in America 2021
ORLANDO, FL - August 20, 2020 - Eighteen RumbergerKirk attorneys...
06.04.2020
Firm News
Florida Super Lawyers Names RumbergerKirk Attorneys to 2020 List
FLORIDA - June 4, 2020 - RumbergerKirk is pleased to...
How Bud handles aviation matters
One of the firm’s founders, Bud Kirk concentrates his practice in the areas of product liability, commercial litigation and professional liability. A significant portion of Bud’s practice is devoted to the representation of clients in commercial litigation matters. He represents clients in commercial cases including those involving claims of contract breach, fraud, breach of fiduciary duty,…
The kind of cases Bud takes
Bud reviews new inquiries case-by-case for aviation, business, and general matters in Orlando and the surrounding Florida area.
Credentials
Education, bar admissions, and languages
University of Florida, College of Law J.D.
—
Stetson University B.A. Social Science
—
Jurisdictions
Bud's state bar admissions
Florida U.S. Distric
1968 · ACTIVE
Bud studied at — in University of Florida, College of Law J.D. and — in Stetson University B.A. Social Science.
Law school and academic background
Bud completed — in University of Florida, College of Law J.D. and — in Stetson University B.A. Social Science. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Bud runs in Florida is where that training gets applied to real client questions.
Recognition
Recognition and thought leadership
Bud has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.
AV Preeminent
Legal awards and honors
AV Preeminent.
Locations
Bud Kirk's office in Orlando
Bud's primary office is at Lincoln Plaza, Suite 1400, 300 South Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL, 32801. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.
Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell Professional Association
Lincoln Plaza, Suite 1400, 300 South Orange Avenue
Orlando, FL 32801
Open in Google MapsClient feedback
Client reviews of Bud Kirk — 5.0/5 rating from 1 verified client review
Every review below is from a verified client of Bud. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing aviation attorneys in Orlando.
5.0
1 client review
Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Bud Kirk claims this profile.
Read all reviewsHiring guide
How to hire Bud Kirk — what to expect in your first consultation
Working with a new aviation attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Bud usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.
Consultation formats and pricing
Bud charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Bud's office.
What to bring to your first meeting
Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Bud will tell you what matters and what doesn't.
Questions to ask a aviation attorney in Orlando, Florida
A short list to run through before you commit: How many aviation matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?
Fees & payment
Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Bud
Bud discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in aviation practice — ask which fits.
Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options
Every aviation matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Bud confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.
Payment methods and payment plans
Bud's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many aviation practices work with clients on structured schedules.
Frequently asked
Frequently asked questions about Bud Kirk
How much does it cost to hire Bud for a aviation case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Bud walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Bud offer a free consultation?
Bud charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Bud's office. Some aviation attorneys offer free consults — check Bud's current terms during booking.
How long do aviation cases in Florida typically take?
Simple aviation matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Bud gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Bud take my case if I'm outside Orlando?
Bud is licensed in Florida. Matters governed by Florida law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Bud will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Bud?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Bud will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Bud accepting new aviation clients right now?
Bud's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.
Areas served
Aviation attorneys serving Orlando, Miami and Tampa in Florida
Bud handles aviation matters throughout Florida. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified aviation attorneys in that community.
- Orlando7,352 attorneys
- Miami15,918 attorneys
- Tampa9,739 attorneys
- Fort Lauderdale6,726 attorneys
- Jacksonville5,497 attorneys
- Tallahassee4,383 attorneys
- West Palm Beach3,699 attorneys
- Boca Raton3,668 attorneys
- Coral Gables3,397 attorneys
- Naples2,155 attorneys
- St Petersburg2,098 attorneys
- Sarasota1,994 attorneys
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If Bud's intake is full or the fit isn't right, these aviation attorneys in Orlando handle similar matters. Every profile below is verified and open to consultations.
