How much does it cost to hire Jonathan for a business case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Jonathan walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does Jonathan offer a free consultation?

Jonathan charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Jonathan's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check Jonathan's current terms during booking.

How long do business cases in Florida typically take?

Simple business 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. Jonathan gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Jonathan take my case if I'm outside Sarasota?

Jonathan 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 — Jonathan 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 Jonathan?

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. Jonathan will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Jonathan accepting new business clients right now?

Jonathan's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Jonathan Whitney, Business Attorney in Sarasota

Quick answer

Jonathan Whitney is a partner based in Sarasota, FL. The practice focuses on Business, Contracts, and Creditor Rights. Jonathan has over 21 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Lutz, Bobo & Telfair, P.A.. Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 16 client reviews.

Based in: Sarasota, FL
Experience: over 21 years
Known for: Business · Contracts · Creditor Rights

Handles Business, Contracts, and Creditor Rights matters from Sarasota, FL.
Over 21 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with AV Preeminent.

Areas of practice

Jonathan's practice areas in Sarasota

Jonathan concentrates on business, contracts, creditor rights, estate litigation, and litigation. Each area below outlines the kind of case Jonathan handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Business cases in Sarasota, Florida

Jonathan takes business matters in Sarasota, 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 Jonathan agrees to represent you.

Contracts cases in Sarasota, Florida

Jonathan takes contracts matters in Sarasota, 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 Jonathan agrees to represent you.

Creditor Rights cases in Sarasota, Florida

Jonathan takes creditor rights matters in Sarasota, 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 Jonathan agrees to represent you.

Estate Litigation cases in Sarasota, Florida

Jonathan takes estate litigation matters in Sarasota, 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 Jonathan agrees to represent you.

Litigation cases in Sarasota, Florida

Jonathan takes litigation matters in Sarasota, 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 Jonathan agrees to represent you.

Biography

Jonathan Whitney, business attorney serving Sarasota

Jonathan Whitney is a partner based in Sarasota, FL. The practice focuses on Business, Contracts, and Creditor Rights. Jonathan has over 21 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Lutz, Bobo & Telfair, P.A.. Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 16 client reviews. Jonathan works from Sarasota, Florida and takes on business matters across the region.

About Jonathan Whitney View website

Awards

AV Preeminent Peer Rated This elite award is granted to attorneys who have been recognized by their peers for their very high ethical standards, with an average peer review score of 4.5 or higher. About Awards

Client Champion Awards

Client Champion awards recognize those attorneys who excel at service as affirmed by their clients. The awards, based on the quantity and quality of an attorney’s Martindale-Hubbell client reviews, demonstrate an ongoing commitment to delivering excellent client service. Award recipients stand out from their peers with a platinum, gold or silver icon.

At least three reviews and a score of 4.0 or higher.

At least six reviews and a score of 4.2 or higher.

At least ten reviews and a score of 4.5 or higher.

Martindale Peer Awards

A lawyer who receives a minimum threshold of qualifying responses from fellow attorneys can qualify for one of three prestigious Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings:

AV Preeminent®: The highest peer rating standard. This rating signifies a large number of the lawyer’s peers rank him or her at the highest level of professional excellence for their legal knowledge, communication skills and ethical standards.

Jonathan Whitney got this award in 2021

Distinguished: An excellent rating for a lawyer with some experience. This rating indicates the attorney is widely respected by their peers for high professional achievement and ethical standards.

Notable: This rating indicates that the lawyer has been recognized by a large number of their peers for strong ethical standards.

Avvo Awards

Avvo Top Contributor: The Avvo Top Contributor Award is granted to attorneys who have earned significant contribution points in a given year on our sister site, Avvo.com. Contribution points are earned by answering questions in Q&A, publishing Legal Guides, and other useful contributions to the Avvo community.

Avvo Client’s Choice: The Avvo Client's Choice Award Badge is granted to attorneys with a significant number of 4+ star reviews in a given year.

Jonathan's approach to business cases

About Jonathan Whitney View website Awards AV Preeminent Peer Rated This elite award is granted to attorneys who have been recognized by their peers for their very high ethical standards, with an average peer review score of 4.5 or higher. About Awards Client Champion Awards Client Champion awards recognize those attorneys who excel at service as affirmed by their clients. The awards, based on…

Clients Jonathan works with

Jonathan reviews new inquiries case-by-case for business, contracts, and creditor rights matters in Sarasota and the surrounding Florida area.

Credentials

Credentials — where Jonathan studied and practices

University of Maine School of Law
J.D. · 2005
University of Southern Maine
B.S. · 2000

Jurisdictions

Jonathan's state bar admissions

Maine
2007 · ACTIVE
U.S. District Court,
2005 · ACTIVE
Florida
2005 · ACTIVE

Jonathan studied at J.D. in University of Maine School of Law and B.S. in University of Southern Maine.

Law school and academic background

Jonathan completed J.D. in University of Maine School of Law and B.S. in University of Southern Maine. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Jonathan runs in Florida is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Jonathan's legal honors and published work

Jonathan has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

AV Preeminent

Legal awards and honors

AV Preeminent.

Locations

Jonathan Whitney's office in Sarasota

Jonathan's primary office is at One Sarasota Tower, 5th floor, 2 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL, 34236-5574. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Lutz, Bobo & Telfair, P.A.

One Sarasota Tower, 5th floor, 2 N. Tamiami Trail

Sarasota, FL 34236-5574

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Jonathan Whitney — 4.7/5 rating from 16 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Jonathan. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing business attorneys in Sarasota.

4.7

16 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Jonathan Whitney claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Jonathan Whitney — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new business attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Jonathan usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

Jonathan charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Jonathan'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; Jonathan will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a business attorney in Sarasota, Florida

A short list to run through before you commit: How many business 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 Jonathan

Jonathan discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in business practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every business 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. Jonathan confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Jonathan's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many business practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Jonathan Whitney

How much does it cost to hire Jonathan for a business case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Jonathan walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Jonathan offer a free consultation?
Jonathan charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Jonathan's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check Jonathan's current terms during booking.
How long do business cases in Florida typically take?
Simple business 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. Jonathan gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Jonathan take my case if I'm outside Sarasota?
Jonathan 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 — Jonathan 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 Jonathan?
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. Jonathan will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Jonathan accepting new business clients right now?
Jonathan's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by Florida residents in the last few months, answered by business attorneys like Jonathan Whitney. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Can I Force A Partner To Sell Their Share In My Florida Business?
I have a co-owner in my Jacksonville, Florida, business who isn’t contributing anymore and I want to buy them out. I’m unsure if I can force them to sell their share. What legal op
1 verified answer · Business · Florida
Do I Need A Business License For My Food Truck In Florida?
I’m planning to start a food truck in Orlando, Florida, and I’m confused about the licensing requirements. I heard I might need several permits, including a health permit and a bus
1 verified answer · Business · Florida
What Are The Penalties For Non-Compliance With Labor Laws In Texas?
My business in Houston just received a notice for a labor law violation regarding employee overtime pay. I’m worried about the potential penalties, including fines or back pay. Wha
1 verified answer · Business · Texas
What Are The Consequences Of Not Complying With Business Licenses In South Carolina?
I launched a catering business in Greenville, South Carolina, without realizing I needed specific licenses. I could face fines or even business closure if I'm not compliant. What a
1 verified answer · Business · South Carolina
What Are The Steps To Dissolve My Corporation In California?
My partnership decided to dissolve our corporation in California due to lack of business. We filed all taxes but didn't know about the formal steps to dissolve it legally. We still
1 verified answer · Business · California
What Are The Filing Requirements For A DBA In Nevada?
I want to operate my online business under a different name in Las Vegas, Nevada, but I’m not sure what the filing requirements are for a DBA (Doing Business As). What do I need to
1 verified answer · Business · Nevada

Areas served

Business attorneys serving Sarasota, Miami and Tampa in Florida

Jonathan handles business matters throughout Florida. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified business attorneys in that community.

Jonathan Whitney, Business Attorney in Sarasota, Florida

Quick answer