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

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

Does Stephen offer a free consultation?

Stephen charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Stephen's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check Stephen'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. Stephen gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Stephen take my case if I'm outside Jacksonville?

Stephen 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 — Stephen 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 Stephen?

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

Is Stephen accepting new business clients right now?

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

Stephen Watrel, Business Attorney in Jacksonville

Quick answer

Stephen Watrel is a shareholder based in Jacksonville, FL. The practice focuses on Business, Car Accidents, and Dog Bites. Stephen has over 34 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Coker Law. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 17 client reviews.

Based in: Jacksonville, FL
Experience: over 34 years
Known for: Business · Car Accidents · Dog Bites

Handles Business, Car Accidents, and Dog Bites matters from Jacksonville, FL.
Over 34 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with AV Preeminent.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by Stephen Watrel

Stephen concentrates on business, car accidents, dog bites, education, and general. Each area below outlines the kind of case Stephen handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Business cases in Jacksonville, Florida

Stephen takes business matters in Jacksonville, 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 Stephen agrees to represent you.

Car Accidents cases in Jacksonville, Florida

Stephen takes car accidents matters in Jacksonville, 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 Stephen agrees to represent you.

Dog Bites cases in Jacksonville, Florida

Stephen takes dog bites matters in Jacksonville, 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 Stephen agrees to represent you.

Education cases in Jacksonville, Florida

Stephen takes education matters in Jacksonville, 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 Stephen agrees to represent you.

General cases in Jacksonville, Florida

Stephen takes general matters in Jacksonville, 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 Stephen agrees to represent you.

Biography

About Stephen Watrel — Over 34 years of Florida business experience

Stephen Watrel is a shareholder based in Jacksonville, FL. The practice focuses on Business, Car Accidents, and Dog Bites. Stephen has over 34 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Coker Law. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 17 client reviews.

With an unwavering commitment to justice, Steve Watrel has dedicated his legal career to fighting for the rights of those who have suffered abuse and neglect in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. For the past 25 years, Mr. Watrel has been a tenacious and passionate lawyer serving the Jacksonville area, bringing his expertise and compassion to each case he handles.

Mr. Watrel earned his J.D. from Syracuse University in 1992 and soon after became a member of the Florida Bar and U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. In 1993, he founded his own law firm, Steve Watrel, P.A., after gaining valuable experience in a prominent litigation firm for one year.

Nursing home and assisted living abuse and neglect cases form the cornerstone of Mr. Watrel's practice. As a Martindale-Hubbell A.V. rated civil trial lawyer, he has achieved the esteemed "legal expert" designation, which attests to his unparalleled competence and expertise. Mr. Watrel's passion for helping victims and their families is evident in his tireless dedication to securing the best possible outcomes for them. Throughout his 25-year career, he has obtained numerous substantial results, including six- and seven-figure settlements, solidifying his reputation as a leading trial lawyer in this specialized field.

Beyond his legal work, Mr. Watrel actively contributes to various professional, fraternal, and civic organizations, often assuming leadership roles. He is a long-standing EAGLE member of the Florida Justice Association, where he currently serves on the Board of Directors and chairs the Nursing Home Task Force. Additionally, he is a valued member of the Continuing Legal Education Committee. Mr. Watrel's contributions extend to the Jacksonville Justice Association, where he served as President and continues to be involved as a member of the Board of Directors.

In addition to his legal and professional commitments, Mr. Watrel demonstrates his dedication to the community through his active involvement with charitable organizations. He generously donates his time and resources to support causes such as Home Instead Senior Care, Seniors on a Mission, and various senior advocate organizations. When he is not practicing law, Mr. Watrel enjoys quality time with his two daughters and French Bulldog puppy, Savannah. He also finds solace in hiking, exercising, and traveling.

Steve Watrel's unwavering dedication to seeking justice for victims of abuse and neglect is matched by his deep commitment to the community he serves. With his compassionate approach, extensive experience, and proven track record, he stands as a steadfast advocate, ensuring that the rights of those in need are protected.

How Stephen handles business matters

With an unwavering commitment to justice, Steve Watrel has dedicated his legal career to fighting for the rights of those who have suffered abuse and neglect in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. For the past 25 years, Mr. Watrel has been a tenacious and passionate lawyer serving the Jacksonville area, bringing his expertise and compassion to each case he handles. Mr. Watrel earned his…

The kind of cases Stephen takes

Stephen reviews new inquiries case-by-case for business, car accidents, and dog bites matters in Jacksonville and the surrounding Florida area.

Credentials

Stephen Watrel's legal education and bar admissions

Syracuse University
J.D. · 1992
Tulane University
B.S.M. · 1989

Jurisdictions

Stephen's state bar admissions

U.S. Court of Appeal
1993 · ACTIVE
U.S. District Court,
1993 · ACTIVE
Florida
1992 · ACTIVE

Stephen studied at J.D. in Syracuse University and B.S.M. in Tulane University.

Law school and academic background

Stephen completed J.D. in Syracuse University and B.S.M. in Tulane University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Stephen runs in Florida is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of Stephen Watrel

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

AV Preeminent

Legal awards and honors

AV Preeminent.

Locations

Stephen Watrel's office in Jacksonville

Stephen's primary office is at 136 East Bay Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32202. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Coker Law

136 East Bay Street

Jacksonville, FL 32202

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Stephen Watrel — 5.0/5 rating from 17 verified client reviews

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

5.0

17 client reviews

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

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Stephen Watrel — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

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

Questions to ask a business attorney in Jacksonville, 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 Stephen

Stephen 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. Stephen confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Stephen'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 Stephen Watrel

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

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

Stephen Watrel, Business Attorney in Jacksonville, Florida

Quick answer