Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. proudly announce that seven of their attorneys have been selected for the Florida Super Lawyers 2024 list. These distinguished lawyers share a passion for the law, exceptional legal achievements, and a commitment to prioritizing their clients.

Congratulations to these accomplished attorneys for their dedication to their clients and their contributions to the legal community.

Super Lawyers, a part of Thomson Reuters, is a research-driven and peer-conducted rating system. It identifies outstanding lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.

Super Lawyers recognizes less than 5% of Florida attorneys. This year, Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. celebrates Sean McQuaid, Aubrey Dicus, Howard Ross, Caitlin Szemotowicz, and Robert Kapusta on the list. Additionally, Andrew Pardun and Lama Alqasemi are honored as Super Lawyers Rising Stars, a distinction for only 2.5% of Florida lawyers who are 40 or younger or have practiced for 10 years or less.

Meet Our 2024 Florida Super Lawyers

Sean McQuaid

As the President of Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A., Sean McQuaid exemplifies leadership and excellence. Recognized as a Florida Super Lawyer every year since 2014, Sean has made remarkable strides in his career. His legal expertise spans personal injury and criminal defense. Sean’s influence extends beyond the courtroom as he has held various leadership roles in community organizations, including the St. Petersburg Bar Association and the Make-a-Wish Foundation Executive Committee.

Caitlin Szematowicz

Celebrated for her sixth consecutive year as a Florida Super Lawyer, Caitlin Szematowicz excels in appeals, commercial litigation, general civil litigation, and labor and employment. Caitlin’s contributions to the legal field and her community involvement, such as her past presidency of the St. Petersburg Bar Foundation and the Pinellas County Trial Lawyers Association, underscore her dedication and prowess.

Aubrey Dicus

Aubrey Dicus, a former President and CEO of the firm, continues to earn recognition as a Florida Super Lawyer. With nearly 50 years of legal experience, Aubrey has made significant contributions to the legal community. His expertise includes criminal defense, civil litigation, commercial litigation, and personal injury. Aubrey’s leadership and legal acumen have garnered him respect and numerous accolades, including recognition by “Best Lawyers in America.” He has also demonstrated his leadership abilities through prestigious positions in the Pinellas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Howard Ross

With over 57 years at the firm, Howard Ross has a storied career in St. Petersburg’s legal community. Recognized again as a Florida Super Lawyer, Howard specializes in business and corporate litigation and real estate transactions. His accolades include the Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating and the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award.

Robert Kapusta, Jr.

Recognized once more as a Florida Super Lawyer, Robert Kapusta specializes in business and corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, and tax and estate planning. Robert is also a CPA and active in the community, holding leadership roles such as chair of the Executive Committee for the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership. His legal expertise and community involvement make him a respected figure in the legal field.

Andrew Pardun (Rising Star)

Andrew Pardun, named a Rising Star for the sixth consecutive year, specializes in real estate law, commercial litigation, and business law. His leadership roles in community organizations, such as the Executive Committee of the St. Petersburg Bar Association, highlight his commitment to excellence and service.

Lama Alqasemi (Rising Star)

Lama Alqasemi is honored as another Rising Star. She’s an outstanding attorney in estate planning, tax planning, and probate and trust administration. She holds a Master of Laws in Taxation from the University of Florida and a Juris Doctor from George Mason University, bringing a multifaceted legal perspective from her experiences at the Department of Justice and Dentons in Prague. A Tampa Bay native, Lama is dedicated to her clients and community, providing personalized legal services and engaging in educational outreach since her return in 2022.

A Legacy of Excellence in Tampa Bay

Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A., one of the oldest law firms in the Tampa Bay area, has been providing exceptional legal services since 1958. Founded by Anthony Battaglia, the firm upholds a philosophy of helping others and giving back to the community. The firm’s attorneys continue to offer prestigious legal services in various areas, including:

• Commercial Litigation
• Corporate and Business Law
• Criminal Defense
• Estate Planning and Probate
• General Civil Litigation
• Labor and Employment
• Personal Injury
• Property Damage and Insurance Dispute
• Real Estate

Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. is more than just a law firm. They are a cornerstone of the community, committed to excellence both inside and outside the courtroom. Every attorney at the firm upholds the standard of giving back and contributing to the community, a legacy started by their founder.

For legal representation by some of Florida’s top attorneys, contact Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. today.