Rafael Jorge Roca

Rafael J. Roca is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator and a Board-Certified Civil Trial Lawyer, an achievement reflecting the highest level of competence, professionalism and experience in civil trial practice. With more than three decades of litigation experience, Rafael brings a seasoned trial lawyer’s perspective to mediation, informed by extensive courtroom advocacy and a deep understanding of case valuation, risk assessment and jury dynamics. Rafael has spent much of his career representing clients in complex personal injury and wrongful death matters, handling cases involving catastrophic injuries, premises liability, negligent security and commercial negligence. His background equips him to evaluate liability, damages and the practical challenges that influence resolution in high-exposure cases. Before joining Upchurch Watson White & Max, he practiced for more than a decade as a solo attorney in West Palm Beach and later as part of a prominent plaintiff’s firm, where he continued to litigate complex injury cases. Throughout his career, he has earned an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, has been board certified in Civil Trial since 1997 and consistently recognized by Super Lawyers. In addition to his litigation practice, Rafael has been active in professional and civic organizations. His service includes leadership within the Legal Aid Society, the Hispanic Human Resources Council and the Judicial Nominating Commission for Florida’s Fifteenth Judicial Circuit, by gubernatorial appointment. Rafael was born in Holguín, Cuba, and raised in Miami, Florida. He earned his undergraduate degree from Florida State University and his Juris Doctor from St. Thomas University School of Law. He began his legal career in Palm Beach County in 1986.