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Richard Hartley Gaines

Family Attorney at Coral Springs, FL

4.8   57 reviews

also known as Ric

  • Licensed for 28 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1995
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Richard

Learn Richard’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Family
    30%
    Comprehensive Family and Divorce Law Practice, including prenuptial agreements, step-parent adoption, alimony and child support, custody disputes, domestic violence, enforcement and modification, etc.

  2. Divorce and separation
    25%

  3. Litigation
    25%
    Business and contract related litigation, including real estate contract disputes, Will and Trust contests, contested guardianship and incapacity matters, elder abuse, and landlord tenant disputes.

  4. Child custody
    15%

  5. Probate
    5%
    Administration of probate estates.

I give my clients my cell phone number and invite them to contact me after hours and on weekends, as needed, because the practice of law, especially family matters, is not a Monday through Friday, 9-5 job.  I provide nearly 25 years of experience, skilled and knowledgeable representation; open communication with my clients and disclosure of all communications with the other side; and direct, no-fluff, no holds barred, legal advice.  I tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear. Give me a call and let me help you aggressively pursue your goals.

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Contact Richard

Similar lawyers nearby

The Gaines Law Firm, P.A.
5531 N University Dr Ste 103
Coral Springs, FL, 33067-4649

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  57 customer reviews
Posted by JC | March 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Second Chance
I'm a middle aged guy. I only mention that because no matter how optimistic your point of view, the margin of error for mistakes in judgement shrinks as you get older. It's like a pilot who couldn't successfully get out of a stahl, just because he was too close to the ground. He knew what to do, but there just wasn't enough time to recover (I fly a Cesna 152). I recently signed a contract to sell my house. In the weeks prior to the closing date, I got a sobering understanding of the state of the real estate market. Houses were absurdly expensive. Sure I sold my house for good money. But now what ? Too late though, I signed a binding contract. Can't get out of this stahl, not this time. The buyer was paying cash, and already had $250K in the escrow. This is as a done deal, right ? As it turns out on the day of closing, there was a discrepancy or misunderstanding on the buyers side, which my very astute escrow attorney pointed out. I was referred to attorney Richard Gaines. Since time was of the essence, he was communicating with my escrow agent and buyers attorney within the hour. That same day, he wrote a detailed email complete with contractual references. The buyers attorney had our very well written position within a couple of hours the day of the closing. I was impressed with my attorneys swift analysis, strategy and execution. By the end of the week, I was released from the contract and got my house back ! I highly recommend Richard Gaines as a skilled and effective advocate in time of need.
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Posted by Sal | January 17, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney!
Mr Gaines handled our case from beginning to end in a professional manner. His staff and him were responsive and had a strong sense of urgency in handling any needs we had. Thank you!
Posted by Renee | June 30, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Richard Gaines is an exemplary lawyer
I was referred to Mr Richard Gaines by my lawyer in my home town, Towson Maryland, when in dire need of a Florida lawyer. Due to the distance between us I was nervous. Mr. Gaines immediately put me at ease by being available to me. I felt as if I were his only client even when I knew he was either on his way into court or coming out of court. His professional expertise in his field, means of communication and compassion made an emotional, stressful and serious family situation for me bearable. Richard kept me abreast without being excessive. I felt Richard looked after my financial well being, a rare find. He always reassured me yet never gave me false hope. He has such a calm about him. The ability to identify the root of problems, open to ways of solving of the problem and as a result, success...Richard WON an extremely difficult case for me. I know, without a doubt, that without Richard, his honest character, honorable integrity and respectful relationship that he has for the court, opposing lawyer and his client, an innocent child, we would have lost ,a loss that would have been more than the case. I have never written a review nor ever been compelled to until now. My simple words will not, can not, express the thanks, gratitude, nor all the sentiments that I so wish I could convey to a man I have not even faced. Remember, I was referred to Richard by my lawyer in Maryland. My lawyers respect for Richard, his confidence in Richard in Florida was a win win for me... working with him and he, we , won! If I had to give a snap shot of Richards attributes and skills I would bullet these but not limit them to : *Responsive *Analytical Sills *Speaking Skills *Listening Skills *Perseverance *Logical Thinking Mr. Richard H. Gaines , without a shadow of a doubt, is an exemplary lawyer.
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Posted by Parvin | May 24, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Defendant
Mr. Richard Gaines my attorney held several arguments to win my case. Due to a strong arguments my attorney was able to defend me. He made very possible for judge to be on my side and we won the case. Thank to Richard I was able to live in piece again.
Posted by Dean | May 10, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A miracle!!
Richard has Guided me thru an incredible and almost disastrous divorce proceeding that had a 99% chance of failure. However Richard somehow miraculously saved a marriage. Most Firms would have an opportunity to escalate fees, and destroy two lives. Not Mr. Gaines!! He saved a 48 year marriage. He defused the villains, he infused logic, and caused reality to prevail. I have experienced many lawyers, I have spent sums with 2 commas, but I have never experienced professional understanding as I have with Richard and his incredible staff. God bless them all!!
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Posted by Jenna | December 18, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing divorce lawyer
Mr. Gaines was a pleasure to work with. He made me feel so comfortable and confident through this entire process. I knew I could completely trust him. We got my divorce done very quickly and I was able to get everything that I knew was rightfully mine. If you need an amazing divorce lawyer look no further !
Posted by anonymous | December 16, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommend
Richard is the goto lawyer for legal advice. I had a very bad experience with my first lawyer and as soon as I made my mind to retain a new lawyer to represent my case I found Richard with a very good reviews. I went with Richard just by seeing the reviews and today I can say that I made the right decision by choosing him as my attorney to represent me. He response in a timely manner,very knowledgeable and easy to approach. Richard saved lot of my time and money by giving his valuable legal advices. Divorce is a very stressful situation but if you have a good attorney it can be very smooth and simple and yes Richard made it smooth and simple in my case with the best possible outcome for me! I am always grateful for his service and with a huge respect I highly recommend him.
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Posted by Rhonda | July 10, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great attorney
From consultation to the end of the case, Mr Gaines always stayed in direct contact, explained in detail, had an amazing professional presence thru-out the years that my lawsuit went on. We actually won two out of two separate cases all within the same suit. Would absolutely recommend Mr Gaines!
Posted by David | April 16, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best divorce lawyer experience
Richard Gaines did a great job for me. I hired him after firing my divorce lawyer for being disconnected, uninterested and antagonistic toward the opposing lawyer. I had to make a change as minor squabbles were costing my children money as their parents waged an expensive fight. Richard simplified things and explained options clearly. He was very thorough and walked me through every decision. In the end, my wife fired her lawyer and signed off on the divorce without a lawyer. I felt I could trust Richard and in the end, my wife did too. You can't go wrong with Richard Gaines.
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Posted by Holly | February 19, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great work
Mr. Gaines worked with me to get my ex husband to settle before going to court with the settlement amount I was happy with. He was very informative throughout the entire process. I would definitely use him again and recommend him to others.
Posted by Brian | November 6, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A truly amazing divorce attorney
I can not begin to describe what an amazing experience I had with Richard Gaines as my divorce attorney. My divorce lasted over two years, and Richard had my back every step of the way. All through my divorce process, Richard tried to save me money in any way that he could. He was always prompt in returning my calls and e-mails. To say that I would want no other lawyer representing me in a divorce is an understatement. Divorce is so stressful as it is, but Richard made it so much less stressful with my confidence in his guidance. I would highly recommend Richard Gaines as a divorce attorney for everyone. You will be treated with respect, compassion, and fairness. What more can you ask for.
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Posted by Claudia | October 21, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply a BLESSING!!!
As a single mother As a single mother going through what I went through was to me one of the most traumatizing experiences of my life. My daughter’s father disappeared when the baby was only 4 months old. Once I put him on child support of course he sued me for paternity and that is when it all begun. 2 years later, we have finally settled. During this process I discovered 2 things One that you are nobody in court unless you have legal representation and Two that you need not just a lawyer but an excellent one. Why? Because the system in FL is not necessarily on the side of a good mother simply because she bare the brunt of everything. That is when Richard Gaines (my attorney) came into play and he played an incredible role in my life. He was not only my attorney but he was also a professional and candid person who would calibrate me when my mind would fly off the handle. He kept me, realistic, grounded and calibrated always setting a realistic tone to the outcome of my request. Not once did he try to tell me things that were not possible within the parameters of the law to which I am very grateful. He is an incredibly sharp attorney who has master his craft. I have seen him in action against other colleagues and I can say even if he has a friendly relationship with opposing counsel he is NOT afraid to fight for his client. He makes them a priority and that is why I will always be so appreciative of him. In moments of desperation he calm me down and helped me by letting me know how the law works. I will say that I felt stronger because I had him by my side. If you are considering hiring a compassionate strong attorney who is very sharp and will have your best interest at heart, I can say with all the sincerity in the world; Look no further!!! Richard is all of that and more…Best of luck!! Thank you Richard for all of your hard work and for being able to resolve my case in the most fair possible!!
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Posted by Anne | October 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional, Compassionate and ALWAYS Available
Mr. Gaines has lent his expertise to our family regarding a variety of issues over the past 2 years. He truly made himself available constantly to answer questions, provide counsel and handle all matters with compassion. To find an attorney who is not only tremendously skilled but also an amazing human being has been such a benefit!
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Posted by Randy | May 31, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Richard Gaines
My oldest brother passed away without a will in FL. My siblings hired Richard to handle this without consulting me. I was doubtful and apprehensive about them choosing Richard. After all that, I can't fault their choice. Richard was probably the most patient, understanding and nice lawyer I could hope to ever deal with. Because my brother didn't have a will, it took a long time to get through the FL probate court process. Richard did his best, but you can't fight that type of inefficiency. I was not the most patient client, but Richard always responded with respect and encouragement. I would hire Richard to handle any legal matter I have in the future. His assistant, Barbara, is the best. I really got to know her and she is the best at giving personal service and advice. Barbra is awesome. Richard and Barbra are an awesome team. I would not hesitate to have them represent my interests again.
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Posted by Lisa glassberg | May 15, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Rick Gaines the best
Rick is a wonderful- sympathetic - kind lawyer. Not looking to waste money and drag your case on. Very fair and efficient. Easy to get in touch with as well. If you are going through a divorce Rick is the one to protect you and guide you.
Posted by Joe | November 9, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great attorney
Richard is quick, fair and thorough. always on top of my case and it was a pleasure having him on my side. J.H.
Posted by Aimee | July 28, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Family Law Attorney!
Richard Gaines became our attorney after speaking with a couple of others regarding my husband’s adoption of my 18 year old daughter. The first attorney told us it would require $25,000 to *begin* the process. We were also told how difficult and lengthy this process would be. The day we met Richard, we knew we wanted him to represent us and we hired him on the spot. That night, we received an email from Mr. Gaines stating the research and phone calls he made, and that although this would not be, “easy,” it would not be nearly as difficult as we had been told, initially. From that moment on, Richard and his staff worked quickly to expedite the adoption so that our daughter could enter college “without the horrible baggage,” as she once put it. Richard was communicative throughout the process, as well as letting us know that he was available, day or night, if we needed him. If you are looking for a family law attorney, I could not imagine anyone with more compassion or knowledge for your needs, and I would not hesitate recommending Richard Gaines. We are so thankful for his work in bringing our family together and making us whole.
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Posted by Greg | May 29, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The most knowledgeable, persistent and committed attorney I've ever hired.
I retained The Gaines Law Firm to represent me in a highly contentious Family Court case. I was very pleased with the firm's representation and the outcome they achieved for me. From my initial consultation with Mr. Gaines through the end of the case, I was kept fully informed of the progress of the case. Moreover, any questions I had regarding the case were promptly and thoroughly answered. I don't think I could have found a better attorney to represent me. I was impressed with Mr. Gaines' command of the law, negotiation skills and attention to detail and would definitely recommend Mr. Gaines to anyone that's seeking a highly skilled attorney to represent them.
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Posted by Nicole | November 9, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mega Attorney
Attorney Richard Gaines is a phenomenal attorney! After being in the court system for around four years I've never felt at peace until I retained Richard. He immediately put me at ease and was honest with me on the process I had a head of me. Plus he expressed many ways in which to approach the case. He also kept me completely informed on what was going on with my case and I was never left in the dark or confused. Attorney Gaines worked on my case in an amazingly fast and efficient manner. I honestly feel that he did everything in his power to win my case, in a professional way always being respectful, even to the appossing side. I would definitely recommend Richard Gaines!
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Posted by George | November 5, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
George- Client
My situation may be a little different than most. I retained Mr. Gaines long after my divorce was finalized and I had represented myself for 2 years post-divorce against my ex-wife and her husband who is currently her attorney. We have 4 minor children together which at the very least kept emotions running high. Needless to say Richard was left with an incredible mess to clean up and let me know it right from the beginning. His honesty was refreshing. Richard NEVER told me what I wanted to hear however, ALWAYS told me what I needed to hear. Mr. Gaines calm, cool and professional conduct both inside and outside the courtroom and his extensive knowledge of family law was exactly what I needed. His dedication, honesty, quick response, open communication, attentiveness and determination to go above and beyond in my case has been UNBELIEVABLE!! I have never felt as though I am just a file. I would highly recommend Mr. Gaines to anyone contemplating divorce! In my experience Richard is not only a brilliant attorney but a remarkable person. There are no words to express my extreme gratitude towards him.
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Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 425-425 per hour
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • President and Owner
  • The Gaines Law Firm, P.A.
  • 2014 - Present
  • Shareholder/Attorney
  • Greenspoon Marder, P.A.
  • 1999 - 2014
  • Associate Attorney
  • Bailey & Jones, P.A.
  • 1997 - 1999
  • Associate Attorney
  • Jennings, Valancy & Edwards, P.A.
  • 1995 - 1997
View all work experience

Education

  • Nova Southeastern University - Shepard Broad Law Center
  • Doctor of Jurisprudence/Juris Doctor
  • 1995
  • Emory University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1990
  • Jericho High School
  • Diploma
  • 1986

Legal Cases

  • Ledea-Genaro v. Genaro
  • Affirmed
  • Kravitz v. Levy
  • Affirmed in part; reversed in part
  • Hold v. Manzini
  • Reversed
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Gotham Networking Group
  • South Florida Chapter
  • 2014 - Present
  • Parkland Coral Springs Business Group, P.A.
  • Founder
  • 2010 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2019
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2019
  • "Superb" Lawyer
  • AVVO
  • 2019
  • Top Lawyer
  • South Florida Legal Guide
  • 2019
  • Florida Legal Elite
  • Florida Trend Magazine
  • 2018
  • Top Lawyer
  • South Florida Legal Guide
  • 2015
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2015
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Parkland Coral Springs Business Group, P.A. Networking/Marketing Seminar
  • Rumors, Myths and Other Fallacies of Florida Divorce
  • 2014
  • Jackson National Life Ins Co. Employee Event/Team Building
  • Women and Prosperity: How Successful Women Fair in Divorce
  • 2012
  • Elder Law Associates, P.A., Elder Law Forum
  • Divorce Among Seniors
  • 2011

Attorney endorsements

Received (19)
Given (23)
Endorse Richard
Family Attorney | Mar 06
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Richard was opposing counsel in a contested paternity matter; his client was actually located in Orlando and my client was located in Miami. Throughout the pendency of the case, Richard was engaging and responsive. He is a consummate professional, knowledgeable in the law and very reasonable to work with. As a result of our efforts, our clients were able to focus on the real importance: their child. We reached a relatively quick and amicable settlement, and minimized our clients’ legal expense and stress that oftentimes comes as a biproduct of domestic cases. In the end, our clients are committed to co-parenting. It could not have been a better result for them. I would highly recommend Richard as a family law attorney in the south Florida area."
Litigation Attorney | Jun 05
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Richard and I recently opposed each other in a real estate dispute. Each of our clients' respective positions had strengths and weaknesses. He was a tough and informed adversary and professional at all times. Richard's matter of fact approach and clear headed analysis of the parties' respective positions helped us reach settlement prior to litigation being filed. The settlement was fair and far more efficient and less costly for the clients. Richard is a lawyer a client can trust."
Family Attorney | Jan 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Ric as we send him all our Florida family law referrals. He's very thorough, and I get great feedback from those prospects I refer to him"
Family Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Ric and I had the pleasure to work together on a divorce case. Even though he represented the opposing party, Ric was courteous, professional, and responsive. He takes great pride in his work and commitment to achieving the best outcome for his clients. I look forward to working with him again in the future."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Sep 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Richard is a pleasure to work with. Despite the difficult case we were working on, he was professional and courteous which made the discovery process easier than it would have been. Every step of the way he demonstrated knowledge of the law and the facts of the case."
Family Attorney | Apr 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ric has always done an outstanding job for his clients. He is hard-working and dedicated. I highly endorse him."
Family Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Richard Gaines, Esq. is an excellent attorney that I highly recommend. He has assisted my referral clients with their divorces and all of them were impressed with his expertise and professionalism. Hire him today!"
Family Attorney | Feb 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have had the extreme pleasure of working with Ric Gaines, who is an exceptional family law attorney. Ric is an out-of-the-box thinker, who is open to new concepts and creative ways to find resolutions to disputes. He is collaborative with like-minded attorneys, but is also a fierce and skilled litigator inside the courtroom. I have referred a number of friends who were contemplating divorce to Ric, and have consistently received positive feedback from them. Most notably, Ric is described as a trustworthy, compassionate listener, who is highly knowledgeable and well-respected in his field. I endorse Ric Gaines, without reservation."
Litigation Attorney | Jan 20
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Richard is a very experienced and well respected litigator. I worked with him on a complicated matter and found him to well prepared, very meticulous and a strong advocate for his client. I was impressed with the level of professionalism displayed by both him and his staff even in the heat of trial preparation. I would recommend Richard to anyone looking for a family law attorney or litigator to zealously advocate for their position."
Family Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Rick and I co-counseled a very complicated matter. He is an amazing family law attorney and litigator. He is also very professional and works well with adversarial opposing attorneys and opposing parties. It was such a pleasure working with Rick and he is my "go-to" man when I have any complicated questions as he knows the law inside and out. I highly recommend Rick in cases that deal with complicated business ventures and business valuations as his corporate background comes in handy."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Dec 30
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known attorney Ric Gaines for many years, after having first been introduced after Ric came highly recommended by another attorney with whom I worked. Our relationship began with networking, then developed into Ric handling certain cases for my clients, and then I retained Ric for a personal matter. For years Ric has been professional, thoughtful and ready, willing and able to assist on any matter I throw his way. Furthermore, working with Ric on a personal basis has made a typically unpleasant situation very easy to deal with. I strongly recommend attorney Ric Gaines."
Litigation Attorney | Oct 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"It is with great pleasure and honor to endorse my friend and colleague who I have been referring litigation matters to for many years. Ric is an excellent, highly skilled attorney who is results oriented and to do what is necessary to passionately represent his clients while being practical in his approach and seeking to get the job done in the most efficient manner."
Family Attorney | Sep 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Richard is the consummate professional. His extremely intelligent, and his knowledge in his chosen areas of practices is exceptional."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Sep 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Richard for over 10 years both personally and professionally. Richard is bright, diligent and thorough. I gladly endorse Richard."
Family Attorney | Sep 03
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I highly endorse this lawyer. He is an excellent trial lawyer, knowledgeable of the law and the court system. He is well respected in the legal community and cares for his clients. I highly recommend him."
Family Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Richard is an excellent attorney and one who truly cares about his clients. I highly recommend!"
Family Attorney | Jun 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Richard. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Family Attorney | Jul 05
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Richard is an excellent efficient and effective attorney. We were opposing counsel on an hotly contested matter and as a direct result his professionalism and persistence, the attorneys were able to craft a cost effective settlement for both parties. I not only hope that I will be able to work with Mr. Gaines again, but recommend him to any individual seeking counsel."
Family Attorney | Dec 10
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Rick for a while and he is a very knowledgeable, reliable and passionate advocate for his clients and also a great colleague to consult with or co-counsel with. Richard is not only a seasoned and experienced litigator, but also a family law and probate expert who is second to none!"
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Avvo Contributions

1 Legal Answers 0 Legal Guides
Coral Springs Family Lawyer Richard Hartley Gaines
Richard Hartley Gaines
Family Attorney
Coral Springs, FL
Licensed for 28 years