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Kenneth Brian Schwartz

Workers compensation Attorney at Boca Raton, FL

4.7   15 reviews

also known as Ken

  • State Years
    Florida - FL 22 years
    Hawaii - HI 22 years
  • Licensed for 22 years
    State FL
    Acquired 2001
    Status
    Member in Good Standing Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2015
  • Licensed for 22 years
    State HI
    Acquired 2000
    Status
    Inactive Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2016

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2016. See details

About Kenneth

Learn Kenneth’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Workers compensation
    65%
    I've been a Board Certified Specialist in this area since 2014. I represent injured workers at every level of their claims. I also have extensive experience on the defense side, including one of the world's largest private employers.

  2. Appeals
    15%
    I handle appeals of orders (and petitions for extraordinary writs) in my own cases and in those referred by trial attorneys from around the state, whether defense or claimant cases.

  3. Contracts and agreements
    5%
    Business contract drafting and litigation; Employment agreements, including drafting and enforcement of non-competes; Drug-Free Workplace Policies, more...

  4. Employment and labor
    5%
    Employment agreements, including drafting and enforcement of non-competes; litigating FLSA and state un(der)paid wage-and-hour claims for both employees and employers, allegations of wrongful termination and/or retaliation.

  5. Litigation
    5%
    I handle enforcement of workers' compensation orders by "Rule Nisi" action in Circuit Court; civil litigation over coverage of insurance contracts, breach of contract cases, business disputes, more...

  6. Mediation
    5%
    I am a trained neutral, with a knack for finding objective strengths and weaknesses in a case and with the temperament and tenacity to bring both sides together, despite initial differences and ingrained unwillingness to be flexible.

Kenneth B. Schwartz, Esq., handles litigation, trials, mediations, and appeals of injury, business, and employment matters, including the following:

  • Workers' compensation claims
  • Rule Nisi enforcement proceedings
  • Contract disputes
  • Wage & Hour claims
  • Enforcement of non-compete and trade secret agreements, and 
  • Allegations of wrongful termination, retaliation, and discrimination

He achieved Board-Certified Specialist (B.C.S.) status in Workers' Compensation Law in 2014, meaning that he is one of only fewer than 200 attorneys (out of over 108,000 attorneys in the state) who is permitted to call him-/herself an "expert" in that area of the law.  He was recertified as having BCS status by the Florida Bar in 2019, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to the practice area.

In 2021, he was awarded the distinguished AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating by Martindale-Hubbell.  This is the highest peer rating standard. It is given to attorneys who are ranked at the highest level of professional excellence for their legal expertise, communication skills, and ethical standards by their peers.

As an appellate attorney, Mr. Schwartz has handled more than 100 appeals and petitions for extraordinary writs (e.g., certiorari) in state and federal courts, and he has presented oral argument numerous times, appearing before the First, Second, and Fourth District Courts of Appeal.  Mr. Schwartz handles appeals not only for all of his own cases but also for other attorneys.  He is regularly consulted to provide trial support to other attorneys, including researching complex issues, drafting motions and memoranda, and advising on the preservation of issues for appeal.

As a mediator, Mr. Schwartz brings to the negotiating table his years of experience in the trenches for both sides and his sharp legal acumen for cutting to the core of the dispute, to help the parties in litigation find common ground.  He will tenaciously -- but collegially and respectfully -- work to bring both sides to a resolution that positions the parties to move on.  

Photos and videos

Ken Schwartz is Board Certified Specialist in Workers' Compensation Law, which allows him to be called an EXPERT in this field.

Contact Kenneth

Similar lawyers nearby

Kenneth B. Schwartz, Esq.
Board Certified EXPERT in W/C Law
20283 State Road 7, Suite 400
Boca Raton, FL, 33498

Reviews

4.7 / 5.0
  15 customer reviews
Posted by anonymous | September 7, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The BEST workers compensation attorney around.
Written by Dorothy Smith with the approval of the injured worker I want to thank you for accepting my two (2) cases twenty years apart and representing me as my legal counsel. I know they are complicated cases but thanks to your expertise and prowess, justice is finally being served. Without your guidance we would not have gotten this far. You believed in me and continued to stay by my side through all the ups and downs. When I thought it was too much for me to handle and felt like giving up, you were there for me to give me strength and hope. I could never have done this by myself as I tried. Being a Board-certified Attorney is a designation earned by advance studies to understand the workers compensation complicated rules and regulations that change over time requiring continuing education and recertification. Keep in mind not all worker’s compensation attorneys are board certified which is why Mr. Schwartz is a cut above the others. As of this date Florida has 179 board certified workers compensation attorneys as noted by The Florida Bar. When sending correspondence to Mr. Schwartz he responds within minutes not days. Mr. Schwartz has intimate knowledge about my two (2) complicated injuries that occurred in 1999 under one set of rules and 2021 injury under a different set of rules. Mr. Schwartz has intricate knowledge regarding different dates of injury and makes sure the injured worker receives timely care and treatment. Several times a week I bombard Mr. Schwartz with doctor visit notes and DWC-25 that he immediately responds if he finds incorrect documentation that needs to be addressed. No matter how many times a week/day I contact Mr. Schwartz he responds generously with his time. It has been a long tedious process to get where I am today two (2) surgeries later. The insurance company referred me to their INSURANCE doctors who denied anything was wrong with me until I became wheelchair bound and had to have immediate low back surgery. The second was a hand injury that caused extensive hand swelling with excruciating pain. The INSURANCE doctors denied anything major was wrong with my hand and sent me back to work. Over time I experienced my hand started shrinking. Another hand surgeon performed surgery 2 years later and found the median nerve was compression with a napkin ring constriction. The insurance company was trying to save money for the employer, instead it ended up costing more money. Mr. Schwartz guided me by recommending a consultation by an independent physician. I want to thank you so very much for your understanding, patience, guidance, and dedication to my cases. Your expertise means a lot to me, and I will be forever grateful to you. Thank you so, so much. Again, thank you for helping me right this wrong.
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Posted by Donald | November 2, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He gets it done
Where do I start...during this process Ken S. and staff has been nothing more than outstanding professionals. His clear communication and keeping you up-to-date is amazing. Letting you know all aspects of options so that you can make a sound and intelligent decision. If ever I'm in need of this type of legal services/advice again, I have no doubt as to who I will be using. I would definitely recommend 10/10.
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Posted by Glenn | June 17, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent and knowledgeable
Edit: Ken is one of the best attorneys I have come across and in my former line of work that was alot. He keeps me up to date with the latest developments in my current case. I trust him wholeheartedly and am confident he will get the best outcome possible. I am very satisfied that I hire Ken for my worksmans comp case.
Response from Kenneth Schwartz June 26, 2022
Good communication is important to understanding my clients' needs. You have been providing me with regular updates on your medical care and your work status, which allow me to offer informed advice and formulate informed strategies intended to maximize benefits to you. I will continue to work toward an excellent outcome for you, Glenn.
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Posted by Fred | December 21, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Advocate
Ken's a seasoned, smart, solid advocate. He's been a trusted lawyer of mine for years and I can't imagine a better person to represent my interests. He's truly the best.
Posted by Joseph | May 27, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Sergeant Joseph Cristin, Florida Department of Corrections
I have been with Dr. Ken B. Schwartz since my accident in 2014. He has represented me in a very professional, knowledgeable way. I can only express my gratitude towards him. From the first mediation meeting I learnt or knew that I would be represented excellently. Again I can only show gratitude for his services.
Response from Kenneth Schwartz July 20, 2021
I have spent hundreds of hours in this case so far, and I continue to plug away for this client, bcz it's the right thing to do. He's a very nice man who suffered a serious injury while working a thankless but important job. The Carrier denied the claim, and we're still fighting to get them to reverse that denial! We've been to trial (and lost) then up on appeal (and won!!!), and now we're back down at the trial level. We'll see how it goes, but we're not giving up!!!
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Posted by anonymous | May 27, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He cared about me and what I wanted
He asked an important question during the first meeting: what do you hope to accomplish by hiring a lawyer? That told me that he cared what I wanted, not just that he had someone new in front of him he could make money off of. It felt like it was personal to him because it was personal to me. That's the way it should be.
Response from Kenneth Schwartz June 25, 2021
Thank you very much. I really do care. I hope that all the people I talk to leave with that same sense of comfort, even if they don't retain my services. And, I hope the ones that do retain my services are ultimately left with not only a lasting good feeling about me but also with the recovery that they hoped for from the beginning, which is my main goal. I strive to make that happen.
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Posted by Pam | March 26, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer in Florida!
Brilliant, effective, personable and responsive. Hire him and you are in good hands.
Response from Kenneth Schwartz June 25, 2021
Good lawyers work best with good clients. It was a pleasure, and I hope that I can offer helpful services again in the future, maybe even to your new business venture!
Posted by Ashley | March 22, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I hired Mr. Schwartz, haven't settled yet but...
I asked a question here on avvo about an injury that occurred at work. He answered so thoroughly and took time to listen. Tammy who works for him has been amazing she has listened to me cry on the phone numerous times. If I have questions they/he answers right away. I'm young and I'm in a career field that employers just expect us to suck it up no matter how much pain we're in. Like I said we haven't reached an agreement on my case but so far it feels good to have the weight lifted off. I highly recommend him.
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Response from Kenneth Schwartz June 25, 2021
I look forward to hearing back from you regarding your current status. You can call the original number I gave you or you can message me through this platform. Hope to hear from you soon!
Posted by Cristina | January 4, 2015
Foreclosure Defense, saved my home. Very happy!!!
I was very upside down on a condo I refinanced in 2006 at the top of the market. I stopped paying and got sued in 2012. He kept the big firm wolves at bay picking apart their legal stuff while the agent he secured got me a short sale, which canceled the litigation right before the auction sale date. I was going to take a big tax hit, too, but he knew of a CPA that gave me awesome advice on how to get help under the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act. That saved me tens of thousands in capital gains tax! He stayed in touch the entire time of the case and explained all the possible ups and downs for me. He made a scary process a lot more easy to deal with and got an albatross off my neck.
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Response from Kenneth Schwartz June 25, 2021
I'm no tax expert, but I know ligitation and strategy, so I know how to keep the wolves away! I'm glad I was able to help, and I see that you got back up on your feet (and now got MBA, which is great!). I hope that my work for you at least in part allowed you the peace of mind and financial freedom to pursue that advanced degree, so that you can better your life. I'm proud of you!!!
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Posted by James C. Worley | October 23, 2014
Couldn't be Happier
Mr. Schwartz has assisted me in several areas of legal representation including Workers' Compensation advice and several contractual obligation reviews. He is a wealth of knowledge in that he is willing o spend time with you, helping you to understand your legal rights and needs. He is more than willing to supply you with very appropriate legal advice that will benefit you, all along preparing you for the "what-ifs" of due legal processes. My wife and I could not be more pleased with our relationship with Mr. Schwartz. I can, and regularly do, recommend Mr. Schwartz to anyone needing legal assistance and/or advice without any hesitation.
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Response from Kenneth Schwartz June 25, 2021
I've had the pleasure of knowing you and your family for many years, both personally and professionally. I couldn't be more pleased that you trusted me enough to call me at one of the darkest times in your life and ask me to try to help get you guys the best possible outcome from a truly tragic situation. I think we were able to do that, and the results we see many years later support that. As you know, like then, I will do whatever I can for you and yours, should it be needed.
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Posted by anonymous | May 13, 2013
KEN is the BEST!!!
I would recommend Ken, he has a *METHOD* to get to the end... Ken will *tell you* everything you need to know - just trust him, I was always wanting to know this and that etc... but I hung in and all was better than I expected re settlement. Poor Ken, I really pushed him to the limit, but he was always professional in his replies to me!!! Ken knows what he is doing, IE he knows the LAWS and what a person is entitled to. I would have no hesitation in KEN being your Attorney. Ken will work to your best interests, just trust him and go, with what he says, and you will come out on the better side. Just get the best and Ken will be the BEST!!! from a client.
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Posted by P. L. | June 29, 2011
He is the best!
First of all, I would like to thank the people who wrote reviews and endorsed him, it provided very good guideline to me to find Ken. He is a highly professional lawyer with a high level of energy and the sharpest mind. He is smart and creative negotiator with excellent strategy. I sincerely believe that he will make his name in its industry.
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Posted by anonymous | November 15, 2010
Worker's Compensation Settlement
My case was not a large claim and I had a situation that required that I got a quick settlement. At the initial consultation Mr. Schwartz gave me a clear, concise summary of my options, and allowed me to give him my priorities. He proceeded to close the case and got my settlement faster than I expected, even though it may have resulted in a lower fee for him. At all times he put my best interest first.
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Posted by JJ Messick | November 18, 2010
Appreciated Answer
While I am no client of Mr. Schwartz. I will say that his taking time to answer my legal question on this sight is admirable. His answer was most helpful. In this day and time anyone that will take the time from their busy schedule to help a stranger is to be acknowledged.
Posted by rick | August 2, 2014
Waste of almost 7 months!
I feel I wasted almost 7 months hiring Mr. Schwartz as my attorney because nothing was done or filed for my workmans compensation or former employer as far as I know and that if he thought we did not have a claim or case he kept me thinking he was persueing one but did not keep me informed either way and I ended up hiring a new attorney and having to start all over again having wasted a lot of time and money!
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Cost

Rates
  • Contingency 100%-100%
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Professional misconduct

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2016.

Reciprocal - Public Reprimand issued in HI, 2016
updated on 07/26/2017

This means that the attorney's misconduct in another state, or jurisdiction, also violated the rules for practicing law in Hawaii.

Public Reprimand issued in FL, 2015
updated on 10/01/2015

Public reprimand means the attorney did something wrong but may still practice law. The Bar warns the lawyer in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior. Details of the infraction are made part of the public record.

Work Experience

  • Trial and Appellate Attorney
  • Winer Law Group
  • 2021 - Present
  • Senior Associate Attorney
  • Laurence Leavy & Associates, P.A.
  • 2018 - 2021
  • Owner
  • Kenneth B. Schwartz, P.A.
  • 2004 - 2018
  • Associate Attorney
  • Kelley Kronenberg Gilmartin Fichtel & Wander, P.A.
  • 2001 - 2004
  • Associate Attorney
  • Greenspoon Marder Hirschfeld Rafkin Ross & Berger, P.A.
  • 2000 - 2001
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Florida
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • N/A
  • University of Hawaii - Wm. S. Richardson School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • N/A

Legal Cases

  • Cristin v. Everglades Correctional Facility
  • Reversed (prevailed) and Remanded for further proceedings
  • Stanley Steemer International, Inc. v. Smith
  • Affirmed (prevailed on appeal)
  • Covell v. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.
  • Reversal (Prevailed on appeal)
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Florida Bar Workers' Compensation Rules Advisory Committee
  • Member
  • 2022 - Present
  • Florida Bar
  • Member in good standing
  • 2001 - Present
  • Hawaii State Bar Association
  • Member in good standing (inactive)
  • 2000 - Present
  • Palm Beach County Bar Association
  • N/A
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit
  • N/A
  • United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida
  • N/A
  • United States District Court for the District of Hawaii
  • N/A
  • United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida
  • N/A
  • Florida Workers' Advocates
  • Member
  • 2010 - 2022
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Japanese
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating (highest)
  • Martindale-Hubbell®
  • 2021
  • Board Certified - Workers' Compensation
  • Florida Bar
  • 2019
  • Board Certified - Workers' Compensation
  • Florida Bar
  • 2014
  • Legal Elite
  • Florida Trend Magazine
  • 2014
  • Level 15 Contributor
  • Avvo.com
  • 2013
  • Certificate in Pacific-Asian Legal Studies
  • University of Hawaii, Wm. S. Richardson School of Law
  • 2000
View all awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Quarterly Review of Recently Issued Appellate Opinions
  • Case Law Update
  • 2021
  • Palm Beach County Bar Association
  • Resolution of Third Party Liens in Workers' Compensation Cases
  • 2015
  • Palm Beach County Bar Association's 1st Annual Workers' Compensation Seminar
  • Legal Perspective on Next Wave of Minimally Invasive Treatment for the Spine
  • 2013
  • Palm Beach County Bench-Bar Conference
  • Addressing the Attorney Fee Statute (Moderator)
  • 2012
  • Palm Beach County Bench-Bar Conference
  • Electronic Filing with the OJCC (moderator)
  • 2011
  • Palm Beach County Bench-Bar Conference
  • Ripeness of Claims Before the Judges of Compensation Claims
  • 2010
  • Workers' Compensation Round Table
  • Workers' Compensation Case Law Update
  • 2009
  • Workers' Compensation Round Table
  • Attorneys' Fee Case Law Update
  • 2007
  • Palm Beach County Bench-Bar Conference
  • Workers' Compensation Attorneys' Fee Cases
  • 2007
  • Palm Beach County Bench-Bar Conference
  • Workers' Compensation Case Law Update
  • 2006
  • Workers' Compensation in Florida
  • Workers' Compensation in Florida
  • 2005
  • Workers’ Compensation Defense and Related Employment Law Issues for HR Professionals
  • Workers’ Compensation in Florida
  • 2005
  • Palm Beach County Bench-Bar Conference
  • Workers' Compensation Rules of Procedure
  • 2005
  • Workers' Compensation in Florida
  • Workers' Compensation in Florida
  • 2003
  • Introduction to Workers' Compensation in Florida
  • Workers' Compensation in Florida
  • 2003
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (17)
Given (8)
Endorse Kenneth
Personal injury Attorney | Jan 14
Relationship: Other
"I met Ken Schwartz in law school, and we worked together in the Asian Pacific Law & Policy Journal, which he co-founded. In that capacity, I reviewed much of his writing, editing, and analytical skills, all of which were impressive. Since law school, we have discussed a few cases, as I value his legal input. Again, he demonstrated a sharp legal mind and keen understanding of the nuances of the law, including in areas fraught with complexity such as worker's compensation and appellate law. I highly recommend Ken Schwartz and fully trust in his capabilities."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Workers compensation Attorney | Jun 03
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known Ken for a number of years, and am extraordinarily impressed with his legal acumen and dedication to the needs of his clients. Ken is extremely thorough and demonstrates the ability to offer clients assistance in both workers' compensation trial and appellate practice. I would heartily recommend Ken to anyone in need of expert legal services in the field of workers' compensation."
Workers compensation Attorney | Mar 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"One of the brightest minds in workers' compensation. A true advocate for the injured worker. I endorse this lawyer without equivocation."
Workers compensation Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Employment and labor Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Shwartz is an outstanding attorney who provides exemplary advice on Avvo. I would recommend everyone and anyone to him for representation. Even though I have been practicing fo 24 years, as a judge, magistrate, prosecutors, and in private practice, I learn valuable new information from him every day. A superb attorney."
Workers compensation Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Other
"After viewing many of Kenneth Brian Schwartz's answers to questions posed on Avvo, it is readily apparent that he is highly knowledgeable in the area of workers compensation. The thoughtfulness and substance of the information he provides on Avvo makes it clear that he cares deeply about the practice of law and helping others. I endorse this lawyer."
Appeals Attorney | Mar 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. Brian Schwartz is a talented and dedicated lawyer who I would highly recommend to anyone looking for an attorney who really cares about his clients."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Workers compensation Attorney | Sep 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ken is one of the best and brightest legal minds around. He is an excellent advicate for his clients."
Workers compensation Attorney | Oct 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Workers compensation Attorney | Jan 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ken Is an incredible lawyer. We serve on a statewide claimant's organization together and have shared and discussed w/c law and how to handle cases. He is creative, thoughtful, helpful and one of the elite attorneys in w/c in the State of Florida."
Workers compensation Attorney | Jan 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Endorsement: I endorse this lawyer's work. I particularly appreciate his insightful comments and answers to the many questions posed on this site. Anyone needing entitlement assistance would be well advised to consult with Ken."
Workers compensation Attorney | Feb 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Ken for many years and he is a highly respected attorney in this community known for his great knowledge of the worker's compensation laws as well as for his good nature!"
Litigation Attorney | Jun 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Mr. Schwartz is an exceptionally gifted attorney. His clear analysis unravels the often times convuleted law and facts and conveys same in a persuasive manner. His successful cases, including appeals, attest to his skills."
Workers compensation Attorney | Jun 29
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I have worked with Ken both as a colleague and as an opponent. Ken has proven himself time and again to be a dedicated, skilled and conscientious advocate for his clients. His attention to detail, knowledge of the law and superior interpersonal skills serve him and his clients well during all phases of litigation and settlement."
Workers compensation Attorney | Jun 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Ken Schwartz for years, as we used to work for the same law firm. Ken is a smart and tenacious litigator who knows Florida workers' compensation law better than the attorneys he faces and the judges he appears in front of. That is why he is also a successful appellate laywer. Besides comp, Ken handles commercial litigation, contract disputes, and employment disputes like unpaid wages/overtime, wrongful termination, and discrimination. I refer my own clients to Ken for workers' compensation matters; and that's the most ringing endorsement I can make."
View more endorsements
General practice
Workers compensation
Workers compensation
Workers compensation
Workers compensation
Personal injury
Boca Raton Workers compensation Lawyer Kenneth Brian Schwartz
Kenneth Brian Schwartz
Workers compensation Attorney
Boca Raton, FL
Licensed for 22 years
This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2016. See details