It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Sharpstein, a partner in Akerman LLP’s Miami office and esteemed member of the firm's Litigation Practice Group. A nationally prominent white collar criminal defense lawyer, Richard was recognized and admired for his extraordinary gifts in the court room, as well as his warmth, compassion, and humor.
 
Richard practiced law for more than 35 years, first serving as an Assistant State Attorney in Miami-Dade County, Florida, prosecuting major crimes and political corruption cases. He later focused his talents and genuine passion for people on representing individuals and corporations in a broad array of complex and high-profile criminal and civil litigation, in both federal and state court, in Florida and across the country. He previously served as chair of the White Collar Defense and Appeals Practice Team at Jorden Burt and joined Akerman’s Litigation Practice Group in 2012.
 
“Richard’s passing has triggered an outpouring of emotion and sorrow for the loss of a truly exceptional man with a charismatic and engaging personality, a warm and generous spirit, and a tremendous sense of humor,” said Andrew Smulian, chairman and CEO of Akerman. “Renowned for his uniquely animated style and spirited way with words, Richard’s skills as a trial lawyer were quite extraordinary as was his commitment to his clients.” 
 
“Richard was one of those rare individuals who could light up a room," added Neisen Kasdin, Office Managing Partner of Akerman’s Miami office. “He was always ready with a joke or witty anecdote, and he was known to share his love for practicing law with Akerman’s younger lawyers. Richard was very special, a great talent, and will be missed by many.” 
 
A native of Framingham, Massachusetts, Richard received his B.A. and J.D. from Tulane University. He was a past president of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Florida Chapter and served as an Adjunct Professor in Trial Advocacy at the University of Miami, and a frequent guest lecturer at the St. Thomas School of Law in Miami.
 
The firm will honor Richard’s memory with a donation to the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers' Foundation for Criminal Justice in support of their education and training programs to improve indigent defense in federal and state courts.