Akerman successfully represented pro bono Raymond Berthiaume in an appeals case whose precedent-setting outcome may help further protect the rights of LGBT individuals involved in legal disputes. Akerman lawyers secured a favorable ruling for Berthiaume, as the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a verdict against him because the district court judge presiding his case refused to allow jurors to receive questions about bias against LGBT individuals. The dispute stems from a four-year battle between Berthiaume and the City of Key West, Fla., after the former sued the city and one of its police officers over allegations of excessive force, false arrest, false imprisonment, battery and malicious prosecution. The decision now grants Berthiaume a new trial. Coverage of the case appeared in Daily Business Review, Daily Report, Law.com and Pride Source, among others.

Ryan O’Connor, Dale Noll, Katherine Giddings and Whitney Untiedt, Akerman’s director of pro bono initiatives, represented Berthiaume on appeal.

“This case was about ensuring LGBT individuals receive what all litigants expect — a fair trial. We were very pleased with the opinion and are confident Mr. Berthiaume will get the trial he deserves on remand,” O’Connor told media.

Law.com: Jurors Can Be Asked About Anti-Gay Bias, Eleventh Circuit Rules
Pride Source: National LGBT Bar Association Announces Victory in 11th Circuit