Jim McKenzie (1948-2016)
Valedictorian. Sports Star. Oath Keeper. James McKenzie, “Jim” for short, was a natural born competitor since day one. Growing up in Fairhope, Alabama, Jim pursued excellence in all aspects of his life. He was an avid athlete, participating in competitive sports, was an active member of the Methodist church, and Valedictorian of his senior class. After completing his formative education, Jim attended the University of West Florida where he received his B.A. in Philosophy, graduating Magna Cum Laude. He subsequently received his Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Florida’s law program, graduating with honors in 1973. In 1975, Jim established his practice in Pensacola and gained a reputation for being among the best lawyers in the area: a reputation that would grow from the local boundaries of the city into the regional and national arena. His tenacious style would reward Jim with a multitude of prestigious awards for his casework.
In 2006, Jim was recognized as one of the top 100 lawyers in Florida by his peers in voting conducted by Super Lawyers Magazine. Among his many accomplishments:
- 1973, J.D. with honors (University of Florida College of Law, Gainesville, Florida, 1973)
- 1970, B.A. Major Philosophy Magna Cum Laude (University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida, 1970)
- 1973, Admitted to Practice
- U.S. District Court Northern District of Florida, 1973
- U.S. Court of Appeals 5th Circuit, 1974
- U.S. Court of Appeals 11th Circuit, 1981
- U.S. Supreme Court, 1987
- U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida, 1995
- Honors, Super Lawyers 2006
- Honors, Super Lawyers Top 100 Florida Lawyers 2006
- Honors, AV Preeminent Lawyer by Martindale-Hubbell
- Honors, Listed in Who’s Who in American Law
- Honors, Listed in Who’s Who in the World
- Honors, Listed in International Men of Distinction
- Honors, Listed in Leading Florida Attorneys
- Honors, Recipient of the American Jurisprudence Award, University of Florida
- Honors, Recipient of the Outstanding Freshman Award, University of Florida
- Honors, Recipient of the Silver Eagle Award, Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers
- Honors, Recipient of the Florida Constitution Award, Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers
- Honors, Recipient of Florida Justice Association Crystal Eagle Award
- Honors, Florida Justice Association (formerly Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers) Diplomate Member, Board of Directors (1987-2004), Executive Committee (1988-1990)
- Honors, Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers Member Executive Committee (1988-1990)
- Honors, The American Association for Justice Member President’s Club and Board of Governors (2001-2004)
- Million Dollar Advocates Forum Member
