Insight

IN PARTNERSHIP

Protecting and Fighting for Florida’s Future

Trial lawyer and Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year” multiple times, Steve Yerrid discusses how his courtroom results have improved safety and life in Florida.

Lawyer in blue suit smiles for headshot photo
JS

Justin Smulison

November 2, 2023 11:00 PM

Steve Yerrid believes in the law and the broader positive impact it can make when properly applied. Ever the underdog, it would have been easy for him to be a jaded lawyer. But he has seen the benefits of advocacy driven by strong morals and a sense of responsibility, and it has shaped his own philosophy, reflected by the words above the main entrance to the Supreme Court building: “Equal Justice Under Law.”

By providing justice for those with limited means and holding responsible parties and entities accountable for negligence, malice or recklessness, The Yerrid Law Firm has inspired improvements to Florida’s infrastructure, the products bought and sold here and the buildings in which we live and work.

Headquartered in Tampa and serving clients throughout Florida, as well as other parts of the nation, The Yerrid Law Firm has secured billions of dollars in verdicts, settlements, and judgments. This includes Yerrid’s more than 300 individual verdicts and settlements in excess of $1 million in catastrophic injury, product liability, construction defects, medical malpractice, premises liability, vehicle accidents, commercial disputes and a broad range of civil litigation.

Knowing how his results have impacted these and other landscapes is what keeps him moving forward after more than 40 years in practice.

“Why would I stop? I love what I do,” Yerrid says. “I wanted to become a trial lawyer since I was a young boy. I am grateful to have outlived my wildest dreams… so now I just need to dream new ones. But I know for certain that helping others is the treasure of a life well-lived.”

The Immeasurable Impact of Advocacy: Infrastructure, Public Health and Safety

Yerrid has represented people from all walks of life with the dual goals of helping secure monetary recoveries that will enable their physical and mental healing, and also to use those results to help prevent tragic recurrences and improve society in grand as well as subtle ways.

His reputation among the legal profession started with an unbroken string of courtroom victories in the 1970s including his participation in a three-month Federal RICO Trial. In 1980, as a very young lawyer, he received international recognition for his central role in one of the world’s largest maritime tragedies. Despite a virtually unanimous consensus that the trial could not be won, Yerrid utilized an “Act of God” defense to secure the complete exoneration of the accused Captain John Lerro. Lerro was in command of a large 608-foot bulk freighter which, during an unpredicted storm packing hurricane force winds, was blown off course and struck the mammoth but unprotected anchor pier of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge spanning Tampa Bay. The impact collapsed more than 1,200 feet of its center span and tragically claimed 35 innocent lives.

“As a result, a new bridge was constructed with a modern, state-of-the-art design that featured protective piers and elaborate fendering,” says Yerrid, who has been continuously included in Best Lawyers®. Additionally, he has been named “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers in Tampa for both Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs (2014) and Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs (2015) on behalf of plaintiffs on numerous occasions. “The catastrophe and the courtroom result changed the way engineers and architects strategize. This new design, inspired by the evidence unveiled in our case, has since been utilized as a template for bridge construction worldwide.”

Another lasting achievement occurred in the 1990s, when Yerrid was selected by the late Gov. Lawton Chiles as the youngest member of the 11-member “Dream Team” of private lawyers and took a leading role in Florida’s landmark lawsuit against the previously unbeaten cigarette industry. The case resulted in the biggest monetary settlement in U.S. history at the time, ultimately topping $17 billion.

I believe our impact in the courtroom has a ripple effect and it is my hope some of those ripples turn into tsunamis of beneficial changes that help others."

“The Dream Team was the first of its kind to truly expose the horrific costs of cigarette addiction,” says Yerrid. “I was proud to have helped lead Florida’s charge in securing the drastic advertising restrictions against the cigarette cartel and imposition of severe prohibitions against pandering to America’s youth. Florida’s unprecedented result is credited with saving hundreds of thousands of lives over the last two decades.

His commitment to safety has also elevated standards in high school and college athletics. Following more recent on-the-field football tragedies, Yerrid’s advocacy and collaborative abilities resulted in many Florida schools instituting effective new concussion protocols and extensive safety protocols that deal with head injuries, required increased hydration measures, rest periods, and prompted appropriate medical presence at athletic practices as well as the games themselves.

And though he has led his firm in recovering billions in verdicts and settlements, one can look to Yerrid’s representation of a movie theater employee to illustrate the legacy of his career.

Anthony “Tony” Verran was making a deposit for his employer at a St. Petersburg bank after midnight on Feb. 26, 1986. The bank was the site of a nighttime robbery months earlier, and unfortunately tragedy struck again when an assailant in hiding, shot Verran in the head – mere millimeters from his brain – for what amounted to a $630 deposit. He suffered catastrophic injuries and lost sight in his right eye.

Yerrid represented Verran in the premises liability case in one of the very first actions brought against banks for newly installed outdoor ATMs and night depositories. He contended the bank was liable for third-party criminal assaults at its outdoor facilities because it had chosen aesthetics – such as high foliage and dim lighting – over safety, concrete and bright lights. In his memoir, When Justice Prevails, Yerrid recalls several dramatic turns and rejected settlements during the trial.

Yerrid ultimately secured a $1 million jury verdict and, as a result, banks nationwide paid attention and took drastic measures to improve the safety features around ATMs and outside night depositories.

“Banks cut down high-foliage, and installed concrete and proper lighting, thereby eliminating what had been a haven for criminals to hide and prey upon after hours customers,” Yerrid recalls. “The case remains one of my most treasured victories because of its widespread effect on the nation’s banking industry and the tragedies these protective measures have prevented.”

Philanthropic Efforts Benefitting Florida and Beyond

Yerrid is also humbled to be recognized as one of Florida’s most well-known philanthropists. Since his beginnings as a trial lawyer, Yerrid knew that his monetary achievements at trial could transcend the courtroom.

“By putting the wrongdoer’s money to good use,” he says, “it reaches deserving people and causes that truly make a positive difference in people’s lives.

As his million-dollar successes mounted, his desire and increased ability to give back resulted in the formation of The Yerrid Foundation. Over the decades, the self-funded family foundation has made significant donations to more than 500 causes and charitable organizations locally, nationally, and even internationally.

The philanthropy has reached Africa, war-torn Lebanon, those suffering in Haiti, as well as catastrophic events in other parts of the world. Many of those charitable efforts are directed toward causes, such as pediatric cancer treatments, clinical trials and research, multiple sclerosis, domestic abuse prevention, the Special Olympics, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, The Miami Project, American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Boys and Girls Club of America, UNICEF, The Salvation Army, Metropolitan Ministries, and a variety of organizations that provide food, clothing, shelter, and essentials for the disadvantaged.

“I believe our impact in the courtroom has a ripple effect and it is my hope some of those ripples turn into tsunamis of beneficial changes that help others,” Yerrid says. “We have been extremely fortunate to succeed in our efforts to channel our successes into brighter days for children and families facing unimaginable challenges.

Several of the verdicts were 8 and 9 figure results. Among those is a $216 Million medical negligence verdict, the largest in Florida’s History.

Headline Image: The Yerrid Law Firm

Related Articles

Pribanic Secures Milestone Verdict in Rural PA County


by Justin Smulison

Ten-time honoree Victor H. Pribanic secured one of 2023’s most notable verdicts in a Pennsylvania county that historically has not been empathic to plaintiffs.

Lawyer sitting at desk with notepad and laptop

IN PARTNERSHIP

Salvi & Maher, LLP: Legal Leaders in Illinois and Wisconsin


by Justin Smulison

For more than 35 years, Salvi & Maher LLP has defended their clients throughout Illinois and Wisconsin in various areas of personal injury law, including medical malpractice, motor vehicle accidents, premises liability and trucking litigation.

Salvi & Maher Law Firm group in front of legal library and cases of books

6 Ways a Lawyer Can Help You With Your Medical Malpractice Claim


by Adam Malone

If you believe you have a medical malpractice claim, contact an experienced medical malpractice lawyer. Read on to learn how they can help with your claim.

Doctor in white lab coat showing x-ray to patient in blue scrubs

IN PARTNERSHIP

Coffey Burlington: A Legacy of Legal Excellence


by John Fields

In complex practice areas, such as business litigation and white-collar defense, Miami-based firm Coffey Burlington continues to set a standard of excellence.

Group of lawyers pose for law firm picture

"Lawyer of the Year"


Lawyer in suit poses for a headshot photo

Jeffrey A. Weissman

Family Law

Fort Lauderdale, FL

2024

South Florida’s New Affordable Housing Law


by Gregory Sirico

Best Lawyers weighs in on the recently enacted Live Local Act, which aims to shrink financial gaps and provide affordable housing availability in South Florida.

Animated figures in an office, gym and apartment

A Brilliant Career as a Champion for Justice


by Justin Smulison

Hall of Fame trial lawyer Steve Yerrid discusses how results in the courtroom can provide tremendous opportunities to improve the lives of our fellow citizens.

Lawyer smiles and poses for a picture in a blue suit

IN PARTNERSHIP

Salvi & Maher, LLP: Illinois and Wisconsin's Personal Injury Firm


by Justin Smulison

For more than 35 years, Salvi & Maher LLP has defended their clients throughout Illinois and Wisconsin in various areas of personal injury law, including medical malpractice, motor vehicle accidents, premises liability and trucking litigation.

Skyline of Chicago with green river and blue background

IN PARTNERSHIP

Emroch & Kilduff: Virginia's Personal Injury & Medical Malpractice Attorneys


by Emroch & Kilduff

For over 40 years, the award-winning Virginia-based firm Emroch & Kilduff has worked to represent their personal injury clients in both state and federal courts.

Skyline with water and bridge on blue background

IN PARTNERSHIP

Needle & Ellenberg: Helping Victims of Medical Malpractice Receive Compensation Throughout Florida


by Needle & Ellenberg

Needle & Ellenberg, P.A. discuss five common types of medical malpractice that can help determine if you have a potential claim.

Doctor with hand on face reviewing scan with another doctor in backdrop

IN PARTNERSHIP

Leadership and Commitment


by Justin Smulison

Malone Law leader and 2016 Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs “Lawyer of the Year” Adam Malone discusses how his success transcends the courtroom and helps strengthen public and legal communities.

Suited man standing with arm resting on table

IN PARTNERSHIP

Georgia Car Accident: How to File a Car Accident Case


by Robert Hammers

In a car accident in Georgia? Read this guide for key steps from actions at the scene to settlement talks and lawsuit filing. Stay informed and prepared.

Figure with clipboard assesses the scene of an accident

How a New Maryland Bike Safety Law Honors a Client’s Legacy


by Justin Smulison

Four-time Lawyer Of The Year Patrick Regan discusses how a client’s bicycling tragedy led to a result that improved Maryland traffic law to protect riders.

Group of lawyers posing for a photo

New SAFE Act Aims to Tackle Rising Crime in DC


by Gregory Sirico

As DC grapples with skyrocketing crime rates, the Secure Apartments for Everyone Regulation Amendment Act seeks to implement actionable change

Security cameras affixed to animated building

"Lawyer of the Year"


Lawyer wearing glasses and suit smiles in headshot photo

Duane C. Pozza

Advertising Law

Washington, D.C., DC

2025

IN PARTNERSHIP

Three Steps To Maximizing Compensation After a Columbus Car Accident


by Jonathan Mani

Car accidents could result in costly medical bills and significant pain and suffering. To ensure you're compensated, contact a car accident attorney now.

Toy car laying upside down on pile of money

Trending Articles

2025 Best Lawyers Awards Announced: Honoring Outstanding Legal Professionals Across the U.S.


by Jennifer Verta

Introducing the 31st edition of The Best Lawyers in America and the fifth edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America.

Digital map of the United States illuminated by numerous bright lights

Unveiling the 2025 Best Lawyers Awards Canada: Celebrating Legal Excellence


by Jennifer Verta

Presenting the 19th edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada and the 4th edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada.

Digital map of Canadathis on illuminated by numerous bright lights

Legal Distinction on Display: 15th Edition of The Best Lawyers in France™


by Best Lawyers

The industry’s best lawyers and firms working in France are revealed in the newly released, comprehensive the 15th Edition of The Best Lawyers in France™.

French flag in front of country's outline

Announcing the 13th Edition of Best Lawyers Rankings in the United Kingdom


by Best Lawyers

Best Lawyers is proud to announce the newest edition of legal rankings in the United Kingdom, marking the 13th consecutive edition of awards in the country.

British flag in front of country's outline

Announcing the 16th Edition of the Best Lawyers in Germany Rankings


by Best Lawyers

Best Lawyers announces the 16th edition of The Best Lawyers in Germany™, featuring a unique set of rankings that highlights Germany's top legal talent.

German flag in front of country's outline

Celebrating Excellence in Law: 11th Edition of Best Lawyers in Italy™


by Best Lawyers

Best Lawyers announces the 11th edition of The Best Lawyers in Italy™, which features an elite list of awards showcasing Italy's current legal talent.

Italian flag in front of country's outline

Combating Nuclear Verdicts: Empirically Supported Strategies to Deflate the Effects of Anchoring Bias


by Sloan L. Abernathy

Sometimes a verdict can be the difference between amicability and nuclear level developments. But what is anchoring bias and how can strategy combat this?

Lawyer speaking in courtroom with crowd and judge in the foreground

Things to Do Before a Car Accident Happens to You


by Ellie Shaffer

In a car accident, certain things are beyond the point of no return, while some are well within an individual's control. Here's how to stay legally prepared.

Car dashcam recording street ahead

The Push and Pitfalls of New York’s Attempt to Expand Wrongful Death Recovery


by Elizabeth M. Midgley and V. Christopher Potenza

The New York State Legislature recently went about updating certain wrongful death provisions and how they can be carried out in the future. Here's the latest.

Red tape blocking off a section of street

Find the Best Lawyers for Your Needs


by Jennifer Verta

Discover how Best Lawyers simplifies the attorney search process.

A focused woman with dark hair wearing a green top and beige blazer, working on a tablet in a dimly

Key Developments and Trends in U.S. Commercial Litigation


by Justin Smulison

Whether it's multibillion-dollar water cleanliness verdicts or college athletes vying for the right to compensation, the state of litigation remains strong.

Basketball sits in front of stacks of money

Prop 36 California 2024: California’s Path to Stricter Sentencing and Criminal Justice Reform


by Jennifer Verta

Explore how Prop 36 could shape California's sentencing laws and justice reform.

Illustrated Hands Breaking Chains Against a Bright Red Background

Is Premises Liability the Same as Negligence?


by Jeremy Wilson and Taylor Rodney Marks

In today's age, we are always on the move, often inhabiting spaces we don't own. But what happens when someone else's property injures you or someone you know?

A pair of silhouetted legs falling down a hole with yellow background

Woman on a Mission


by Rebecca Blackwell

Baker Botts partner and intellectual property chair Christa Brown-Sanford discusses how she juggles work, personal life, being a mentor and leadership duties.

Woman in green dress crossing her arms and posing for headshot

Best Lawyers Celebrates Women in the Law: Ninth Edition


by Alliccia Odeyemi

Released in both print and digital form, Best Lawyers Ninth Edition of Women in the Law features stories of inspiring leadership and timely legal issues.

Lawyer in green dress stands with hands on table and cityscape in background

Beyond the Billables


by Michele M. Jochner

In a recently conducted, comprehensive study, data reveals a plethora of hidden realities that parents working full-time in the legal industry face every day.

Women in business attire pushing stroller takes a phone call