Mayanne Downs 20YEARSAWARDED

Mayanne Downs

recognized lawyers icon Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2007
Awarded Practice Areas
Bet-the-Company Litigation Commercial Litigation Family Law
Works at
DownsAaron PLLC

5 Best Lawyers awards

DownsAaron PLLC logo

Biography

Mayanne Downs represents corporate and individual clients in high-stakes litigation matters involving significant financial, business, and personal interests. Based in Orlando, Florida, she advises clients through complex disputes with a practical, strategic approach focused on protecting their objectives, reputations, and long-term interests.

At DownsAaron PLLC, Mayanne’s practice includes Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, and Family Law. She handles a broad range of matters in state and federal courts, including shareholder and business disputes, non-compete litigation, eminent domain cases, legal malpractice defense, appellate proceedings, class actions, and high-conflict family law matters involving high-net-worth individuals. Her experience also includes jury and non-jury trials, appeals involving issues of first impression, and representation in matters attracting significant public and business attention.

Clients value Mayanne’s ability to analyze complex legal and business issues early in a case, develop clear litigation strategies, and guide them through challenging disputes with thoughtful communication and careful attention to detail. She is known for her preparation, negotiation skills, and courtroom advocacy in matters where legal, financial, and reputational considerations intersect.

In addition to her litigation practice, Mayanne has held numerous leadership roles within Florida’s legal and civic communities. She was the first woman to serve as city attorney for the City of Orlando and previously served as the first woman managing director of GrayRobinson. Her leadership experience also includes serving as president of The Florida Bar, the Orange County Bar Association, the Legal Aid Society, and the Central Florida Association for Women Lawyers. She currently serves on the Judicial Qualifications Commission, the constitutional body that investigates and disciplines Florida judges.

Mayanne Downs has been recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice areas of Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, and Family Law. She has been included in Best Lawyers since 2007. The Best Lawyers recognition is based on peer-review surveys of lawyers within the same geographic region and practice areas and reflects the professional regard of fellow attorneys.

Works at
DownsAaron PLLC

5 Best Lawyers awards

DownsAaron PLLC logo

Locations

Education

  • University of Florida, J.D., graduated 1988

Bar Admissions

  • Florida, The Florida Bar, 1987

Court Admissions

  • U.S. Supreme Court
  • U.S. District Court for the Southern and Middle Districts of Florida
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit

Affiliations

  • The Florida Bar: Board of Governors - Council of Sections Liaison, 2005-2011
  • Committee of 100 of Orange County, Inc. - Member
  • Central Florida Partnership - Board of Directors 2013-2016
  • University of Florida Law Review - Senior Editor & Senior Management Editor
  • University of Florida, Hall of Fame & Florida Blue Key - Member

Client Testimonials

Awards & Focus

Lawyer of the Year Badge - 2020 - Bet-the-Company Litigation Lawyer of the Year Badge - 2013 - Family Law
Named "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers® for:
  • Bet-the-Company Litigation, Orlando (2020)
  • Family Law, Orlando (2013)
Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2027 for work in:
  • Bet-the-Company Litigation
  • Commercial Litigation
  • Family Law
Special Focus:
  • Appellate
  • Business Disputes
  • Civil Litigation
  • Closely-Held Businesses
  • Complex Litigation
  • Divorce
  • Fraud
  • Marital Settlement Agreements
  • Professional Malpractice

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