ORLANDO, FL – February 2, 2011 –RumbergerKirk is pleased to announce the election of Michael L. Forte in Tampa to partner.

“We are very proud to promote Mike who has more than demonstrated that he possess the core qualities that we look for in our partners,” says Managing Partner, Frank Sheppard.

Forte practices in the areas of casualty defense, products liability and toxic torts. In his casualty defense practice, Forte represents national retailers as well as local apartment complexes. His products liability practice includes work for automobile and aviation manufacturers, as well as manufacturers of smaller consumer goods. Forte’s toxic tort practice includes defending companies against mold and asbestos claims. He also represents title companies sued over failed real estate transactions.

“Mike has always been one of our hardest working associates,” says Sheppard. “He is great with clients and the quality of his work is second to none. He has proven to be a leader by taking on additional responsibilities in the Tampa office and I know as a partner, he will continue to lead by example and become part of the future leadership of this firm.”

Forte is a member of The Florida Bar’s Small Claims Rules Committee and Trial Lawyers Section as well as the Hillsborough County Bar Association’s Trial Lawyers Section and Professionalism and Ethics Committee.

Forte was also named as a Rising Star by Florida Super Lawyers in 2009 and 2010, and is admitted to practice in Florida and Ohio. His community involvement includes being an advocate for Voice4AllKids at All Children’s Hospital.

Forte earned his law degree, cum laude, from Stetson University College of Law and a bachelors degree in English and Political Science, with high honors, from the University of Florida.

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RumbergerKirk provides litigation and counseling services in a wide range of civil practice areas including products liability, commercial litigation, intellectual property, environmental, employment, insurance, professional liability, health care and administrative law. Offices are located in Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Tallahassee and Birmingham, Alabama.