St. Petersburg Real Estate Attorney | Board Certified – James W. Martin, P.A.

Guiding buyers, sellers, owners, investors, landlords, and tenants across Pinellas County.

Meet James W. Martin, P.A.

James W. Martin is a St. Petersburg real estate lawyer Board Certified in Real Estate Law by The Florida Bar. He counsels clients on the full spectrum of Florida real property matters—from contracts and closings to leases, construction issues, land use, and property disputes. His approach emphasizes risk reduction, clear strategy, and efficient resolution.

• Board Certified in Real Estate Law (The Florida Bar)
• Author of nationally published books on Florida real estate sales contracts and lease agreements
• Adjunct Professor of Law (Advanced Legal Writing & Contract Drafting), Stetson University College of Law (alma mater)
• Peer recognition on Martindale, Lawyers.com, Avvo, Super Lawyers, and Justia

James W. Martin, who is one of only seven St. Petersburg lawyers Board Certified in Real Estate Law by The Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization and Education, strives to provide knowledgeable guidance across the extensive sphere of real estate law. He is adept at resolving complex property issues, ranging from straightforward transactions to contentious disputes, and from single family houses to office buildings and ground leases. Whether you’re aiming to purchase a new home, enter into a lease agreement, defend your property rights, or maintain the financial health of your estate, James W. Martin, P.A. is poised to protect your interests effectively.

His strategic approach to real estate law involves thorough research, diligent preparation, and vigorous representation. This commitment to excellence helps him minimize complications and overcome the hurdles that arise during your real estate endeavors. Collaboration is at the heart of his approach, working closely alongside each client to understand their unique needs and objectives. As your trusted legal counsel, he aims to dispel confusion, offer clarity, and foster peace of mind through comprehensive real estate law services. Allow him to assist you with your property law needs and experience the confidence that comes from having a dedicated legal advocate on your side

Real Estate Legal Services

Buying & Selling Real Estate (Residential & Commercial)

From the first offer through closing, James W. Martin helps you understand terms, avoid pitfalls, and protect your investment.

• Drafting & reviewing listing, buyer‑broker, and purchase & sale agreements
• Title review, due diligence, inspections, surveys, and financing issues
• Resolving contract contingencies, escrows, and title defects
• Reviewing deeds and closing documents; coordinating a smooth closing

Leases & Florida Landlord–Tenant Law

Clear leases reduce risk; timely action resolves disputes.

• Drafting and reviewing residential and commercial leases
• Rent defaults, security deposits, repair/maintenance obligations
• Common‑area use, assignments/subleases, renewals, and terminations
• Easements and access agreements where property rights overlap

Real Estate Disputes & Property Rights

When conflicts arise, strategic preparation and representation matter.

• Quiet title, boundary and encroachment issues, and easement disputes
• Contract disputes, specific performance, and escrow controversies
• Title defects, lien priority questions, and deed issues

Construction Law

Representation for owners, architects, contractors, and subcontractors in residential, office, commercial, and industrial projects.

• Construction contracts, change orders, and payment disputes
• Defect claims, scheduling, and performance issues
• Coordination with project documentation and risk management

Land Use, Zoning & Real Estate Regulations

Translating complex ordinances and procedures into practical steps that advance your project while meeting community standards.

• Zoning interpretations, variances, and conditional uses
• Site plan and permitting guidance
• Development and use restrictions affecting residential and commercial property

Why Hire a Board Certified Real Estate Lawyer?

• Verified specialization: Certification recognizes substantial experience and tested proficiency in real estate law.
• Efficient problem‑solving: Early issue spotting can prevent delays, disputes, and added cost.
• Client‑focused strategy: Clear explanations, practical options, and decisive action.

How We Work Together

1. Call or email: Share your goals, timeline, and documents.
2. Strategy & scope: Get a plan tailored to your transaction or dispute.
3. Execution: Drafts, negotiations, due diligence, and closing or resolution.
4. Follow‑through: Final documents and next‑step guidance.

Call (727) 821‑0904 Email jim@jamesmartinpa.com

Serving St. Petersburg & Pinellas County

Primary service area includes St. Petersburg and nearby communities across Pinellas County, Florida, including Clearwater, Largo, Seminole, Gulfport, Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, Madeira Beach, Pinellas Park, Safety Harbor, and Dunedin.

Real Estate Law FAQs

Do I need a real estate attorney in Florida?

While some transactions close without counsel, an attorney helps you understand obligations, negotiate risk, resolve title or inspection issues, and ensure documents accurately reflect your deal.

What does “Board Certified in Real Estate Law” mean?

It is a Florida Bar credential recognizing substantial involvement, peer review, and exam‑proven knowledge in real estate law.

When should I involve a lawyer in a purchase or sale?

Ideally before signing. Early review of the listing, buyer‑broker, and purchase & sale agreements can prevent costly misunderstandings and delays later.

Do you handle commercial leases?

Yes. Services include drafting, review, negotiation, assignments, renewals, and guidance on common‑area use, maintenance obligations, and default remedies.

What types of disputes do you handle?

Quiet title, boundary and easement issues, contract disputes, escrow and title defects, and related property rights matters.

Other Practice Areas

This page relates to one of the practice areas of St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, Florida lawyer James W. Martin. For other practice areas, click here.

Contact

If you have the need for a Florida Bar Board Certified Real Estate Lawyer, you may use the contact form below or call James W. Martin directly at 727-821-0904 or email him at jim@jamesmartinpa.com for an initial consultation.

Last updated: November 6, 2025