Zimmerman Kiser Sutcliffe

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Zimmerman Kiser Sutcliffe Orlando Law Firm With a commitment to client-focused service and professional excellence, ZKS was established in 1984 in Orlando, Florida.

Over our many years of practice, we have earned a respected reputation within the business and legal communities as a firm that provides results with thorough representation. We aim to exceed, not meet, our clients’ expectations, and you should expect precisely that from us. We have been consistently recognized as one of the largest law firms in Central Florida since 1989, having more than 40 attorneys practicing in the areas of Corporate, Tax, Real Estate, Litigation, Bankruptcy & Creditors’ Rights, Estate Planning & Probate and Workers’ Compensation. We possess the sophistication and breadth of experience to handle the most complex and important matters, yet maintain a strong commitment to personal service and nurturing relationships. Our firm is AV rated through Martindale-Hubbell and awarded with the highest possible professional peer rating for ethical standards and legal ability in the practice of law. Our attorneys have successfully argued matters before state and federal courts throughout the United States, and negotiated and documented hundreds of millions of dollars of transactions throughout the country. Our attorneys have received numerous recognitions and awards including: the designation of Super Lawyer in the Super Lawyers Magazine, being counted among the elite 5% of attorneys in Florida to receive this honor; the designation of Leading American Lawyers, being recommended by our peers through statewide surveys conducted by Leading Lawyers Network, A Division of Law Bulletin Publishing Co.; the Legal Aid Society’s Award of Excellence; the Florida Defense Lawyers Association Pro-Bono Service Award; and the Florida Supreme Court’s Pro-Bono Service Recognition. Like our clients, the men and women of ZKS have a vested interest in, and commitment to, the future of Central Florida. This commitment to our community is reflected in the daily activities of our more than ninety (90) attorneys, paralegals and staff members who support a variety of civic, cultural, professional, religious and charitable organizations. We have received numerous community service awards, including the Legal Aid Society’s award for service by a Large Law Firm Award. Finally, we care about our people. Named one of Central Florida Family magazine's most family-friendly workplaces over the past fifteen years, our employees are empowered to make family a priority. Because of our comprehensive vision to maintain balance regarding professional, civic and personal commitments, ZKS has consistently anticipated and satisfied the needs of our clients, our people, and our community with integrity and expertise.

-Practice Areas-

Bankruptcy | Corporate | Estate Planning and Probate | Tax,Labor & Employment | Litigation- Real Estate- Banking | Lending & Structured Finance |Worker's Compensation Defense | Creditor's Rights and Special Assets

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Austin Esposito ✨We’re excited to spotlight Austin Esposito, a ZKS attorney whose practice focuses...
10/14/2026

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Austin Esposito ✨

We’re excited to spotlight Austin Esposito, a ZKS attorney whose practice focuses on Real Estate, SBA Lending, and Banking, Lending & Finance.

Austin advises clients on real estate transactions, helping them navigate complex processes with a practical, solutions-driven approach. He enjoys the problem-solving nature of the legal field and takes pride in analyzing challenges, finding effective solutions, and guiding clients through each stage of the process.

Austin earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Florida Levin College of Law and his bachelor’s degree from Florida Gulf Coast University. He began his journey with ZKS as a summer clerk in 2024, continued with the firm throughout his final year of law school, and joined full-time after graduation. Initially practicing in commercial litigation, he later transitioned to real estate to focus on transactional work.

Before pursuing his legal career, Austin spent four years as a high school English teacher! His teaching experience continues to influence his approach to practicing law, helping him break down complex concepts, communicate effectively, and guide clients with clarity and confidence. He also appreciates the collaborative environment at ZKS and the opportunity to work alongside colleagues who share a commitment to their clients.

Learn more about Austin and his practice on our website: https://zkslaw.com/attorneys/austin-esposito/

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Andrew A. Carlson ✨We’re excited to spotlight Andrew Carlson, a ZKS attorney whose practice focuse...
10/07/2026

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Andrew A. Carlson ✨

We’re excited to spotlight Andrew Carlson, a ZKS attorney whose practice focuses on Workers’ Compensation Defense.

Andrew represents employers and insurance carriers throughout all stages of workers’ compensation claims, from initial claim evaluation and discovery through mediation, settlement negotiations, and trial. His past experience representing both defense clients and claimants gives him a well-rounded perspective and helps him anticipate opposing arguments while developing practical strategies for his clients.

Andrew earned his Juris Doctor from Barry University School of Law, a master’s degree in Business Management from Webster University, and a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Northern Illinois University. Before entering the legal profession, he spent nearly a decade with Walt Disney World in guest service management, an experience that helped shape the professionalism, communication, and responsiveness he brings to his client relationships today.

Outside of his legal practice, Andrew enjoys working out, traveling, boating, fishing, and attending live music events. A country music fan who enjoys spending time on the water, he appreciates any opportunity to get outdoors and recharge. 🎣🎶

Learn more about Andrew and his practice on our website: https://zkslaw.com/attorneys/andrew-carlson/

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Ava M. Sigman ✨We’re excited to spotlight Ava Sigman, a ZKS attorney whose practice spans Commerci...
09/30/2026

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Ava M. Sigman ✨

We’re excited to spotlight Ava Sigman, a ZKS attorney whose practice spans Commercial Litigation and Divorce, Paternity, Marital & Family Law.

Ava represents individuals and businesses in complex disputes, guiding clients through each stage of the legal process, from initial case assessment through trial and appeal. With substantial courtroom experience, including multiple jury trials and appellate matters, Ava is particularly drawn to courtroom advocacy and thrives in high-pressure settings that require quick thinking and confidence.

Ava earned her Juris Doctor, cm laude, from the University of Florida Levin College of Law, where she served as a Managing Editor of the Florida Law Review, competed on the Alternative Dispute Resolution Team, and worked as a teaching assistant in Legal Writing and Legal Research. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English, with a minor in rhetoric, from Pennsylvania State University and is a member of The Florida Bar and the Orange County Bar Association.

Ava’s enthusiasm extends beyond her legal practice. With a background in singing and live performance, she enjoys music and other creative pursuits and maintains a strong connection to the stage. Her experience as a performer, paired with her background in English and rhetoric, continues to shape the confidence, presence, and communication skills she brings to the courtroom. 🎶⚖️

Learn more about Ava and her practice on our website: https://zkslaw.com/attorneys/ava-m-sigman/

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Bill Weatherford ✨We’re excited to spotlight Bill Weatherford, a ZKS attorney whose practice focus...
09/23/2026

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Bill Weatherford ✨

We’re excited to spotlight Bill Weatherford, a ZKS attorney whose practice focuses on Real Estate.

A lifelong Central Florida resident, Bill brings strong local roots and experience to his real estate practice. He currently lives in Winter Park with his wife and enjoys being close to their two sons, also Central Florida residents, who have built careers in data science and veterinary medicine.

Outside of his legal practice, Bill enjoys staying active and exploring the outdoors. An avid runner, he has participated in more than 100 races, including the Gasparilla Distance Classic in Tampa and the Lake Placid Half Marathon in New York. He also enjoys wildlife photography, traveling, visiting U.S. National Parks, and walking to Park Avenue restaurants.

When he’s not on the move, Bill appreciates quiet nights at home with his wife and their two cats. 🏃📸🐾

Learn more about ZKS' Real Estate practice area on our website: https://zkslaw.com/practice_areas_ct/real-estate-attorneys/

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Cheyenne Lewis ✨We’re excited to spotlight Cheyenne Lewis, an Associate Attorney at ZKS whose prac...
09/16/2026

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Cheyenne Lewis ✨

We’re excited to spotlight Cheyenne Lewis, an Associate Attorney at ZKS whose practice spans Labor & Employment, Commercial Litigation, and Education Law.

Cheyenne represents clients in a variety of labor and employment matters, including wage and hour investigations, harassment and discrimination claims, and the development of employment policies, handbooks, and contracts. Her litigation experience also extends to commercial disputes, education law, landlord/tenant matters, and trust, probate, and real property litigation.

A double Seminole, Cheyenne earned both her undergraduate degree and Juris Doctor from Florida State University, graduating magna cm laude from the FSU College of Law. She remains actively involved in her field as a committee member of The Florida Bar Labor and Employment Law Section’s Wage and Hour Committee and EEOC and FEPA Committee.

Cheyenne’s enthusiasm extends well beyond her legal practice. She enjoys running and completed a half marathon earlier this year, loves cooking and baking, and is an avid reality TV fan. And, of course, she can always be counted on to cheer for Florida State. Go Noles! 🍢

Learn more about Cheyenne and her practice on our website: https://zkslaw.com/attorneys/cheyenne-lewis/

Today, on the 25th anniversary of September 11, we remember the lives lost, honor the courage of first responders, and r...
09/11/2026

Today, on the 25th anniversary of September 11, we remember the lives lost, honor the courage of first responders, and reflect on the strength and unity shown in the days that followed.

We will never forget.

We had a great time cheering on the Orlando Pride with our attorneys and Summer Associates this past July! ⚽💜For our Sum...
09/09/2026

We had a great time cheering on the Orlando Pride with our attorneys and Summer Associates this past July! ⚽💜

For our Summer Associates, it was a chance to get to know our attorneys beyond the workplace, strengthen the connections they've built throughout the summer, and experience the collaborative culture that makes ZKS unique. For our attorneys, it was an opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, unwind, and enjoy a summer evening together.

Events like these are one of the many ways we continue to invest in our people and the relationships that make our firm stronger.

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✨ Attorney Spotlight: Andrew Meinking ✨We’re proud to spotlight Andrew Meinking, Of Counsel in ZKS’s Corporate practice ...
09/09/2026

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Andrew Meinking ✨

We’re proud to spotlight Andrew Meinking, Of Counsel in ZKS’s Corporate practice group, where he advises clients on a wide range of sophisticated business transactions.

Andrew represents buyers and sellers in mergers, acquisitions, restructurings, investments, securities transactions, and other complex corporate matters. His experience also includes working with private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies across a variety of industries, as well as advising clients on general corporate and governance matters.

Andrew earned his Juris Doctor, magna cm laude, from Florida State University College of Law after completing his undergraduate studies at Baker University. His experience and commitment to his practice recently earned him recognition by The Best Lawyers in America® as One to Watch.

Through his transactional experience and understanding of the business considerations behind each deal, Andrew provides practical guidance to clients throughout every stage of a transaction.

Learn more about Andrew and his Corporate practice on our website: https://zkslaw.com/attorneys/andrew-c-meinking/

We're excited to share that Andrew Thompson was featured in the Orlando Business Journal's "People on the Move" this sum...
09/02/2026

We're excited to share that Andrew Thompson was featured in the Orlando Business Journal's "People on the Move" this summer!

The People on the Move section highlights professionals making an impact across Central Florida, and we're proud to see Andrew recognized by the Orlando Business Journal. The feature spotlights his recent accomplishments, leadership, and continued contributions to the legal profession.
Congratulations, Andrew, on this well-deserved recognition!

Read Andrew's feature here: https://lnkd.in/e2hQ8iAN

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✨ Attorney Spotlight: Madeline Chmelir ✨We’re excited to spotlight Madeline Chmelir, an Associate Attorney in ZKS’s Pers...
09/02/2026

✨ Attorney Spotlight: Madeline Chmelir ✨

We’re excited to spotlight Madeline Chmelir, an Associate Attorney in ZKS’s Personal Injury Defense practice group. Madeline represents businesses in personal injury and premises liability matters, where her work includes legal research, drafting, case strategy, and preparation for court proceedings.

Madeline’s interest in the law took shape through her involvement with the Guardian Ad Litem program, where she advocated for children in the court system. That early courtroom experience, combined with her passion for writing and the influence of her father’s legal career, ultimately inspired her to pursue the profession herself.

A graduate of the University of Florida and Stetson University College of Law, Madeline brought experience across personal injury, employment, and family law to ZKS. She enjoys the variety that comes with litigation and the opportunity to continually learn while helping clients navigate each new challenge.

When she’s not practicing law, Madeline enjoys Pilates, concerts, true crime podcasts, YA fiction, and knitting. A self-proclaimed “Disney Adult,” she can also frequently be found enjoying Orlando’s theme parks or catching up on her favorite reality TV shows.

Learn more about Madeline and her practice on our website: https://zkslaw.com/attorneys/madeline-chmelir/

Address

315 E Robinson Street
Orlando, FL
32801

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

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