Scott C. Ilgenfritz

Scott C. Ilgenfritz is a Florida Supreme Court–certified Circuit Civil Mediator whose practice focuses on resolving complex commercial, corporate, and securities disputes. He has spent more than 40 years at Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns LLP, where he built a distinguished career as a commercial litigator and securities attorney before transitioning his practice primarily to mediation. His website for his mediation practice with Johnson Pope is ScottIlgenfritzMediation.com.

Drawing on decades of experience handling high-value business disputes, securities arbitration, fiduciary matters, and professional liability cases, Scott brings deep legal insight and practical judgment to every mediation. His background allows him to understand not only the legal issues at stake, but also the business realities and human dynamics that often drive conflict.

Scott has represented business owners, investors, corporate officers, and professionals in high-value disputes involving complex commercial litigation, securities arbitration, fiduciary obligations, and professional malpractice. His command of intricate financial data, corporate structures, and regulatory frameworks has made him a trusted advocate in matters often involving millions of dollars and substantial reputational stakes. Whether presenting cases before the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), litigating in state and federal courts, or resolving conflicts through strategic negotiation, Scott is known for his intellectual rigor, meticulous preparation, and measured professionalism.

Scott approaches mediation with patience, professionalism, and a solutions-oriented mindset. Known for his ability to manage complex financial issues and facilitate productive dialogue, he helps parties move beyond entrenched positions toward resolutions that preserve relationships, protect reputations, and provide meaningful closure.

Representative Matters

• Investor Recovery in Complex FINRA Arbitration: Represented the widow and estate of a former Home Shopping Network executive in a high-profile FINRA arbitration against Morgan Stanley, securing an award exceeding $34 million for claims involving misrepresentation and unsuitable investment strategies. The case drew national media attention for exposing systemic compliance failures in major brokerage practices.
• Securities Fraud and Broker Misconduct: Handled hundreds of investor arbitration cases before the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and in state and federal courts across the country. Scott’s cases have involved claims of fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, and failure to supervise, often resulting in seven-figure recoveries for clients whose life savings were mismanaged or lost due to negligent financial advice.
• Regulatory and Policy Reform Impact: Through his work on investor protection and broker-record transparency, Scott’s cases and commentary have been cited in publications such as The Wall Street Journal and Tampa Bay Times, highlighting how FINRA’s expungement process allows broker misconduct to be wiped from public view. His advocacy contributed to national awareness and eventual tightening of FINRA’s arbitrator and disclosure rules.
• Commercial Litigation and Business Torts: Served as lead counsel in numerous business and commercial litigation matters involving allegations of breach of contract, partnership and shareholder disputes, and fiduciary duty violations. His clients include real estate developers, construction companies, professional firms, and closely held corporations throughout Florida.
• Professional Malpractice Litigation: Represented plaintiffs in complex claims involving attorney and accountant malpractice, often arising from underlying business transactions or securities disputes. Achieved favorable results through mediation and trial, leveraging his dual background in business and securities litigation.

Bar Admissions:

•  Florida
• US District Courts (Southern and Middle Districts of Florida)
• S. Court of Appeals (11^th Circuit)

Education:

•  Vanderbilt University, B.A., English, cum laude, 1979
• University of Florida Levin College of Law, J.D., with honors, 1983

 Awards & Recognition:

• Board Certified in Business Litigation, The Florida Bar, 1997 – Present
• The Best Lawyers in America® – Commercial Litigation (2012); Litigation–Securities, Commercial Litigation, and Litigation–Trusts & Estates (2013–present)
• The Best Lawyers in America® “Lawyer of the Year” (Tampa, FL), Litigation & Securities, 2020, 2024
• Florida Super Lawyers, 2006–2014; 2024–present
• AV® Preeminent Rating, Martindale-Hubbell, 1999 – Present

 Community & Professional Organizations

• The Florida Bar
  • Member
• Hillsborough County Bar Association
  • Member, 1990 – Present

Outside the Office

Away from his work, Scott is an avid golfer who enjoys the challenge and focus the game demands; traits that mirror his approach to mediation and litigation. He also prioritizes health and balance through regular exercise and outdoor activities. Most of all, Scott values time with his family and friends, whether relaxing at home, traveling, or enjoying Tampa Bay’s coastal lifestyle. After four decades practicing law, he continues to find energy and inspiration in staying active, learning new things, and building meaningful connections both inside and outside the profession.