Paula Ferris-Richardson, ESQ

Paula Ferris-Richardson is an accomplished trial lawyer serving as Of Counsel at Lydecker LLP, specializing in premises liability. With an extensive background in personal injury and criminal law, she excels in litigation strategy and trial advocacy. Her dedication to her clients and profession is driven by her unwavering integrity and commitment to excellence.

Paula was born in the US Virgin Islands and raised in the Little River area of Miami-Dade County. From her humble beginnings, she earned a full athletic scholarship (volleyball) to Florida Memorial University. While at FMU, she excelled both athletically and academically, even after suffering a serious knee injury that required surgery. Never one to let adversity prevent progress, she rehabilitated her knee, served as Captain of the volleyball team, and was voted MVP. Simultaneously, she continued to prove her academic excellence, graduating Magna Cum Laude and speaking at her Graduation Commencement Ceremony.

After her undergraduate studies, Paula went on to earn a Master of Public Administration from FIU while serving as a Probation and Parole Officer for the State of Florida. Her excellent time management and ability to effectively multitask allowed her to graduate with a 3.5 GPA.

She then earned her Juris Doctorate from the University of Florida, Levin College of Law, graduating with honors. As a member of the UF Trial Team, she won several state and school competitions and awards, including the title of Best Advocate and the Order of Barristers. All while serving a Judicial Clerkship for the 17th Judicial Circuit Court (Ft. Lauderdale) and later as a certified legal intern with the State Attorney’s Office, 8th Judicial Circuit Court (Gainesville).

Paula’s legal career began as an Assistant State Attorney at the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office in the 11th Judicial Circuit, where she earned the rank of “A”-level felony prosecutor in just 3 ½ years. She then transitioned to her civil career as in-house counsel, where she earned her position as a Senior Trial Attorney. During this time, she honed her civil litigation skills in handling both jury and non-jury trials, motion practice, and deposition of lay witnesses and experts. In total, between criminal and civil cases, Paula has won 36 out of 39 jury trials and 38 out of 40 non-jury trials.

Despite all her individual accomplishments, Paula is also a team player, having made significant contributions as a Partner at a notable local firm, where she was instrumental in developing their personal injury protection unit. She enjoys collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve the best outcomes for her clients. Additionally, she has demonstrated strong leadership abilities and a passion for mentoring junior attorneys to foster professional growth and success.

Beyond her professional achievements, Paula also once worked as an adjunct professor at Florida Memorial University, teaching various law courses. She is committed to her community, participating in various organizations such as her sorority Delta Sigma Theta, Inc., and providing pro bono work whenever possible.

Paula is a proud wife to a brilliant husband, stepmom to three amazing kids, and an active aunt to exceptional nieces. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and is passionate about mentoring the next generation.