DeSantis Chooses Miami Attorney to Vet Florida's Judicial Candidates

Miami, Florida, USA - In a strategic move to shape Florida’s judiciary, Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Eliot Pedrosa to the 11th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission. Pedrosa, a seasoned attorney based in Miami, is a graduate of Florida International University and Harvard Law School. His primary role will involve vetting candidates for judicial vacancies within the circuit, a vital responsibility entrusted to him by the state. The Florida Bar had recommended his appointment, a sign of confidence in his qualifications and integrity. His term is set to conclude on July 1, 2026, marking a significant commitment to the judicial selection process in Florida’s 11th Circuit. Local10 reports on this latest development in the Governor’s judicial strategy.

But Pedrosa is just one part of a broader initiative. In total, Governor DeSantis made 12 appointments to Florida’s Judicial Nominating Commissions aimed at enhancing the judiciary’s quality and independence. The remaining appointees bring a wealth of legal expertise and experience to their respective commissions, which are tasked with vetting judicial candidates and making recommendations to the Governor. This collective effort aims to ensure that qualified and fair-minded individuals are placed in judicial roles
FloridaGov highlights.

Meet the New Appointees

Among the selected individuals is Jason Gonzalez, appointed to the Florida Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission. A prominent figure in Tallahassee, Gonzalez is a shareholder at Lawson Huck Gonzalez, PLLC, and has a distinguished background that includes serving as General Counsel for former Governors Charlie Crist and Rick Scott. He has also played a pivotal role in notable legal battles, including representing Transocean Ltd. after the Deepwater Horizon incident. His term on the commission ends on July 1, 2027.

Similarly, Nick Meros has joined the 2nd Judicial Circuit JNC and will serve until July 1, 2027. Meros has previously worked as Senior Deputy General Counsel under DeSantis, advising on judicial appointments that include two Florida Supreme Court Justices. His appointment further strengthens the Governor’s influence over judicial nominations.

Completing the team at the 2nd Circuit are Amanda Neff and Jason Vail. Neff serves as Deputy General Counsel at the Reemployment Assistance Appeals Commission, while Vail is a shareholder at Allen Norton & Blue, PA. Their combined expertise promises to enrich the selection process over the coming years.

Broader Implications

The significance of these appointments cannot be understated. “The JNCs will not only vet applicants for judicial vacancies,” states FloridaPolitics, “but also submit their recommendations directly to the Governor.” The implications of this structure are profound, shaping the legal landscape of Florida for years to come.

Other notable appointments include Eric Reed to the 9th Circuit JNC, Kelvin Ready to the 10th Circuit JNC, and Todd Brister and William Lewis to the 14th Circuit JNC, among others. Brister will serve until July 1, 2027, while Lewis has a longer term that extends until July 1, 2028.

As these commissions take shape, the Governor’s strategy for appointing judges who reflect his administration’s values becomes increasingly clear. With seasoned legal minds at the helm, Florida’s judicial future appears poised for significant transformation.