Peru-Born Soccer Coach Javier Pacheco Named Lee County Judge!

Bonita Springs, FL, USA - Lee County has recently welcomed a new judge, marking a significant moment for the local community. On July 17, 2025, Javier Pacheco was appointed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to the Lee County Court, stepping into the role previously held by Judge Andrew Swett, who retired in June. In his own words, Pacheco described his appointment as „a tremendous honor“ and expressed hopes of being worthy of the trust placed in him by the governor and the local judicial system.

Originally hailing from Lima, Peru, Pacheco immigrated to the United States as a child and has made Bonita Springs his home with his wife and two children. This diverse background adds a unique perspective to his judicial approach, bringing together experiences from different cultures and legal environments.

Legal Expertise and Community Involvement

Pacheco is not just a new face in the courtroom. He has been a vital part of the Lee County legal landscape for years, serving as a partner at the law firm Porter Wright Morris & Arthur since 2015. His specialization in business litigation, coupled with extensive experience resolving disputes in Latin America, positions him well to navigate the complexities of the cases that will come before him as a judge. Notably, he’s handled complex creditor’s rights matters for several financial institutions, showcasing his capability in intricate legal scenarios.

Beyond his work as an attorney, Pacheco has devoted time to coaching youth sports, including soccer and basketball, at the Bonita Springs YMCA. Coaching has been a passion of his since 2012, alongside his role with the Immokalee High School Mock Trial team since 2017. His deep community involvement demonstrates his commitment not just to the law, but also to the next generation of leaders in the area.

Legal Landscape in Lee County

Pacheco’s appointment does not just fill an open seat; it completes the roster of judges within the 20th Judicial Circuit, which includes neighboring counties—Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Lee, and Hendry. As of now, there are no vacancies in this circuit, illustrating a stable judicial environment, which is particularly notable in a region that is home to a vibrant population of over 800,000 and more than 100,000 students enrolled in local schools.

In addition to Pacheco, Governor DeSantis also made several other judicial appointments, including Jason Jones to the Second Judicial Circuit, Aaron Hubbard to the Sixth Judicial Circuit, and John Reed to the Okaloosa County Court. Such strategic appointments are part of a broader initiative to address the growing legal needs across Florida.

Pacheco’s selection underscores the growing emphasis on diverse backgrounds and experiences in the judiciary. With his proficiency in business law and international litigation, community involvement, and a genuine approach to serving the public, Javier Pacheco is poised to make meaningful contributions to the Lee County judicial system.