Fun Fact: Jeff is a PhD in anthropology, is a lieutenant in the Naval Reserves, and is the only firm member with no dogs. He compensates for his lack of dogs with 2 young children.

Jeffrey Bristol’s heritage with the maritime industry began in the 1860’s when his great-great-great-grandfather ran off from the family farm on Rock Island, Illinois and literally created the excursion riverboat industry. Over more than a century the family company, Streckfus Steamers, plated an integral part in America’s maritime and cultural life.

Jeff himself continued this tradition, working on the River as a teenager and aboard a tall ship on Lake Michigan. He currently serves as a commissioned officer in the US Navy Reserve with sea-service. He has worked with sailors both in the US and abroad, helping and advising these individuals with a wide-range of issues, both legal and otherwise.

Outside of maritime law, Jeff has a wide-ranging practice and experience. He has served as an Assistant Public Defender in Pinellas County and as a Specially Appointed Public Defender in Hillsborough. In both roles he was a constant presence in court, defended sometimes difficult clients, argued serious motions and tried cases before jury and judge.

Jeff has also handled a wide-range of civil rights cases, corporate litigation and does some light transactional work. He naturally assists Paul with all of his specialties as well.

Outside of the law, Jeff has a Ph.D. in Anthropology and an M.A. in Middle-Eastern Studies. He served on Active Duty in the US Army as a Persian linguist for five years (don’t ask him who he roots for during a certain football game at the end of November). In his spare time, he enjoys playing sports and spending time with his wife and two sons in Tampa.