Biography
Theresa Carli Pontieri is a highly skilled attorney specializing in real estate law, contract law, family law, and business litigation. With a pragmatic and results-driven approach, she provides strategic legal counsel tailored to individuals and businesses navigating complex legal challenges. Her depth of experience in trial and appellate work across Florida state courts and the Middle District Federal Court makes her a formidable advocate for her clients.
Legal Expertise & Business Acumen
Prior to joining the firm, Mrs. Pontieri owned and operated her own successful law firm, where she represented both businesses and consumers in a broad range of disputes. Her firsthand experience as a business owner in the food and beverage industry in Jacksonville gives her a unique ability to advise clients from both a legal and entrepreneurial perspective. She understands the complexities of business operations, permitting, and compliance, making her an invaluable resource for companies of all sizes.
Elected Official & Advocate for Local Business Growth
In addition to her legal career, Mrs. Pontieri serves as an elected City Council member in Palm Coast, Florida, a role she has held since November 2023. Her position has deepened her knowledge of land use, business permitting, zoning laws, and municipal governance, further enhancing her ability to guide clients through local and state regulatory landscapes.
Academic Excellence & Legal Training
Mrs. Pontieri earned her Juris Doctor, magna cum laude, from Florida Coastal School of Law, receiving multiple book awards in contract law. She actively contributed to the legal community as a mock trial coach, adjunct professor, and participant in Law Review, Moot Court, and Mock Trial competitions. She gained national recognition by winning the National Mock Trial Competition in New York and serving as Pro Bono Chair, reinforcing her commitment to legal excellence and advocacy.
Before law school, she obtained her undergraduate degree in Legal Studies from the University of Central Florida, minoring in sports and entertainment law.
Athletic Achievements & Competitive Spirit
Mrs. Pontieri’s dedication to discipline and perseverance extends beyond the courtroom. A third-degree black belt, she was a member of the United States Karate Team, competing internationally and winning multiple World Championships in Madrid (2000) and Munich (2002). Her accomplishments include:
- Silver Medalist at the World Championships
- Bronze Medalist at the Pan-American Games
- Bronze Medalist at the Goodwill Games in Tokyo, Japan
Community & Personal Life
A proud resident of Flagler County, Mrs. Pontieri lives with her husband, Rick, a lieutenant with the Osceola County Fire Department, and their four rescue pets—dogs Bailey, Bacon, and Max, and their cat, Beni. She is passionate about serving her community, addressing local concerns through her City Council role, and giving back through volunteerism and advocacy.
In her free time, she enjoys staying active, working out on her Peloton, exploring the outdoors with her husband, and cheering on her UCF Knights.
Why Work with Theresa Carli Pontieri?
Whether handling complex business litigation, real estate transactions, or family law matters, Mrs. Pontieri is dedicated to delivering strategic, results-oriented legal solutions. Her legal expertise, business acumen, and leadership experience make her a trusted advocate for clients across Florida.
Bar Admissions
- Florida, 2014
- U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida, 2015
Education
- Florida Coastal School of Law, Jacksonville, Florida
- Juris Doctor
- Honors: magna cum laude
- Honors: Book award in Contracts I and II
- University of Central Florida
- B.S., Bachelor of Science
- Honors: Dean’s List
- Major: Legal Studies
Honors
- Palm Coast City Council Woman, Elected in November 2022
Published Works
- “Ten-Step Path to Self Preservation,” Florida Association for Women Lawyers Magazine (Fall/Winter 2019).