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Patrick J. Carleton

CounselFort Lauderdale

Patrick J. Carleton is a commercial litigator focusing on construction and insurance coverage matters. In addition to his extensive work in the construction and insurance industries, Patrick also handles general commercial matters, such as real estate property disputes, employment and labor law, appellate matters, and ERISA claims. Patrick’s practice spans over two decades and multiple jurisdictions. His well-rounded background and unwavering commitment to professional excellence make him a deeply trusted advocate for his clients in a wide range of legal matters.

Patrick resolves matters related to construction and design defects, construction delays and sequencing claims, site condition claims, and lien and bond claims. Additionally, he handles a wide range of insurance coverage matters, both for first and third-party issues, including contract and claims disputes, among others. Alongside these two areas of practice, Patrick handles real estate and title disputes as well as leasing, employment, and other contract disputes. Across his practice, Patrick effectively counsels clients to resolve matters outside of the courts. Should it be most appropriate to take a matter to trial, he is a highly prepared and fierce advocate for clients.

Before establishing a strong trial practice, Patrick was a licensed residential builder. This foundational experience provides a unique advantage to clients when resolving construction cases. As a result, Patrick is known for his extensive track record of successfully trying cases in both state and federal courts, arbitration panels, and various alternate dispute resolution forums in Florida and Michigan. He exemplifies a deep commitment to his clients, delivering exceptional service with precision, strategy, strong communication, and proficiency.

Work Experience

  • Hinckley Allen
    • Counsel (2024-Present)
  • Wyman Legal Solutions
    • Senior Associate (2023-2024)
  • Ferencik Libanoff Brandt Bustamante & Goldstein
    • Attorney (2023)
  • Groelle & Salmon
    • Partner (2014-2023)
  • Carleton & Associates
    • Principal & Attorney (2011-2014)
  • Merry, Farnen & Ryan, P.C.
    • Associate Attorney (2010-2011)
  • Steven A. Wright, P.C.
    • Senior Associate (2006-2009)
  • McAlpine & Associates, P.C.
    • Associate Attorney (2004-2006)
  • Nedelman Pawlak, P.L.L.C.
    • Associate Attorney (2002-2003)

Certifications

  • Commercial Real Estate, Cornell University

Charitable & Civic Involvement

  • St. Thomas More Catholic Church
    • Core Team Member, R.C.I.A. Ministry
    • Lector

Professional Affiliations

  • Palm Beach County Bar Association, Member

Bar Memberships

  • Florida
  • United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida
  • United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida
  • Michigan
  • United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan
  • United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit

Publications

  • Law Review Comment, Internet Activity and the Commerce Clause: Expansion of Federal Subject Matter Jurisdiction and Limitation of States’ Police Power? 70 U. Det. Mercy L. Rev. 659 (2002)
Firm News

Hinckley Allen Continues to Grow with Veteran Construction Litigator in Florida

Hinckley Allen welcomes Patrick J. Carleton to the firm as counsel in the Construction & Public Contracts Practice. Patrick joins the firm’s Fort Lauderdale, Florida office as a distinguished commercial litigator with over two decades of work in the …