Wisdom. Familiarity. Insight.

Jeff focuses his practice on estate planning, and matters involving local government and land use.

A lifelong resident of Northwest Florida and a former Circuit Court Judge, Jeff brings a rare combination of private-practice, judicial, and academic experience to his clients. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Florida in 2003, a Juris Doctor from Florida State University College of Law in 2007, and an LL.M. in Taxation from the University of Alabama School of Law in 2023.

Jeff began his legal career at Anchors Smith Grimsley, one of the oldest law firms in the Florida Panhandle, where he ultimately became a partner. In private practice, he represented small businesses, financial institutions, governmental entities, and individuals in complex commercial, real estate, and regulatory matters. He later left private practice to serve as a Circuit Court Judge, presiding over hundreds of cases involving business disputes, land use, and real estate. That experience gave him a firsthand understanding of how legal issues develop—and how many can be avoided with thoughtful planning and proactive counsel.

In 2021, Jeff founded Burns Law Firm to provide focused, forward-looking legal advice tailored to each client’s goals. Drawing on experience from thousands of cases as both a commercial litigator and a judge, he offers clients a strategic perspective few attorneys can match. His advanced training in taxation allows him to address both the legal and tax implications that often arise in business transactions and estate planning.

Jeff is also committed to the legal profession and public service. He has served on the Florida Supreme Court’s Jury Instructions Committee for Business Cases, contributed to the Editorial Board of The Florida Bar Journal, and has been recognized by Northwest Florida Legal Aid for his pro bono work. Through practical advice and strategic foresight, Jeff helps clients manage risk, resolve disputes efficiently, and protect their long-term interests.