Berny V. Jacques is Of Counsel in Hall Booth Smith’s Tampa office, where he concentrates his practice on defending hospitals, physicians, and other health care providers in medical malpractice claims.
Earlier in his legal career, Berny served as an Assistant State Attorney in Florida’s Sixth Judicial Circuit, where he conducted more than fifty jury trials and hundreds of bench trials, evidentiary hearings, and motions. He also worked in private practice as a civil litigator, representing clients in trial preparation, hearings, and legal research.
In addition to his legal work, Berny serves as an elected member of the Florida House of Representatives for District 59 and previously served as Senior Partnerships Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, where he built relationships with community organizations and led advocacy initiatives. His unique combination of legal acumen and relationship-building skills allows him to effectively advocate for his clients.
Fluent in Haitian Creole and proficient in conversational French, Berny is actively involved in civic leadership and professional organizations, and he has been recognized by Florida Trend and Super Lawyers for his professional achievements and community impact.
Berny earned his J.D. from Stetson University College of Law, where he was a member of the trial team, and his B.A. in History and Political Studies, cum laude , from Washington Adventist University.
Recognition
•Florida Federation of Young Republicans Robert M. Foster, Jr. Award, 2020
•Florida Super Lawyers “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers, 2018
•Legal Elite in the area of Government and Non-Profit by Florida Trend’s Magazine, 2016
•“30 Under 30 Rising Star of Florida Politics” by Florida Politics, 2015
•Washington Adventist University’s Young Alumnus of the Year, 2015
•Legal Elite in the area of Government and Non-Profit by Florida Trend’s Magazine, 2016
•Maverick PAC Future 40 Honoree, 2014
In the Press
Hall Booth Smith Tampa adds Of Counsel Berny Jacques
September 16, 2025
The Tampa office of Hall Booth Smith welcomes Berny Jacques as of counsel. He will be concentrating his practice on defending hospitals, physicians, and other health care providers in medical malpractice claims. “We’re excited to welcome Berny to our Tampa team,” said Ryan Rivas, managing partner of the Tampa office. “His trial experience and community
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