Jessica Vander Velde
Litigation associate Jessica Vander Velde represents businesses nationwide in high-stakes commercial disputes and products liability actions, both at the claim and litigation stages.
Her litigation practice includes a wide range of commercial and products disputes, including claims in tort and for breach of contract, consumer protection violations, warranty, and more.
As a former journalist, Jessica is especially adept at sophisticated research, succinct writing, and handling witnesses. Recent successes include leading settlement negotiations between multiple opposing parties, resulting in a favorable outcome for her client, and drafting and arguing winning motions to dismiss and for summary judgment.
Jessica attended Stetson University College of Law, where she served as the recent developments editor of the Stetson Law Review and was a member of the Moot Court Board. While in law school, Jessica interned at U.S. Attorney's Office in Tampa, Florida, where she supported assistant U.S. attorneys in the civil division.
Jessica is committed to her pro bono practice. She has helped an Afghan woman apply for affirmative asylum, advised a local nonprofit serving children, and represented a low-income veteran facing a dispute with his landlord, among other pro bono work.
Areas of focus
Services
Education & Credentials
Education
- Stetson University College of Law, J.D., summa cum laude, 2017
- University of Florida, B.S., Journalism and Psychology, 2007
Bar and Court Admissions
-
Oregon
-
Florida
Related Employment
- Quarles & Brady, Tampa, FL, Associate, 2017 – 2023; Summer Associate, 2016
- U.S. Attorney's Office, Tampa, FL, Intern, 2016
- Wenzel Fenton Cabassa, P.A., Tampa, FL, Law Clerk, 2015
- U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida, Tampa, FL, Intern to the Hon. Charlene Honeywell, 2015 – 2016
- Tampa Bay Times, Tampa, FL, Reporter, 2008 – 2014
Impact
Community Involvement
- TRIBE-Seminole Heights (a 501c3), Board of Directors Member, 2021 – 2023
- Federal Bar Association – Tampa Bay Chapter, Member, 2015 – 2023
- Hillsborough County Bar Association, Member, 2014 – 2023