Ms. Lott studied psychology at the University of Florida, where she graduated with high honors in 1974. Martha Lott graduated from the University of Florida College of Law with partner, Cherie Fine, in 1981 and was admitted to the Florida Bar. She began her career with the Public Defender’s Office of the 8th Judicial Circuit in 1981 working with partners Jack J. Fine, Tom Farkash, and Alan Parlapiano. Prior to becoming a Judge, Martha Lott was in private practice as a trial lawyer.
Martha Lott retired from the bench in May 2013 after over 22 years as a County Court Judge, Circuit Judge and as Chief Judge of the 8th Judicial Circuit of Florida. She joined Fine, Farkash, & Parlapiano, P.A., in July 2013. Her experience as a Judge included all areas of practice at both the County and Circuit levels in State Court. Martha Lott presided in all six counties of the 8th Circuit of Florida.
In the early 1980s, she suffered a permanent injury as the result of an auto-accident. She was represented by Fine, Farkash, & Parlapiano, P.A. Her experience as a trial lawyer, a Judge, and a person with a permanent injury gives her a uniquely broad perspective.
Particular areas of expertise include psychology/psychiatry (including PTSD and brain injury), family law, and litigation. Martha Lott is known for innovative problem solving. During her free time, Ms. Lott is an avid dressage competitor and is currently writing a novel.
Ms. Lott served as a County Court Judge from 1991-1997, Circuit Judge from 1997-2009, Administrative Judge of Circuit Criminal Court from 2006-2009, and Chief Judge from 2009-2012.
“In 1978, I was working as a psychologist in an institutional treatment setting. I was called to court to testify about the progress of clients we were treating. I saw that though there are many different helping professions, the decisions that affect people’s lives occur in the courtroom. If I was going to make any meaningful contribution, I needed to do it there.”
MARTHA ANN LOTT
Fun Fact:
“Cherie and I went to law school together, Jack was my assigned mentor in the Public Defender’s Office, Alan hired me, Tom supervised my first trial, and Stephen promised to give me Julie when she was born because he wanted a brother…at least until he saw her.”
Favorite Quote
“You cannot have failed to observe, Sir, the extreme age to which lawyers live. Age does not whither them, nor custom state. This for the reason that they have no cares or anxieties of their own; the cares and anxieties of their clients touch them only as the sun touches the flower: it causes them to blossom like a rose.”
NEWTON ON BLACKSTONE
Positive: Professionalism
Three years ago my families lives were changed dramatically after my husband was involved in a motor vehicle accident. Having no idea what to do or how to proceed we turned to Cherie Fine for help and guidance. It was the best decision we ever made. From day one she made us feel comfortable and confident with the process and explained the journey that was now ahead of us. We had our case come to a favorable conclusion and are so grateful for all the support and help we received from the staff at Fine Farkash and Parlapiano. Everyone was always willing to answer all our questions and always fought for what was best for us. They aren’t just there to make money but want to make sure you get the medical care you need. We are so glad we had them to help guide us through this terrible ordeal. Special thanks to our team Cherie, Natalie, Sheila and Shelly! Hopefully, we never have to go through something like this again, but if we do we will definitely be turning to Cherie Fine for help.