Leonard H. Johnson

Partner

For more than four decades, Leonard H. “Len” Johnson has guided clients through the complexities of commercial real estate, business, banking, construction, and land use law across the Tampa Bay region and beyond. Inspired by his father—who often emphasized the value of his own law degree—and a respected neighbor who later became a legal mentor, Len knew from high school that he would pursue a legal career. That path, combined with more than 15 years as president of a community bank holding company, gives him a unique perspective that allows him to approach transactions from both the legal and business side, giving clients an invaluable advantage in negotiations, financing, and development.
Len’s practice includes representing developers and landowners in large-scale acquisitions, residential and mixed-use projects, commercial warehouse facilities, and hotel developments. He is also trusted by mid-sized businesses as outside general counsel, advising on contracts, entity structuring, and operational issues. Over the years, he has developed particular expertise in mineral rights law, consolidating ownership interests and unlocking development opportunities for transactions ranging from $5 million to over $50 million. He has also represented a closely held mining company in its $100+ million sale to a publicly traded corporation.
With decades of experience in both the legal and financial sectors, Len has structured and closed transactions across nearly every industry. He has led clients through multi-million-dollar real estate sales, negotiated complex loan agreements, and overseen development strategies that shape communities throughout Florida. His work is recognized by peers and clients alike, earning him listings in The Best Lawyers in America® and recognition as a Florida Trend Notable Attorney in Real Estate and Land Use (2025).
Beyond his client work, Len has served in leadership roles across Florida civic, educational, and athletic organizations. He has been a member of Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) for over 35 years, and served as Chapter Chairman for Florida YPO and subsequently YPO Florida Gold. He was appointed to the University of Florida’s Board of Trustees, served on the University Athletic Association’s Board, and was elected President of Gator Boosters, Inc. He has also chaired the Board of Trustees of Pasco-Hernando State College and served in leadership positions for several other community organizations. His long history of service reflects a career dedicated not only to his clients but also to the institutions and communities that define Florida.
Len brings to each matter a steady hand, a practical problem-solving style, and the wisdom of more than 40 years of experience at the intersection of law, business, and community leadership.

Representative Matters

• Mineral Rights Consolidations: Represented landowners in more than 15 mineral rights transactions ranging in value from $5 million to $50+ million.

• Corporate Sales:
  • Represented a closely held mining company in its sale to a public company exceeding $100 million.

  • Represented several community banks in Florida in their sale/mergers with publicly held bank holding companies.

• Large-Scale Real Estate Development: Guided developers through acquisitions and entitlements for residential subdivisions, mixed-use communities, warehouse projects, and hotel developments.

• General Counsel Role: Serves as outside general counsel to multiple mid-sized businesses, advising on entity structure, contracts, and governance.

Bar Admissions

• Florida, 1981
• New York, 1988
• Colorado, 1993
• United States Supreme Court, 1984
• United States Tax Court, 1982
• United States Court of Appeals (11th Circuit), 1981
• United States Court of Appeals (District of Columbia Circuit), 1981
• United Sates District Court (Middle District of Florida), 1981

Education

• University of Florida Holland Law Center, J.D., 1980
• University of Florida, B.S. Business Administration & Finance, with Honors, 1978

Awards & Recognition

• The Best Lawyers in America®, Real Estate Law, 2024 – Present
• Florida Trends Notable Attorneys, Real Estate Law, 2025
  • Leadership Florida, Member, Class IX – 1990
• Florida Blue Key, University of Florida, 1991 (Honorary Initiate)

Community & Professional Organizations

• University of Florida
  • Former Member, Board of Trustees, 2016 – 2021
  • Member, University Athletic Association Board, 2016 – 2018
• Gator Boosters, Inc.
  • Distinguished Director, 2009 – Present
  • President, 2016 – 2017
• Pasco-Hernando State College
  • Member, District Board of Trustees, 2011 – 2016
  • Chairman, 2014 – 2015
  • Vice-Chair, 2013 – 2014
• Pasco Hernando Community College Foundation
  • Member, Board of Directors, 2007-2010
• Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting, Inc. (WEDU)
  • Director, 2002 – 2011
• Leadership Florida
  • Member, Class IX, 1990
• Florida Blue Key, University of Florida
  • Honorary Initiate, 1991
• Downtown Dade City Main Street, Inc.
  • President, 1991
  • Director, 1987-1995
• City of Dade City Downtown Redevelopment Advisory Committee,
  • Dade City, Florida Chairman, 1995-1997
• Dade City Hospital
  • Member Board of Trustees, 1993-1996
  • Board Moderator, 1996
• City of Dade City Land Development Code Revision Advisory Committee
  • Member, 2006-2010
• YPO Florida Gold, Florida Chapter 2008-Present
  • Chapter Chairman, 2009-Present
• Young Presidents’ Organization, Florida Chapter, 1986-2007
  • Chapter Chairman, 1998-1999
• Chief Executives’ Organization
  • Member, 2007-2009
• Lewis Abraham Boys & Girls Club of Lacoochee
  • Board of Directors, 2009 – 2014
• Colorado Bar Association
  • Member, 1996-Present

Outside of the Office

When not practicing law, Len enjoys boating, fishing, traveling, and cheering on the Florida Gators. He and his wife, Nancy, have been married for more than 40 years and are proud parents of two children, Brock Johnson and Paige Dingman, both of whom live in Tampa with their families. A devoted grandfather, Len treasures time with his three grandchildren and enjoys frequent family gatherings. About ten years ago, he and Nancy began making annual trips to Europe—especially Italy and Paris—and they love spending some time in the summers in the mountains of Colorado.