Steven A. Williamson

Partner

Steven A. “Steve” Williamson brings more than two decades of experience guiding developers, lenders, and commercial property owners through complex real estate transactions and finance matters. He joined Johnson Pope in 2003, initially handling real estate litigation matters before transitioning to the transactional real estate law and zoning, where he found his natural fit. With a background in real estate litigation, Steve offers clients both transactional insight and a keen understanding of how disputes arise—an advantage that allows him to structure deals strategically and protect his clients’ long-term interests.

Over the past 20 years, Steve has represented national and regional tenants, developers, and property owners in projects spanning retail, office, multifamily, and industrial developments. He regularly negotiates, drafts, and reviews acquisition, leasing, and financing documents, while also advising on title, survey, and zoning issues. He has also developed a reputation for handling distressed assets, including problem loan restructurings, deeds in lieu of foreclosure, and real estate–based financial planning.

A significant portion of Steve’s practice is devoted to long-standing relationships with developer clients, some of whom he has advised for more than 15 years on projects totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. He particularly enjoys “creating something out of nothing”—helping clients take a vision from bare land to a thriving development. His approach is described by clients as efficient, direct, and practical: he doesn’t over lawyer issues but ensures his clients are fully protected while moving deals forward.

Steve is Board Certified in Real Estate Law by The Florida Bar, an achievement earned by fewer than 5% of attorneys statewide. Board certification is the highest level of recognition for a lawyer’s competence, ethics, and professionalism, requiring a minimum of five years in practice, substantial involvement in the field, successful completion of a rigorous examination, peer review, and satisfaction of advanced continuing education requirements. This distinction reflects Steve’s deep knowledge and proven skill in navigating the full spectrum of real estate law.

Recognized by The Best Lawyers in America® and AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell, Steve is widely respected for his work in real estate transactions and finance. He has also been named a Florida Super Lawyers “Rising Star” earlier in his career.

Beyond his legal work, Steve has been active in the Clearwater business community for decades. He served on the Board of Directors of the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce for more than a decade, participated in Leadership Pinellas, and has supported local organizations including the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.

Representative Matters

• Long-Term Developer Representation: Represented multiple developer clients for more than 15 years on projects exceeding $1 billion in combined value.

• Tenant Leasing & Development: Advised national and regional tenants on leasing and development across retail, multifamily, and industrial properties.

• Distressed Asset Workouts: Represented lenders and borrowers in loan restructurings, distressed asset transactions, and deeds in lieu of foreclosure.

• Zoning & Permitting: Counseled clients on zoning, permitting, and lien-related issues affecting large and small-scale commercial developments.

Bar Admissions

• Florida, 2003

Education

• Stetson University College of Law, J.D., cum laude, 2003

• University of South Florida, B.A., cum laude, 1999

Awards & Recognition

• Board Certified in Real Estate, 2015 – Present
• AV® Rated by Martindale-Hubbell
• Super Lawyers® “Rising Star,” 2009

• The Best Lawyers in America®, Real Estate Law, 2019 – 2021

Community & Professional Organizations

• Florida Bar
  • Member, 2003 – Present
• Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce,
  • Member Board of Directors, 2006 – 2020
• Leadership Pinellas, Class of 2008
  • Member, 2008
• Partners in Self Sufficiency,
  • Member of Board of Directors, 2004 – 2006
• Clearwater Bar Association,
  • Member, 2003 – Present
• National Pediatric Cancer Foundation

  • Volunteer

Outside of the Office

Outside the office, Steve enjoys spending time on the water, whether offshore or inshore fishing, as well as boating and hunting. He and his wife are raising three boys, and much of his free time is devoted to family and outdoor activities. Steve is also a strong supporter of the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.