Tyler Willis

Tyler Willis is an associate at Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP who focuses his practice on trusts and estates, tax planning, mergers and acquisitions, and business matters. He works with business owners and families to structure transactions, plan for succession, and address the tax implications that arise both before and after major business events.

Tyler approaches his work with a process driven mindset shaped by his background in computer science and tax law. Clients often come to him with situations that involve both legal and financial complexity. He works through those issues methodically, breaking down the moving parts and developing solutions that are clear, efficient, and aligned with the client’s long-term goals.

His practice frequently centers on closely held and family-owned businesses. Tyler regularly assists owners with mergers and acquisitions and then continues advising them on estate planning and wealth transfer strategies once a transaction is complete. These matters often involve not only financial considerations but also the unique dynamics that make each family business work.

In addition to his client work, Tyler contributes to thought leadership on trusts and estates and tax issues and remains active in the local legal and business community.

Representative Matters

•  Advising Family-Owned Businesses Through Transactions. Regularly represents local business owners in connection with mergers and acquisitions, helping structure transactions and address tax and estate planning considerations before and after closing.
•  Estate Planning for Business Owners. Works with business owners to develop succession plans that preserve the value of the business while addressing family and tax considerations.
•  Tax Structuring and Planning. Advises clients on tax efficient strategies in connection with business transactions, wealth transfer, and estate planning.
•  Business Advisory and Outside Counsel Support. Provides ongoing counsel to small and mid-sized businesses on corporate matters, contracts, and operational decisions.

Bar Admissions

• Florida, 2021

Education

• University of Florida LL.M. in Taxation
  • Highest Grade Designation / CALI Award 
    • Corporate Tax I
    • Taxation of Gratuitous Transfers
    • Income Taxation of Estates and Trusts
• Stetson University College of Law, J.D., magna cum laude
  • Highest Grade Designation in Administrative Law
  • Teaching Assistant in Administrative Law
  • Research Assistant to Federal Income Taxation professor
  • Senior Associate, Stetson Law Review
• University of Florida B.S., Computer Science

Community & Professional Organizations

• Clearwater Young Lawyers Division
  • Board Member
• Pinellas Estate Planning Council
  • Board Member
• Friends of Pinellas Trail
  • Board Member

Outside of the Office

Tyler enjoys cooking, playing guitar, and watching hockey. He enjoys spending time with friends and on hobbies that allow him to step away from the structured nature of his work.