S P E C I A L F E AT U R E : T H I RT E E N T H J U D I C I A L C I RC U I T P RO F E S S I O N A L I S M C O M M I T T E E
Hon. Frances M. Perrone – Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court
Continued from page 16
future generations of lawyers. Mr. Williams’ wife and
daughter remain a priority, as he gracefully balances a
demanding professional calendar with time for routine
family dinners and his daughter’s activities. Judge
Gregory Holder summarized it best in his award
presentation, “Rob epitomizes ethics, integrity, and
professionalism in his every action both within and
outside of the courtroom.”
Jay Pruner received this year’s recognition in the
government sector. After 31 years of practice, with many
of those as Hillsborough’s top homicide prosecutor,
Pruner’s career is simply unmatched. As Michelle Doherty
noted in her nomination, “Homicide trials are stressful for
a myriad of reasons, but Jay always treats the court, the
victim’s family, defense counsel, and the defendant with
the respect and decorum required by our profession.” Mr.
Pruner’s stellar reputation extends beyond the courtroom.
He is beloved and admired by generations of current
and past assistant state attorneys, support staff, and
scores of defense counsel. This is attributable to his
legal acumen, quick wit, and constant willingness to
share his knowledge and experience with others.
In addition to his lifetime commitment to public
service and keeping our community safe, Mr. Pruner
shares his knowledge by routinely, formally and
informally, teaching young prosecutors and law
enforcement officers. He also has found a harmonious
work-life balance, keeping his wife and two sons a top
priority. Both of his sons followed in their father’s
JAN - FEB 2019
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HCBA LAWYER
Thomas Palermo and Michael Sinacore with the
U.S. Attorney’s Office congratulated their colleague Jay Pruner
with the State Attorney’s Office after he received the
Professionalism Award for a lawyer in the public sector.
footsteps joining the legal profession, with his oldest
working alongside his father as a Hillsborough Assistant
State Attorney. Ms. Doherty noted and Chief Judge Ron
Ficarrotta echoed in his presentation
to Mr. Pruner, “A great leader inspires
and motivates others to be great, and
Jay is a natural born leader.”
Cheers and gratitude to both
recipients for setting a stellar example
in your professional and daily lives.
Author: Hon. Frances M. Perrone –
Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court
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