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Williams Parker Celebrates Its Centennial Of Legal Excellence and Community Impact

January 24, 2025

Williams Parker, Sarasota’s largest law firm, is proud to announce the celebration of our 100th anniversary. Williams Parker has been a cornerstone of the community for a century, providing exceptional legal services and contributing to the growth and prosperity of our region.

In 1925, during the height of the Great Florida Land Boom, J.J. Williams Jr. arrived in Sarasota from Memphis, Tennessee, where he had been a prominent attorney, and established what would quickly become Sarasota’s premier law firm. From its founding, Williams Parker played a pivotal role in shaping Southwest Florida’s skyline and neighborhoods, supporting the development of banks, schools, the public hospital, the airport, and many of the enduring and iconic institutions that define our region’s unique character.

J.J. Williams was eventually joined in his practice by his son-in-law, the WWII combat veteran and attorney W. Davis Parker. Together with attorneys William T. Harrison Jr., George Dietz, and Bill Getzen, the founders’ vision and dedication paved the way for our continued success.

“As we reflect on the past century, we are deeply grateful for the trust and support of our clients, our business partners, and community. We are honored to carry the legacy of our founders forward and to embrace their commitment to client service excellence in the practice of law,” said Michael J. Wilson, president of Williams Parker.

Five Points—the intersection of Main, Pineapple, and Central—has been the center of downtown Sarasota since the city’s founding. Williams Parker now occupies the eighth floor at Plaza Five Points. This location holds historical significance for us. It marks a return to our first headquarters—the top floor of Sarasota’s first skyscraper, the seven-story First Bank and Trust Building. 

“Returning to our original space in a gorgeous new building is a testament to our firm’s continued growth and enduring presence. Williams Parker’s history is as rich as our unwavering dedication to Sarasota and the greater Southwest Florida region,” added Wilson.