About Anthony
Anthony Pires, Jr.: Leading Local Government Attorney in Naples
Anthony (Tony) P. Pires, Jr. is a recognized and respected partner at Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A. in the prestigious Naples office. For over two decades, he has provided unparalleled legal counsel to a diverse clientele throughout Collier and Lee Counties, specializing in complex matters of Local Government Law, Municipal Law, Land Use and Zoning Law, and Administrative Law. Mr. Pires is a dedicated advocate committed to protecting the rights and interests of his clients, offering strategic solutions and meticulous attention to detail in every case.
As a Board Certified Specialist (B.C.S.) in City, County & Local Government by The Florida Bar since 1998, Mr. Pires’ deep expertise and extensive experience are invaluable assets to those navigating the intricacies of Florida’s local government landscape. His credentials demonstrate a sustained commitment to excellence and a profound understanding of the legal principles governing local governance.
Mr. Pires’ career began with significant roles supporting the legal functions of both the County and State levels. Prior to joining Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A., he served as Assistant County Attorney (1979-1981), advising on a wide range of legal matters pertaining to county operations. Subsequently, he served as Assistant State Attorney, Twentieth Judicial Circuit (1975-1979 & 1981 – 1983), honing his courtroom skills and strategic thinking. His earlier experience with Westinghouse Communities of Naples, Inc. (1983 – 1986) further expanded his understanding of real estate development and land use regulations.
Today, Mr. Pires focuses his practice on providing expert legal guidance to municipalities, counties, and developers. He expertly handles matters involving zoning disputes, permitting processes, public record requests, government contract negotiations, and regulatory compliance. His deep understanding of Florida’s land use laws and zoning regulations allows him to effectively represent clients facing challenges and to achieve favorable outcomes.
Mr. Pires’ dedication to his clients is underscored by his numerous accolades and professional recognition. He is consistently ranked among the leading attorneys in Southwest Florida, earning prestigious awards including: Recognition in Best Attorney USA since 2022, **Recognition: Government Relations Practice, Recognition: Land Use and Zoning Law, Recognition: Municipal Law** (2018, 2021, 2022), **Practice Area: Litigation - Land Use and Zoning**, and an **AV Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell** award. He has also been honored by respected publications such as Naples Illustrated (Top Lawyers – Government Relations Practice, Municipal Law) and Gulfshore Business (Best of Business, Real Estate, Land Use and Zoning Law Firm – 2021, 2022).
Key Practice Areas:
- Government Relations Practice: Navigating complex legal issues within local government, ensuring compliance, and representing municipalities and counties in negotiations and disputes.
- Land Use and Zoning Law: Expert guidance on zoning regulations, subdivision approvals, site plan reviews, and other land development matters.
- Municipal Law: Legal counsel for municipalities on a wide range of issues, including charter revisions, ordinances, and public funding.
Education & Credentials:
- Board Certified Specialist (B.C.S.) in City, County & Local Government by The Florida Bar since 1998
- Extensive experience as Assistant County Attorney, Assistant State Attorney, and with Westinghouse Communities of Naples, Inc.
- Recognized: Government Relations Practice, Recognized: Land Use and Zoning Law, Recognized: Municipal Law (multiple years)
Mr. Pires’ commitment to providing exceptional legal representation is matched by his dedication to his community. He is a trusted advisor to countless organizations and individuals throughout Collier and Lee Counties, consistently delivering results and upholding the highest standards of professional conduct. His firm, Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A., has a long-standing reputation for providing practical, effective legal solutions in the areas of local government law.
Practice Areas
Professional Affiliations
Awards & Recognition
- Recognized: Government Relations Practice
- Recognized: Land Use and Zoning Law
- Recognized: Municipal Law
- Practice Area: Litigation - Land Use and Zoning
- AV Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
- Honored in Top Lawyers, Government Relations Practice, Naples Illustrated, 2021
- Best of Business, Real Estate, Land Use and Zoning Law Firm, Gulfshore Business, 2021, 2022
- Honored in Top Lawyers, Municipal Law, Naples Illustrated, 2018