William Scherer, Founder and Managing partner, Conrad & Scherer LLP

May 2026 — Invest: spoke with William Scherer, founder and managing partner of Conrad & Scherer LLP, about landmark litigation, the evolution of dispute resolution, and Fort Lauderdale’s rise as a center for sophisticated legal work. “There is more opportunity today than ever before,” Scherer said.

What changes over the past year have most impacted your firm and its work, and how have they influenced your priorities?

One of the most significant developments for us was securing a $1.2 billion jury verdict for Seminole Indian children against Wells Fargo. That is the largest jury verdict in Florida history against a defendant capable of paying, and one of the largest in the country. It was not just a legal milestone, but also an important victory for Native American communities, particularly here in Florida.

We also continued our work on the Chiquita human rights litigation, which has been a defining case for us. These kinds of outcomes elevate the firm’s profile, but more importantly, they reinforce our commitment to taking on complex, high-impact cases. They also influence the type of opportunities that come our way, as more sophisticated clients seek out firms with proven trial experience.

The way clients find legal representation has evolved. With greater access to information, people are more informed about who can actually handle complex matters. That shift is raising the bar across the profession and rewarding firms that consistently deliver results.

How has the momentum from the Chiquita case influenced corporate accountability and the type of work you are seeing today?

I believe cases like Chiquita are having a real impact on corporate behavior. Multinational companies are paying closer attention to how they operate, particularly in foreign jurisdictions. While abuses still occur, there is greater awareness and, in some cases, more caution.

That case took over a decade to reach trial, and we are still at the beginning, with many more claims to resolve. But it sends a message that corporations can and will be held accountable for their actions globally. As a result, we are seeing more cases that involve international conduct, corporate responsibility, and complex cross-border disputes.

What are the most common risks or blind spots you see businesses facing today that could lead to litigation?

One of the biggest risks is the constant push to gain a competitive edge. With rapid technological advancement, companies sometimes cross the line, whether intentionally or not. That often leads to harm, particularly for investors.

We continue to see sophisticated fraud schemes, some disguised as legitimate investment opportunities. South Florida has long been an epicenter for these types of cases, partly because of the flow of international capital. These situations evolve quickly, and even experienced businesses can become entangled if they are not careful about who they partner with.

The key is vigilance. Companies need to thoroughly understand who they are doing business with, because once you are involved in a problematic venture, the legal and financial consequences can be significant.

How is Fort Lauderdale’s growth shaping legal demand and the broader business environment?

Fort Lauderdale is what I call the sweet spot. It sits right between Miami and Palm Beach, offering the advantages of both without the extremes. Miami is dynamic but can be difficult to navigate, while Palm Beach is beautiful but traditionally quieter. Fort Lauderdale combines accessibility, infrastructure, and quality of life.

We are seeing significant investment, including high-net-worth individuals relocating to the area. That brings capital, businesses, and talent, which in turn leads to more complex commercial activity. With that complexity comes more sophisticated disputes, which drives demand for high-level legal services.

The city’s connectivity, through its airport, port, and growing downtown, also enhances its appeal. As the region continues to grow, so will the need for legal expertise across a wide range of industries.

How is the legal sector responding to talent development and the increasing complexity of cases?

We are seeing increased competition for talent, with firms from across the country looking to establish a presence in South Florida. The nature of legal work is evolving. It is no longer just about litigation in the traditional sense. It is about resolving disputes in any forum, whether that is court, arbitration, or regulatory proceedings.

Another major factor is the generational transfer of wealth. There is an unprecedented amount of capital moving from one generation to the next, and with that comes inevitable disputes. These cases require not only legal expertise but also a deep understanding of business structures and financial systems.

To prepare our lawyers, we invest heavily in training, including mock trials. Since fewer cases go to trial today, these simulations are critical in developing the skills needed to handle complex litigation effectively.

What role do technology and innovation play in improving outcomes while maintaining a human touch?

Technology is transformative, and artificial intelligence is at the center of it. The reality is simple: AI or die. Firms that fail to adopt and integrate AI into their workflows will fall behind.

AI allows us to work faster, more efficiently, and with greater precision. But it does not replace the human element. Legal work still requires judgment, strategy, and the ability to connect with clients and juries. The most successful firms will be those that combine advanced technology with strong interpersonal skills.

There is more opportunity today than ever before, particularly for those willing to embrace these tools and adapt to the changing landscape.

What are your top priorities for the firm over the next three to five years?

Our priority is to continue building on our strengths while adapting to new challenges. That means investing in technology, particularly AI, and ensuring that our team has the tools and training needed to succeed.

We also remain focused on developing trial lawyers. Even though fewer cases go to trial, the ability to try a case effectively remains a critical differentiator. It is what allows us to achieve better outcomes, whether through verdicts or settlements.

Ultimately, our goal is to stay at the forefront of complex dispute resolution while maintaining the culture and standards that have defined the firm for decades.