Law firm adds new shareholder

SARASOTA — Kirk-Pinkerton, a Sarasota-based law firm that specializes in business litigation and real estate, named Matt Whyte a shareholder.

A former assistant state attorney in Manatee and Sarasota counties, Whyte is new to the firm. He previously practiced criminal defense and personal injury law in Bradenton, according to a release. He will practice criminal defense, personal injury and civil litigation at Kirk-Pinkerton.

Kirk-Pinkerton handles civil and criminal cases, plus wills, trust and estates, in addition to business litigation and real estate. The firm also handles claims from the BP oil spill. Founded in 1926, it's one of the oldest law firms in the Sarasota-Bradenton region.