Tampa City attorney joins large law firm

TAMPA — Tampa City Attorney Julia Mandell has joined the Tampa office of law firm Carlton Fields.

Mandell is of counsel and is a member of the firm's government law and consulting practice group. There, she will concentrate on a number of governmental issues, such as land use, zoning, real estate, eminent domain and environmental law, according to a statement.

Mandell had been with the city for 13 years. She was appointed acting City Attorney in April 2013 by Mayor Bob Buckhorn and the position was made permanent four months later.

“It has been an extraordinary experience to serve as City Attorney,” says Mandell, who also praised Buckhorn. “I'm thrilled to join Carlton Fields — a reputable law firm with long ties to Tampa.”

Nancy Linnan, chair of Carlton Fields' government law and consulting practice, lauded Mandell's municipal, land use and litigation experience.

“She's a terrific addition to our firm and her expertise will serve as a valuable resource to our clients,” Linnan says.

Mandell began her career in 1996, at the Hillsborough County Attorney's Office before leaving for private practice seven years later. She joined the Tampa City Attorney's office in 2004.

In all, Carlton Fields has about 350 attorneys and government and financial services consultants in five states and Washington, D.C.