In 2023, Joseph established the Law Office of Joseph R. Schwantes to provide his expertise to small business development and individuals seeking a professional, yet personal, attorney that will keep their best interest as first and foremost.

Joseph is a Florida native, born in South West Florida and is a graduate of the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Studies and earned his Juris Doctorate Degree from the University of Miami in 2009. During his time as an undergraduate student, Joseph studied abroad in Chile and has traveled extensively during his career, expanding his knowledge of international law.

Joseph began his career as a legal assistant in 2003 with a family owned legal firm in Fort Myers, FL, focusing on assisting with drafting legal documents and assisting with client communications. While attending the University of Miami School of Law, Mr. Schwantes interned in Miami, Florida with The Bal Harbour Shops and Perry Ellis International, Inc. focusing on commercial leases, company agreements, and lease maintenance.

Upon graduation and his admission to the Florida Bar, Joseph began working for an aviation company with a focus on contractual law. Joseph was appointed General Counsel of the company and was responsible for all legal and contractual matters pertaining to the growing enterprise, overseeing contracts related to the sale and acquisition of aircraft and aircraft assets. He also managed all joint ventures, international affiliates, regulatory compliance, insurance, and leases of buildings, aircraft, and related support matters. Additionally, Joseph oversaw the Human Resources department, focusing on employment and unemployment laws, employee relations regulations, insurance claim disputes, and other related matters. Joseph served on the Board of Directors for various subsidiary companies, both domestic and for the company’s international associates.

Joseph has been married to his wife since 2011 and is the proud father of their beautiful daughter. Joseph is a family focused attorney, keeping your best interest as a priority.

Education:

Juris Doctor – University of Miami, 2009

Bachelor of Arts and International Studies – University of Miami, 2006

Certifications:

Florida Bar – Admitted 2010