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General Counsel

a gavel and scale in front of law books on a desk

Our Vision

Our vision is to be a strategic partner to the University; to provide proactive, preventative and substantive legal and ethical advice in a timely manner; and to professionally and personally model the highest standards of the legal profession and the values of the University.

Our Mission

Consistent with the highest standards of the legal profession and expectations of our clients, our mission is to serve as a strategic partner in the development and implementation of University policy, procedures and initiatives; to assure legal and ethical compliance with all relevant federal, state and local laws and regulations; and to provide timely and collaborative legal advice at the earliest possible opportunity. Furthermore, our mission is to assist our clients in identifying and solving legal, ethical and related challenges; to support the programs and priorities of the executive management of the University; and to support and represent the mission of the University.

Our Clients

Our clients include the Board of Trustees of the University of West Florida, the President of the University of West Florida, and officers and other administrators of UWF consistent with the canons of professional ethics, when they are acting on behalf of the University. The OGC does not represent any individuals related to personal legal matters, nor do we represent students or parties external to the University. For personal legal advice, employees should consult a private attorney.

UWF offers assistance (not legal) for employees through our Employee Assistance Program. Please contact the UWF Office of Human Resources to receive information about this service. The Florida Bar and the Escambia/Santa Rosa County Bar Association offer many resources, including a Lawyer Referral Service. In addition, eligible individuals may qualify for free legal services with Northwest Florida Legal Services, d/b/a Emerald Coast Legal Aid. Students should contact a private attorney or Emerald Coast Legal Aid.

Our Commitment

The Office of the General Counsel is committed to providing independent and professional legal advice and counsel; to conducting the affairs of the OGC in such a manner as to ensure confidence and credibility in both the OGC and the University, and to contributing substantially to the service mission of the University. Furthermore, the OGC is committed to keeping its clients up-to-date on matters pertaining to our representation, seeking the decisions and direction of University officers and administrators, and performing our responsibilities in a timely and professional manner.

Website Disclaimer

This website is provided as a resource for learning basic legal competencies on a variety of topics that affect the university. Disclaimer Notice: These materials are presented here for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice on a particular matter. Legal advice must be tailored to the specific facts and circumstances relating to an issue. For legal advice on a particular university matter within your official responsibilities, please consult with a member of the Office of the General Counsel. All requests for legal advice should be submitted through the UWF Office of the General Counsel Service Desk.