Carlton Fields Applauds Governor Crist and Florida Legislature for Passing Alan Crotzer Claims Bill
04/10/2008
TALLAHASSEE – The law firm of Carlton Fields today applauded Florida Governor Charlie Crist, Senate President Ken Pruitt, House Speaker Marco Rubio, and members of the Legislature for taking up and passing the Alan Jerome Crotzer claims bill. In a ceremony including Alan Crotzer, his family, lawmakers, and members of his pro bono team, Governor Crist put pen to paper and signed House Bill 7037 into law. The measure provides financial compensation to Crotzer, who was wrongfully incarcerated for 24 years, six months, and 13 days for a crime he did not commit. He was exonerated in January 2006 as a result of DNA evidence.
Carlton Fields has represented Crotzer pro bono since his release in 2006, committing more than 500 hours of legal time. The firm provided Alan Crotzer with legal representation during the initial stages of the claims process when the House and Senate appoint Special Masters to hear the case. They also represented him before members of the legislature and facilitated meetings with key policy makers.
“Our firm has a rich history in pro bono work, helping to right legal wrongs,” said Gary Sasso, president and CEO, Carlton Fields. “We thank the Governor, leadership in the House and Senate, the bill sponsors and members of the Florida Legislature for their commitment to Mr. Crotzer’s cause and the opportunity they have afforded him to start a new life with his family.”
Members of the pro bono team who worked closely with Crotzer include: John R. Blue, former chief judge of the Second District Court of Appeal and shareholder at Carlton Fields; Nancy Linnan, Tallahassee office managing shareholder; Rheb Harbison, government consultant; former firm shareholder Mike Olenick, who now serves as director of government affairs at The Morganti Group, Inc.; and Alia Faraj-Johnson, former communications director to Gov. Jeb Bush and currently vice president at Ron Sachs Communications.
“There are so many people to thank and I am overwhelmed by all of the support I have received from good people across the state,” said Alan Crotzer. “I never lost faith in people or in the process. I am a happy and blessed man.”
In early April, the House of Representatives voted unanimously to award Alan Crotzer $1.25 million - $50,000 dollars for every year he spent in prison. The full Senate also approved the measure which will also provide Crotzer a free education.
“All of the hours we dedicated to Alan’s case amount to nothing when compared to the time he spent behind bars,” said Sasso. “It has been our pleasure to represent such a kind and humble man who deserves and will get a fresh start.”