PCDC Meeting

Theresa Carli Pontieri is a highly skilled attorney specializing in real estate law, contract law, family law, and business litigation. With a pragmatic and results-driven approach, she provides strategic legal counsel tailored to individuals and businesses navigating complex legal challenges. Her depth of experience in trial and appellate work across Florida state courts and the Middle District Federal Court makes her a formidable advocate for her clients.

Legal Expertise & Business Acumen

Prior to joining the firm, Mrs. Pontieri owned and operated her own successful law firm, where she represented both businesses and consumers in a broad range of disputes. Her firsthand experience as a business owner in the food and beverage industry in Jacksonville gives her a unique ability to advise clients from both a legal and entrepreneurial perspective. She understands the complexities of business operations, permitting, and compliance, making her an invaluable resource for companies of all sizes.

Elected Official & Advocate for Local Business Growth

In addition to her legal career, Mrs. Pontieri serves as an elected City Council member in Palm Coast, Florida, a role she has held since November 2023. Her position has deepened her knowledge of land use, business permitting, zoning laws, and municipal governance, further enhancing her ability to guide clients through local and state regulatory landscapes.

Academic Excellence & Legal Training

Mrs. Pontieri earned her Juris Doctor, magna cum laude, from Florida Coastal School of Law, receiving multiple book awards in contract law. She actively contributed to the legal community as a mock trial coach, adjunct professor, and participant in Law Review, Moot Court, and Mock Trial competitions. She gained national recognition by winning the National Mock Trial Competition in New York and serving as Pro Bono Chair, reinforcing her commitment to legal excellence and advocacy.

Before law school, she obtained her undergraduate degree in Legal Studies from the University of Central Florida, minoring in sports and entertainment law.

Athletic Achievements & Competitive Spirit

Mrs. Pontieri’s dedication to discipline and perseverance extends beyond the courtroom. A third-degree black belt, she was a member of the United States Karate Team, competing internationally and winning multiple World Championships in Madrid (2000) and Munich (2002). Her accomplishments include:

• Silver Medalist at the World Championships
• Bronze Medalist at the Pan-American Games
• Bronze Medalist at the Goodwill Games in Tokyo, Japan

Community & Personal Life

A proud resident of Flagler County, Mrs. Pontieri lives with her husband, Rick, a lieutenant with the Osceola County Fire Department, and their four rescue pets—dogs Bailey, Bacon, and Max, and their cat, Beni. She is passionate about serving her community, addressing local concerns through her City Council role, and giving back through volunteerism and advocacy.

In her free time, she enjoys staying active, working out on her Peloton, exploring the outdoors with her husband, and cheering on her UCF Knights.