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Peter L. Gladstone

Principal/Shareholder

Peter L. Gladstone is a Principal of the law firm of Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. He is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law (1999) and a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (2003), having practiced exclusively in this field since 1988. Mr. Gladstone is AV-Rated by Martindale-Hubbell and has been repeatedly selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America (2005-2024 editions), Florida Trend Legal Elite magazine3, Florida Super Lawyers (“Top 10 Florida Lawyers 2021 and 2022”), and South Florida Legal Guide – Top Lawyers. He is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A. 1985) and of The Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, Yeshiva University (J.D., 1988).

Mr. Gladstone is a past President of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida Chapter, and sits on the Board of Managers. Mr. Gladstone is also a past Chair of the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar, making him one of a select few who have held both leadership positions within the family law bar. Mr. Gladstone served on the Executive Council of the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar from 1997 to 2010 and remains active as a trustee. Mr. Gladstone has held many positions within the Family Law Section, including serving as Chair of both the Legislation Committee, Publications Committee (Editor, Family Law Commentator, 2002-2003 and Editor, Florida Bar Journal, 2001-2002). He is also a past Chair of the Family Law Section of the Broward County Bar Association (1995-1996), a past member of the Family Law Rules Committee of the Florida Bar (1996 – 1999), and a member of the Family Law Section of the American Bar Association (1988-present). Mr. Gladstone was recently selected to become a Founding Master Member of the Palm Beach Chapter, Family Law American Inns of Court, which promotes professionalism and ethics in the legal system. Mr. Gladstone is licensed to practice law in both Florida and New York. Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. has been named to the 2022 list of ‘Best Law Firms’ by U.S. News – Best Lawyers® as a ‘Tier-1’ Marital and Family Law firm in the United States.

Mr. Gladstone has lectured throughout the state on assorted topics concerning Family Law, including equitable distribution, business valuation, executive compensation, trial advocacy, prenuptial agreements, discovery and depositions, attorneys’ fees and costs, temporary relief hearings, and parenting plans. He is a published author of articles appearing in the Florida Bar Journal and the Family Law Commentator.

Areas Of Practice

  • Family Law
  • Matrimonial Law

Certified Legal Specialties

  • The Florida Bar Board Certified in Marital and Family Law, 1999

Bar Admissions

  • New York, 1989
  • Florida, 1990

Education

  • Yeshiva University Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, New York, New York
    • J.D. - 1988
  • Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts
    • B.A. - 1985

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyers – Top 10 Florida Super Lawyers  – 2021, 2022 and 2023
  • The National Association of Distinguished Counsel – Nation’s Top One Percent
  • American Academy of Trial Attorneys Premier 100 Trial Attorneys
  • Leaders in Law, South Florida Business and Wealth Magazine, Attorney of the Year in Family Law
  • National Advocates Top 100 Lawyers
  • Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
  • AV-Rated by Martindale Hubbell
  • Florida Trend Legal Elite
  • South Florida Legal Guide - Top Lawyer
  • The Best Lawyers in America – Best Lawyers for Family Law in Fort Lauderdale – 2022
  • The Best Lawyers in America – Best Lawyers for Family Law – 2023 & 2024
  • The Best Lawyers in America – Family Law Lawyer of the Year for the Fort Lauderdale Metropolitan Area (including Boca Raton) – 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020
  • Chambers & Partners – Band 1 Top-Ranked High-Net-Worth Family Law Attorney

Published Works

  • On the Divorce Firing Line: HNW Executive Compensation Packages, Trust & Estates, February 21, 2017
  • Brangelina Split Raises Topic of Pre-Suit Divorce Settlements, Trusts & Estates, September 27, 2016
  • The Impact of Electronic Evidence in Divorce Proceedings, Daily Business Review, September 15, 2016
  • Pre-Suit Divorce Settlements: Protecting the Privacy of High Net Worth Clients, Daily Business Review, August 30, 2016

Professional Associations and Memberships

  • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida Chapter, Past President, 2017
  • American Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member, 1988 to Present
  • The Florida Bar, Family Law Section , Member, Executive Council, 1997 to 2010
  • The Florida Bar, Family Law Section, Past Chair, 2009 to 2010
  • The Florida Bar Journal and Family Law Commentator, Family Law Section, Past Co-Chair, Publications Committee, 2002 to 2003
  • The Florida Bar Journal, Editor, Family Law Column, 2001 to 2002
  • The Florida Bar, Family Law Section, Past Co-Chair of the Legislative Committee, 1996 to 2002
  • The Florida Bar, Member, Family Law Rules Committee, 1996 to 1999
  • Broward County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Chair, 1995 to 1996
  • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida Chapter, Board of Managers, 2012 to Present
  • Palm Beach County Bar Association, 2002 to Present
  • South Palm Beach County Bar Association, 2002 to Present
  • Broward County Bar Association, Circuit Liaison for the Pro Bono Mentor Program, 1996 to Present

Seminars & Speaking Engagements

  • The Florida Bar
    • 11/03/94: Handling Clients – The First Interview through Trial - Course No. 7491R
    • 11/02/95: Handling Clients – The First Interview through Trial – Course No. 7664R
    • 11/05/96: Discovery & Depositions – Course No. 7843R
    • 11/01/99: Temporary Relief Hearings – Course No. 4718R
    • 05/17/02: Equitable Distribution – Course No. 5158R
    • 4/2004: “What About College? Drafting and Negotiating College Payment Provisions”
    • 11/18/04: Handling Clients – The First Interview through Trial – Course No. 0174R
    • 01/28/05, 01/26/06, 1/26/07 and 1/28/08: Co-Chair, Marital and Family Law Certification Review Course
    • 03/2006: “Codifying Cohabitation as a Ground for Modification or Termination of Alimony – So What’s New?” The Florida Bar Journal, March 2006
    • 08/27/14: “Understanding Corporate Returns, Trust Returns and the Related Financial Issues Impacting A Family Law Case – Discovery Considerations” – Course No. 17774R
    • 01/26/18: Florida Bar, Family Law Section – Board Certification Seminar – Paternity
    • 01/25/19: Florida Bar, Family Law Section – Board Certification Seminar: Attorneys’ Fees
    • 01/31/20: Florida Bar, Family Law Section – Board Certification Seminar: Attorneys’ Fees
    • 10/7,8 and 9/21: Florida Bar, Family Law Section – Trial Advocacy Workshop, Team Leader
    • 01/21/22: Florida Bar, Family Law Section – Board Certification Seminar: Attorneys’ Fees
    • 02/09/23: Florida Bar, Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section: Estate Planning and Asset Protection for the High-Net Worth Client: "Divorce, Trusts, and Nuptials: A Legal Love Triangle."
  • Broward/Palm Beach Associations
    • Intermediate Family Law Seminar: “What Lawyers Should Know About Parental Alienation Syndrome and Rotating Custody,” Broward County Bar Association, October 26, 2000.
    • “You Got Him To Say What? – Mastering Deposition Skills,” Palm Beach County Bar Association, April 2013.
    • “Modification of Parenting Plans,” Palm Beach County Bar Association, April 2014.
  • Other Organizations and Associations
    • Nova Southeastern University, Center for Psychological Studies Continuing Education Workshop Series, “Child Custody Evaluations and Family Assessments," March 2006
    • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida Chapter, Annual Institute, May 2006, “Wade v. Hirschman, Child Custody Modification Revisited.”
    • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida Chapter, Annual Institute, May 2008, “It’s None of Your Business – Sealing Records, Confidentiality Agreement and Other Privacy Related Concerns in Marital and Family Law Cases.”
    • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida Chapter, Annual Institute, May 2009, “Drafting Ironclad Premarital Agreements.”
    • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida Chapter, Annual Institute, May 2010, “Alimony Workshop.”
    • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida Chapter, Annual Institute, May 2011, “Effective Opening Statements.”
    • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida Chapter, Annual Institute, May 2012, “Successful Negotiation Strategies.”
Badges
  • Best Lawyer Of the Year
  • Best Lawyers-Peter
  • Top Ranked by Chambers - Peter Gladstone
  • Lawdragon 2024
Location
      "Expertise, sincerity, and integrity."

      I retained Mr. Peter Gladstone, from I have used Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A., on more than one occasion and have found them very responsive and thorough in their advice and conclusions. They were able to get me through a couple of difficult situations without a big blow up. I would recommend them to anyone needing their specialty., after interviewing seven different family law attorneys. His expertise, sincerity, and integrity impressed me the most. In fact, he was the only attorney that asked me how my children were coping, even offering some reference materials on how to help them.

      Initiating a divorce can be a very chaotic, unsettling time in one’s life. Mr. Gladstone’s keen understanding of family law, along with his supportive guidance, helped pave the way to a brighter future. I always felt empowered and well-informed. He is truly a dedicated professional, and he, along with his staff, provided a superior level of professional services. I would highly recommend Mr. Gladstone to anyone going through the painful process of divorce.

      Jo W.
      Categories: Peter L. Gladstone
      "Truly a slam dunk."

      Whenever I am with my daughter I’m reminded how fortunate I am to have had Peter Gladstone and his team at Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. representing me during my divorce. A lot was at stake, my ex-wife was adamant in trying to limit my contact with my daughter as much as possible. Thanks to Peter’s deft handling of the case I now enjoy equal time sharing with my daughter. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome, I got everything I asked for, it was truly a slam dunk. I owe Peter a great deal of gratitude to for the outstanding work he did on my behalf. I’m convinced that if it wasn’t for him I would not be enjoying equal time sharing with my daughter.

      Peter S.
      Categories: Peter L. Gladstone
      "He brings humanity to the process"

      As we all come to learn divorce is not an event or an end, it is a process and journey. One few of us are prepared to make beyond a desire to find resolution and peace. Without the help of Peter and the dedicated professionals of Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A., I may not have as successfully navigated the emotional and economic turmoil of the process. Beyond the technicalities of law which Peter is so richly recognized by his colleagues and peers, he brings humanity to the process which at times can seem to be lost. Lost during a period where enough other losses are already in play. Fortunately or unfortunately total closure is not always achievable and it is reassuring that Peter and his group is there throughout the longer haul. In the lyrics of Dylan “I’ll give you shelter from the storm”, Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. certainly provided that momentary respite for me and my children. If you need an attorney pick anyone, if you need a coach, counsel and supporter, pick Peter Gladstone and his firm.

      Kurt S.
      Categories: Peter L. Gladstone
      "Gave me comfort."

      As harrowing as a divorce is for all concerned, my experience with the process was made much less anxiety-ridden because of the people of Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A., in particular Peter Gladstone.

      My strong belief is that he is as talented a divorce attorney as can be found in South Florida. Over and above that, his sincere caring and concern for my emotional state gave me comfort through extremely tough times.

      Without hesitation, I would endorse Peter’s firm to anyone needing those services.

      Alan A.
      Categories: Peter L. Gladstone
      "The best representation possible."

      My selection criteria for legal consultation began by reviewing attorneys that were respected by their peers and were also influential in their respective legal specialty via associations and relationships with the bar. Peter Gladstone seemed to me to be on the top of this list. Because my ex-husband had an enormous advantage over me with his wealth and high profile, I knew I would need an attorney at the top of his field to protect my rights and also be able to represent me on equal ground.

      My initial meeting with Peter Gladstone was such a relief to me because he listened compassionately, re-iterated my concerns in my perspective and then guided me with only realistic options. I knew from this first meeting that I located the best attorney and firm for my case. Even the phone call to set up my appointment for the initial consultation when I spoke to his assistant was a comfort, as well as all my future inquiries and messages because they were relayed as accurately as I had stated. Besides having the most impressive ability to compose eloquent and succinct written correspondence on the fly, Peter Gladstone negotiates with opposing counsel in a polite and convincing manner that is achievable and equitable to both parties, which I feel expedited my case to settle as quickly as possible. As a leader in his field, I was confident I had the best representation possible. If there is one word to describe my experience with the legal counsel I received, it would be the infallible and continuous “trust” I had in Peter Gladstone from the first day to the final hearing.

      Laura P.
      Categories: Peter L. Gladstone
      "A pleasure and a joy to work with."

      When I met Peter 4 years ago, I was a terrified woman. I could barely stop crying during our first meeting. He was so calming and understanding that from that moment forward I felt as if somehow, someway it would get better. I didn’t know how, yet he always made me feel reassured.

      Having really never experienced any legal issues before, the process was scary at best. At Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A., someone was always available to help me with any questions or concerns… and always with a friendly, understanding and compassionate answer. I truly believe that they cared about me as a person and not just a client. It is very important to have a good rapport with someone you spend time with, particularly in this case when so many details of your life are exposed. So, you must feel comfortable and be able to communicate. I felt from the beginning that connection and still do to this day… even after my divorce is final.

      I will always be grateful for all of the hard work and efforts of your team, especially Peter and Chris. Chris’s tireless efforts and unbelievable organizational skills were astounding. Not to mention your behind the scenes people, whom I am sure did more than I know about. You were all a pleasure and a joy to work with. Thanks for helping me through one of the most difficult times of my life.

      Janice S.
      Categories: Peter L. Gladstone
      "A positive and satisfying experience"

      Peter: It has been a positive and satisfying experience for me having you represent me in my divorce case, even during an emotionally difficult time for me. As you know, I am very pleased with the results, not because either one of us “won”, but because I thought the outcome was very fair, despite the complexity of my financial position (not surprisingly she didn’t think so). I was impressed with your deep knowledge of the law, your talent for writing in clear “legalese”, and your always sound advice (seldom without an argument from me, but I’m glad you usually prevailed). And on a personal level, I felt that I could count on you for support when it was needed. I hope you and your staff enjoyed the champagne I sent you.

      Martin G.
      Categories: Peter L. Gladstone
      "A pleasure to watch you work."

      On a personal note it truly means so much to me that you handled my case. It has been a pleasure to watch you work and lead your team. I am so impressed and would recommend you to anyone who needs a Marital and family Attorney.

      Lauren H.
      Categories: Peter L. Gladstone
      "Kind, Competent and Extremely Effective"

      Peter, I am coming to the end of my child support modification issue and wish to commend you, Denise Schneider and your firm on the excellent legal representation provided. While I still disagree with the laws application in my case, the legal advice was never in question. In fact, Denise Schneider consistently advocated the most prudent course of action which at times, was contrary to the usual critical assessment of attorneys’ overt concern with billable hours. Further, I found the response time to any question appropriately correlated to the urgency communicated by me.

      These types of legal matters can be annoying and emotionally draining. You and Denise were kind, competent and extremely effective. Thank you and I would enthusiastically recommend your firm to anyone seeking legal representation.

      James M.
      Categories: Peter L. Gladstone, Denise L. Schneider

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