About Tom

Growing up


My mother and I
I was raised in beautiful St. Petersburg by working parents who taught me the meaning of hard work by example. Growing up I had several jobs around town: busing tables at busy restaurants, working construction, bagging groceries at Publix, even working at the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce.

I am proud to have attended St. Petersburg public schools, graduating from St. Petersburg High School in 1962. I then received my AA degree at St. Petersburg Junior College, now St. Petersburg College, before attending Stetson University in Deland, graduating in 1966. From there I went on to receive my law degree from Stetson College of Law in 1969. In 1970, I married my beautiful wife Kathy.


Starting a Career

To kick off my legal career, I worked as a law clerk for attorney John T. Ware. My first job as an attorney was with the Law Offices of William Belcher and Joseph Fleece. After two years there, I made the decision in 1971 to work as a Legislative Assistant to Senator John T. Ware. It was a very worthwhile experience as I got to learn the inter-workings of our Florida state government.

Also in 1971, I began working with the law firm of Harrison, Greene, Mann, Rowe, Stanton and Mastry, where I worked until 1981. During the time I also served as the City of Seminole Prosecuting Attorney and City Attorney from 1974 to 1981.


Becoming a Judge

In June 1981, then-Governor Bob Graham appointed me Pinellas County Court Judge, where I have proudly and honorably served ever since.

I have presided over and been assigned to all courthouses and county court responsibilities in Pinellas County; have served as County Criminal Administrative Judge; and served for a one year special appointment to a felony criminal division by Chief Judge.


My Hobbies

When I do find a bit of free time, there are two hobbies that I enjoy very much: woodworking and photography. I’m far from an expert at either, but I find them both to be incredibly relaxing and rewarding. Take a look at some of my work below – and I welcome any tips or advice you might have for me!
My Photography
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my Photography 		My Woodworking
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my Woodworking


Florida Bar Association and St. Petersburg Bar Association service that includes:
  • Board Member of the St. Petersburg Bar Association Legal Aid Society
  • Member of the Sixth Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee for The Florida Bar (local committee for the discipline of attorneys)
  • Member of the Board of Governors Young Lawyers Section of the Florida Bar (elected by local attorneys)
  • Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of The Florida Bar Small Claims Committee (appointed by the President of The Florida Bar)
  • Chairperson of the Simplified Forms Committee to The Florida Bar (appointed by the President of The Florida Bar)
  • Vice Chairperson of the Rules of Judicial Administration Committee of The Florida Bar (appointed by the President of The Florida Bar)
Florida Conference of County Court Judges service that includes:
  • Member of the Judicial Qualifications Commission since mid-1980s (established by the Constitution of the State of Florida for Judicial Discipline); elected to one of two seats for County Judges of Florida to serve with judges from other courts, attorneys and lay people appointed by the Governor
  • Member of Education Committee of Conference of County Court Judges and lecturer to Conference on Ethics
  • Sixth Judicial Circuit (Pinellas-Pasco) Representative to Conference of County Court Judges
  • Chairperson of Small Claims Committee of Conference of County Court Judges




Paid political advertisement paid for and approved by Thomas B. Freeman, Nonpartisan, for Pinellas County Judge, Group 8.