Scott A. Hiaasen
Partner
shiaasen@coffeyburlington.com
Admired by peer law firms as “one of the best writers; his briefs are exceptionally compelling and concise,” Scott’s keen ability to dissect and articulate the labyrinths of complex transactions in a simple and persuasive way is likely attributable to his more than 18 years as a highly respected investigative journalist for major newspapers before attending law school. Scott is also known for his thoroughness and command of the room when conducting depositions of adverse parties and expert witnesses. He has significant first chair experience in jury and non-jury trials and in a variety of other trial responsibilities in state and federal courts.
Representative Experiences
Though all cases vary and none is predictive, Scott’s recent experience includes:
- Won Plaintiff’s summary judgment in Federal Fair Housing Act Claim.
- Won jury verdict on a trademark infringement claim in U.S. District Court on behalf of a manufacturing company.
- Successfully defended a real-estate developer from theft, fraud and racketeering claims brought by lenders and investors.
- Part of team that won an injunction against the City of Miami over an improper bid award following a nonjury trial.
- Successfully argued for an injunction against the State of Florida’s enforcement of a constitutional amendment that infringed upon clients’ free speech rights in violation of the First Amendment.
- Successfully secured dismissal of Medicare-related lawsuits against insurance carriers.
Professional and Community Involvement
- Adjunct professor of Florida Constitutional Law, University of Miami, 2023-25
- Member of the Federal Bar Association
- Served on selection committee for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s 40 Under 40 Outstanding Lawyers of South Florida
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Education
- Florida International University College of Law, J.D., summa cum laude
- Yale Law School, M.S.L.
- University of Florida, B.S., cum laude
Admitted to Practice
- Florida Bar
- United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida
- United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit
Clerkships
- Law Clerk for the Honorable Judge Kathleen M. Williams in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, 2013-2015
Practice Focus
- Appellate Practice
- Elections Law
- Complex Commercial Litigation and Trial Practice
- Insurance Bad Faith Litigation and Trial Practice
- First Amendment and Constitutional Litigation and Trial Practice
- Real Estate Litigation and Trial Practice