Tampa law firm merges with Gunster
October 11, 2022 - The prestigious Florida-based law firm Gunster, one of the state's largest firms, has acquired Tampa-based Barnett, formerly known as Barnett, Kirkwood, Koche, Long and Foster. The merger was completed Oct. 1, according to a news release from Gunster. The merger boosts Gunster’s presence in the Tampa Bay region to 51 attorneys and 39 professional staff members. “After diligent consideration, the shareholders of Barnett determined that Gunster was the best fit for continuing and broadening the level of service and care we provide to our wonderful clients, while strengthening the professional culture for our exceptional attorneys and staff,” Barnett Managing Partner Peter Kirkwood said in the release. “There are many outstanding law firms in Tampa, but we believe Gunster shares our commitment to excellence. Gunster has a great focus on its people, they provide best-in-class legal services and are fully committed to the Tampa Bay community. We are very excited for this next chapter.”