Forest Sutton is an Associate Attorney with Syprett Meshad, where he represents clients in a range of civil matters including commercial litigation, personal injury, criminal defense and probate matters. His practice focuses on strategic advocacy and practical solutions for individuals and businesses navigating complex legal issues.

Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Sutton served as an Assistant State Attorney in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit, where he prosecuted a wide range of criminal matters from misdemeanors to first-degree felonies. In that role, he handled numerous jury and bench trials and gained substantial courtroom experience, developing a strong foundation in litigation strategy, case analysis, and trial advocacy.

Mr. Sutton’s legal experience also includes clerkships in both judicial and corporate legal settings. He worked with Marriott International’s in-house legal department, where he assisted with consumer and commercial contract matters, litigation review, and issues arising in corporate transactions and mergers and acquisitions. He also gained insight into civil litigation through work within the Sixth Judicial Circuit, where he assisted the court in reviewing and analyzing civil matters including foreclosure actions, insurance disputes, and other complex civil proceedings.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Mr. Sutton earned his Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies from the University of Central Florida. While at UCF, he was an active member of Phi Alpha Delta and served as captain of the university’s running program. He later earned his Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law, where he distinguished himself through advocacy and leadership. Mr. Sutton competed on Stetson’s advocacy teams and received the Dean’s Award of Excellence for leadership initiatives on campus. In recognition of his courtroom advocacy skills, he was also inducted into the Order of Barristers, a national honor recognizing excellence in trial and appellate advocacy.

Mr. Sutton is a member of The Florida Bar and serves as a Director for the Young Lawyers Division of the Sarasota County Bar Association, where he helps guide the organization’s community engagement and membership initiatives. He remains actively involved with Stetson University College of Law, volunteering as an advocacy skills trainer, serving as a liaison with the Black Law Students Association, and participating as a guest speaker at various programs and events.

Watch Mr. Sutton discuss under-representation in juries on ABC 7 News.

Read more about Mr. Sutton in this Legal Aid of Manasota profile.