Constangy is pleased to announce that Ray Poole has rejoined the firm as a partner in its Jacksonville office. With more than three decades of experience in labor and employment law, Ray brings a deep understanding of the challenges facing employers, as well as educational institutions across Florida.
“We are excited to welcome Ray back to the firm,” said Neil Wasser, chair of Constangy’s executive committee. “His unique blend of government, in-house, and private practice experience brings valuable depth to our Florida team and enhances the guidance we offer to employers in the state and beyond.”
Ray is one of only three attorneys in Florida to hold dual board certifications from The Florida Bar in Labor & Employment Law and Education Law. Throughout his career, he has advised school districts, colleges, and universities on a wide range of legal matters, including tenure decisions, employee discipline, collective bargaining, and arbitration proceedings. He has also held key in-house legal positions, serving as Chief Legal Counsel for Duval County Public Schools and as Chief of Legal Services for the Nassau County School District.
In addition to his work in the education sector, Ray has represented public and private employers in litigation involving trade secrets and non-compete agreements, wage and hour issues, discrimination claims, and whistleblower matters. He appears regularly before state and federal courts and administrative agencies. Ray began his legal career in the Employment Litigation Bureau of the Florida Office of the Attorney General.
Ray holds a J.D. from Mercer University School of Law, where he served on the Mercer Law Review, and a B.A. from Mercer University. His professional accolades include recognition by Best Lawyers® (2013–2017) and an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell for the highest level of professional excellence.