Richard D. Schuler

More About Richard

Richard Schuler is a pioneer in Florida trial law and the founding partner of Schuler, Weisser, Zoeller, Overbeck & Baxter P.A.— the firm that Zoeller, Hayden & Thron emerged from. Schuler, Weisser, Zoeller, Overbeck & Baxter P.A. also made legal history with some of the largest and most impactful victories for injured plaintiffs across the state. For more than 50 years, Mr. Schuler has devoted his life to fighting for justice on behalf of those harmed by negligence, corporate misconduct, and systemic failures.

Over the course of his storied career, Mr. Schuler has personally represented thousands of clients, securing over $1 Billion in verdicts and settlements. His tireless advocacy, deep compassion for victims, and unwavering commitment to truth have earned him the enduring respect of his peers, the judiciary, and communities across Florida.

Among his many landmark cases, Mr. Schuler represented the family of journalist Robert Stevens, the first American to die during the 2001 anthrax attacks. His work in this case captured national attention and helped expose critical lapses in public safety and accountability.

Mr. Schuler’s excellence has been repeatedly recognized by his peers. He was named to The Best Lawyers in America as early as 1995 and again in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024—a testament to his long-standing influence and integrity in the legal profession.

Beyond the courtroom, he has held numerous prestigious leadership positions, including:

• Past President, Palm Beach County Bar Association

• Past President, Palm Beach County Justice Association

• Past President, American Board of Trial Advocates

• Chairman, Circuit Civil Court Advisory Committee, Palm Beach County

Richard Schuler’s legacy is one of fierce advocacy, historic achievement, and a lifelong dedication to lifting the voices of those who have been wronged.

Education

J.D., Syracuse University College of Law, 1972
Graduated in top 10% of Class, Dean’s List Honors Graduate, served on NY State Eminent Domain Commission, revising Eminent Domain Law for NY
A.B., Cornell University, 1968
Chairman, Undergraduate Judiciary Board, President, Delta Chi Fraternity

Notable Settlements, Verdicts & Judgments:

• +800 Mass Tort Settlements for Defective Breast Implants Totaling Over $40 Million
• $18 Million – Verdict in Auto Accident Causing Leg Amputation
• $12 Million – Judgement in a Construction Case
• $9 Million – Settlement Product Liability Tire Case
• $7 Million – Verdict in Nursing Home Case
• $5 Million – Verdict in Hospital Privileges for a Physician
• $5 Million – Settlement Car Crash
• $3.6 Million – Settlement Boat Explosion Case
• $2.7 Million – Verdict in Auto Collision Involving a Drunk Driver
• $2.3 million – Product Liability Case Involving Child Burns
• $2.2 Million – Verdict in Construction Injury
• $1.4 Million – Judgement Against Nursing Home
• $1.2 Million – Verdict in Medical Malpractice Case

Professional Service Activities

• President of the Palm Beach County Bar Association for 2008-2009
• Board of Directors and President of Palm Beach County Trial Lawyers Association
• Chairman, Circuit Civil Court Advisory Committee of Palm Beach County Bar Association
• Lecturer for Statewide CLE Seminars for the Florida Bar Association
• Lecturer for Statewide CLE Seminars for the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers
• President, American Board of Trial Advocates
• Served on the New York State Eminent Domain Commission, revising Eminent Domain Law for New York

Publications

Publications of outlines and articles for the liability and trial seminars given all over the State of Florida have included the following topics:

• Breach of Security
• Medical Malpractice
• Voir Dire/Jury Selection
• Use of Demonstrative Evidence at Trial
• Effective Opening Statement
• Conduct of Direct and Cross Examination
• Conducted “People’s Law School” in Palm Beach County for over six years
• Closing Argument
• Nursing Home Liability

Civic Activities

• Contributor and/or organizer of events for Legal Aid Society Palm Beach County:
• Leukemia Society
• Hospice Palm Beach County
• Heart Association
• Child Keepers International, Inc.
• Chamber of Commerce Palm Beach County and
• Stop Children’s Cancer, Inc.

Other

• Born in New York City, New York
• Resides in Jupiter, Florida, with one son, Eric Alexander Schuler

More About Mr. Schuler

Mr. Schuler is a graduate of Cornell University and Syracuse University and has been Board Certified by The Florida Bar as a Civil Trial Lawyer since 1984. Before becoming an attorney, Mr. Schuler served with honors as a trained United States Army Combat Medic. When he is not in the office or the courtroom, Mr. Schuler can be found in the Jupiter area spending time with his family, including his wife, Angela, and his son, Eric.