About John
John Stokes is a partner at Watson Sloane PLLC, located in Tampa, Florida — Specializing in public finance law, he joined the firm in 2019. With over 35 years of experience, Stokes has developed a robust practice that includes bond counsel, disclosure counsel, underwriters counsel, and special counsel roles. His clients range widely—encompassing school districts, healthcare facilities, county and municipal governments, special districts, higher education institutions, and senior living providers. This diverse portfolio reflects his adaptability and expertise in navigating complex financial landscapes. Stokes earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Florida Levin College of Law in 1983. While there, he distinguished himself as a member of the Law Review and the Order of the Coif, marking him as a top graduate in his class.
Prior to obtaining his law degree, he completed a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics from the University of Florida in 1978. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in public finance law. Before his tenure at Watson Sloane, Stokes was a partner at Nabors, Giblin & Nickerson, P.A. from 1987 to 2018. During this period, he developed his focus on public finance law, representing various governmental and private entities in significant bond transactions. Earlier in his career, he served as an associate at Foley and Lardner from 1983 to 1986, where he began to build his expertise in the field.
His experience has equipped him to handle many bond financings across Florida, including major hospitals and healthcare conglomerates. In addition to his work in public finance, Stokes has been involved in financing senior care facilities in multiple states, including Florida, Georgia, Texas, South Carolina, Minnesota, and Tennessee. This breadth of experience shows his ability to address the unique financial needs of different sectors. Stokes is also an active member of the Florida Bar, having been admitted in 1983. He is licensed to practice in federal courts, including the U.S. District Court for the Northern and Middle Districts of Florida, as well as the U.S.
Supreme Court. Beyond his legal practice, Stokes has made significant contributions to the legal community through teaching and leadership roles. He served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Florida College of Law for two years, sharing his knowledge with the next generation of legal professionals. Additionally, he was the President of the Eighth Judicial Circuit Bar Association from 1998 to 1999, demonstrating his commitment to advancing the legal profession in Florida. Through these roles, Stokes continues to influence the field of public finance law and support the development of future attorneys.
