About Marc David
Marc David Sarnoff is a partner at Shutts & Bowen LLP, located at 200 South Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 4100, in Miami, Florida. Specializing in land use and government relations law, he has built a robust practice since joining the Florida Bar in 1992. The firm is well-known for handling a variety of legal matters, including real estate transactions, zoning issues, and governmental affairs throughout Miami-Dade County. Sarnoff's expertise in these areas has made him a sought-after attorney for both public and private sector clients. He earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law in 1989 and subsequently obtained a Master of Laws (L.L.M.) in Maritime Law from Tulane University Law School in 1990.
Prior to his legal education, he completed a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminology at the University of Tampa in 1986. During his time in law school, Sarnoff worked as a clerk for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, which provided him with insights into federal legal processes. Most of Sarnoff's caseload focuses on land use and zoning matters. He has been involved in significant civic projects like the Pérez Art Museum Miami and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.
His work often progresses through various stages—initial filings, negotiations, hearings, and appeals—demonstrating his knowledge of the legal field. Additionally, he represents clients in admiralty and maritime cases, frequently dealing with issues related to the insurance industry. Before joining Shutts & Bowen in 2015, Sarnoff served as a City Commissioner for District 2 of the City of Miami from 2006 to 2015. His district encompassed key areas such as Downtown, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Omni, and the Upper Eastside. During his tenure, he not only represented constituents but also served two terms as Commission Chair.
His leadership was instrumental in shaping Miami's development, particularly as a hub for technology, entertainment, and culture. In addition to his legal practice, Sarnoff is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator and has been appointed to various boards, including the Florida International University Board of Trustees. In 2025, he was named Vice Chair of FIU's Presidential Search Committee. His professional affiliations include membership in both the Florida Bar and the Louisiana State Bar Association. Fluent in English and conversational in Spanish, Sarnoff is well-equipped to serve clients in the vibrant legal field of South Florida.
