Services
Legal Demands, Process, Disputes
If you or your unit have received demand letters from lawyers, subpoenas, complaints, and other legal and administrative process documents or threats please contact the OGC by phone right away. Timely and appropriate responses are important to preserve UF rights and interests. Forward any documents to the OGC immediately upon receipt.
Scope of UF Representation
The OGC is responsible for all legal affairs and provides or oversees all legal services and representation for the University of Florida and its Trustees, faculty and staff in their UF roles.
Assistance and Information
Please see the Practice Areas to determine which attorney can best assist you with your legal matter. If you are uncertain, please contact the General Counsel at 352-392-1358 or general-counsel@ufl.edu. Please be aware that written communications are likely public records. Oral legal advice on UF matters is privileged.
As part of its mission to provide proactive legal support to the University, the OGC is pleased to provide general legal guidance and presentations to units upon request. Examples of topics for presentations include:
- Conflict of interest and ethics
- Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
- Public records and government in the sunshine
- Contracts
- Intellectual property and copyright
- Employment and labor
The OGC is happy to create customized presentations to meet specific needs. Please contact the General Counsel to determine how the OGC can best serve your unit in this capacity.
The OGC collaborates closely with clients to retain the right outside expert when needed. Please note that all outside legal services must be procured through the OGC.
Representation of UF Affiliates
The OGC provides legal services to the University's close private affiliates. Affiliates should confer with the OGC to arrange for any outside legal services.
The General Counsel has legal oversight responsibility for UF affiliates. UF Health Shands and the University of Florida Foundation, Inc. employ chief lawyers who report directly to both a senior official of the affiliate and the UF General Counsel.
Personal Representation of Individuals
UF lawyers are unable to represent UF Trustees, faculty or staff in their personal (non-UF) activities or against the University, our client. For personal representation, the following referral service, among others, is available:
The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service - (800) 342-8011.