Ernest A. Ricci is a shareholder with the Firm and an AV-Preeminent Rated attorney by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest accolade for professional ethics and legal ability bestowed by peers and the judiciary. With over a decade of experience, Ernest represents businesses and individuals in a wide range of litigation matters, including business disputes, construction defect and lien cases, real estate litigation, general contract issues, and trust and estate disputes. He regularly litigates throughout the state of Florida and has appeared pro hac vice in various states across the country, showcasing his versatility and reach. Ernest also serves as trusted general counsel to numerous Homeowners Associations and Condominium Associations throughout Southwest Florida.
Ernest takes seriously his dual role as both advocate and counselor, bringing passion and a tireless work ethic to every case. When clients hire him, they gain a dedicated partner whose primary focus is resolving their matter efficiently and effectively. He takes pride in collaborating closely with clients from the outset, crafting strategic, cost-effective plans to address disputes—whether through early resolution or skilled litigation—ensuring optimal outcomes while minimizing time and expense.
Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Ernest grew up in a family that has owned and operated Ricci’s Italian Sausage Company since 1945. From an early age, he learned the values of respect and hard work—principles that continue to define his commitment to his clients. Ernest graduated from Dickinson College, where he was a four-year football athlete, before earning his Juris Doctor from Ave Maria School of Law in 2012. Admitted to the Florida Bar in 2012 and the Pennsylvania Bar in 2014, he brings seasoned expertise to his practice in both states.
Ernest resides in Naples with his wife, Judy, and their children, Ernie and Bella. Outside the courtroom, he enjoys staying active with tennis and running, cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers, and exploring Naples’ vibrant dining scene with his family.
5.0/5.0 by a Private Individual on 08/02/16:
I am forever indebted to Ernest Ricci for his drive and determination to help my family in a lawsuit that was tearing us apart financially and emotionally. He recognized this distress and made the final push to counsel, persist and finish a trying time for all of us. He was able to listen and “talk us off the ledge”, make recommendations and follow through to the finish line of a three-year ordeal. I recommend him highly for his intelligence, intuitiveness, calm demeanor and follow through.



- Florida Bar, 2012
- Pennsylvania Bar, 2014
- United States District Court, Middle District of Florida, 2016
- United States District Court, Southern District of Florida, 2016