Benjamin Waldrop Hardin, Jr.

Benjamin W. Hardin, Jr. was born July 4, 1959 at Ft. Benning in Columbus, Georgia. Shortly thereafter, his family returned to Lakeland, Florida, where Mr. Hardin's father was born and raised. Mr. Hardin graduated from Lakeland High School in 1977, Florida State University in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Finance, and Mercer University Law School in 1985 with a Juris Doctorate degree, cum laude.

Upon returning to Polk County in 1985, Mr. Hardin became an Assistant State Attorney in Bartow, Florida until late 1989. At the State Attorney's office, Mr. Hardin worked in the Misdemeanor Division, Felony Division, and Special Prosecution Division, successfully trying in excess of one-hundred trials.

Upon leaving the State Attorney's office, Mr. Hardin worked with the late James S. Welch, practicing in areas of real estate, probate, business law and civil litigation. In 1994 Mr. Hardin formed his own firm in Lakeland, Florida.

Mr. Hardin has handled hundreds of real estate transaction - including residential, commercial closings, and the sale and purchase of businesses. He has handled hundreds of mortgage foreclosures, both residential and commercial. Mr. Hardin has litigated numerous civil trial matters involving real estate, contracts, business disputes, commercial transactions, contested probate and estate matters, trusts and guardianships.

Mr. Hardin has served on the 10th Judicial Circuit Attorney Grievance Committee and Unlicensed Practice of Law Committee, including serving as chair on each committees. Mr. Hardin is currently a member of the 10th Judicial Circuit Advisory Counsel for Attorney's Title Insurance Fund and the Lakeland Bar Association. Mr. Hardin was appointed by Governor Rick Scott to the 10th Judicial Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission, and is currently a member, and has previously served as Chair.