In a candid Power Talk episode, Brandon Woodward, Managing Partner of Woodward, Kelley, Fulton & Kaplan, opens up about his journey from a chemistry dropout to becoming one of Florida’s most sought-after business attorneys. With a mix of humor, legal wisdom, and entrepreneurial insight, Brandon shares what it truly means to scale a law firm, embrace legal tech like AI, and become a legal advisor who builds value rather than conflict.
From Frat House Deals to Legal Courtrooms
Brandon’s path to the courtroom didn’t start in law school. It started during a college fraternity party negotiation with campus police. That early “deal” revealed his natural talent for problem-solving and persuasion—two qualities that later defined his legal career.
“I may not have known it then,” Brandon reflects, “but that was the first sign that law, specifically deal-making, was my calling.”
Not Your Typical Lawyer: Building a Modern Legal Practice
After stints in criminal law and corporate counsel, Brandon launched his own firm focusing on mergers & acquisitions, business contracts, and legal negotiations. What sets him apart? His proactive approach to offering legal services, openly marketing in a traditionally conservative industry.
“Whether you’re selling a tech startup or a bait shack, the need for strong, enforceable contracts is the same,” Brandon explains.
Scaling a Law Firm Isn’t Just About Hiring More Lawyers
While many law firms struggle to grow, Brandon has taken a thoughtful approach to scaling—leveraging remote staff, adopting AI, and most importantly, understanding the true cost of growth.
“You can take on more clients, but it costs you more—either in time or energy,” Brandon says. “You’ve got to know your numbers.”
The AI Disruption: Embrace It, But Don’t Rely on It Blindly
Brandon doesn’t just talk about the future—he’s living in it. From custom-built AI tools for document review to CRM systems that track firm efficiency, Brandon is bullish on legal tech—as long as human intelligence stays in the driver’s seat.
“AI won’t replace lawyers—but it will absolutely replace law clerks who aren’t adding unique value,” he warns.
Advice for Future Attorneys: Know Your Worth
To upcoming legal professionals, Brandon’s message is clear: Learn the business of law. Know how your firm earns money. Know what you’re worth. And don’t let outdated hierarchies limit your potential.
“You don’t need to start your own firm to act like an owner. Understand how revenue flows, and you’ll gain control of your future.”
Brandon is focused on maintaining quality, exploring collaborations, and continuing to serve clients with empathy and legal excellence. His goal is to remain sharp, not necessarily large—and to keep the human element at the core of law.