Garret Barnes is best known as an American real estate attorney and business law professional with decades of experience in commercial and residential real estate, corporate law, land use, and estate planning.
He is a founding equity partner at Barnes Walker, a Florida-based law firm, and has built a strong reputation for representing businesses, developers, property owners, and investors throughout Florida.
Life and Education
Garret Barnes was raised in Florida and attended St. Stephen’s Episcopal School in Bradenton. After high school, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business from Wake Forest University in 1987.
He later attended Stetson University College of Law, where he received his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree in 1991. He was admitted to The Florida Bar the same year, beginning his legal career.
Legal Career
Garret Barnes has spent more than three decades practicing law, with a primary focus on:
- Commercial real estate transactions
- Residential real estate law
- Corporate and business law
- Land use and zoning
- Estate planning
- Property development
He serves as a Founding Equity Partner at Barnes Walker, where he advises individuals, businesses, developers, lenders, and investors on complex legal matters. Throughout his career, he has handled a wide range of property transactions and business agreements across Florida.
His legal work includes assisting clients with:
- Buying and selling commercial properties
- Business formations and corporate governance
- Real estate financing
- Development projects
- Contract negotiations
- Title and closing matters
Community Involvement
Outside his legal practice, Barnes has been active in community service. Over the years, he has served on the boards or held leadership positions with organizations including:
- American Red Cross (Manatee County Chapter)
- United Way of Manatee County
- St. Stephen’s Episcopal School
- Kiwanis Club of Bradenton
- South Florida Museum
- Christ Episcopal Church
His involvement reflects a long-standing commitment to both professional and civic leadership.
Professional Reputation
Within Florida’s legal community, Garret Barnes has earned recognition for his experience in real estate law. Peer reviews consistently describe him as knowledgeable, professional, and highly respected in his field. He has also lectured on real estate legal matters and is frequently recognized for his work with property owners and business clients.
Personal Life
Garret Barnes is married and has three children. While he maintains a public professional profile, he generally keeps details about his family life private and focuses his public presence on his legal practice and community service.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Garret Taylor Barnes |
| Profession | Attorney |
| Known For | Real Estate and Business Law |
| Education | Wake Forest University (B.S.); Stetson University College of Law (J.D.) |
| Bar Admission | The Florida Bar (1991) |
| Current Role | Founding Equity Partner, Barnes Walker |
| Practice Areas | Real Estate, Corporate Law, Estate Planning, Land Use |
| Nationality | American |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Children | Three |
