RumbergerKirk partner Joe Metzger was elected into the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) and the Tampa Bay Chapter during the National Board Meeting held in Newport Beach, California on January 17, 2026.

A national organization of experienced trial lawyers and judges, ABOTA is dedicated to preserving the civil jury trial and promoting the highest standards of ethical conduct, civility and professionalism in the legal profession. Membership in ABOTA is by invitation only and is extended to attorneys who have demonstrated significant courtroom experience and a strong commitment to these principles.

Members must have at least five years of active experience as trial lawyers, have tried a minimum of 10 civil jury trials to conclusion and demonstrate civility, integrity and professionalism in their practice. Metzger joins fellow RumbergerKirk partners Robert Blank, Dan Gerber, Bud Kirk, and Scott Sarason as members of this distinguished organization.

“I am honored to be invited into ABOTA, an organization that reflects the values I have always worked to uphold as a trial lawyer,” said Joe Metzger. “I have long respected the lawyers and judges who are part of this group and am proud to join such a distinguished community of professionals.”

Metzger’s invitation reflects his extensive trial experience and reputation for excellence in the courtroom. He is a board-certified civil trial lawyer and partner in RumbergerKirk’s Tampa office concentrating his practice in casualty litigation, trucking, professional liability, product liability and mediation and arbitration. He has tried numerous jury trials to verdict, is well respected by clients for his high percentage of defense verdicts and holds an AV preeminent peer rating by Martindale-Hubbell, recognizing his professional excellence.

Read more about ABOTA