J. Matthew Belcastro

Overview

As Chair of the Tort and Insurance Litigation Department and a Florida Bar Board Certified specialist in Construction Law, Matthew Belcastro brings vast experience in construction litigation, contract disputes, and business and real estate litigation. He also has a robust appellate practice. He is licensed to practice in all Florida state courts, the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court.

Matthew participates in the legislative subcommittee for Florida Construction Lawyers, where he examines proposed legislation related to the construction industry. He offers recommendations and potential revisions to ensure the legislation aligns with industry standards and requirements.

Matthew has earned numerous accolades, including being named one of Florida Trend Magazine’s “Up and Comers” in 2009 and recognized as Legal Elite in 2010, 2011, 2016, and 2017. Naples Illustrated also named him a “Top Lawyer” in 2018 and from 2020 to 2024. Since 2014, he has been consistently honored by Florida Super Lawyers®. On a national level, Matthew was recognized in Best Lawyers in America® for his expertise in Construction Law in 2025, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field.

• The Construction Warranty: It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over! When Is It Over?
• Construction Contracts: Property Insurance and Waiver of Subrogation Provisions
• Indemnification Provisions and the “Vouching In” Rule – – The Most Dangerous Contractual Provision You Probably Don’t Know About

Professional And Civic Affiliations

Matt is a founding officer of the Lee County A.C.E Mentoring Program and is a member of the Lee County Building Industry Association (Lee BIA). He previously served on the Chamber of Southwest Florida Board of Directors and is a former member of the City of Fort Myers Imaginarium and Code Enforcement Board.

Published Opinions

• Ziegler v. Martin County School Dist., 831 F.3d 1309 (11th Cir. 2016)
• 5F, LLC v. Dresing, 142 So.3d 946 (Fla. 2d DCA 2014)
• Liebherr-America, Inc. v. McCollum, 43 So.3d 65 (Fla. 3d DCA 2010)
• Smith v. City of Fort Myers, 944 So.2d 1092 (Fla. 2d DCA 2006)
• Estate of Stisser, 932 So.2d 400 (Fla. 2d DCA 2006)