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Overview
Scott Beatty is the chair of Henderson Franklin’s Business Litigation Department, bringing nearly 30 years of Florida litigation experience. He represents clients in civil, business, and commercial litigation, covering areas such as real estate disputes, business torts, contract litigation, and collections. Scott also handles insurance claims, workers’ compensation defense, and appellate matters. His extensive legal experience and deep understanding of Florida law make him a trusted advocate for businesses facing complex litigation challenges.
- Florida Appeals Court Rules in Favor of Waterfront Property Owner, Despite Neighbor’s Objection and Demand for Payment
- How to Pay Twice for Your Construction Project
- Florida’ s Construction Lien Law: It’ s Neither Horseshoes Nor Hand Grenades
- What Options Do Owners Have to Take Possession of Real Property in Florida?
- Residential Real Estate Contracts: the Hidden Surprise of Specific Performance
Scott has been widely recognized for his leadership and legal practice. He earned a spot on Gulfshore Business Magazine’s and Business Observer’s “40 Under 40” list. Naples Illustrated named him one of its “Top Lawyers” in Appellate and Business Litigation law (2018, 2020-2024. Nationally, Scott has been honored by Best Lawyers in America® for his work in Commercial Litigation and Construction Law (2025).
As a native Floridian, Scott has deep roots in the state. He resides in Naples with his family and enjoys pickleball, fishing and kayaking. He’ s not just about law; he’ s also a founding member of Square One Improv, bringing laughter to the community through comedy improv performances.
Professional and Civic Affiliations
Scott is a Charter Fellow of the Construction Lawyers Society of America (“CLSA”) and is a member of the Trial Law Institute and Diversity Law Institute.
Scott is a dedicated member of his community. He serves as a board member for VillageWorx and a Collier County Eagle Board of Review member for the Boy Scouts of America. He’ s actively involved in various legal education activities and mentors students through the Collier County Mock Trial program.
Published Opinions
- Lazy Flamingo USA v. Greenfield, 834 So.2d 413 (Fla. 2d DCA 2003)
- Loidl v. I & E Group, 927 So.2d 1016 (Fla. 2d DCA 2006)
- Lanza v. Damian Carpentry, 6 So.3d 674 (Fla. 1st DCA 2009)
- In re Gallo, 573 F.3d 433 (7th Cir. 2009)
- Ellering v. Sellstate Realty Systems Network, Inc., 801 F. Supp. 2d 834 (D. Minn. 2011)
Representative Matters
- Represented a workers’ compensation insurance carrier concerning a claim for temporary partial disability (“TPD”) indemnity benefits. The carrier prevailed at the final hearing and the claimant then appealed the decision to the First District Court of Appeals (“DCA”). The DCA had previously written several conflicting opinions on whether receiving unemployment benefits result in an “offset” or “credit” or “reduce” of the amount of TPD indemnity benefits a claimant can receive at the same time he/she is receiving TPD indemnity benefits. This case resolved the prior conflicting decisions in favor of the employer and carrier thus reducing liability for exposure for TPD indemnity benefits when an injured employee is also receiving unemployment benefits. The DCA also clarified that this defense is not an affirmative defense which must be specifically plead in accordance with procedural rules.
- Successfully defended a developer that had been sued for damages in excess of $3 million for breach of contract and breach of fiduciary duty. After trial, the Court entered a complete defense verdict in favor of the developer.
- Represented a property owner that obtained a temporary and permanent injunction against a neighbor that had interfered with the property owner’s riparian rights to access and use a boat docking area. After obtaining the injunction, successfully obtained an order of contempt after the neighbor continued to violate the injunction.
- Successfully defended a franchisor against claims brought by a former franchisee seeking rescission and damages in excess of $500,000 for violations of franchise laws and breach of contract.
- Obtained defense judgment in favor of manufacturer who was sued for damages for breach of a commission agreement.