Henderson Franklin Attorneys Share Arbitration Strategies at Public Risk Management of Florida Conference

Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., is pleased to announce that stockholders William “Bill” Boltrek and Geraldo “Jerry” Olivo, along with associate Steven Gendreau, recently presented at the 2026 Public Risk Management of Florida (PRM) Annual Conference held in Charlotte Harbor, Florida. They joined Sheila Hickman of Public Risk Management of Florida to present an educational session entitled “Scoring a Touchdown in Arbitration.”

The interactive presentation provided attendees with a practical overview of the arbitration process, exploring its advantages and challenges, key procedural stages, strategic considerations, and techniques for effectively preparing and presenting cases. Through discussion and audience participation, the presenters shared insights designed to help public entities and risk management professionals better understand and navigate the arbitration process.

The conference’s theme, “Coverage That’s Always Game Ready,” reflected the proactive approach public organizations must take to remain prepared and protected in an evolving risk environment. The annual event brought together city and county managers, assistant managers, department heads, and risk management professionals from across Florida to exchange ideas, strengthen professional relationships, and discuss emerging challenges facing public entities.

“As public entities continue to face complex operational and liability issues, understanding alternative dispute resolution options such as arbitration is increasingly important,” said Boltrek. “We appreciated the opportunity to engage with conference attendees and share practical strategies that can help organizations manage disputes efficiently and effectively.”

Boltrek focuses his practice on representing public entities, law enforcement agencies, insurers, and other clients in complex tort and insurance litigation matters. He has significant experience defending governmental liability, civil rights, police liability, and high-exposure personal injury claims. A Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Court Mediator and Arbitrator, Boltrek has been recognized by Naples Illustrated as a “Top Lawyer” in Insurance Law and by Florida Super Lawyers for his work in civil litigation, civil rights, and personal injury defense. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University at Buffalo and his J.D. from Quinnipiac University. He may be reached at william.boltrek@henlaw.com.

Olivo is an experienced trial attorney and former prosecutor who has handled more than 80 trials throughout his legal career. In addition to his litigation practice, he is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit, County, and Family Law Mediator, bringing valuable insight into dispute resolution and risk management matters. He remains active in the Southwest Florida community through his service with United Way and the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools’ Golden Apple Selection Committee. Olivo earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida and his law degree from Marquette University Law School. He may be reached at jerry.olivo@henlaw.com or 239-344-1168.

Gendreau focuses his practice on defending individuals, businesses, municipalities, public entities, and law enforcement agencies in a wide range of negligence and liability matters. Known for his pragmatic and results-driven approach, he represents clients in cases involving motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, wrongful death, dog bites, and other personal injury claims. Florida Super Lawyers recognized Gendreau as a “Rising Star” in Personal Injury Defense in both 2024 and 2025, an honor awarded to no more than 2.5% of attorneys in Florida. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida and his J.D. from Stetson University College of Law. He may be reached at steven.gendreau@henlaw.com.