Judge David W. Fina: Professional Background and Legal Expertise

The Hon. David W. Fina is a judge for the 3rd Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. He was appointed to the bench by former Governor Jeb Bush on March 18, 2005, filling a vacancy created by the retirement of the Hon. Thomas J. Kennon, Jr.

The 3rd Judicial Circuit encompasses Columbia County, Dixie County, Hamilton County, Lafayette County, Madison County, Suwannee County, and Taylor County. Fina has held assignments in four counties, presiding over cases in the Criminal Division, the Civil Division, and the Family Division. He also sat as Chief Judge of the 3rd Judicial Circuit (2009 to 2011).

Fina earned a B.S. from Troy State University in 1979 and completed his J.D. at Samford University, Cumberland School of Law, in 1984.

After graduating from law school, Fina began his legal career as an assistant state attorney in the Office of the State Attorney for the 3rd Judicial Circuit. He served in that capacity until his appointment to the bench.

His memberships have included the Suwannee County Chamber of Commerce, the Suwannee Quarterback Club, the Suwannee Baseball Booster, the Third Circuit Child Abuse Prevention Task Force, the Third Circuit Law Enforcement Association, the Third Judicial Circuit Pro-Bono Committee, the Florida Council on Crime and Delinquency, and the Board of Directors of Comprehensive Community Services.

He has also served as president of the Third Circuit Bar Association and the Live Oak Kiwanis Club Professional Association, and he has taught as an instructor at North Florida Community College and Lake City Community College.

When not presiding over legal proceedings, Fina enjoys baseball, fishing, gardening, and skiing. He is also a member and an Elder of the First Presbyterian Church.