Blanton, Patrick E.

Robert C. Blank was born in Long Branch, New Jersey. Prior to moving to Florida, he practiced law in New Jersey, primarily representing injured people. When he lived there, Mr. Blank was a member of the Board of Governors of the American Association for Justice (formerly Association of Trial Lawyers of America)—New Jersey and a member of the Monmouth Bar Association, Monmouth County, New Jersey. He chaired the lawyer referral committee for the Monmouth Bar Association and was also a member of the civil practice committee and the publications committee. Mr. Blank has lectured for the American Association for Justice—New Jersey on the topic of effective settlement techniques.

Following the tragic attacks of September 11, 2001, Mr. Blank became an advocate for Trial Lawyers Care, Inc. (TLC). TLC was a nonprofit organization that provided free legal services to the terrorist attack victims and their families who were eligible for benefits under the federal September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. Mr. Blank handled a specially selected lead case for a family through TLC. Mr. Blank also spoke at various bar associations and at the American Association for Justice—New Jersey Boardwalk Seminar. He recruited lawyers to donate their time and to provide pro bono representation for September 11th victims and their families.

At the request of TLC, Mr. Blank presented a lecture to the North Carolina State Bar Association on handling cases under the federal September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. Mr. Blank also was a featured speaker at a similar presentation to the Essex County Bar Association in New Jersey. Mr. Blank was recognized for his efforts by the American Association for Justice, TLC, and the American Association for Justice—New Jersey.