Judge James D. Sloan: Professional Background and Legal Expertise

The Hon. James D. Sloan is a judge for the 20th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. He was appointed to the bench by former Governor Rick Scott in 2014, filling the vacancy created by the retirement of the Hon. Sherra Winesett.

The 20th Judicial Circuit encompasses Charlotte County, Collier County, Glades County, Hendry County, and Lee County. Sloan has held assignments in both Hendry and Glades Counties, presiding over criminal, civil, juvenile dependency, domestic relations, and guardianship matters.

Prior to his appointment, Sloan had served as a judge for the Hendry County Court in the Twentieth Judicial Circuit since receiving an appointment to the post by former Governor Lawton Chiles in 1992.

He graduated with his B.A. in political science from the University of South Florida in 1977. Sloan went on to earn a J.D. from Stetson University College of Law in 1981.

After graduating from law school, Sloan entered into private practice at Massey, Alper, and Walden in Altamonte Springs. He remained with the firm until 1983, at which time he relocated to LaBelle, working as a partner at Rowlee & Sloan (1983 to 1984), Luckey, Elver & Sloan (1984 to 1989), and Elver & Sloan (1989 to 1992).

He was named Judge of the Year by the Florida Law Related Education Association (1996) in recognition for his work as chairman of the Hendry County Juvenile Justice Advisory Council.

Born in St. Petersburg, Florida, Sloan was raised in Clearwater, where he attended Clearwater High School. He and his wife, Kathy, have three children and three grandchildren.