James E. Wade, III, fourth generation Sumter County native, who was born 2/5/1959, grew up on a cattle ranch, was active in FFA and 4-H, and graduated valedictorian of South Sumter High School in 1977. In 1979, he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. degree, Bachelor of Science, in Business Management from University of Tampa. Jim received his J.D. (Juris Doctor) of Law from the University of Florida in 1983.
Since 1983, Mr. Wade has devoted countless hours to the profession known as the Practice of Law. Often referred to by various titles: attorney, lawyer, counselor, doctor, friend, board member, officer and problem solver, to name a few, his passion was always to quickly identify the problem or task at hand, then determine a strategy to achieve the desired result, which, of course, was to help his clients overcome the hurdles obstructing their paths. Jim has a unique ability to relate and communicate with a multitude of individuals, regardless of age, background, and social, financial or economic status. This ability is the result of his family farm and ranch vocational skills, and entrepreneurial training in business management, combined with his professional legal education, sprinkled with a bit of country humor and southern hospitality.
Throughout his career, Mr. Wade has applied compassion and integrity to the practice of law, whether handling juvenile, misdemeanor or felony criminal defense, family law matters, or complex real estate transaction negotiations. He has represented numerous governmental agencies which require delicate strategies to accomplish goals, which may not be popular or politically expedient.
In addition to assisting his clients, he has also served on numerous boards, committees and groups. These include: Sumter County Economic Development Council; Sumter County Chamber of Commerce; Withlacoochee Basin Board of Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), supported projects included replacement of the Wysong Dam; and Lake Panasoffkee Restoration Council, which resulted in a $26 Million clean up and restoration of the lake and residential canals, through the combined local, state and federal effort. Mr. Wade has also actively supported the 4-H and FFA programs for youth and the Sumter County Fair Association.