Teresa K. Bowman, Esq. brings a unique combination of educational dedication and legal expertise to her practice in elder law. Her journey into law began after a fulfilling 15-year career as an elementary school teacher, where she developed a deep appreciation for helping others navigate complex challenges with patience and understanding—qualities that now define her approach to serving clients and their families.

Teresa graduated from Stetson College of Law in 2005 with a concentration in elder law, and has devoted her practice exclusively to this area since 2006. In 2021, she achieved the prestigious designation of Certified Elder Law Attorney through the National Elder Law Foundation, a certification that recognizes her as an expert in this specialized field. This certification reflects her commitment to staying at the forefront of an ever-evolving area of law that profoundly impacts families.

In 2014, Teresa took the significant step of opening her own firm, allowing her to provide the personalized, comprehensive service she believes every client deserves. Her teaching background shines through in her role as a frequent community speaker, where she makes complex topics like Medicaid planning, long-term care, estate planning, and incapacity planning accessible to families who need this crucial information.

Teresa's dedication to excellence has earned recognition from her peers, including an AV Preeminent rating for professional excellence and yearly recognition by Sarasota Magazine in their 'best of' category for elder law. She maintains active memberships in the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and the Association of Florida Elder Law Attorneys, ensuring she stays connected to the latest developments in her field.

Beyond her practice, Teresa demonstrates her commitment to advancing elder law by serving as chair of the Public Benefits Committee of the Elder Law Section of the Florida Bar. She also participates in the estate planning committee, unlicensed practice of law committee, and legislative committee, staying actively involved in shaping policies that affect her clients' lives.

Teresa's transition from educator to elder law attorney reflects her lifelong commitment to helping others during pivotal moments in their lives. Whether she was guiding students through their formative years or now helping families navigate the complexities of aging and estate planning, her approach remains the same: providing clear guidance, compassionate support, and expert knowledge when it matters most.

Practice Areas

  • Elder Law
  • Medical Directives
  • Medical Coverage
  • Medical Planning
  • End of Life Planning
  • Estate Planning
  • Powers of Attorney
  • Probate/Trust Administration
  • Special Needs Planning
  • Health Care
  • Long Term Care
  • Nursing Home and Assisted Living Care
  • Medicaid Eligibility
  • Medicaid Application Preparation
  • Medicaid Spousal Protection


Admissions Details

  • 2006, Florida

Education

  • Stetson University College of Law, Class of 2005, J.D.
    • Concentration in Elder Law
  • Florida State University, Class of 1987, B.S.
    • Elementary Education

Certifications

  • VA Accredited

Associations & Memberships

  • Sarasota County Bar Association
  • Manatee County Bar Association (Elder Law Section, 2006-present, Alternative Dispute/Mediation, 2014-present, Real Property Probate, 2014-present)

Bar Fellowship

In the legal writing department, was a member of the Elder Law Society and served as President of Equal Justice Works, a campus organization dedicated to raising awareness of equal equality under the law. At graduation Teresa was the recipient of the Matthew Bender Elder Law Book Award and was one of two students in her graduation class to be inducted into the Order of Barristers for Excellence in Advocacy. Member: Sarasota County and Manatee County Bar Associations; The Florida Bar.