Attorney and Staff Profiles

William T. (Tom) Edwards, Jr., as the founder and owner of The Edwards Law Firm, has been assisting individuals, businesses and organizations with their legal service and management needs for well over 40 years.  His practice is primarily devoted to estate planning to include: trust administration, Medicaid planning, asset protection, guardianship and probate.

As a native Floridian, Tom is a true ambassador of this state and pleased to provide First Coast residents the comfort of securing their assets. He ensures a trusted plan for your family, and their future, by bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to the table to serve you. Having worked locally for decades he is familiar with the processes in each county to make your transaction run smoothly. You can count on his expertise to advise the best plan for your individual estate planning needs.

When not practicing law or on speaking engagements Tom loves beaches, relaxing and going to concerts with his wife, Melissa. Together they enjoy traveling as well as visiting with their four adult children and grandchildren.

Tom received his Juris Doctor degree from The Florida State University College of Law in 1980.   He is a member of The Florida Bar, and the Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section of The Florida   Bar; the American Bar Association, and the Real Property Probate and Trust Law Section of the American Bar Association; the Jacksonville Bar Association; the Clay County Bar Association; and the St. Johns County Bar Association.  He is an Executive Member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, a nationwide organization of estate planning attorneys.  From 2000 thru 2002 he served on the Education Advisory Board of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys.  He is admitted to practice before all the courts in the State of Florida, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, the United States Tax Court, and the United States Claims Court.  He has had his own private practice since 1982.

Mr. Edwards has had extensive experience in family law, civil & commercial litigation, business planning and real estate litigation; and has provided legal advice and representation to numerous individuals, businesses and organizations.  He has taken this experience and currently uses it in assisting clients with special family or business needs when creating their estate plans.

Tom is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, where he has previously served on its Board of Directors, as well as being a member of the St. Augustine and St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce. The Edwards Law Firm has won multiple awards for excellence in the field of Estate planning.

We at The Edwards Law Firm strive to be your choice in this important family decision.

Phone: (904) 672-7600

Mathew Johnston is a seasoned attorney with a deep commitment to estate planning and a wealth of experience in civil litigation.  With his exceptional legal skills and dedication to his clients, Mathew has established himself as a trusted advisor in the legal community.

Drawing on his extensive background in Civil Litigation, Mathew brings a unique perspective to Estate Planning, allowing him to anticipate potential challenges and provide comprehensive solutions for his clients.  His keen attention to detail and analytical approach ensure that every aspect of estate planning is carefully considered, tailored to meet the individual needs and goals of each client.

Beyond his legal expertise, Mathew is a passionate advocate for his community.  As a lifelong resident of Northeast Florida, he values the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others and is dedicated to creating a better future for his community.  As a dedicated husband and father to his growing family, Mathew understands the importance of planning for the future and strives to provide the same level of care and protection to his clients’ families.

In his leisure time, Mathew enjoys indulging in his hobbies, which include golf and college football.  Whether he is hitting the links or cheering on his favorite team (War Eagle!), Mathew finds joy in these activities, allowing him to unwind and recharge.

Mathew received his Juris Doctor degree from Florida A&M University College of Law in 2016 where he graduated 2nd in his class with honors.  He is a member of the Florida Bar and Jacksonville Bar Association.  He is admitted to practice before the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

With his expertise in Estate Planning, his commitment to serving his community, and his dedication to his family, Mathew Johnston is not only a proficient attorney but also a compassionate and trusted advisor.  His unwavering dedication to his clients’ well-being sets him apart and makes him a valuable asset to anyone seeking expert guidance in Estate Planning matters.

Phone: (904) 672-7600