Territorial Matters

Orlando-based law firm GrayRobinson took a bold step eight years ago: It opened an office in Naples.

Turns out few of the large statewide Florida firms have any presence in Fort Myers or Naples. Only two other large statewide firms have a presence here: Fowler White and Akerman Senterfitt.

As the economy recovers, there's speculation more statewide firms are scouting Southwest Florida for future expansion. But they'll have to contend with some well-entrenched competitors and the misperception that there's little corporate work in the area.