About

Our History

Ray Goldstein, a founding partner of Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith, P.A. moved to Fort Myers from Philadelphia, where he grew up in the 1960s, where he immediately became actively involved in the growing community. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Drexel University in 1957 and his law degree from American University in 1961. He was a member of the Lee County Bar Association, the Florida Bar, the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers, and the Association of Trial Lawyers of America. “Ray was the father figure for many of us at the firm,” said Jeffrey Rice, former managing partner. “He was one of the kindest, most caring men we have ever known. We always knew that we could turn to Ray for wise insights regarding both business and personal matters. His patient yet diligent efforts on behalf of his clients benefited thousands of people over his long career in obtaining justice." Ray's commitment to always take care of the client forged a group of attorneys that has created more than just a legacy, he created the GOLDstein standard.  

"Back in the day, we just took everything to trial.  We had that reputation.  Everyone in this town knew that the attorneys at Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz were not afraid to fight for justice 100% of the time in the courtroom," states John Cechman, former managing partner. This mindset and continuous courtroom presence established the dedication of the firm to get justice, showing an unwavering commitment to clients, no matter the person, company or injustice they were up against.  We became an experienced trial attorney firm. We even took (and still take) cases to trial for other attorneys who only do pre-suit law. 

Fast-forward 63 years to today GBCLAW is the oldest personal injury firm in Southwest Florida. We still operate on the same principles forged by Mr. Goldstein: always take care of the client. Since being founded in 1962, we have grown to five offices to make visiting with us convenient. We have attorneys who have been named Florida's "Super Lawyers", attorneys named "Top 100" by The National Trial Lawyers, attorneys who are board-certified by the Florida Bar in civil trial law, business litigation and construction law, as well as attorneys who are certified in civil trial advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. We have proven extraordinary dedication to providing justice for our clients, but we remain small enough to still make you feel like part of the family. Welcome to the GBC family! 

Goldstein Buckley In The Community

We are proud to continue the community-based legacy created so long ago here in Fort Myers and have chosen to stay active in the SW Florida community. You will find us running alongside you at a Walk Like MADD (soon to be called Move like MADD) event as a multiple presenting sponsor, lending a paw... err hand at the Gulf Coast Humane Society attending and supporting the Calusa Inn of Court, donating supplies to help out The United Way of Lee Hendry and Glades, enjoying a cup of coffee at the Breakfast with Santa here in the city of palms with you, and even collecting food to help support the Harry Chapin Food Bank. This generosity is typical for us, where employees and clients have also supported Toys for Tots, Community Cooperative Soup Kitchen, Boys & Girls Club, the Shelter for Abused Women & Children, as well as area sports teams, schools, churches, veterans' causes and more. This firm’s community commitment has been evident for over 60 years now and is part of the GOLDstein standard.

Virtual Resources

Since 1962, we have helped council our SW Florida clients within the broad areas of the law.  Today, it is our pleasure to help educate our clients here at Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith, P.A. with the help of modern video technology, available 24/7 on our law website. Please take a look at our intensive collection of legal resources to help research any questions or concerns you might have about your legal issues. Learn more now by checking out our various videos below, our legal guides, reviews, and blogs on our website.  But remember, free consultations with an attorney are just a call or CLICK away if you need us or have questions.   Serving: Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral, Port Charlotte, Lehigh Acres and SW Florida.