About Denise Wheeler Wright

– Certified Circuit Civil Mediator–

A Seasoned Neutral Dedicated to Civil Dispute Resolution

Denise began practicing law in 1994 in Tampa, Florida. Early in her career, she litigated cases on behalf of the Resolution Trust Corporation (RTC), working to recover assets for failed savings and loan institutions, while also representing businesses in commercial and contract disputes. Over time, her practice evolved to focus primarily on representing employers in a wide range of employment litigation matters.

After relocating to Fort Myers in 2005, Denise continued to represent employers and litigate complex commercial and business disputes. In addition to employment and commercial litigation, she has successfully tried land use cases on behalf of a public entity, further broadening her trial experience across diverse subject areas.

In 2014, Denise became certified by the Florida Supreme Court as a Circuit Civil Mediator. Since that time, she has steadily devoted more of her practice each year to mediating civil litigation matters. Denise believes most disputes can be resolved through mediation when the process is approached with preparation, patience, and a willingness to engage meaningfully with all parties. She is committed to investing the time and effort necessary to help parties reach practical, durable resolutions.

Denise brings to mediation the perspective of a seasoned litigator, the neutrality required of a mediator, and the determination of an active problem solver. Her professional standing has been consistently recognized by her peers. She has been selected to Super Lawyers for 20 consecutive years, from 2006 through 2025, and has also been named among the Top 25 Women – Tampa Bay and Top 50 Women – Florida, distinctions reflecting sustained excellence and leadership within the legal profession. She also holds a peer-review rating from Martindale-Hubbell. In 2020, Denise was inducted into the Florida Chapter of the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals, in recognition of her experience and excellence in the field of alternative dispute resolution.

In addition to mediation services, Denise is available to conduct neutral, objective workplace investigations, applying the same thoughtful, problem-solving approach to help employers address sensitive and complex issues.

Professional Recognition, Affiliations, & Memberships

Certifications & Honors

• Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator (since 2014)
• AV® Preeminent Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
• Board Certified in Labor and Employment Law, The Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization
• Selected as one of the Nation’s Most Powerful Employment Attorneys, by Human Resource Executive Magazine and Lawdragon (2013–2019)
• Florida Legal Elite, by Florida Trend Magazine (2006 & 2009)
• Named in Gulf Coast Business Review “40 Under 40” (2006)
• Named to The Best Lawyers in America®, including Employment Law – Management, Civil Rights Law, and Commercial Litigation (various years)
• Super Lawyers Top 25 Women – Tampa Bay
• Super Lawyers Top 50 Women – Florida
• 20-Year Super Lawyers Selection — 2006–2025

Organizational Memberships & Service

• National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals (Florida Chapter)
• Lee County Association for Women Lawyers – Vice President (2005–2006); President (2006–2008); Mentor Director (2019–2020)
• Lee County Bar Association
• Federal Bar Association
• Academy of Florida Management Attorneys
• U.S. District Court, Middle District, Grievance Committee
• American Bar Association, Employment Law Section
• Voices for Kids of Southwest Florida, Board of Directors (2009–present)
• Horizon Council, Member-at-Large (2007–2009)
• Ave Maria School of Law, Leadership Council Member (2008)
• United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades County, Board of Directors (2010–2012)
• Players Circle Board of Directors (2019)