Suzanne DeCopain, a partner at Saxon|Gilmore, was a speaker at the Florida Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (FAHRO) 2025 Annual Conference. Her presentation addressed the challenges housing authorities face when confronting squatters and outlined the appropriate legal and procedural steps for their removal.
Over the decades, FAHRO has remained committed to its mission: supporting professional growth in public, assisted, and affordable housing across Florida. Through a strong statewide network, the organization champions communication, education, and advocacy—driving legislative efforts that promote housing solutions and expand economic opportunities.
Ricardo Gilmore
Ms. DeCopain focuses her legal practice on general civil litigation and affordable and public housing. She previously served as an Assistant State Attorney for Florida’s Twentieth Judicial Circuit, where she gained extensive experience in both jury and bench trials. Following her tenure in public service, she joined Saxon|Gilmore, representing housing authorities and providing guidance and training on a wide range of issues, including landlord/tenant law, state and federal housing regulations, HUD compliance, Fair Housing and ADA/Section 504 requirements, Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law, and public records law. Ms. DeCopain later broadened her practice to include insurance defense and employment law. She has also shared her expertise as a speaker at Southeastern Affordable Housing Management Association (SAHMA), Florida’s LeadingAge Annual Conference, and WomanUp! The Central Florida Women’s Expo.
She can be reached at 813.314.4516 or via email to sdecopain@saxongilmore.com.