Overview
Stephen Kaufer entered the Walton Lantaff scene in 2001 and quickly rose to the position of Senior Partner in the firm’s Palm Beach County office. His previous experience speaks volumes of his commitment to the law, possessing a strong background in insurance defense, and previously serving as corporate counsel for a multi-state third party administrator. Mr. Kaufer holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from his beloved University of Florida, where he was actively involved in the Student Senate for multiple terms. He earned his Juris Doctor from Santa Clara University School of Law, where his passion for the environment led him to join the Environmental Law Society and directly contribute to the preservation of a monarch butterfly sanctuary in Monterey, California. Mr. Kaufer’s primary focus lies in workers’ compensation, with an emphasis on representing governmental entities such as the State of Florida, Palm Beach County, and several South Florida municipalities. A well-traveled man of Western European descent, Mr. Kaufer can speak English, and some Spanish, French, and Hebrew.
Mr. Kaufer’s legal journey stems from personal experience. After suffering a serious injury while working in the Everglades, he gained a first-hand understanding of the importance of workman’s compensation, His legal approach is guided by principle and a personal philosophy of integrity: “to thine own self be true.” Mr. Kaufer’s professional stature speaks for itself but is further highlighted by his wide range of appointments and accomplishments. He was appointed by former President Bill Clinton to serve two decades as a Local Board Member for the Selective Service System, has found appellate success that spurred legislative change in Florida, and is a sought-after speaker and certified instructor for insurance professionals in Florida and Arkansas. His deep legal acumen, combined with his multi-faceted curious and compassionate nature, tells the story of a well-rounded and morally guided intellectual. A conchologist, seasoned scuba diver, Life Member of the University of Florida Alumni Association, and proud member of the Sierra Club, Yedidim/Kidsfinity and Peggy Adams Rescue League, Mr. Kaufer demonstrably leads a purposeful, service-driven and environmentally conscious life. Motivated by personal connections, he is also a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum. This work reflects his broader dedication to dignity, inclusion, and meaningful advocacy. At home, Mr. Kaufer is a loving husband to his wife, Miri, and father to his girls, Gabby (24) and Alexandra (11). In his free time, he enjoys cooking, collecting, and traveling.
To work with Mr. Kaufer is to work with an exceptional mind, guided by discipline and moral clarity. Mr. Kaufer has developed a legal approach best described in his own words:
“In the field of insurance defense, it is often easy to overlook that the other side is made up of people with lives, loves and family. While I always do what is in the best interest of my clients, I also practice with the understanding that we cannot be heartless in doing so.”
Practice Areas:
- Workers’ Compensation Defense
- First party liability defense
- Commercial Real Estate
- Immigration
- Employment Law
Admitted to Practice:
- Florida Bar, 1993
- Southern District of the United States District Court of Florida, 1998
- Middle District of the United States District Court of Florida, 1998
Education:
- Santa Clara University School of Law, 1992
- Environmental Law Society
- University of Florida, Bachelor of the Arts, 1988
- Student Senate
Professional or Trade Affiliations
- Guardian Ad Litem, Polk County
- Workers Compensation Section, Florida Bar
- Risk Insurance Management Society (RIMS)
- South Florida Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA)
Honors & Awards
- Selective Service Board representative as appointed by President Clinton.
Representative Experience
- Capuano v. Walmart, 800 So.2d 652 (1st DCA 2001) –
- The First District Court of Appeal held that the Judge of Compensation Claims lacked jurisdiction to determine the adequacy of a managed care plan approved by the Agency for Health Care Administration or the propriety of its rules under Florida Workers’ Compensation law. As a result of this decision, the Legislature has changed the relevant statutes to no longer require Carriers to provide benefits via a managed care arrangement.
- Palm Beach County Fire Rescue v. Wilkes. 309 So. 3d 687 (1st DCA 2020) –
- The First District Court of Appeal held that the Judge of Compensation Claims misapplied the notice requirement under section 112.1815(5)(d), clarifying that it functions as a statute of repose. The Court further found that the Legislature clearly designated the qualifying event date as the triggering point for timely filing, with no indication of contrary legislative intent. As a result of this decision, the Legislature has changed the relevant statute to alter the ruling of this claim and expand what triggers the statute.