Tod Aronovitz, J.D. '74, founder and managing partner of Aronovitz Law, is a nationally recognized trial lawyer specializing in consumer class action, whistleblower, catastrophic injury, and wrongful death cases and concentrates on complex civil jury trial cases across Florida and the U.S. With over 50 years of experience, his cases have set legal precedents, and he is a recognized expert in trial preparation, trial strategy, jury trial techniques, consumer class action issues, and complex personal injury law. Aronovitz Law, founded in 1988, is a prominent name in the legal profession. As former President of The Florida Bar, Aronovitz championed the “Dignity in Law” program, enhancing the public perception of lawyers.
What aspects or opportunities at the law school had the most significant influence on your legal education and career trajectory?
On day one at UM Law orientation, a powerhouse Miami trial lawyer gave an inspirational speech in which he extolled the virtues and obligations of becoming a lawyer. My classmates and I listened and began a bonding experience that would extend through law school and blossom into lifelong friendships.
Professors [M. Minnette] Massey and [Daniel E.] Murray set the tone for a serious approach to being educated in legal scholarship and advocacy. Our professors expected us to give our best efforts and always be prepared for class. They explained that our path to legal career success must be earned.
I chose civil trial law as my specialty, and I vowed that in all legal matters, I would always be more prepared than my opposing counsel, always. This standard was ingrained in me during my UM Law years as a key to success.
Yes, my UM Law schooling was a memorable and impactful time in my life.
What is one lesson you learned in law school?
During my UM Law on campus experience with professors, classmates, and curriculum deadlines, I observed a more focused approach than I had encountered during my undergraduate studies. To succeed, I would have to be more focused in order to excel as a student.
Upon entering the practice of law, the focus that I employed at UM Law was needed in order to succeed as a trial lawyer. I wanted to excel, and I focused on winning one case and one trial at a time in order to earn a reputation as a truly capable trial lawyer.
What draws you to stay connected to the law school?
I have remained active in UM Law alumni activities and have served as an adjunct professor because of my commitment to the institution.
Twenty years ago, I established an endowed scholarship at UM Law—the Judge Sidney M. Aronovitz Scholarship Fund—to honor the memory of my father, who believed so deeply in the Rule of Law. The gift is important to me as it is essential to the continued growth and development of UM Law, and it is so meaningful to each scholarship recipient.
The scholarship recipients have explained to me how grateful they are to be attending UM Law and that receiving the scholarship was life-changing for them.
It has given me great pleasure to witness the maturation of the former students who have become successful members of their legal communities. I urge you to consider making a gift to our beloved alma mater.
