Awards and Accolades

Honors, Armed Services & Early Career

Recent Honors

In 2011, Shelly was recognized by The Gainesville Collaborative Divorce Team and the University of Florida Institute for Dispute Resolution and Center For Children and Families by presenting the 1st Annual Career Contribution Award, July 15, 2011. In appreciation of his tireless efforts in the service of families of the state of Florida through innovations in Cooperative Law, Collaborative Law, and Alternate Dispute Resolution.

In 2010, Shelly was presented the AFLP Second Annual Hugh E. Starnes "Think Outside the Box" award for his leadership and dedication to non-adversarial practice.

On July 24, 2010, The Association of Family Law Professionals presented Shelly with a certificate, Lifetime Achievement Award as the Father of Cooperative Law.

On December 19, 2009, The Lee County Bar Association awarded Shelly with their prestigious 2009 Professionalism Award, stating "In Grateful Appreciation of your Deep Committment and Dedication to the Highest Ideals of Professionalism in the Practice of Law, Your Unique Contribution to the Improvement of Professionalism in The Justice System and your Dedication to Excellence."

Undergraduate Honors 

While attending The University of Florida as an undergraduate and law student, Shelly distinguished himself by serving his University and was duly recognized by being tapped into Florida Blue Key and Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) Honorary Leadership organization, as well as Who’s Who in Colleges and Universities and University of Florida Hall of Fame.

Armed Services

Shelly served his country as a member of the United States Army, including a tour of duty in Vietnam.  He completed his active duty service with the rank of Captain.

Early Career

Upon graduation from law school in 1971, Shelly associated with the Sarasota, Florida, law firm of Robinson, Ginsburg, Ross, Yost and Dent. Shelly worked primarily with Arthur D. Ginsburg, Esquire, prominent family law attorney in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

In 1973, Shelly and his family moved to Fort Myers, Florida, upon being invited by a former Florida Blue Key alumni to join the law firm of Allen, Knudsen, Swartz, DeBoest, Rhoades and Edwards.