Richard grew up on Madeira Beach and attended Seminole High School. He earned his B.A. in Political Science from the University of South Florida and his J.D. from Stetson College of Law.
After graduating law school in 1995, Richard worked for several years at a small St. Petersburg law firm where he practiced in the area of general civil litigation. He participated in numerous jury and non-jury trials in both state and federal court involving such matters as employment discrimination, trademark infringement and unfair business practices. He also has significant experience with post-trial matters, including civil and criminal appeals. While working as an Assistant Attorney General, Richard represented the State of Florida in more than 100 criminal appeals, which included conducting oral arguments before the Second District Court of Appeals. He also served as an Assistant State Attorney for Hillsborough County, where he regularly conducted trials involving misdemeanor and felony cases.
Prior to joining the Tripp Law Firm, he worked as trial counsel with a personal injury firm based in Pinellas Park. Richard is a member of The Florida Bar, St. Petersburg Bar Association, and is admitted to practice in all Florida State Courts, as well as the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida and the United States Supreme Court.
Richard is an avid motorcycle rider and is a member of the National Harley Owners Group. He lives with his wife in St. Petersburg.