Three Dean Mead Attorneys Named Among Florida Trend’s Legal Elite NOTABLE: Women Leaders in Law

Published: November 4, 2026

(Orlando, FL) Dean Mead is pleased to announce three of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized in Florida Trend’s Legal Elite NOTABLE: Women Leaders in Law, which recognizes women attorneys across Florida who demonstrate exceptional professional achievement, leadership, innovation, and commitment to their communities.

This year’s honorees include Dana Apfelbaum, Estate Planning attorney and Office Managing Shareholder of the firm’s Vero Beach office; Nichole Mooney, Employment Law attorney in the firm’s Orlando office; and Laura Minton Young, Real Estate attorney and Office Managing Shareholder of the firm’s Space Coast office. Nichole and Laura are being recognized for the second time.

The Legal Elite NOTABLE: Women Leaders in Law recognition highlights women who are advancing Florida’s legal profession through professional excellence, civic involvement, mentorship and leadership. Their accomplishments reflect the growing influence of women in the legal community, where women now represent approximately 41% of Florida’s attorneys.

Dana works closely with clients to develop comprehensive estate and succession plans that reflect their values and protect their assets. As office managing shareholder of Dean Mead’s Vero Beach office, she also maintains an active presence in the community, serving on the boards of multiple regional philanthropic organizations that support the Treasure Coast. Learn more: https://bit.ly/48wVMsj.

Nichole represents individuals and businesses of all sizes in business and employment litigation in state and federal courts. She also has substantial experience handling administrative proceedings before agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. In addition to her litigation practice, she is widely recognized for her commitment to mentoring fellow attorneys and supporting their professional development. Learn more: https://bit.ly/48ySxR5.

Laura focuses her practice on multimillion-dollar commercial and residential real estate transactions and closings. As office managing shareholder of Dean Mead’s Space Coast office, she provides leadership both within the firm and throughout the Space Coast community. A dedicated mentor to fellow attorneys, she is also actively involved in initiatives supporting regional economic development and educational opportunities for students across the Space Coast. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4Ag5Amz.

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About Florida Trend: https://www.floridatrend.com/about-us/.