Lance Block, P.A. v. Searcy, Denney, Scarola, Barnhart & Shipley, P.A.

Lance Block, P.A. (Block) appeals a non-final order compelling arbitration in an interpleader action it brought in circuit court. See Fla. R.App. P. 9.130(a)(3)(C)(iv). Block contends that the order compelling arbitration is void because the trial judge simultaneously entered an order of recusal. We vacate the order compelling arbitration on this ground, and remand for reconsideration by the successor judge.

A dispute among lawyers or law firms, the underlying controversy has to do with the division of legal fees. Alleging it was entitled to attorney’s fees the Legislature authorized in a…