Ricky K. Patel
A distinguished litigation attorney at Akerman LLP, Ricky K. Patel has built a remarkable career spanning complex class actions, federal litigation, and crisis management. Beyond the courtroom, he founded the ITS4THEKIDS Foundation to uplift vulnerable children worldwide, and channels his entrepreneurial spirit through Fort Device and RKP Ventures — driven by the belief that purpose and excellence are inseparable.
Practice Areas
Legal Excellence
Ricky K. Patel is a distinguished Of Counsel at Akerman LLP in Miami, focusing on complex litigation in state and federal court, crisis management for high-profile clients, and mass tort litigation. He is admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.
Deeply committed to the hospitality industry, Ricky has worked extensively with members of the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) and has represented over 3,500 corporate victims — including municipalities, government agencies, and tourism businesses — affected by a major environmental disaster.
St. Thomas University Benjamin L. Crump College of Law recognized Ricky as a “Legal Luminary” in Class Action Litigation. He has also advanced multiple bipartisan legislative projects at the state and federal level, and has served as a vocal public advocate appearing on CNN, Fox TV, NBC, ESPN, ABC, 60 Minutes, Good Morning America, and in People magazine.
Areas of Practice: Class Action Defense · Complex Litigation · International Arbitration · Mass Torts · Product Liability · Hospitality Law · Crisis Management
Practice Focus
ITS4THEKIDS Foundation
Founded by Ricky K. Patel in 2019, ITS4THEKIDS is a nonprofit foundation driven by an unwavering commitment to protecting and uplifting vulnerable children around the world. The foundation provides essential resources — food, clothing, education, and everyday necessities — to children in orphanages and foster care across the United States and Haiti.
Ricky co-founded the Gracious Hands Orphanage in Haiti, where he serves as guardian to 42 children. He also launched Puerto Rico Relief to support communities devastated by natural disasters.
In recognition of his extraordinary efforts, Ricky received the Forestdale Award for excellence in community service and a City of Miami Proclamation. ITS4THEKIDS has also partnered with Make-A-Wish Foundation and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.
Children's Books
Alongside his daughter, Ricky co-authored two inspiring children’s books — The Beautiful Caterpillar and Believe — designed as educational tools to help young readers understand bullying awareness and personal safety.
Available in both digital and paperback formats, all proceeds from the books support the ITS4THEKIDS Foundation, directly funding programs for children in need worldwide.
Media & Recognition
One of Miami’s most prominent attorneys and philanthropists, Ricky K. Patel has been featured and quoted in leading broadcast and print media outlets nationwide. He has appeared on CNN, Fox TV, NBC, ESPN, ABC, and has been featured in 60 Minutes, Good Morning America, and People magazine.
Ricky has served as a keynote and featured speaker at prestigious events including the St. Thomas University Benjamin L. Crump College of Law Commencement (2024), the National Trial Lawyers Summit (2023), and numerous AAHOA Hotel Conferences.
He was honored with the APABA Trailblazer Award (2025), received an Honorary Doctorate Degree from St. Thomas University (2024), and was recognized as a “Legal Luminary” in Class Action Litigation. Previously listed in Super Lawyers Magazine as a “Rising Star” in Florida and named to the South Florida Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” (2013).
Business & Innovation
Ricky K. Patel brings the same tenacity from the courtroom to the boardroom. As an entrepreneur and innovator, he has channeled his legal expertise and problem-solving instincts to create real-world impact. He is a U.S. Patent holder, recognized for his creation of the Fort Device Intelligent Smoke Detector System (Patent: 2017).
SMART HOME SECURITY
As a U.S. Patent holder, Ricky developed the Fort Device smart home security platform — an innovative solution designed to protect families through cutting-edge connected technology. Fort Device represents his dedication to harnessing innovation for personal safety and peace of mind.
VENTURE PORTFOLIO
Through RKP Ventures, Ricky invests in and advises early-stage companies across technology, hospitality, and consumer sectors — leveraging his legal acumen and entrepreneurial network to help founders build lasting businesses.
Get In Touch
Whether you need exceptional legal representation, want to learn more about the ITS4THEKIDS Foundation, or are interested in exploring business opportunities — Ricky is here to help.
Ricky K. PatelOf Counsel, Litigation · Akerman LLP
Miami, Florida
ricky.patel@akerman.com
T: +1 305 982 5633