John Maciver’s appointment to the Fifth District Court of Appeal in January 2023 by Governor Ron DeSantis marks the latest chapter in a distinguished career of public service in Florida. His journey to the appellate bench is characterized by diverse experiences across various sectors of Florida government, showcasing a deep understanding of the state’s legal and regulatory landscape. Before assuming his judicial role, John MacIver held the significant position of Chairman of the Florida Gaming Control Commission, a testament to his leadership and expertise in complex regulatory matters.
MacIver’s commitment to Florida state government began in 2002 when he served as a legislative assistant to then-Senator Bill Posey. This early role provided him with foundational experience in the legislative process and policy development. His career trajectory reflects a consistent upward climb within the state government, taking on roles with increasing responsibility and scope. Notably, he served as general counsel to The Florida Department of Financial Services, acting as the chief legal advisor for Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis. In this capacity, John MacIver navigated intricate financial regulations and provided crucial legal guidance on matters impacting the state’s financial framework.
Further demonstrating his versatility and legal acumen, John MacIver held the position of deputy general counsel under both Governor Scott and Governor DeSantis. These roles placed him at the heart of the executive branch, advising on a wide range of legal and policy issues facing the state’s highest offices. His experience extends to fiscal oversight and regulatory reform, having served as the director of Florida’s Office of Fiscal Accountability and Regulatory Reform. This position highlights his commitment to efficient and responsible governance. Adding to his breadth of experience, John MacIver also served as Florida’s Chief Administrative Law Judge, a role that underscores his deep understanding of administrative law and his ability to preside over complex legal proceedings.
His formal legal education culminated in a 2011 graduation from Northwestern University School of Law, a highly regarded institution known for its rigorous academic environment. During his time at Northwestern, John MacIver distinguished himself as a note and comment editor for the Northwestern Journal of Law and Social Policy, demonstrating his scholarly abilities and commitment to legal scholarship. He also excelled in moot court competitions, winning the prestigious International Academy of Trial Lawyers Award for best Speaker and the William Jennings Bryan Award for championship team at the 2010 Julius H. Miner Moot Court Competition. His participation in the 2010-2011 National Moot Court team and his board membership in the Northwestern student chapter of the Federalist Society further illustrate his dedication to legal advocacy and intellectual engagement within the legal community. Moreover, his involvement with the Federal Appellate Clinic provided him with practical experience arguing before the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, offering invaluable real-world legal practice.
Prior to his legal studies, John MacIver earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Central Florida in 2007, laying the groundwork for his subsequent legal career. Interestingly, his background extends beyond the legal and governmental spheres to include law enforcement. He is a 2014 Graduate of the Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and has served as a sworn law enforcement officer with both the Florida Department of Lottery and the Florida Division of Insurance Fraud. This unique experience provides him with a valuable perspective on law enforcement and criminal justice matters, enriching his understanding of cases that come before the court.
Beyond his official roles, John MacIver is a member of the American Enterprise Institute Leadership Network and the Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy Studies. These affiliations indicate his engagement with broader policy discussions and his commitment to conservative legal and political principles. His diverse background, encompassing legal expertise, governmental service, and law enforcement experience, positions John MacIver as a well-rounded and highly qualified judge on the Fifth District Court of Appeal, ready to contribute his extensive knowledge and balanced perspective to the Florida judiciary.
