Background
John D. Levitan, Sr., appearing pro se, appealed an adverse decision from the Circuit Court for Escambia County. Judge Jennifer J. Frydrychowicz presided over the lower court proceedings. The appeal named Gilead Sciences, Inc., Gilead Sciences Ireland UC, the law firm Patterson, Belknapp, Webb & Tyler, LLP, and several individual attorneys as appellees.
The Court’s Holding
The Florida First District Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal. The court provided no written explanation for the dismissal, issuing only a per curiam order stating “DISMISSED.” Roberts, Kelsey, and Treadwell, JJ., concurred in the decision.
Key Takeaways
- The appeal was dismissed without a detailed written opinion explaining the grounds for dismissal.
- The dismissal is not final pending timely resolution of any motion under Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure 9.330 or 9.331.
Why It Matters
Without a substantive opinion, the precise reason for dismissal—whether procedural deficiency or otherwise—remains unclear. Litigants facing summary dismissal should be prepared to file timely post-dismissal motions if grounds exist.