Russell Stanley Koss, Esq.

Russell Koss is an equity partner at Buenaventura Koss PLLC and the founding attorney of the original Koss Law Firm, which he established in 2009. With over five decades of legal experience, he brings unmatched depth, insight, and dedication to the firm’s practice across immigration, bankruptcy, tax, and general civil matters.

After serving as a U.S. Navy officer from 1962 to 1966, Russell received his J.D. with high honors from the University of Illinois College of Law in 1969, where he was inducted into the Order of the Coif. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the University of Illinois and previously held CPA certification in the State of Illinois.

Prior to founding his own firm, Russell practiced at several respected law firms, including Williams Parker in Sarasota and Thorp Reed & Armstrong, a Pittsburgh-based firm with a Sarasota office. There, he represented institutional and private clients in complex legal matters.

A member in good standing with the Florida Bar since 1969, Russell is among the few attorneys in the state to have practiced law for over 50 consecutive years. Throughout his distinguished career, he has represented a wide range of clients—from individuals and small businesses to public institutions—handling complex matters involving tax controversies, aviation liability, immigration, and estate planning. He has successfully litigated high-stakes tax cases, including disputes over the deductibility of business expenses challenged by the IRS as hobby losses, helping clarify key distinctions in federal tax law. His work has also included representation of Sarasota Memorial Hospital, the Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority, and numerous successful tax and audit matters.

Russell is admitted to practice before the Florida Supreme Court, the U.S. District Court and U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, the United States Tax Court, the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), and the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). He also serves as a certified arbitrator in the Florida court system and is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).

As partner, Russell remains an integral part of the firm and is committed to providing Bryan with the guidance and insight needed to serve the firm’s clients when needed. As Bryan Buenaventura’s long-time mentor and trusted advisor, Russell plays a key role in supporting the firm’s next generation while ensuring its legacy of client-focused, high-quality legal service continues to thrive.

Areas Of Practice

Admitted To Practice

• Florida, 1969

Education

• University of Illinois College of Law
  
• J.D.
• University of Illinois
• B.A.
  
  

Languages

• English
• Spanish