Roland Sanchez-Medina: Building Big Ideas in Law and Leadership

Roland Sanchez-Medina was born in Cuba and grew up in Miami, Florida. His parents taught him the value of hard work and education. After graduating from Belen Jesuit Prep in 1983, he attended the University of Miami, earning his business degree in 1987. He went on to Boston College Law School, graduating with honors in 1991, and later earned an advanced law degree in Taxation from New York University School of Law in 1992.

“Education gave me the tools,” he says. “But Miami gave me the drive. This city was built by people who worked hard for a better life, and that inspired me early on.”

From Big Firms to Founding Partner

Sanchez-Medina’s career began at Holland & Knight as an associate and then at McDermott, Will & Emery as a partner. These early years at large law firms exposed him to major corporate and real estate transactions.

“I learned how big deals come together,” he recalls. “You see the stakes and the strategy. That’s when I realized I wanted to help clients on a broader level.”

In time, he co-founded SMGQ Law, where he now serves as a partner. The firm handles corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, securities law, finance, and real estate transactions. He’s known for working with both public companies and large private businesses.

“Our role is to guide complex transactions and give clients clarity,” he explains. “It’s about building a foundation they can grow on.”

Shaping Business Through Legal Strategy

Over the years, Sanchez-Medina has helped businesses structure joint ventures, navigate international tax issues, and complete high-stakes acquisitions. He says one key lesson stands out: “The best deals are the ones where both sides feel they’ve won. That’s how you build long-term relationships.”

His expertise has also extended into board governance and real estate financing. “I enjoy helping boards think through risk and opportunity,” he says. “Strong governance makes companies stronger.”

Leading Beyond the Office

Sanchez-Medina’s influence extends far beyond his law firm. He has served as the president of The Florida Bar and sits on its Board of Governors. He was also president of the Cuban American Bar Association (CABA) and has held leadership roles with the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Florida, and the Orange Bowl Committee.

“Giving back to the profession is important,” he says. “It’s not just about practicing law—it’s about shaping the future of the legal community.”

His service has also reached into education and public institutions. He has chaired the Audit Committee for the City of Coral Gables and the Budget and Audit Committee for Miami-Dade Public County Schools.

Recognition for His Work

Sanchez-Medina’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. He has received the Golden Eagle Award from the Florida Minority Community Reinvestment Coalition and was named a Hispanic Heritage Honoree by After School All Stars. He also spoke at the Southeastern Regional hearing of the ABA Commission on Hispanic Legal Rights & Responsibilities in 2011.

He is rated AV by Martindale Hubbell, a top ranking for legal ability and ethics. He has also been named to Florida Trend's Legal Elite, Super Lawyers, and Best Lawyers in America.

“These honors mean a lot because they come from peers,” he says. “But at the end of the day, it’s about doing the work the right way.”

Building a Lasting Legacy

When asked what drives him today, Sanchez-Medina doesn’t talk about accolades or titles. “I think about the clients who trust me,” he says. “I think about the younger lawyers I mentor. And I think about the communities that shaped me. That’s what keeps me going.”

He believes the next generation of attorneys should stay curious and adaptable. “The law is always changing,” he says. “You have to be willing to learn and adjust. That’s how you stay relevant and help people.”

For Sanchez-Medina, success comes down to one simple principle: building something that lasts. Whether it’s a business deal, a nonprofit board, or the legal profession itself, he’s been focused on making a difference for the long term.

“Big ideas only matter if you can bring them to life,” he says. “That’s what I’ve always tried to do.”

Final Thoughts

Roland Sanchez-Medina’s journey from Miami student to respected legal leader shows how vision, hard work, and service can shape a meaningful career. His story is proof that big ideas—when combined with steady execution—can transform industries and communities alike.

“You don’t need to chase shortcuts,” he says. “Focus on doing things the right way. That’s how you build something that will stand the test of time.”