Top Criminal Defense Lawyers Near Me in Orlando Area

Zahra Umansky was a former Assistant Public Defender in the 18th judicial circuit in Brevard and Seminole Counties, Florida.  As a former Public Defender, Zahra had over a hundred trials including crimes such as robbery, theft, assault, battery, prostitution, drugs, trafficking, dealing in stolen property, fraud, sex crimes, driving under the influence, and many other Felonies and Misdemeanors.  She was able to secure many not guilty verdicts and judgment of acquittals protecting her client's right to liberty.  After Zahra left the Public Defender's office, she was appointed by the Honorable Glenda Hood, Mayor of Orlando, as the City Prosecutor for the City of Orlando, Florida.. As City Prosecutor, Zahra was successful in the implementation and prosecution of many types of criminal matters including crimes of disorderly conduct, assault and battery, resisting arrest without violence, trespass, indecent exposure of sexual organs, solicitation to commit prostitution and many other criminal and or ordinance violations. Zahra also served as the prosecutor before the City's Nuisance Abatement Board.  She was also a legal advisor to the Orlando Police Department on matters involving search and seizure law, trespass, drugs, domestic violence etc.  As a legal advisor, Zahra trained police in matters of search and seizure laws, Miranda and other constitutional rights.  She reviewed search warrants, wiretap applications, and gave police last minute advice they needed before they made arrests.. While City Prosecutor for the City of Orlando, Zahra was appointed Special Assistant State Attorney for the Ninth judicial circuit to prosecute Firework cases here in Orlando, Florida.  As a former prosecutor and legal advisor, Zahra can see and evaluate your case from both sides of the law.  As a former police legal advisor, she understands how the Police investigate and secure their evidence and as a former prosecutor, understands how the State of Florida will present their case in court against you.  Zahra Umansky is dedicated to defending the rights of her clients and approaches each case with aggressive and diligent representation.  At the same time, she treats each client with the dignity and respect.

William J. “West” Ritchie is a managing attorney for The Virga Law Firm’s Pensacola office. He is well-versed in storm and hurricane insurance claims, construction defect litigation, BP oil spill claims, and insurance defense litigation. He also has 30 years of Family Law and Divorce experience. Mr. Ritchie has represented clients in the Panhandle for the past 28 years. Some of his current practice areas include Hurricane claims, Construction Defect Litigation, B.P. claims, and Insurance Defense Litigation. After Hurricane Michael devastated the Florida Panhandle in October 2018, he got right to work to hear the stories of claimants who needed to file homeowners’ insurance claims but did not know where to begin.. Growing up in Alabama as the 12th child in a family of 14 children, Mr. Ritchie learned the importance of togetherness and community involvement at an early age. This lesson would prove to be integral to his development into adulthood, pointing him to the path of becoming an attorney.. Ever since he received his law degree from the Cumberland School of Law, Mr. Ritchie knew he wanted to help people in need and in tricky legal situations. As a lawyer with The Virga Law Firm in Florida, he is able to continue his career focus by contributing to family law/divorce, criminal, bankruptcy, and insurance law cases our law firm accepts. In terms of family law and divorce cases, he has personal insight, having gone through a difficult divorce and child custody case himself some years ago. He uses that experience to relate to his clients and guide them through their family law dispute with confidence.. Mr. Ritchie often says his career highlight arose during a criminal defense case. He was defending a client who could have been sentenced to 20 years imprisonment with no chance of early release. After a hard-fought legal battle, the jury was convinced his client acted in self-defense and returned a not guilty verdict.. Recently, Mr. Ritchie has sat on the Board of Directors of many civic organizations in his area. He believes in using his skills and education to help improve the lives of others, and such seats give him this great opportunity.

William D. Umansky has over a decade of experience to offer any client, especially in the area of criminal defense and personal injury. He has an insight into the workings of the prosecution because his career includes experience as both a former Assistant State Attorney in Florida and The City Prosecutor for the City of Orlando. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Umansky was in charge of the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Division. He has also been a Police Academy Instructor, an Adjunct Professor at Florida Metropolitan University, and a Legislative Assistant to a United States Senator. Mr. Umansky's entire career has centered on the legal process, both as a prosecutor and now a defender of those accused of illegal behavior.. During his career, Mr. Umansky has remained involved in his community and is an active part of Florida's legal system. He belongs to the Orange Bar Association, acting as Co-Chair of the Orange County Bar Criminal Law Committee for several years. He is a member of the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers, Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the Central Florida Criminal Defense Attorneys Association.. Mr. Umansky graduated cum laude from the University of South Florida with a bachelor's degree in Psychology and obtained his law degree from the University of Florida College of Law. During law school, Mr. Umansky was a member of the University of Florida Trial Team and received a Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Contribution to the University of Florida Law School. He also earned an award for achieving the top grade for his work in Negotiations and Dispute Settlement. Mr. Umansky also attended the Tulane Institute of European Legal Studies.. Mr. Umansky is admitted to practice in the Florida State Courts and the U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida. At the offices of The Umansky Law Firm, he offers criminal defense representation for nearly every type of criminal charge, including:

While working as a Director for a major Military Defense Contractor Kevin C. Maxwell was inspired to attend Law School. While in Law School, at the Barry University School of Law, Mr. Maxwell co-founded the Richard Senate branch of Delta Theta Phi legal fraternity and appointed to the position of Supreme Court Justice of Honor court. He achieved these honors and graduated Suma Cum Laude from Barry University all while working full time. After passing the Florida State Bar, Attorney Maxwell, joined the practice of Retired Judge Dominic Salfi, where the firm’s focus was on Criminal, Personal Injury and Family Law matters. In 2004 Attorney Maxwell joined the firm of Mr. Thomas A Vaughn II as an associate. In 2005 Mr. Maxwell formed a partnership with Mr. Vaughn creating the firm of Vaughn and Maxwell. The primary focus was on Claimant’s rights in the area of worker’s compensation.. In 2008, Attorney Maxwell dissolved the partnership with Attorney Vaughn. Taking all the knowledge and experience he had garnered as a lawyer and the 18 plus years of business acumen, Attorney Maxwell established his own firm. His current practice, The Office of Kevin C. Maxwell & Associates, focuses on a wide variety of practice areas. In 2012, Mr. Maxwell secured the seventh largest a jury verdict award in an Auto Accident case in the country, where his client was awarded over $27.5 million dollars in Damages.He can be reached at or on the 24 HOUR HOTLINE

Whether you are facing criminal charges, your children have special education needs, or you have been injured in an auto accident, we are here to help.. "POWERFUL ADVOCACY, EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE". "POWERFUL DEFENSE, EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE". Our experienced team of attorneys is dedicated to fighting for your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.. Criminal Defense - Darling Law is available to you whether you are incarcerated, facing charges, or have already paid your debt to society and are trying to restore your rights. My firm offers a full spectrum criminal defense:. Special Education - Darling Law -  Specializes in cases that involve children who have special education needs. We help families by providing Professional Special Education Advocates and Attorneys depending on the needs of your family. These services include:. Personal Injury - Darling Law - We work to ensure our clients recover the maximum amount after they are injured. We take care of our clients, and we are available to our clients. We do not take every personal injury case that comes through our door. We will refer you to another firm if your claim is not for us. We represent those who have experienced:

When it comes to criminal law, an experienced and aggressive attorney can mean the difference between incarceration and a reduced or dismissed charge. I am dedicated to defending the rights of the accused and committed to the presumption of innocence. Even with less serious cases, a good criminal defense attorney can make a serious impact on the outcome of the case by ensuring that the rights of the accused are protected throughout the legal process. It is vital that those accused of a crime select the most competent, experienced and effective attorney available. If you have been accused of a crime, you will need an aggressive and resourceful criminal defense attorney. Call today for a free consultation for an attorney that will work tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. I am available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist you with any questions that you may have.. You may contact me by phone anytime at:

Walter is licensed to practice law in the state of Florida and the Federal Middle District Court of Florida.. He attended undergrad at Cornell University graduating with honors with concentrations in economics and international labor.. Walter graduated from Florida State University College of Law, cum laude. While in law school he was a member of the Journal of Transnational Law and Policy, received certificates in Legal Research, International Law, and Pro Bono Service. In the last summer of law school, Walter worked for the State Department in San Jose, Costa Rica as a member of the the International Narcotics and Legal Team in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs.. Walter has private sector legal experience working as a case coordinator for Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP in New York City for over four years. His focus was on litigation and white collar crime, where he gained extensive experience working on numerous trials across the east coast and the Midwest.. Walter also worked on Capitol Hill for the late Senator Edward Kennedy where he worked on the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) committee.. Walter relocated to Orlando, Florida and volunteers his time on pro bono cases with Community Legal Services of Mid Florida and received the Guardian of Justice Award in 2014 and 2015. Walter is one of the inaugural attorneys to work the self-help center at the Orange County Court House to assist under represented clients. After Moving to Central Florida, Walter has been actively working on Immigration matters and has successfully handled many cases before the Immigration Court, the Board of Immigration Appeals, and USCIS. Walter is co-chair of the Orange County Bar Association Immigration and Nationality Committee and is a board member for the Orlando Center for Justice, a non-profit law firm that provides legal services in the field of immigration and family law. Walter is an active speaker and gives presentations through the Orange County Bar Association. Walter has been named to Super Lawyers Rising Stars for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.

Trial attorney and former prosecutor Julie Clarke founded Julie Clarke Law, P.A., in 2018.  Julie Clarke Law, P.A. is a Central Florida boutique law firm specializing in criminal defense, family law & estate planning.

Tracey G. Kagan. Orlando Attorney At Law. Upon completing her tenure at the New York Public Defender’s office, Attorney Kagan relocated to the State of Florida where she joined the Seminole County Prosecutor’s office, expanding her scope of experience to include both sides of the law.  Shortly thereafter Attorney Kagan started her own practice where she has been aggressively fighting for and defending the rights of her clients.. While Attorney Kagan still practices Florida Criminal Law, including Drug charges, Trafficking, Burglary, Domestic Violence, DUIs, Juvenile charges, Violations of Probation, and Bond Hearings, her practice has grown over the years to include Traffic Ticket Defense, Orlando Personal Injury Law, and Divorce.. Attorney Kagan’s main office is located in downtown Orlando, just minutes from the courthouse, but she accepts new clients from all over the Central Florida area including Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Brevard, Lake, Polk, and Volusia Counties.. Attorney Kagan’s mission is to work hard to preserve her clients rights, protect their interests, and successfully navigate them through the entire legal process while keeping them informed every step of the way.

Timothy W. Terry is listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers, and his areas of practice include family law, divorce, child custody, property distribution, juvenile law, criminal defense, felonies, white collar crimes, probation, and personal injury.. Mr. Terry received his A.B. degree, Magna Cum Laude, in 1973 from Duke University, and his J.D. in 1976 from Florida State University. He was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1981. As a member of the Florida Bar, he was Chair of Grievance Committee C for the Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida in 1996, a member of the Rules and Forms Committee from 1996 to 1997, a member of the Legislation Committee from 1997 to 1998, and a member of the sections on trial lawyers, family law, and criminal law. He is also a member of the Orange County Bar Association, the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers, and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.. Mr. Terry served as a law clerk for the Honorable Charles R. Scott of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida and the Honorable Warren L. Jones of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and a staff law clerk for the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. He has also served as an Assistant State's Attorney for the Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida from 1984-1993.

The  Ladan Law Firm, P.A. continues to build on years of the community involvement of founding Partner, Amir Ladan.  The lawyers and staff of our firm are active in the communities we serve.  Not only do our lawyers provide pro bono legal services well in excess of what the Florida and local Bars require, but our lawyers and staff enjoy participating in a variety of community service projects, fundraisers and events.. Amir is the Past-President of the Rotary Club of Seminole County Sunset, where he is responsible for thier annual fundraiser - Poker Chips for Scholarships.  The annual event raises thousands for scholarships benefitting high school Seniors in Seminole County, as well as funding the amazing community service projects our club participates in throughout the year. The Ladan Law Firm proudly sponsors all of the club's fundraisers and Amir sits on their Board of Directors, where he has served for a decade.. Amir continues his involvement as a Rollins College alumnus. In 2014, he was nominated and elected to the Rollins College Alumni Board of Directors, where he served for six years, including his recent successful term as Co-President of the Alumni Board of Directors.  In 2020, he was invited to join the Board of Trustees of Rollins College.  Amir is committed to ensuring that Rollins will continue its mission, to educate students for global citizenship and responsible leadership, empowering graduates to pursue meaningful lives and productive careers.  He is also actively involved as an advisor to Tau Kappa Epsilon - Zeta Phi Chapter, where he sits on the Board of Directors of their Alumni Association and 501(c)3.. In December of 2019, the Firm celebrated it's 11th annual Happy Hour Toy Drive benefiting XL 's Baby DJ.  Over the years, this event has turned into Orlando's second largest source of group donations for local families in need during the holidays.  This event brings great joy to the entire team at the Firm, knowing that our efforts mean that hundreds of local families and their children will be able to celebrate the holidays.. The Ladan Law Firm was the title sponsor of The Fifth Amendment Happy Hour benefitting the Orange County Bar Association's Legal Aid Society.  Funds raised at the event are used to provide free legal services to those in our community that cannot afford legal counsel.  The event was a great success, well attended and a lot of fun for our lawyers and defense team.. Amir Ladan was honored to be named the King of The Krewe of Leaders in 2012.  The Krewe of Leaders recognizes and honors those that serve their communities and provides scholarships to deserving high school students who pursue careers in medical, hospitality and the performing arts.  Scholarships are funded by a series of community events surrounding "Mardi Gras" season including the Royal Gala, Fat Tuesday celebration and the Festival of Cities.. In 2012, Carsten & Ladan, P.A. was also a major sponsor of the 1st Annual Judicial Assistant Appreciation Luncheon, where we paid tribute to the excellent JA's in Orange & Osceola Counties.

Tad A. Yates is AV rated by Martindale-Hubbell and has 29 years of criminal trial experience. He is a Phi Beta Kappa Graduate of University of Florida (B.A., Criminal Justice) and the University of Florida College of Law (J.D.)  Tad is a current member of the Florida Bar Board of Governors.  He is a Past President of the Orange County Bar Association and President of the Legal Aid Society of the Orange County Bar Association.  In 2010, Mr. Yates was appointed by the President of the Florida Bar to serve on the Florida Bar's Criminal Rules Committee.  From 2008 to present, Mr. Yates was selected by Florida Trend Magazine as one of "Florida's Legal Elite" in the area of Criminal Law. In 2009, he was selected by "Florida Super Lawyers" for inclusion on the Florida Rising Stars list, featuring outstanding young lawyers in the state.  He was seleced a "Florida Super Lawyer" from 2010 to present.. In 2011, Tad was appointed by Governor Rick Scott Scott to the Ninth Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission.  He served 2 years in the position of Chair of that commission.  The Governor re-appointed Tad to the Ninth Circuit JNC for a second term and he will serve on that Commission through June 2019.. In 2014, Chief Judge Belvin Perry appointed Tad Vice-Chair of the Ninth Judicial Circuit Professionalism Panel.  Tad previously served as Chair of one of the Ninth Circuit Grievance Committees.. Tad is a former member of the Board of Directors of the University of Florida Alumni Association and the Board of trustees for the UF College of Law.. Tad currently serves as Chair of the Disciplinary Procedure Committee of the Florida Bar Board of Governors and was elected in 2023 to the Executive Board of the Board of Governors.

Robert Zlatkin is an experienced, and dedicated Criminal Defense and Civil Litigation Attorney. A graduate of the prestigious University of Florida’s Levin College of Law, Robert is a native Floridian with a strong connection to the Central Florida community. He graduated Cum Laude from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in History and made a decision early on to return to Orlando after law school to give back to the community he calls home.. As an Assistant State Attorney for the Ninth Judicial Circuit in Orlando, Robert most recently prosecuted a broad range of cases including D.U.I., battery, robbery, domestic violence, battery, and a myriad of felonies including violations of probation (VOPs). With hundreds of hours of court appearances and successful trials, it was here that Robert honed his litigation skills and developed a keen understanding of the nuances of the law. With his unique perspective of both sides of the criminal justice system, Robert’s clients derive significant benefit from this advantage.. Robert Zlatkin has had a wide range of legal expeirence including federal plaintiff lawsuits under the Telephone Protection Consumer Act (TCPA) and insurance defense, medical malpractice, and personal injury as a summer associate at the respected law firm of Wicker, Smith, Ohara, McCoy and Ford .. A compassionate, skilled and experienced attorney, Robert is a strong and relentless advocate for his clients.. Education. University of Florida Fredrick G. Levin College of Law, Gainesville, FL. Juris Doctor awarded May 2015. University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL. Bachelor of Arts, cum laude: History with minor in Archeology, July, 2012

Rhiannon Arnold is the founder and owner of The Arnold Law Group, P.A. Ms. Arnold was born and raised in Pensacola, Florida and still maintains strong ties to that community through her family and longtime friends who remain in the Florida panhandle and southern Alabama.. Attorney Arnold graduated from the University of Mobile in Mobile, Alabama in May of 2001, with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in public speaking and argumentation/debate.. Immediately following graduation, Ms. Arnold began attending Florida State University's College of Law, where she focused in the disciplines of criminal law and trial advocacy.  During law school, Ms. Arnold had the honor of attending the prestigious Oxford University in Oxford, England.  While attending Oxford, Ms. Arnold completed extensive coursework in comparative criminal procedure prior to returning to Florida State University in the Fall of 2003.. After graduating from Florida State, Attorney Arnold began her legal career as a member of the Public Defender’s Office in the 2nd Judicial Circuit where she practiced in Monticello, FL.  In 2004, Attorney Arnold moved to Orlando and continued her legal career when she began working as an Assistant Public Defender in the 9th Judicial Circuit. During her tenure with the Public Defender’s Office, Ms. Arnold oversaw cases in various misdemeanor, traffic, juvenile and felony judicial divisions.  Many of those cases went to trial and were resolved with favorable outcomes for her clients.  While with the 9th Circuit Public Defender’s Office, Attorney Arnold also managed the Misdemeanor Appellate Division.  During her time in Appeals Division, Attorney Arnold wrote numerous appellate briefs on behalf of clients of the Public Defender’s Office.. In September 2006, Attorney Arnold departed the Public Defender’s office on a quest to provide more personalized service to her clients.. Attorney Arnold is a member of The Florida Bar and the United States Federal Court Middle District of Florida.  Attorney Arnold is licensed to represent clients in all Florida State Courts and the Federal Middle District of Florida.

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Personal Attention – Powerful Representation – Proven Results. Experienced Former Prosecutor. FREE Consultation. Jay Rooth grew up in St Petersburg, Florida and attended Tampa Jesuit High School.  He then obtained his bachelors and Masters degree in Business from Stetson University and a JD from Barry University School of law.. Jay Rooth started his career in the legal profession as an Assistant State Attorney in the Ninth Judicial Circuit.  After his experience with the state attorneys office, he opened Moses and Rooth Attorneys at Law which focusses its practice in the area of criminal defense.. The law firm of Moses and Rooth handles misdemeanor and felony criminal cases involving but not limited to: Drug Possession, drug Trafficking, drug paraphernalia, Domestic Violence, Petit Theft, Grand Theft, Burglary, Fraud, Juvenile Offenses, Weapon Offenses, Violation of Probation, Bond Hearings, Sex crimes, record sealing / expungement, appeals, Driving Under the Influence (DUI), Driving on Suspended License (DWLS), Reckless Driving, Leaving the Scene of Accident and all related traffic offenses.

Patrick Grozinger is an AV Preeminent rated Criminal and Civil attorney in Central Florida. He was raised in Shreveport, Louisiana and attended Southern Methodist University, during which time he studied in Paris, France and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Economics and a Bachelor of Arts in History. After college, Mr. Grozinger joined the United States Peace Corps and spent two years serving as a Small Business Development volunteer in the West African nation of Mali. Mr. Grozinger then attended business school in Paris, France, graduating with a M.B.A. from the International School of Management. Mr. Grozinger then attended law school at Louisiana State University, where he graduated with a Juris Doctorate and a Graduate Diploma in Civil Law. During his time in law school, Mr. Grozinger clerked for two years with the Long Law Firm in Baton Rouge, Lousiana, served as an Executive Member of the LSU Moot Court Board, and was a National Moot Court Award winner. After law school, Mr. Grozinger took a position as a criminal Prosecutor for the State Attorney's Office in the Ninth Judicial Circuit in Orlando. While an Assistant State Attorney, Mr. Grozinger prosecuted thousands of misdemeanor and felony cases in both Orange and Osceola counties and worked as a DUI specialist. He is dedicated to protecting the Constitutional rights of his clients, and to providing his clients with the courtesy, respect and professionalism they deserve.. Mr. Grozinger is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida, the State of Texas, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit and the Northern, Middle and Southern District Courts of Florida. He is proficient in French, and he is also a member of the Orange County Bar Association and the Seminole County Bar Association.

Over twenty years ago I started my own DUI criminal defense law firm in Orlando called Private Counsel, LLC.  Private Counsel is a private law firm with sections dedicated to all criminal defense work, Assault an Battery/Domestic Battery Defense, traffic tickets, with an emphasis on helping people accused of DUI. I also assist UCF students who have found themselves in trouble at UCF for Golden Rule violations or .02 BAC DMV suspensions.. My practice is focused on DUI and CRIMINAL DEFENSE.

Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney – Terrance RoothThe sooner an experienced criminal defense attorney gets involved on a case, the more of an impact they could have on getting a case dismissed or reduced. In addition, as a former prosecutor I understand the criminal justice system and will vigorously work in the defense of your rights and your family’s rights.. Being charged with any crime is an intimidating and stressful experience. It is extremely important that you understand the legal rights that are at stake and the possible consequences which will come with every decision.. Contact us today for a free review and consultation from an experienced criminal defense attorney.. Presently serving the Courts of Orange, Seminole and Osceola County with a concentration in Orlando, Winter Park, Altamonte Springs, Sanford and College Park.. Speak to an Orlando criminal defense attorney NOW! Contact us for a completely FREE consultation with an experienced former prosecutor. Call or send us an Email for immediate assistance with your criminal defense.. Our office is convenient to all of Central Florida.. We offer reasonable fees, flexible payment plans, and accept major credit cards.

Orlando attorney Thomas D. Sommerville is a highly respected lawyer defending businesses and people accused of crimes and licensure violations. Mr. Sommerville defends clients in a wide range of criminal matters, including complex white collar offenses, homicide, sex offenses, and narcotics violations. The law practice encompasses pre-indictment investigations, negotiations with prosecutors, criminal jury trials, appeals, and post-conviction and collateral relief. The firm additionally represents professionals including lawyers facing the grievance procedure with The Florida Bar, and physicians, and nurses facing discipline from the Florida Department of Health.  Mr. Sommerville also represents those being investigated by the Florida Board of Bar Examiners facing Investigative Hearings and Formal Hearings.

Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Michael attended Florida State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. During his four years at Florida State University, Michael was a member of the Phi Eta Sigma honors fraternity. He later earned his Juris Doctor degree from Barry University School of Law, in Orlando, Florida. As a law student, Michael represented Barry University’s Mock Trial team in several national competitions, including winning the Bernie L. Segal National Mock Trial Competition held in San Francisco, California. Michael was recognized for his performance during the competition by receiving the Best Advocate Award.. Prior to joining the Law Office of Christopher Parker-Cyrus, Michael worked as an Assistant State Attorney for the Ninth Judicial Circuit in Orange County. There, Michael gained valuable experience handling all misdemeanor, DUI, traffic, and felony cases. While an Assistant State Attorney, Michael took over 30 cases to trial.. In his free time Michael works as a coach for Barry University School of Law’s Mock Trial team. He enjoys playing golf and spending time with friends and family.

One of the best criminal defense lawyers in Florida over the past two decades, Richard Hornsby has developed a reputation for achieving exceptional results under difficult circumstances. He is recognized as an expert in criminal trial law by the Florida Bar and prides himself on obtaining the most favorable result possible for his clients. If you find yourself in need of an aggressive criminal defense attorney, the only real option is Richard Hornsby.. Richard Hornsby is a third generation Central Floridian and a second-generation criminal defense lawyer. Richard obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Master of Science in Forensic Science, and Juris Doctor from the University of Florida. He also holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida.. Richard is Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by the Florida Bar and Board Certified in Criminal Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.. Richard serves as the Legal Analyst for the Central Florida NBC affiliate, WESH 2 News, and is frequently called upon to provide legal commentary for the Orlando Sentinel.. In 2007 he was voted Best of the Bar in Criminal Defense by the Orlando Business Journal. In 2016 he was recognized as a Legal Elite by Orlando Style Magazine. In 2021 he was recognized as a Legal Elite by Florida Trend Magazine. And he has been recognized in Super Lawyers Magazine every year from 2012 through 2022.

My legal career began at the Orange County Public Defender's Office in February of 2005, where I worked for 9.5 years.  At the time I left in 2014, I was an attorney in the major crimes division, handling only first and second degree murder cases.  I left to start a firm with two partners, but a little over a year later, one partner needed to dissolve the firm, so I formed a solo practice to finish out my criminal cases.  I am proud to be back at the Public Defender's Office as of August 2016, helping those who cannot afford to hire an attorney.. Now that I am back at the Orange County Public Defender's office, I am not available for hire.  My clients are appointed to me based upon the charges and what judicial division the case is assigned to.  Appointed clients and their families still want to know about the attorney handling the case, so I hope this profile can provide that information and help everyone feel good about me when the client did not have the choice of picking me for representation.. I am a board certified criminal trial attorney, which means I am considered an expert in the field of criminal trials; there are approximately 431 attorneys in this state with that certification.  I have over 11.5 years of experience doing criminal defense, and have handled many first and second degree murder cases, attempted murders, robberies, carjackings, home invasions, burglaries, rapes, drug traffickings and possessions, etc.  I have had approximately 60 jury trials and approximately 10 non-jury trials, all of which were bench trials for violations of probation.  I have not counted cases where I announced a case as being ready for trial and the State dropped the case without picking a jury; I don't count those as a trial, though some private attorneys do, so be careful when looking at trial numbers, and ask questions as to what the attorney considers to be a trial.. I plan on keeping my website's blog online, but it's updated sporadically; essentially when I feel like writing.  One blog in particular is written to help families find ways to help their loved one who is charged with a crime.  If you'd like to check it out, please use the link in my profile to go to my website.

My firm consists of a team of experienced and highly skilled criminal defense attorneys. We have board certified criminal trial experts, a former judge and other skilled attorneys with over a 100 years of combined experience. We have former State Prosecutors and Public Defenders.  I handle all criminal law matters. I have personally represented people on thousands of cases and will not hesitate to take your case to trial.. Our previous cases include DUI, Driving While License Suspened, Resisting an Officer with and without Violence, Violation of Probation (VOP), Grand Theft, Armed Robbery, Attempted Murder, Drug charges, Trafficking, and many more. We are available for all state and federal charges.. The Majority of oury cases are out of Orange County, Osceola County, Seminole County, Voluisa County, Polk County and Lake County, however, I do represent people throughout all of Central Florida.. We offer reasonable payment plans and competitive pricing.   Call my office today at  for a free consultation.

Ms. Synnamon graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education in 2003. She then decided to do something different with her career, and attended Florida A&M University College of Law in 2006.. During law school, she was President of the American Association for Justice (formerly American Trial Lawyers Association), as well as, the Mock Trial Chairperson on the Advocacy Board. Giving back to the community was and continues to be a huge priority to her, which is why, she organized the Annual AAJ Homeruns for Lukemia Charity Softball Tournament, which benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Center of Central Florida. She also participated in Moot Court as well as Mock trial in several national competitions before graduating with her Juris Doctorate in 2009.. Her passion for advocating in the courtroom fueled her career at the State Attorney's Office in the Ninth Judicial Circuit (Orlando, FL). Throughout her years as a prosecutor, she was assigned to several specialized units including Misdemeanor, Juvenile, Felony Domestic Violence, and the Sex Crimes/Child Abuse Unit. She handled serious and difficult cases, and became proficient in complex scientific evidence (DNA, Finger print analysis, computer forensics, blood alcohol levels). In addition, she amounted extensive courtroom experience, arguing hundreds of motions, and over 60 jury trials including Capital Sex Crimes.. Ms. Synnamon, left the State Attorney's Office in June of 2013 and pursued criminal defense work. She has seen how hard it is for those that have been accused of a crime as well as their families to deal with the intimidation of the criminal justice system.. Ms. Synnamon is licensed to practice law in the state courts of Florida and the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida.