Top Criminal Defense Lawyers Near Me in Orlando Area

Being charged with a crime is embarrassing and frightening.  More importantly, your job, personal relationships, and freedom are at stake. At a time like this you need an experienced criminal attorney to navigate the courtroom, explain your options, and mount a strong defense. When discussing your case, I will always be honest and straightforward with you to insure you are making an informed decision.  Throughout my representation, you will command my personal, prompt attention and all communications will be answered on the same day.  The Florida Bar Ethical Rules prohibit and attorney from promising you any particular result in a criminal case.  However, with over 24 years of experience in criminal law and numerous jury trials involving almost every type of crime, I have the necessary skills to obtain the best possible result in your case.  As a former major crimes prosecutor, I know firsthand the tactics used by the State and can use that to anticipate our opponent.  Contact me today for a free consultation.

Before starting Lashley Law, Gary worked as an Assistant State Attorney in Florida’s Fifth Judicial Circuit and as a health care fraud prosecutor for the District of Columbia’s Office of the Inspector General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.. During his time as a prosecutor, Gary handled hundreds of felony and misdemeanor criminal cases, including DUIs, domestic violence, drug possession and manufacturing, sex and computer related crimes, and white-collar crimes, all while gaining extensive motion practice and jury trial experience.. A native of Central Florida, Gary grew up Lake County, where he graduated from the Mount Dora Christian Academy. He then earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance and Information Technology from Harding University in 2005 and his Juris Doctorate from Barry University’s Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law in 2009.

Attorney Vincent A. Citro represents individuals, executives, and others in complex civil, administrative, and grand jury matters in both state and federal courts. As a lawyer at the Law Offices of Horwitz & Citro, P.A., he brings his in-depth knowledge of complex legal matters to work for every client. Before returning to private practice, Mr. Citro was a federal prosecutor with the U.S. Department of Justice and has worked with law enforcement officers throughout the world. He was appointed as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in South Florida and supervised the national security program for most of the state of Florida. In addition, Mr. Citro is certified as a criminal trial expert by the Florida Bar and the National Board of Trial Advocacy. This background, among many other professional positions and experiences, gives Mr. Citro a solid background to help every client. When your freedom and your future are at stake, and it’s you against the government—the state or the United States of America—you want the Law Offices of Horwitz & Citro, P.A. by your side.

Attorney Michael Panella has dedicated his professional career to criminal defense and family law matters, with a focus on giving a strong voice in the courtroom to those who need it the most. Even in his first year in law school he was hired at a prestigious criminal defense law firm and was granted an exception to the University of Florida's general "no outside work" rule due to his outstanding scholastic achievements. He was also President of the Law School's Phi Alpha Delta organization. In addition to receiving his Juris Doctor with honors, he was awarded the University of Florida Levin College of Law Criminal Justice Certificate, a Pro-Bono Certificate of Outstanding Achievement, and the Community Service Award Certificate for Outstanding Achievement.. From there, Mr. Panella went on to become a contributing member to the defense in the State v. George Zimmerman case, was instrumental in achieving favorable pretrial appellate decisions, and contributed to jury selection and general trial strategy including a heavy focus on self-defense matters.. Mr. Panella also spent time working at a respected capital appellate firm where he worked on state and federal death penalty appeals and postconviction motions for relief.. Prior to opening his practice, Mr. Panella proudly served as an Assistant Public Defender for the 18th Judicial Circuit in both Brevard and Seminole Counties.. Mr. Panella enjoys spending time with his wife and two young boys, and working to get great results for clients in the courtroom.

Attorney Joe Knape encompasses a diverse and competent background in the legal industry due to his adequate experience over the past six years. He is dedicated to not only providing the highest quality legal services available, but also the most proficient and personable. As a trusted community advisor, Attorney Joe Knape’s mission is creating that one-on-one relationship with his clientele—a commonly sought after aspect that is often neglected in the legal world. Settling with anything less than the best is not an option in Joe Knape’s legal cases. The individualized relationship he provides to his more than satisfied clients includes both an intricateattention to detail and a tenacious research-backed effort. Considering he personally oversees his firm, you as a client, know that your case is in trustworthy hands. The consistent 24 hour accessibility, scheduling flexibility, and nighttime & weekend consultations are just the beginning of the affordably priced services provided to prospect clients.. Located in the heart of Downtown Orlando on the corner of Orange Avenue and Church Street, Joe Knape’s Law Firm serves over twenty counties throughout Florida. During 9am-5pm business hours, the temporary virtual offices located in Winter Park, Maitland, Lake Mary, and Sand Lake Road are all available for consultations. Call 850 Call Joe for an appointment.

Attorney J. Scott Herman, Esquire was born and raised in Central Florida.  He graduated from the Florida State University, with an under-graduate degree in Psychology and Criminology. He then attended law school at the Florida State College of Law. While in law school, Scott was awarded a highly coveted Summer Judicial Clerkship in the Sixth Judicial clerkship. During this clerkship, he worked as a staff attorney answering various post-conviction motions, and researching complex pre-trial issues for Circuit Court Judges.. Upon graduation from law school, Scott was hired by the State Attorney’s Office for the 9th Judicial Circuit in and for Orange County, Florida.  During his first couple years at that office, Scott was assigned to prosecute traffic, misdemeanor, domestic violence, and DUI offenses.  Upon being promoted to a felony division, Scott spent over two (2) years working with law enforcement to prosecute various felony offenses.  Scott worked hand in hand with various special investigation detectives and task forces while working for the Office of the State Attorney.. Upon leaving the State Attorney’s office in 2005, Scott began working exclusively in the area of criminal defense.  He has since expanded his area of practice to include civil traffic infractions and Injunction cases.  Scott has practiced law in over ten (10) Central Florida Counties from 2005 - 2009, before partnering with Attorney Mark Conan, in September 2009 where he is still working.

Attorney Christopher J. Schisani was born in Hoboken, New Jersey, before he moved to Naples, Florida with his family. He graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and earned his Master of Science degree from the University of Central Florida. Upon obtaining his master’s degree, Mr. Schisani decided to pursue his passion of the law. He subsequently moved out to San Diego, California, where he attended his first year of law school. During his first semester he earned the Academic Achievement Award for superior marks in his courses. Additionally, he was invited onto his law school’s Moot Court Honors Board after an extensive interview process and exceeding academic benchmarks. As a member, Mr. Schisani competed in many interscholastic mock trial competitions, which aided in honing his advocacy and trial skills. After realizing that his heart remained in Central Florida, he moved back to Florida and finished his last two years of law school at Barry University School of Law where he received his Juris Doctor degree.. During his law school tenure, Mr. Schisani excelled academically. He earned the highly coveted Book Award—for the highest grade in class—in two courses and was invited onto the prestigious Law Review journal. Membership is generally extended to a limited number of students who are in the top of their class. In addition to working as an editor on Law Review, Mr. Schisani was a Senator for his school’s Student Bar Association and a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. Being an active member of SBA provided him the opportunity to get students involved in the Central Florida community, as well as allowed him to make a positive impact on those less fortunate. In addition to being extensively involved on campus and in the local community, Mr. Schisani also worked as a legal intern at the Office of the Public Defender in Orange County, Florida. It was this opportunity that fueled his passion for criminal law and advocating for justice.. Mr. Schisani took the Florida Bar Exam in July 2018 and passed on his first attempt. He was admitted to the Florida Bar in September 2018. Soon thereafter, Mr. Schisani commenced his legal career as an Assistant State Attorney at the Office of the State Attorney in Orange County, FL. As a prosecutor he successfully led numerous trials and court proceedings. Before being recruited by the Joshi Law Firm, P.A., Mr. Schisani served as a prosecutor from 2018-2019.. Mr. Schisani joined the high-profile criminal defense law firm Joshi Law Firm, P.A. in June of 2019. He quickly became partner at the law firm in November of 2020. At that time, the law firm transitioned over to Joshi & Schisani Law Firm, P.A.. Throughout his legal career, Mr. Schisani has accomplished many milestones and received a myriad of accolades. In 2022, Mr. Schisani was selected to join the National Institute of Trial Lawyers as one of the Best Trial Lawyer's in America, in the field of criminal law. Less than .03% of all lawyers will be selected to become a member of said organization. Additionally, Mr. Schisani was selected and accepted membership to the prestigious Lawyers of Distinction organization in 2022. The selection committee reviews and vets over 55,000 attorneys before extending membership. Members are featured in "The New York Times," as well as the highly regarded "The National Law Journal.". For 2021, The American Institute of Legal Advocates (AIOLA) selected Mr. Schisani as an "Elite Advocate" in the field of criminal law, and therefore, considers him one of the best legal advocates in the United States of America. Membership is only extended to those attorneys who demonstrate leadership, superior qualifications in their field, and trial results in their state. Less than 1% of all attorneys will be invited to be a member of AIOLA.. Further, Mr. Schisani earned the Avvo Clients’ Choice Award in 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively. He is considered a "Top Attorney" on Avvo--with a 10 Avvo rating. This is the highest numerical rating an attorney can receive.. Additionally, Mr. Schisani was selected and received the Elite Lawyer award for 2020 and 2021, which recognizes exceptional attorneys that demonstrate a high degree of skill and success in their respective practice areas.. In 2020, Mr. Schisani was selected and joined the American Institute of Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40. The American Institute of Trial Lawyers is an invitation only professional organization composed of premier trial attorneys from each state. Attorneys selected for membership exemplify the very best qualities and qualifications of an attorney--and must meet stringent qualifications as a criminal trial attorney. Less than .03% of all lawyers will be selected to become a member of the American Institute of Trial Lawyers. Additionally, the American Institute of Trial Lawyers selected Mr. Schisani as a Litigator of the Year for 2021. Membership is extended to only a select few in each state and/or region.. Additionally, in 2020, Mr. Schisani was selected and joined The National Trial Lawyers as one of the Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers in the state of Florida. Only a select few of the most qualified attorneys from each state or region receive invitations to join this exclusive organization regulated by objective and uniformly applied standards. Due to his continued legal efforts, he was extended membership again in 2021.. In 2020, The National Alliance of Attorneys (NAOA) nominated and selected Mr. Schisani as an "Attorney of the Year" in the field of Criminal Law. Said organization is committed to advocating for attorneys with the highest legal standards in each state. Membership is only extended to attorneys who demonstrate leadership, superior qualifications in their field, and trial results in their state. Less than 1% of all attorneys will be invited to be a member of NAOA. Thus, Mr. Schisani is considered a top legal advocate in the field of Criminal Law.. Orlando Style Magazine voted Mr. Schisani as one of Orlando's "Attorneys of the Year" in 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively.. After roughly two and half years at Joshi & Schisani Law, Mr. Schisani decided to take on the exciting challenge of starting his own law firm. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs and having a business degree from Florida State University, this was a personal objective and passion Mr. Schisani aspired to accomplish one day—having his own business. Thus, in October of 2021, the Schisani Law Firm, P.A. was established.. Mr. Schisani has handled thousands of felony and misdemeanor cases in the great state of Florida. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Schisani brings his knowledge from the other side of the law to methodically dissect and analyze the unique facts of each case to find the best possible defense and ultimately get the best result for his clients. He prides himself in putting the client first and providing personalized representation. Therefore, he strives to keep each client fully informed with their case and makes himself available as much as possible, including after hours and weekends. Mr. Schisani believes a successful defense team is one that is aggressive, strategic, hardworking, and with the client in mind. He strongly believes he demonstrates all those characteristics, and attributes that to his firm’s successes.. Mr. Schisani is a proud member of The Florida Bar, Orange County Bar Association, and the Central Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.. If you have any questions or want to set up a free consultation, please e-mail Mr. Schisani at or call the Schisani Law Firm, P.A. at.

As a fourth generation Floridian, Jacob was born and raised in Central Florida and continues to have strong ties to Central Florida and its family of Communities. In the course of his career, Jacob has tried over one-hundred thirty (130) jury trials, from beginning to end, earning a reputation as a successful and tireless advocate for his clients. Jacob also has extensive experience in political and government affairs, with this knowledge helping guide clients through the often cumbersome local, state, and federal regulations and governmental entities. Jacob’s clients have ranged from Fortune 50 Companies to high school students and everyone in between.. Jacob received the designation as a 2017 & 2020 “Florida Legal Elite Up and Comer" in the latest Florida Trend. Florida Legal Elite is a designation given to attorneys who meet the highest standard of excellence as determined by peer nominations and review by a blue-ribbon panel of lawyers and judges. This state-wide annual recognition is given to those, "Respected by their peers for excellence in law, these attorneys under 40 years old represent the future of the legal profession in Florida." Jacob’s has also been recognized a “Rising Star” By Super Lawyers for the past three years, 2015-2020. Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. This designation is only awarded to 2.5% of the over 100,000 lawyers in Florida.. In most situations, Jacob V. Stuart, P.A.’s advice is to avoid any media interaction. In some cases, however, the media can be used as a partner to garner support and allow the client’s message to be heard in the public arena. As result, Jacob Stuart, Jr. has been featured in the Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, CNN, ABC NEWS, New York Post, Chicago Tribune, TIME, Daily Mail, VICE, Buzzfeed, Atlanta Journal Constitution, USA TODAY, and the Orlando Sentinel.. Jacob is married to Katie Stuart, who is a trauma nurse at Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital in Orlando, Florida. Together they have three beautiful children, Emma, Savannah, and Jacob, III.

As a former prosecutor, Albert Maradona Behzadi has the experience and passion to zealously defend, advise and protect the constitutional rights of his clients. From the initial consultation and throughout the representation until the case is closed, Albert is a champion for justice.. Before embarking on a career as a criminal defense attorney, Albert gained valuable experience as an Assistant State Attorney (ASA), in both the 9th Judicial Circuit and in the 18th Judicial Circuit. As an ASA, Albert served an active leadership role in the courtroom, managing high caseloads, litigating complex legal issues, meticulously preparing for trial, conducting extensive legal research, and ultimately successfully winning many cases. Albert has practiced before numerous judges in Orange and Brevard Counties. Throughout his time as an ASA, Albert was able to maintain an excellent working relationship with defense attorneys, while tenaciously negotiating the best outcome for the victim, the State and the accused. He is a strong believer in rehabilitative programs for those who qualify.. Prior to becoming a lawyer, Albert earned his B.S. degree in Sports Management and his M.B.A. degree in International Business from Florida Southern College. After receiving his M.B.A, Albert attended law school and graduated from Barry University School of Law, where he graduated with honors. While studying law at Barry University, Albert received book awards for earning the highest grades in two of his courses. While in law school, Albert worked at Morgan & Morgan in the intake department, where he also gained valuable experience. Albert is passionate about defending his clients and ensuring that they receive personalized and effective representation.. Outside of the courtroom, Albert is an avid sports fan, having played soccer himself throughout high school and college. His love of soccer continues through his coaching of youth soccer. Albert’s family values of working hard and striving for excellence are deeply rooted. His love of family extends also to all animals and he is devoted to his shibu/corgi puppy Tori.. Albert’s years of well-rounded experience and knowledge of the law and the Florida legal system, can be an important and determinative factor in your criminal case. If you seek an attorney who will zealously defend you against the smallest to the most serious of criminal charges, you should call for a consultation.

As a Florida Board Certified Criminal Trial Specialist, I have the practical skill, knowledge, and experience to give you the expert defense you deserve.  I am dedicated to my client's defense.  Remember, ONLY Board Certified lawyers can describe themselves as an "Expert" in an area of law!. When you are charged with a crime, your lawyer's trial experience, knowledge, and qualifications can be the deciding factor in your successful defense.. I have 26+ years of courtroom experience; 9 and a half years as a Prosecutor, 10+ years as a defense lawyer, and 6 years service as a FORMER County Judge (January 6, 2009 to January 5, 2015).. As a Florida Bar Association Board Certified Criminal Trial Specialist, my unique qualifications, experience, and trial skills are your best offense in mounting your legal defense.. For potential clients not familiar with Florida Bar Board Certification or Board Certified lawyers, please visit The Florida Bar website to learn more about this special and advanced certification.. Initial Consultation is free of charge.  Payment terms / options are negotiable.

Alisia Mary Adamson, Esq. was recognized as “The Nation’s Best Advocate” by the National Bar Association and IMPACT at its National Top 40 Lawyers Under 40 awards ceremony in July, 2012. Attorney Adamson is a partner at Hylton Adamson Watson, PLLC and specializes in criminal defense. Ms. Adamson serves as a legal analyst for several national and local news stations and is one of the “legal experts” for CFNews13 commentating on various legal issues, most recently covering the Trayvon Martin case.Attorney Adamson has represented clients in over 50 jury trials, including misdemeanor and felony cases. Prior to founding HAWM Law, she was a trial attorney with the Ninth Judicial Circuit of the Office of the Public Defender, zealously defending clients with a wide range of criminal matters. She left the Public Defender’s Office with reputation of taking cases to trial as opposed to forcing clients to enter into a plea. She developed wide-ranging expertise negotiating favorable outcomes for clients in difficult and complicated cases.Born and raised in Bradenton, Florida, Attorney Adamson has always encompassed a passion for helping others with her positive outlook and diligent work ethic. She graduated with her Bachelors in Science in Marketing from the Florida State University and continued her studies at FSU by receiving a Juris Doctorate from Florida State University, College of Law.. While in law school, Ms. Adamson served as Vice President and President as the Black Law Students Association (BLSA). As Vice President, Ms. Adamson helped the organization receive the title as Florida State University’s Organization of the Year. As President the subsequent year, Ms. Adamson started a College Student Division of BLSA, an organization which informs undergraduate students considering law school about the law school application process, life as a law student, the practice of law and other relevant knowledge about obtaining a law degree. As President of BLSA, Ms. Adamson served as a mentor to younger law students and undergraduate students and still mentors several college and law students today. As a law student, Ms. Adamson was selected by the Dean to serve on the Dean’s Kitchen Cabinet which allowed her to serve as the liaison between the faculty and the entire student body at the law school.During law school, Alisia Adamson was a Certified Legal Intern with the Public Interest Law Center. As an intern, Ms. Adamson served low income clients with a wide range of family law issues including dissolution of marriage, custody, visitation, injunctions against violence, paternity, modifications and contempt of court.. Attorney Alisia Adamson loves her alma mater and is a member of the Seminole Club of Greater Orlando. She serves on the executive board of the Young Lawyers Section for the Orange County Bar Association as the Co-Chair of the Backpack project (a school supplies drive for the one of Central Florida's most economically disadvantaged schools). Ms. Adamson proudly coaches basketball for 3rd and 4th graders and dedicates most of her weekends to coaching and mentoring her team. Alisia is also a Title I sponsor with the Orange County Public School System and spends time speaking to youth at various schools about knowing their rights and staying out of the criminal justice system. Ms. Adamson mentors several law students and recently attended the 2012 NBLSA Annual Convention and served as a panelist for the “Hang your Own Shingle” seminar talking to law students about the steps to starting their own practice. She is also a member of the Central Florida Association for Women Lawyers. Attorney Adamson was recently awarded the Unsung Hero Award by H.Y.P.E. (helping young people excel) for her dedication and commitment to her community.

Aggressive, Protective, and Effective. These are the words that have been used to describe Mr. Kaigle's approach to defending his clients.. Mr. Kaigle was born and raised in Orlando, Florida. After graduating from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor's Degree, he enrolled in the University of Florida Levin College of Law and earned his Juris Doctorate.. After graduating from law school and passing the Florida Bar, Mr. Kaigle accepted a position at the Office of the Public Defender in Orlando, Florida. Handling thousands of misdemeanor and felony cases, Mr. Kaigle quickly developed a reputation of being an aggressive trial lawyer and was promoted to the felony division in less than a year. During his time at the Public Defender's Office, Mr. Kaigle had the opportunity to handle virtually every type of crime.. Today, Mr. Kaigle continues to aggressively represent those accused of crimes in both misdemeanor and felony court. His dedication, trial experience, and no-nonsense attitude make him a true advocate for his clients.

After working as an Assistant Public Defender for 3 years following graduation from law school, I opened my own firm which has now been in existence for the past 26 years. I handle exclusively family law matters and criminal cases. I represent clients on all types of criminal charges, as well as divorces (both contested and uncontested), same sex divorces, paternity, child support, child custody, step-parent adoption, modifications, and guardianships.

After serving in the US Army as a Russian language qualified signals intelligence analyst,I recieved my degree in Russian language and Literature at Fromthere,I attended St.Thomas U Law School in Miami. My First semester, I tied for Top student in my class, and won the 1L Moot Court competition.. From then on, I concentrated on legal internships. I worked for the Hon. Lenore Nesbitt, in Federal Court in Miami. The next year I interned at the Miami Federal Defenders Office, I was fortunate to working under the supervision of Paul Rashkind, one of the most brilliant criminal defense lawyers in the United States.. For my first paid legal job, I worked at the Orange County Public Defenders office. After four years, I left and formed my own law firm.. It is my belief that it is a great privilege to defend the US Constitution, and my clients. I have gone to trial hundreds of times, and stand by ready for trial at any time

Above all else, I believe in the Constitution and in a person's right to be represented by a capable lawyer during what may be one of his or her most difficult times in life. Whether you are facing criminal charges or an allegation of professional misconduct, I focus on finding a solution that meets your current needs while also protecting your future.. When charged with a crime or accused of professional misconduct, don't accept a plea offer or settlement agreement until you speak with a qualified attorney. I protect my clients by pursuing a resolution that will put them in the best possible position for their future. Many issues can be resolved amicably with the government's lawyers. However, if a hearing or trial is necessary, my experience and skill in the courtroom will put you in the best possible position to achieve your goals.

"I have handled jury trials, ranging from misdemeanors to capital felonies, including cases where the State was seeking the penalty of death." Practices in Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties for the following: Drug Offenses Homicide Sex Offenses Burglary and Property Crimes Robbery and Theft Cases Firearms and Weapons Offenses Trespass and Criminal Mischief Prostitution Assault and Battery Domestic Violence Traffic Offenses Violations of Probation Sealing and Expungement Juvenile Offenses "I took an oath the day I became an attorney to support the Constitution. Under the Constitution you have a right to a speedy tial by an impartial jury. You have the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. You have the right to remain silent. You have the right to due process of law. No warant shall be issued without probable cause. No bail shall be excessive. No cruel and unusual punishments shall be imposed. You have the right to counsel."- Patricia A. Cashman Member of Florida Bar since 1984 Criminal Defense Attorney my entire career Opened my own firm in 2001 Graduate of University of Florida Member of National Association of Crminial Defense Lawyers Adjunct Professor at University of Central Florida since 1993 AV rated (highest rating) by Martindale Hubbell Authored Guide to Criminal Law for Florida