Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Florida
Selecting the right criminal defense lawyer in Florida is crucial for your case. This page reviews 20 top attorneys and law firms to help you make an informed decision.
The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A. specializes in criminal defense in Pembroke Pines, Florida, emphasizing proactive defense strategies and personalized client attention. Joshua S. Danz and his team focus on mitigating the immediate stress of criminal charges while strategically planning for long-term outcomes. Their approach combines thorough legal analysis with aggressive advocacy, tailored specifically to the nuances of each case.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking aggressive representation and personalized legal strategies in criminal defense.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for the lowest cost legal services or those needing legal assistance outside of criminal law.
Strengths
- +Enhanced personalized attention compared to larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates, which can lead to more tailored defense strategies.
- +Focuses exclusively on criminal law, providing a depth of expertise that general practice attorneys like Michael Perry may not offer.
- +Proactive defense strategies that prioritize early intervention, potentially reducing the severity of charges more effectively than firms with a more reactive approach.
Trade-offs
- –May lack the broader range of legal services offered by multi-specialty firms like Robert David Malove.
- –Potentially fewer resources compared to larger firms, which could affect very complex cases.
Trevena, Pontrello & Associates is a premier criminal defense law firm in St. Petersburg, Florida, specializing in a wide range of criminal law issues from DUI to more serious felony charges. With a client-centered approach, the firm prides itself on its strong negotiation skills and deep expertise in criminal law, ensuring personalized and proactive defense strategies for each client.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking aggressive representation in complex criminal cases.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for the lowest cost option in criminal defense.
Strengths
- +Specializes exclusively in criminal law, providing more focused expertise compared to general practice attorneys like Michael Perry.
- +Client-centered approach ensures personalized strategies that stand out against more process-driven firms like The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
- +Recognized for strong negotiation skills, often achieving favorable outcomes before trial, unlike firms with a primary focus on litigation.
Trade-offs
- –As a specialized criminal defense firm, may not provide the breadth of legal services found in larger, multi-disciplinary firms like Robert David Malove.
- –May have higher costs compared to budget-focused practitioners such as Alex Jean.
Alex Jean is a distinguished Criminal Defense attorney in Pompano Beach, Florida, specializing in DUI, drug offenses, theft, and violent crimes. He is recognized for his dynamic courtroom presence and tailors his approach to each client's unique circumstances. His thorough understanding of criminal law sets him apart in crafting strategic defenses that address the intricate details of each case.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking a personalized and aggressive defense in criminal cases.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for low-cost legal services.
Strengths
- +Alex Jean's strong courtroom presence often outshines competitors like Robert David Malove, known for his persuasive trial strategies.
- +Provides more personalized client service compared to larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates.
- +Possesses a more comprehensive grasp of local criminal law nuances than regional practitioners such as The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
Trade-offs
- –While highly effective in serious criminal cases, might be less accessible than attorneys like Michael Perry who focus on a broader range of legal services.
- –More focused on criminal law, which might not suit clients needing multi-disciplinary legal assistance like those served by Angelique Kelley.
Robert David Malove is a dedicated criminal defense attorney based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, specializing in a wide range of criminal law areas from DUI to serious felonies. Known for his commanding courtroom presence and meticulous attention to client needs, Malove tailors his defense strategies to the unique circumstances of each case. His deep understanding of criminal justice nuances sets him apart, ensuring thorough representation.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking aggressive courtroom representation and personalized legal strategies in criminal defense.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for low-cost legal services or those outside the criminal defense realm.
Strengths
- +Stronger courtroom presence compared to peers such as Alex Jean and Angelique Kelley, enhancing client representation in trial settings.
- +Offers more personalized client attention than larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates, focusing on individual case details.
- +Possesses extensive experience in a broad spectrum of criminal law, which provides a strategic advantage over specialists in more narrow fields like Michael Perry.
Trade-offs
- –Higher cost of services compared to budget-focused firms like The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
- –Less focus on civil litigation or non-criminal cases compared to multi-disciplinary firms.
Michael Perry is a dedicated criminal defense attorney in Venice, Florida, specializing in a range of criminal law areas from DUIs to more severe felony charges. His practice is marked by a client-centered approach, emphasizing strong analytical skills and efficient communication. Perry's commitment to a deep understanding of the law and a tailored defense strategy distinguishes him in a competitive field.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking personalized and analytical legal defense in criminal cases.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for low-cost legal services.
Strengths
- +Offers more personalized attention compared to larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates.
- +Stronger focus on client communication than Angelique Kelley, ensuring clients are well-informed at every step.
- +Greater emphasis on analytical detail in case strategy than Alex Jean.
Trade-offs
- –Less experience in high-profile cases compared to Robert David Malove.
- –Smaller firm size may limit resources compared to The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
Angelique Kelley is a distinguished Criminal Defense attorney in Saint Augustine, Florida, known for her adept advocacy and personalized client approaches. She excels in developing legal strategies specifically tailored to the unique needs of each client, powered by her deep understanding of criminal law. Her practice emphasizes direct and effective communication, ensuring clients are well-informed and supported throughout their legal journeys.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking a tailored defense strategy with a personal touch in criminal law cases.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for low-cost, high-volume legal representation.
Strengths
- +Compared to larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates, Angelique Kelley offers more personalized and detailed attention to each case.
- +Her ability to communicate complex legal concepts in an understandable way sets her apart from peers like Alex Jean.
- +Strong advocacy skills that provide a significant edge in negotiating favorable outcomes for clients.
Trade-offs
- –Less equipped with resources compared to larger firms such as The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
- –Might have limited availability for new clients during peak times due to the personalized approach.
Stephen Joseph Ryan is a dedicated Criminal Defense attorney in Okaloosa County, Florida, specializing in a broad spectrum of criminal offenses from misdemeanors to serious felonies. His approach is marked by a strong advocacy for his clients and a deep understanding of criminal law nuances, which enables him to effectively navigate complex legal challenges. Stephen's communicative prowess ensures that his clients are well-informed and prepared throughout their defense process.
Best For
Best for individuals facing serious felony charges who value a lawyer with strong advocacy and in-depth legal knowledge.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients seeking low-cost representation or minor legal advice.
Strengths
- +Compared to peers like Robert David Malove, Stephen's advocacy skills are particularly strong, making him adept at handling high-stakes felony cases.
- +His in-depth knowledge of criminal law sets him apart from local firms such as Trevena, Pontrello & Associates, especially in complex legal interpretations.
- +Stephen's effective communication skills ensure clients are well-informed, contrasting with firms like The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A., where client communication may vary.
Trade-offs
- –While highly skilled in felony defense, his services may be costlier compared to budget-focused firms like Michael Perry.
- –His focused approach on serious criminal cases might not cater to those with minor legal needs or seeking general legal counsel.
Carlos E. Gonzalez is a seasoned Criminal Defense attorney based in Kendall, Florida, specializing in handling felonies, misdemeanors, and federal charges. His approach emphasizes strong advocacy and a deep understanding of criminal law, tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Gonzalez stands out for his client-centered strategy and dedication to achieving the best outcomes.
Best For
Best for individuals facing serious criminal charges who value personalized legal representation.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients seeking low-cost or pro bono services.
Strengths
- +Compared to larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates, Carlos E. Gonzalez offers more personalized attention due to his focused practice area.
- +His in-depth knowledge of local criminal law provides an advantage over non-specialized practitioners like Alex Jean.
- +Strong advocacy skills set him apart from general practice attorneys, ensuring a robust defense in complex cases.
Trade-offs
- –Less breadth in legal services compared to multi-specialty firms like The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
- –Might have fewer resources than larger, multi-attorney firms like Robert David Malove.
Bennett Asbury Hutson is a dedicated Criminal Defense attorney based in High Springs, Florida, focusing on providing personalized legal representation to clients facing criminal charges. His practice is grounded in a deep understanding of criminal law, combined with strong negotiation skills, which enables him to effectively defend his clients' rights. Hutson's approach to each case is tailored to the individual needs of his clients, ensuring they receive the most competent and attentive legal support.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking personalized and strategic criminal defense in High Springs, Florida.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for low-cost legal services or those outside of the criminal law spectrum.
Strengths
- +Compared to larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates, Hutson offers more personalized attention due to his focused practice area.
- +Strong negotiation skills set him apart from peers, such as The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A., enhancing his ability to secure favorable outcomes.
- +His deep knowledge of criminal law provides a significant advantage over general practitioners like Michael Perry.
Trade-offs
- –Smaller practice may lack the resources of larger firms like Robert David Malove, potentially affecting very complex cases.
- –Geographic focus on High Springs could limit accessibility for clients from other regions compared to more centrally located practices like Alex Jean.
John W. Moser is a dedicated criminal defense attorney based in Palm Bay, Florida, specializing in a broad spectrum of criminal law cases from misdemeanors to serious felonies. He is known for his meticulous case preparation and strong advocacy skills, ensuring each client receives personalized attention. His approach focuses on a deep understanding of the law combined with strategic, client-focused defense strategies.
Best For
Best for individuals facing serious felony charges who value thorough preparation and personalized legal representation.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for low-cost legal solutions or minor legal consultations.
Strengths
- +Compared to others like The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A., Moser's personalized client attention ensures a deeper commitment to individual case details.
- +Moser's advocacy skills are particularly strong in serious felony cases, offering a more robust defense in complex legal battles than firms such as Trevena, Pontrello & Associates.
- +His thorough case preparation sets him apart from attorneys like Michael Perry, who may focus more broadly on various areas of law.
Trade-offs
- –His focus on serious felonies means less emphasis on lesser misdemeanors compared to firms like Alex Jean.
- –While highly skilled, the personalized attention can lead to a smaller client roster, which might limit availability compared to larger firms like Robert David Malove's practice.
Bryan McCarthy is a dedicated Criminal Defense attorney in Brevard County, Florida, specializing in crafting personalized legal strategies for a wide range of criminal cases. His approach to client service combines a deep understanding of criminal law with strong advocacy skills, ensuring that each client's rights are vigorously defended. McCarthy stands out through his tailored case handling and strategic defenses.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking personalized and aggressive criminal defense strategies in Brevard County.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for low-cost legal services or representation in non-criminal matters.
Strengths
- +Offers more personalized legal strategies compared to larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates
- +Greater focus on individual advocacy than multi-practice firms such as The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
- +Deeper specialization in criminal law compared to general practitioners like Alex Jean
Trade-offs
- –May have fewer resources than larger firms like Robert David Malove
- –Less experience with high-profile cases compared to specialists like Michael Perry
Attorney Dennis Gonzalez Jr. specializes in criminal defense in Miami Gardens, Florida, focusing on delivering strong courtroom performances and tailored client services. His deep understanding of criminal law ensures that each case is handled with the utmost diligence and precision. Gonzalez stands out for his ability to connect personally with clients, guiding them through their legal challenges with compassion and clarity.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking personalized legal representation in criminal defense with a strong courtroom advocate.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for low-cost legal services or large, multi-practice law firms.
Strengths
- +Stronger courtroom presence compared to local peers like Alex Jean and Michael Perry, enhancing client representation during trials
- +More personalized service than larger firms such as Trevena, Pontrello & Associates, focusing on individual client needs and case specifics
- +Specific expertise in criminal law provides a depth of knowledge that may surpass general practice attorneys like The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
Trade-offs
- –Smaller practice may have less overall resources compared to larger firms like Robert David Malove
- –Focus strictly on criminal law might limit options for clients needing additional legal services beyond criminal defense
Richard Scott Jackson is a dedicated Criminal Defense attorney based in Deland, Florida, specializing in a range of criminal law matters from misdemeanors and felonies to DUI cases. His approach emphasizes strong advocacy and personalized client service, ensuring that each case is handled with a deep understanding of criminal law nuances. Jackson's commitment to individualized strategies sets him apart in the legal community.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking a personalized defense strategy in criminal law matters.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for low-cost legal services or large-scale corporate criminal defense.
Strengths
- +Stronger personalized client approach compared to larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates
- +More focused expertise in DUI cases compared to generalists like Michael Perry
- +Deeper local legal system knowledge than non-local competitors such as Robert David Malove
Trade-offs
- –Less equipped for corporate or white-collar criminal defense compared to specialists like Alex Jean
- –Smaller scale operation may limit resource availability compared to larger firms like The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
Aaron Watson is a dedicated Criminal Defense attorney in Escambia County, Florida, with a focus on criminal law. He excels in crafting defense strategies that are both thoughtful and tailored to the unique circumstances of each client. His practice is distinguished by his strong negotiation skills and deep understanding of criminal law nuances, ensuring thorough and effective representation.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking personalized legal representation in criminal defense with a strong emphasis on negotiation.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients seeking low-cost legal services or those outside of Escambia County.
Strengths
- +Exhibits stronger negotiation skills compared to peers like Robert David Malove, enhancing plea deal possibilities.
- +Offers more personalized attention than larger firms such as Trevena, Pontrello & Associates, ensuring a tailored defense.
- +Possesses a deeper focus on criminal law than general practice attorneys like Alex Jean, leading to more specialized knowledge.
Trade-offs
- –Less diverse in practice areas compared to The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A., which might limit options for clients with multifaceted legal issues.
- –May have less capacity for rapid case handling compared to larger teams like Michael Perry's.
Christopher Parker-Cyrus, based in Alachua County, Florida, specializes in criminal defense, adeptly handling a spectrum of criminal charges. His analytical prowess and effective communication skills ensure that each client receives a tailored defense strategy, grounded in a deep understanding of the legal intricacies. Parker-Cyrus's client-focused approach sets him apart, prioritizing the unique needs and outcomes for each case.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking personalized and analytical defense strategies in criminal cases.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for low-cost legal solutions or high-volume case management.
Strengths
- +Stronger focus on individual case handling compared to high-volume firms like Robert David Malove, ensuring personalized attention.
- +Exceptional analytical skills that provide a nuanced approach to complex legal issues, standing out from generalist practices such as The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
- +Dedicated client communication, surpassing larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates in fostering client understanding and involvement.
Trade-offs
- –Higher engagement depth may lead to higher costs compared to budget-focused firms like Michael Perry.
- –Focused mainly on criminal law, which might limit cross-disciplinary insights compared to multi-practice attorneys like Alex Jean.
Michael Alan Cohen is a dedicated Criminal Defense attorney based in Davie, Florida, adept at handling a spectrum of criminal cases, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. His practice is characterized by tailored legal strategies and a deep understanding of criminal law, ensuring rigorous defense for each client. Cohen's approach to client service is personal and proactive, focusing on strong advocacy and strategic planning to navigate complex legal challenges.
Best For
Best for individuals facing serious felony charges who need customized defense strategies.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients seeking low-cost legal representation or those with minor legal issues.
Strengths
- +Offers more personalized legal strategies compared to larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates.
- +Stronger focus on advocacy than attorneys like Alex Jean, ensuring vigorous representation in court.
- +Possesses a more in-depth specialization in criminal law compared to general practitioners like Michael Perry.
Trade-offs
- –Might have fewer resources than larger firms such as The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
- –Less experience in handling a wide variety of legal services compared to multi-specialty attorneys like Robert David Malove.
Preston J. Scheiner is a dedicated Criminal Defense attorney based in Immokalee, Florida, specializing in DUI and serious criminal offenses. His approach combines deep local legal knowledge with strong negotiation skills, ensuring effective courtroom representation. Scheiner's commitment to client service and his strategic defense tactics make him a distinguished choice in Florida's legal community.
Best For
Best for individuals facing serious criminal charges who need experienced courtroom representation.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients seeking low-cost legal solutions.
Strengths
- +More focused on DUI and serious criminal offenses compared to broader practice areas at firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates.
- +Stronger emphasis on negotiation skills which can be pivotal in reducing charges or penalties.
- +Provides highly personalized service, often more so than larger firms like The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
Trade-offs
- –Less diversity in practice areas compared to firms like Robert David Malove who covers a broader spectrum of criminal defense cases.
- –Potentially higher costs due to the personalized and intensive approach to case handling.
Jenna Cyra Finkelstein is a dedicated criminal defense attorney based in Clearwater, Florida, specializing in a wide range of criminal law cases from DUIs to serious felonies. Unlike larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates, Jenna provides personalized attention to each case, ensuring thorough preparation and strong litigation strategies. Her ability to communicate effectively with clients and courts sets her apart in the competitive landscape of criminal defense.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking personalized and aggressive criminal defense in Clearwater, Florida.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients looking for a large team-based defense approach like that offered by larger firms such as The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
Strengths
- +Offers more personalized case handling compared to larger firms such as Trevena, Pontrello & Associates, ensuring detailed attention to legal strategies.
- +Known for exceptional litigation skills that often surpass those of peers like Alex Jean, particularly in complex trial scenarios.
- +Prioritizes effective client communication, standing out in a field where direct client interaction is often less emphasized, such as in the practices of Michael Perry.
Trade-offs
- –Smaller practice size may limit resources compared to multi-attorney firms like Robert David Malove.
- –May not offer the same breadth of legal specialties as larger, more diversified practices.
Jeremy Lasnetski is a dedicated Criminal Defense attorney in Deltona, Florida, focusing on providing vigorous legal representation to individuals accused of crimes. He excels in applying his strong analytical skills to complex legal issues and offers highly personalized client attention that distinguishes him from larger practices. His thorough understanding of criminal law ensures a robust defense tailored to the specifics of each case.
Best For
Best for individuals seeking personalized legal representation in criminal defense with a focus on thorough analysis and strategy.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for those seeking low-cost legal services or representation in non-criminal legal matters.
Strengths
- +Strong analytical abilities that provide a strategic advantage in complex criminal cases, setting him apart from practices like Alex Jean and Michael Perry.
- +Higher level of personalized client attention compared to larger firms such as Trevena, Pontrello & Associates.
- +Deep, specialized knowledge of criminal law not as pronounced in general practice attorneys like The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A.
Trade-offs
- –Potentially higher costs compared to less specialized or smaller practices due to the depth of personalized and analytical approach.
- –Limited scope of practice exclusively to criminal law, unlike multi-specialty firms like Robert David Malove.
Greater Tampa Law P.L. specializes in criminal defense in Riverview, Florida. Their approach combines a deep expertise in criminal law with client-centered legal strategies and thorough case investigations. This firm stands out for its dedicated focus on criminal charges and a personalized approach to each case, ensuring that clients receive the most effective defense possible.
Best For
Best for individuals facing complex criminal charges who require meticulous case preparation and personalized defense strategies.
May Not Suit
May not be the best fit for clients seeking low-cost legal services or those needing legal assistance outside of criminal law.
Strengths
- +Greater focus on criminal law than general practice competitors like The Law Offices of Joshua S. Danz, P.A., providing a more specialized defense.
- +Client-centered strategies offer more personalized legal services compared to larger firms like Trevena, Pontrello & Associates.
- +Exceptional emphasis on thorough case investigations can lead to more favorable outcomes for clients compared to broader service firms.
Trade-offs
- –May be more expensive compared to less specialized practices due to its focused expertise and extensive investigations.
- –Limited to criminal law, which might not cater to potential clients needing additional legal services in areas like family or civil law.
How We Rank
Attorneys listed here are sourced from multiple professional directories including BestLawyers.com and Justia.
Our editorial rankings consider directory presence, practice area specialization, geographic coverage, and available client feedback.
Rankings are editorial in nature and do not constitute an endorsement. We encourage you to verify all credentials with your state bar association.
What to Look For
When choosing a criminal defense lawyer in Florida, consider their experience and specialization in your specific type of case. Assess their communication style to ensure they're responsive and clear. Review their fee structure and track record of success in court to gauge their effectiveness.
Key Takeaways
Select a lawyer with relevant experience and a solid track record. Consider their communication style and fee structure to ensure they meet your needs.
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Rankings and editorial scores are based on publicly available information including directory data, practice focus, and experience indicators. This is not legal advice. Please verify all details directly with attorneys before making hiring decisions.
Last updated: March 31, 2026