Every arrest brings uncertainty and fear. In Florida’s complex justice system, you need a law firm with proven trial skills and deep local knowledge. This guide spotlights the seven best criminal defense practices in Florida.
You’ll learn each firm’s unique strengths, from former‑prosecutor insight to 24/7 availability and specialized practice areas. Let’s get started.
7 Best Criminal Law Firms in Florida
The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates
In downtown Orlando, Corey I. Cohen leads a team of former public defenders and state prosecutors. With decades of courtroom experience, they navigate both state and federal charges.
Their bilingual staff speaks Spanish and Arabic, ensuring clear communication. The firm offers free initial consultations, flexible payment plans, and fights everything from DUI to serious felonies. Location across from Lake Eola makes client visits simple and stress‑free.
Call: (407) 680-2093
Address: 21 Park Lake St, Orlando, FL 32803
Meltzer & Bell, P.A.
Serving Palm Beach and South Florida, Meltzer & Bell combines over 500 jury trials of experience. Founders Lawrence Meltzer and Steven Bell are ex‑prosecutors who now apply insider knowledge to defense.
Their client‑driven approach ensures partners are on call day or night. From DUI and drug crimes to violent offenses and appeals, they leave no stone unturned. Offices in West Palm Beach, Fort Pierce, Stuart and Miami‑Dade offer broad coverage.
Call: (561) 557-8686
Address: 1601 Forum Pl #204, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
The Umansky Firm, P.A.
Founded by former state prosecutors William and Zahra Umansky, this Orlando‑based practice boasts over 100 years of combined experience. They emphasize a team approach, offering personalized attention and aggressive representation.
Whether you face DUI, sex crimes, violent felonies or civil injury claims, their deep state‑court insight anticipates prosecution strategies. Multiple Central Florida offices and free consultations make them accessible to every community.
The Ansara Law Firm
Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Richard Ansara’s firm focuses exclusively on criminal defense in Broward, Miami‑Dade and Palm Beach counties. Ansara, a member of state and national trial lawyer associations, handles everything from juvenile charges to white‑collar offenses.
The firm offers 24/7 availability, meticulous evidence review, plea‑bargain negotiation and record expungement services. Clients value the clear guidance and respect they receive throughout the process.
Call: (954) 761-4011
Address: 800 SE 3rd Ave #410, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Morris Law Firm, P.A.
Based in St. Petersburg, Melinda Morris brings former‑prosecutor acumen to Tampa Bay. Serving Pinellas, Hillsborough and surrounding counties, the firm handles felonies, misdemeanors, DUI, drug charges, juvenile cases, and expungements.
Free initial consultations and 24/7 attorney access ensure you never face charges alone. Their prosecutorial background guides strategic defense planning focused on minimizing impact and securing the best outcome.
Call: (727) 592-5885
Address: 111 2nd Ave NE #515, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Law Office of Michael Mirer, P.A.
Michael Mirer, a former Miami‑Dade Assistant State Attorney, runs a solo practice focused on criminal and federal matters. Located on Biscayne Boulevard in Miami, his trial‑tested approach tackles drug offenses, violent crimes, white‑collar cases and federal felonies.
The firm offers round‑the‑clock consultations and zero‑cost case reviews. Mirer’s deep local ties and relentless preparation give clients a formidable defense team even in high‑stakes federal cases.
Call: (305) 570-4161
Address: 100 Biscayne Blvd #1300, Miami, FL 33132
Moses & Rooth Criminal Defense Lawyers
Orlando’s Moses & Rooth pairs Andrew Moses and Jay R. Rooth, both former prosecutors, with 36 years of combined trial experience. They defend clients in state and federal courts across Central Florida.
Practice areas span DUI, drug charges, domestic violence, sex crimes, and juvenile defense. Free case reviews, evening and weekend consultations and a client‑first mission ensure every detail is examined for your benefit.
Call: (407) 993-2269
Address: 115 Granada Ct A, Orlando, FL 32803
How to Choose the Right Criminal Defense Attorney
Selecting a defense lawyer is crucial. First, verify trial experience and courtroom record. Lawyers who were former prosecutors know how to counter state strategies. Next, ensure they handle your charge type, whether DUI, violent crime or federal offense.
Availability matters: 24/7 contact prevents missed deadlines and builds trust. Look for free initial consultations to assess fit without cost. Finally, prioritize clear communication and transparent fees. An attorney who explains each step calmly helps reduce stress and drives better results.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What should I ask during my free consultation?
Ask about trial records, typical defense strategies, case timelines and payment options. A strong attorney gives honest, direct answers.
Q: Can I switch lawyers after hiring one?
Yes. You have the right to change counsel at any time. Notify the court and your former attorney in writing.
Q: How much will my defense cost?
Fees vary by experience and case complexity. Many firms offer flexible payment plans. Clarify all costs upfront.
Q: Will my case go to trial?
Not always. Good defense can result in dropped charges or plea bargains. Trial may occur if negotiation options fail.
Q: How long does a typical criminal case take?
Minor cases can resolve in weeks. Felonies often take months due to investigations, motions and court schedules.