The law firm of Cotton & Gates, Attorneys at Law, has provided high-quality service and representation to people in Okaloosa County and Northwest Florida since 1976. Our lawyers have a well-earned reputation for their strong advocacy skills and ability to obtain results for people facing serious legal problems involving criminal, family, real estate, estate planning and probate issues.

Ricky Dayaram began his career as an Assistant Public Defender in the First Judicial Circuit in Okaloosa County. As an Assistant Public Defender for three and a half years, Ricky has defended hundreds of clients involving charges from misdemeanors to felonies that are punishable by life in prison. Ricky has experience in several areas of criminal law including: Assault & Battery, DUI, Drug Possession, Drug Trafficking or Sale, Sexual Offenses including Sexual Battery and Lewd or Lascivious Molestation of Children, Weapons & Firearms offenses, Burglary, Robbery, Thefts, and Violations of Probations/Community Control. Ricky’s time as an Assistant Public Defender afforded him the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the criminal justice system to aggressively represent his clients. Ricky also represents clients in civil litigation matters, including personal injury, family law, business litigation and contract disputes. Ricky is admitted to District Court of the Northern District of Florida.