Michael Misa | Tampa Criminal Lawyer

• Hillsborough County Bar Association
• Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Florida Bar
• National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Federal Bar Association for the Middle District of Florida
• The Law Enforcement Network
• St. Thomas Law Alumni Association
• National Institute for Trial Advocacy
• Million Dollar Trial Lawyers
• Hispanic Issues and Demographics
• Florida Workers Compensation

• Book award for trial clinic, St.Thomas Law School Trial Clinic ()
  1992

I was able to help a law abiding citizen win his Stand Your Ground Defense when accused of Battery against a resident who came to his Construction site to argue over parking. the initial unlawful touching was by the resident which allowed my client to defend himself. He was exonerated at trial by the Judge who agreed it was a lawful use of the Stand Your Ground Defense.

I built my practice by caring for the law and my clients rights. I listen intently to the facts of every case and personally handle the matter until its conclusion. That has resulted in a word of mouth referral base.

Clients should look for competent representation in whatever legal matter they have. The attorney must be able to maintain a good line of communication as to how the case is progressing and how they stand in any new revelations that may come.

It is imperative that the lawyer know what the local rules and procedures are to avoid waste of resources and poor outcomes. A lawyer must be able to ethically negotiate all situations to the advantage of their client.

I spend a lot of time reviewing the abstract facts of a client's case before setting their appointment. I do that to best advise that client if I am the right attorney for their particular case. Many times it results in the client getting witness names or addresses and potential video which may be lost if not preserved immediately.

I need relevant contact information such as telephone and e-mail, facts surrounding their case i.e what, when, where, how and why.

I am different because of my experience. I spent 10+ years in law enforcement as a K-9 handler, Narcotics and Organized Crime Detective in the Tampa Bay area. I have been assigned to several Federal Task force operations and was involved in a 9,000 lbs. seizure of cocaine in Pinellas county. I know what law enforcement does and what they do wrong, which can be crucial in criminal defense work and personal injury/accident reconstruction, which I also practice.

I enjoy an immense satisfaction seeing justice done for my client. Many times it is obvious that my client either did not commit a crime or if they did, they are not and should not be punished as recommended by the State Attorney. When you receive an acquittal or reduction of charge you know you did something special for your client.

I am an avid scuba diver and boater. I like to travel and explore new oceans and lands when time permits.

I am active in my community and do charitable contributions as my means permit. I am involved in bringing change to United State policy on Cuba. In 2002 I participated in a trip to Cuba with former Mayor of Tampa, Dick Greco and had policy discussions with then President Fidel Castro. I remain committed to improved relations between our countries.