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Raymond Edward Forbess Sr.

Drug Crime Attorney at Jacksonville, FL

4.8   74 reviews
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  • State Years
    Dist. of Columbia - DC 20 years
    Florida - FL 23 years
  • Licensed for 20 years
    State DC
    Acquired 2003
    Status
    Good Standing No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 23 years
    State FL
    Acquired 2000
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Review of Raymond Forbess, SR.
JMJ
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
Thank
anonymous
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
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About Raymond

Learn Raymond’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    25%
    I practice all areas of Jacksonville Criminal Defense. Our Jacksonville Criminal Law Firm, defends Jacksonville DUI, Jacksonville Drug Crimes, Jacksonville Domestic Batteries, Jacksonville Gun Crimes, and all Jacksonville felonies and misdemeanors. Our Jacksonville Criminal Attorneys have defended thousands

    23 years, 3,000 cases

  2. Drug Crime
    25%

  3. DUI and DWI
    10%

  4. Domestic violence
    10%

  5. Sex crime
    10%

  6. Violent crime
    10%

    23 years, 500 cases

  7. Juvenile law
    5%
    Our firm has defended hundreds of juvenile cases. A juvenile case in North Florida, if serious enough in the mind of the designated state attorney, can, with one piece of paper, be turned in a case in adult felony court with corresponding adult punishment and lifelong damage to any career aspirations. The serious charges we defend in juvenile court are usually sex crimes, robberies and shootings.

    23 years, 200 cases

  8. Speeding and traffic ticket
    5%

 

 I happen to be a very strong believer and defender of the rights provided by our constitution.  I have carried a rifle on three continents as an Army officer.  My father was an Army officer and my younger son was an Army officer.  I believe the "rights" afforded by our constitution were a response by our founders to the earlier "wrongs" inflicted upon the British citizens.  Those of us who practice criminal law are actually practicing, to a large extent, constitutional law.  We have the best country and legal system in the world. Today certain Americans are deployed worldwide in dangerous situations to afford us the luxury of freedom and, as part of that freedom, we are able to enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

 

 

Contact Raymond

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The Forbess Law Firm
340 East Adams Street
Jacksonville, FL, 32202
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Reviews

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4.8 / 5.0
  74 customer reviews
5 Star
 
95%
4 Star
 
1%
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1 Star
 
4%
Posted by JMJ | May 7, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review of Raymond Forbess, SR.
When I needed legal representation, one of the best decisions I ever made was to call Ray Forbess, SR. He handled every aspect of my case diligently and professionally. He always responded promptly to questions, returned my calls and offered honest advice. The consequences of the case we're better than expected. I would strongly recommend Raymond Forbess and this law firm to anyone seeking legal representation. JMJ
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Posted by anonymous | April 29, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank
Raymond, I would highly recommend him. He was honest, sincere and made me feel at ease. He walks me through the whole legal process so I would totally understand the process. He is an attorney on your side, not looking for a payday. Great job. He is my attorney from now on. Thank You.
Posted by anonymous | March 6, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved my Son's life
I contacted Ray after my son was arrested for possession. He went to work right away, so my son knew he wasn't alone. He advised me what I had to do to save my son's life. It was hard but thank God I listened to him. He was able to get him into the Matrix system which changed my son's life. It has been 3 years and he is doing great. Thank you Ray and Ray, Jr. for everything.
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Posted by Jacqueline | February 2, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Attorney
Wonderful service, couldn’t be happier with results they are sincere and honest and would recommend them to anyone who needs help.
Posted by James | January 28, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Lawyer, very professional
Ray Sr. represented my grandson in a juvenile case. Ray was able to get my grandson probation instead of serving time which is generally the sentence in this type of case. He always answers the phone and explains things where you can understand them. Thanks Ray!!
Posted by R.H. | August 19, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional expertise, professionalism and service!
What an AWESOME firm! Ray Sr and Ray Jr are superb Attorneys with a strong focus on delivering their client's desired outcome. I was in need of legal expertise to stop a civil matter from legally escalating and perhaps turning into a criminal matter. These guys did exactly that and delivered perfect results. While yes they are no-nonsense they are very epathetic and effective and having never been through a legal proceeding before that was exactly what I needed. Job well done!!
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Posted by Ellie | November 21, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Stressed out mom
Not only was Mr. Forbess extremely professional but he returned all of my calls and was with me every step of the way. I would recommend him to anyone who is in need of the best criminal lawyer.
Posted by Samantha | August 18, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ray Forbess Sr. was great help!
I just want to start out by saying Thank you to everyone at the Law office of Ray Forbess Sr. especially Mr. Ray!!! From the very first phone call to this law firm and feeling stressed and anxiety from my schemes/fraudulent case. Mr. Ray had me feeling assured that I was going to be taking care of throughout the whole process. From all my phone calls to every piece of paperwork Ray was there helping me. Long story short he took care of my problem & I’m happy with my results I highly recommend Mr. Ray F. Sr to anyone who needs a great lawyer in Jacksonville Florida.
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Posted by anonymous | August 10, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Went the Extra Mile and then some!
Was very impressed with his service, but more importantly his genuine interest and advice to my 18 year old son. While the infraction was fairly minor, he took a great interest in leading him a direction which would not be detrimental to his future. He is not only a good attorney, but he cares about his clients and it shows.
Posted by anonymous | May 22, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great attorney
I was charged with felony in two counties in duval county I faced 5 years he got me 40 days without a felony conviction. And I had a 2nd felony in other case facing 15 years he got me probation. Mr Forbess keep me completely informed of what was going to happen step by step. He was even at the jail before I even got there. He checked on my daughter while I was in jail. And kept me from panicking through the process. He cares for his clients goes beyond anytime I called he personally returned my call himself. What the best thing about him and his son is they are honest and don’t sugar coat anything I was guilty and he treated me like a person not a pay check me and my daughter will never forget what his firm has done for us thank you Ray and Ray Jr
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Posted by Raymond | February 27, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
oustanding
Mr Forbess Sr. Was hired by me to keep my grandson from going to adult court for attempted murder charges. He successfully worked with the states attorney to reduce the charges and keep it all in juvenile court. He kept me well informed through the whole process by email and phone. Had one on one sessions with my grandson to ensure he was fully aware of what was going on. Professional, courteous and always on top of the case. Thanks doesn't say enough.
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Posted by Michael | January 28, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Concealed weapon charge
I got arrested on a concealed weapons charge. Ray gave me a free consultation before I hired him, he worked with me on the retainer fee and then he ended up getting the case thrown out. He's awesome, kept me up-to-date on every step of the case let me know my options up front and my options as the case progressed. Extremely kind and understanding during a time of uncertainty for me I greatly appreciate everything he has done and will always recommend him to anybody with a criminal charge. He is very flexible and fair on how much he charges plus he keeps you very well informed & he will never judge you on what you've been charged with. Most people I've ever dealt with look at you as guilty until proven innocent but Ray truly believes innocent until proven guilty.
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Posted by Marisa | November 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing
Ray is amazing . He knows what he's talking about . He helped me stay out of jail and gave me the best advice on fixing my case . I would HIGHLY recommend Raymond to any friends or family that needed a lawyer . He's punctual , on time , and knows his stuff !!
Posted by Wanda | August 17, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Orlando Court
Mr . Forbess Sr Has always been there for me and my Family when I have need him for my children. If I ever need him he is there for us. Thank you for everything
Posted by Lauren | August 9, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer in Jacksonville!
Mr. Forbess helped me through my traffic case from start to finish. It was my very first ticket and he made sure to answer every single one of my questions and keep me updated and informed throughout the whole process. Getting the ticket was a very stressful situation for me, letting Mr. Forbess handle it was the easiest choice I could've made! Thank you so much!
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Posted by Jessica | July 11, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding
Very professional. I was kept updated via email, phone and messaging. My case was handled quickly and I was very pleased with the results. I will be recommending him to everyone!
Posted by Mr. Jamie | July 10, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exemplary Attorney
If you can not afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you by a court of law. Don't trust your fate with a public defender. Hire the best. You can trust Raymond Forbess. I hired this attorney to defend a family member from what could have been a very serious charge. Raymond Forbess was instrumental in getting the charge dismissed almost immediately.
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Posted by Jean | May 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Professional and Knowledgeable
Mr. Forbess was very professional and knowledgeable about the the law. His firm was very courteous during my time of need and concluded my matter with a great result. I highly recommend Mr. Forbess and his firm.
Posted by greg | April 1, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Forbess Law
the Forbess law group was great. Ray handled my case promptly, was professional at all times. i would happily reccommend Ray and his son. no complaints whatsoever.
Posted by Nathaniel | February 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best man for the job
I couldn't be more pleased with the service Raymond provides. I was facing felony charges and a misdemeanor involving a weapon and Raymond took the case without hesitation. He does not hesitate to work on weekends and evenings. I had many questions due to this being my first time involved with the law and he answered everything I wanted or needed to know. I would recommend him to anyone especially a U.S Navy Veteran like myself.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 8.6 (Excellent)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • The Forbess Law Firm, PA
  • 2007 - Present
  • felony attorney/repeat offender court
  • public defenders office, 4th judicial circuit, florida
  • 2003 - 2006
  • special forces officer, company commander, 3/20th SFG(A)
  • united states army
  • 1990 - 1992
  • vice-president, owner
  • Center Office Products, Inc.
  • 1982 - 1996
View all work experience

Education

  • Florida Coastal School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1999
  • Florida State University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1978

Legal Cases

  • DOMESTIC BATTERY-DROPPED
  • CASE DROPPED
  • CHILD ABUSE-DROPPED
  • DROPPED AFTER MR. FORBESS PROVIDED INFORMATION TO THE STATE ATTORNEY
  • CHILD ABUSE-DROPPED
  • CASE DROPPED AFTER MR. FORBESS INVESTIGATED THE CASE AND MET WITH THE STATE ATTORNEY
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • The American Legion
  • member
  • 2007 - Present
  • veterans of foreign wars
  • member
  • 2007 - Present
  • United States Army Ranger Association
  • member
  • 2007 - Present
  • US Army Special Forces Association
  • member
  • 2007 - Present
  • District of Columbia Bar
  • member
  • 2003 - Present
  • United States District Court, Middle District of Florida
  • member of bar
  • 2001 - Present
  • The Florida Bar
  • member
  • 2000 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • member
  • 2000 - Present
  • Jacksonville Bar Association
  • member
  • 2000 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 3 Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Three Best Rated
  • 2019
  • editor of law review
  • florida coastal school of law
  • 1998

Speaking Engagements

  • guest speaker/lecturer
  • interviewing for attorneys
  • 2014
  • Lecture on World Ethics
  • ethics
  • 2005

Attorney endorsements

Received (17)
Given (12)
Endorse Raymond
Eric Chase Roberson headshot
Eric Roberson
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ray and I handled several cases together when I was a prosecutor. He was always able to get the best results for his clients through his practical, no-nonsense approach. I recommend Ray for any criminal defense matters."
Jeffrey Davenport headshot
Jeffrey Davenport
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Forbess is a no-nonsense attorney who works aggressively for the interests of his clients. As a former prosecutor, I always admired and respected Mr. Forbess skill and ability as a litigator and trial attorney. He is truly one of the best attorneys practicing in Jacksonville, Florida."
Timothy Joseph Miller headshot
Timothy Miller
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 13
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Ray uses a straight forward approach and the highest ethical standards to achieve great results for his clients."
Travis Clinton Petty headshot
Travis Petty
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 21
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Attorney Forbess helped one of my clients who received criminal charges while in Florida. His expertise and knowledge of navigating the criminal justice system are unparalleled. Attorney Forbess did an excellent job and I would recommend him in the future without reservation."
David H Willis headshot
David Willis
Criminal defense Attorney | May 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ray Forbess is a great criminal law attorney. His devotion to his clients and cases is a role model to other attorneys. He works his cases for success for his clients. You are in good hands with Ray Forbess as your attorney."
Stephen Bernard Kelly Jr. headshot
Stephen Kelly
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Forbess is a true professional and zealous advocate. I've always admired his dedication to his practice."
Lewis Gregory Page Fusco headshot
Lewis Fusco
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington
Criminal defense Attorney | May 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Raymond. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Shannon Brooke Schott headshot
Shannon Schott
Criminal defense Attorney | May 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Anthony Victor Presto headshot
Anthony Presto
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 25
Relationship: Co-worker
"I worked with Ray at the Public Defenders office. He is a hardworking no-nonsense guy who tries his absolute best for clients. He has an interesting background from the Army and business. Anyone who has a criminal problem could not go wrong with Ray."
Regina Laverne Wright headshot
Regina Wright
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 04
Relationship: Supervised lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer. Ray is a compassionate and knowledgeable and zealous advocate."
Blake G Johnson headshot
Blake Johnson
Unknown Attorney | Aug 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
James O Davis Jr. headshot
James Davis
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 13
Relationship: Friend
"I endorse this lawyer. Ray is an excellent advocate for his clients. He has an unwavering commitment to justice and works diligently to achieve excellent results for each client."
Dan W. Armstrong headshot
Dan Armstrong
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Casey Roche Bryant headshot
Casey Bryant
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Victoria Marie Mussallem headshot
Victoria Mussallem
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 30
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have worked with criminal attorney Ray Forbess since 2004. His work in the area of criminal defense in Jacksonville is second to none. Ray has a diverse work history, beginning in the U.S. Army. Ray was in Special Forces and the Rangers. After the Army, Ray owned several businesses. He has been a practicing criminal defense lawyer in Jacksonville for years. Ray and I opened our Jacksonville Criminal Defense Law Firm in 2007 after serving the community as public defenders for three years. Ray practices 100% criminal law. He represents people charged with felonies, misdemeanors, sex crimes, DUI's, drug crimes, driving crimes, theft crimes, domestic battery crimes, etc. Ray is an accessible criminal lawyer who practices with professionalism and vigor."
Douglas Blake Chanco headshot
Douglas Chanco
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"If you are in need of legal representation, look no further than Ray Forbess. He was my first mentor when I was practicing under the law student practice act, and his guidance and leadership helped to shape me into the lawyer I am today. One of the main reasons that I became a criminal defense attorney was because of what Ray taught me-- both about the law and about defending constitutional rights. He is an excellent attorney, and I whole heartedly endorse his work."
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Lewis Gregory Page Fusco headshot
Lewis Fusco
Criminal defense
Blake G Johnson headshot
Blake Johnson
Criminal defense
Octavius A Holliday Jr. headshot
Octavius Holliday
Criminal defense
Regina Laverne Wright headshot
Regina Wright
Criminal defense
James O Davis Jr. headshot
James Davis
Criminal defense
Milagros S. Kanyar headshot
Milagros Kanyar
Real estate
Dexter Van Davis headshot
Dexter Van Davis
Criminal defense
Robert Carl Davis headshot
Robert Davis
Criminal defense
Paul Bryan Christensen headshot
Paul Christensen
Immigration
James E. Farah headshot
James Farah
Commercial real estate
Dan W. Armstrong headshot
Dan Armstrong
Estate planning
Victoria Marie Mussallem headshot
Victoria Mussallem
Criminal defense
Jacksonville Drug Crime Lawyer Raymond Edward Forbess Sr.
Raymond Edward Forbess Sr.
Drug Crime Attorney
Jacksonville, FL
Licensed for 23 years
Free Consultation
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