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Darin C. Gardner

Family Attorney at Jacksonville Beach, FL

4.8   13 reviews

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About Darin

Learn Darin’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Family
    15%
    I handle all range of family law cases, including complex divorce, equitable distribution, parenting plans and time-sharing, alimony, child support and attorney's fees. I also represent clients in modification and contempt actions. My trial skills learned as a State prosecutor have assisted me tremendously in providing effective and aggressive representation to all of my family law clients.

    16 years

  2. Criminal defense
    10%
    I represent client in all areas of criminal defense, including criminal traffic infractions, misdemeanors and all levels of felony charges. My experience and trial skills learned as a prosecutor have assisted me in helping successfully defend many cases for my clients.

    16 years

  3. Divorce and separation
    10%

  4. Alimony
    5%

  5. Child abuse
    5%

  6. Child custody
    5%

  7. Child support
    5%

  8. DUI and DWI
    5%

  9. Domestic violence
    5%
    Domestic violence is a difficult area. I have handled many domestic violence related cases as both a State prosecutor, including domestic related homicides, and in private practice. This includes criminal charges, domestic violence issues in divorce cases, and domestic violence injunctions.

    23 years

  10. Expungement
    5%

  11. Juvenile law
    5%

  12. Marriage and prenuptials
    5%

  13. Sex crime
    5%

  14. Speeding and traffic ticket
    5%

  15. Uncontested divorce
    5%

  16. Violent crime
    5%

I began my legal career in June of 2001 as an Assistant State Attorney here in the Fourth Judicial Circuit of Florida (Clay, Duval and Nassau County).  I spent a total of seven years at the State Attorney's Office where I handled cases from misdemeanor domestic violence, petit theft, DUIs, as well as many different felony cases including, drug possession, drug sales, trafficking, grand theft, child abuse, child neglect, sexual assault, sexual battery, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, attempted murder and murder.  I ended my career as a Division Chief in the felony division and a member of the homicide rotation.  I handled over forty jury trials during this time and hundreds of other contested evidentiary hearings.  The trial advocacy skills I learned while as a State prosecutor have assisted me greatly in private practice handling criminal defense and family law cases.  The past three years I have primarily focused on contested family law cases handling very complex divorces, custody actions, paternity cases, modification actions and contempt actions.  I have also maintained a criminal defense practice that I have been able to successfully defend many clients in either having their charges dropped or reduced, or even an acquittal after jury trial.  My office is equipped with a very experienced paralegal who provides great assistance in the discovery process and handling of my case load.  My law parter is also my Wife and our entire staff treats our clients with our family and team oriented approach.  Call us today and let our family help yours through any of your legal needs.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 21 years
State FL
Status Member in Good Standing
Acquired 2001
Updated 02/23/2023

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

Contact Darin

Similar lawyers nearby

Coplan-Gardner & Gardner, P.A.
320 North 1st Street
Suite 710
Jacksonville Beach, FL, 32250

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  13 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by David | March 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best family court lawyer in Jacksonville, and I dealt with 4!
Any chance I get to endorse Darin Gardner, I will. As I said, in my case, I dealt with 4 separate attorneys before getting any real results. He set my case on the most direct path to the courtroom, where the others just seemed to want to run up bills. His level of preparation is second to none, and we got the outcome he wanted. I have a friend/former coworker in a somewhat similar situation that I was in, and personally recommended he hire Darin. If you are looking to light money on fire, hire someone else. If you want results, hire Darin.
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Posted by anonymous | October 17, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch Representation
Darin C. Gardner was level headed and direct with his questioning and his proactive approach. His dynamic team was above and beyond what I could have ever asked. His experience proved who he was in character and he fought for my children & I. His detailed efforts even proved effective 5 years later in reviewing my divorce and custody! I appreciated Darin's individual dedication to my case and I never once felt like I was just another client. He and his staff do everything in their ability to assure you of their capabilities. I highly recommend Darin and his competent staff. I was referred by my friend Tracey and I am eternally grateful and blessed for his efforts. Thank you Darin!
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Posted by Richard | October 3, 2014
Very pleased with the outcome!
Darin Gardner was very thorough in preparation for my case. He requested supporting documents for every part of it. The former wife's lawyer was not as well prepared. After hearing from both sides, the judge immediately ruled in my favor, (it was not difficult to see that the reason for my FW's motion was not legitimate). The outcome was better than I had hoped for. His paralegal, Teri Hooper was also extremely helpful, as far as accessibility and providing a direct line to Mr. Gardner. Legal proceedings, as we all know, can be very stressful, and The Law Offices of Coplan-Gardner & Gardner p.a. gave me a very positive sense of confidence throughout the entire ordeal. I would most certainly recommend Darin and his team to anyone in need of his type of representation.
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Posted by K.A.D. | March 20, 2014
Best Family Lawyer in FL
Daren and team are absolutely incredible. I had hired a different lawyer before Daren and I was not happy with the strategy of the previous lawyer. I then changed lawyers and contacted Daren. He made time for me during my first visit for my child's timesharing and divorce case. Daren took the time to review my entire case from scratch, asked critical questions on current status and developed a winning strategy for the best interest of my child. Plan 'A' was to propose a settlement, which was refused by opposing counsel. Plan 'B' was mediation and Plan 'C' was final court hearing. We never got to Plan 'C'. During the mediation Daren presented the facts of the case in a way that the opposing counsel realized that there was no way they were going to win at trial. Daren knows how to build a case and can piece the facts together from point A to point B. We settled the case at mediation, all payments that I was making to wife from the results of the temporary needs hearing was ceased, I had majority time before and even had additional time with my child. Absolutely remarkable. I will recommend Daren to anyone who needs a lawyer because he will build a solid case, has a winning strategy and looks out for the best interest of the minor and the future needs. Thank you Daren, you are the best.
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Posted by Aaron | August 5, 2013
Better than Expected Results, Highly Recommended, Professional, Knowledgeable and Experienced
Darin came highly recommended to me by another local attorney to defend me in a domestic violence case. I can honestly say I do not believe I could have made a better choice in representation. Darin and his staff were professional, organized and kept me informed every step of the way. I was overly impressed with the level of thoroughness Darin went to in preparation for my hearings, along with his courtroom demeanor. It was evident that he is extremely knowledgeable and experienced. It was a relief to be able to focus on the other areas of my life and be able to trust that Darin was doing everything he could for me, and not feel like I had to manage my own case. In the end the results of my case were better than expected, with the Judge ruling in our favor on all counts. My family and I firmly believe it was because of Darin's efforts and capability that I was able to get a ruling as favorable as we did.
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Posted by Syd | July 31, 2013
Great trial lawyer, right man to represent you when having to face a court trial
For my Divorce, I worked with Darin and the Team at Coplan-Gardner & Gardner over the last 10 months. Darin represented me at court on four occasions and one mediation session, Darin was always prepared and was quick in rebuttal he emphasized with my circumstance and we planned thoroughly for all eventualities. His courtroom behavior and decorum is top notch, His former experience as a prosecutor shows as he is calm and reassuring and he uses it in a respectful manner. He represented my best interest by always coming across as professional and respectful of the law. I was quite impressed and reassured that during my final trial he had the Florida book of laws handy and was able to quote specific cases and laws to support my case. His closing statement was quite effective and I felt that he clearly represented my interests. Darin is also a great man and an obviously dedicated dad. I am happy that I chose Darin and Coplan-Gardner & Gardner to represent me in my case.
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Posted by Tina | November 28, 2012
#1 recommendation and I promise you will find NO other attorney as dedicated as Darin C. Gardner, his firm or his team!
Attorney Darin C. Gardner and his team dedicated their time and numerous hours working on my case. At our 1st consultation I point blank told Darin and his team "I want you to know my case better then I know my own case." The dedication of Darin and his team exceeded my expectations! Darin not only knew my case better then I did, he and his team made it their number one goal and priority to know my case inside and out paying close detailed attention to EVERY detail and aspect no matter how minute it may have been. Thank you! I can not wait for this to be done and over with. It has been a long time coming and Lord knows a difficult road getting to this point. You and your team have been AMAZING! Thank you for initially taking this case with less then 72 hours to prepare for dumb dumbs 'emergency hearing.' You and your team have stuck by my side through thick and thin, the good and the bad constantly encouraging me while always remaining honest with me. You without a doubt knew my case inside and out. Without you, your dedication, commitment and your team I know the outcome of this case would have been much different. You ROCK and again thank you : )
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Posted by Annett | August 25, 2012
Thankful for a helping hand
After nearly 17 years of marriage, going through a divorce wasn't an easy road to journey down, but the care and guidance of Darin and his office helped make that trip less painful. Darin and his team of professionals always kept me informed. They were always prompt and courteous with responses and treated me with respect the entire time. Armed with tenacity and diligence enabled Darin and his team to provide me with the best legal approach possible during this tiring time in my life for which I am eternally grateful.
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Posted by Charlie | August 23, 2012
Simply the best attorney I've ever worked with.
Darin was recommended to me by friend/coworker. I had used another attorney during previous divorce. I met with several other firms prior to retaining Darin. One of the other firms I paid for the initial one hour consultation and I didn’t even get to finish out the hour nor have all my questions answered. Several attorney offices made me feel like just a number. I never felt that way from the first minute I met with his staff. This was without a doubt the single most important time in my life I needed an attorney and the best. I had everything that meant everything to me on the line. First and foremost my children and then my finances. Darin and his staff were very professional and always accessible. My ex even tried to keep me from seeing my children at one time. Darin and his staff acted swiftly to get us a court date and got the parenting plan ironed out in just a few days. At the end of my divorce by taking Darin's advice we were able to get 50/50 shared custody. I have and will continue to recommend Darin and his staff to anyone in need of an awesome attorney. No matter what the ex's attorney threw our way Darin had a plan. We always took the high road and maintained the highest level of professionalism. I never had a concern or question that he did not have an answer for and always in a timely manner. He truly understood what was on the line for me and delivered time after time at each hearing or deposition. His attention to detail and organization skills are unsurpassed. I always had the utmost confidence in him and his staff at every obstacle we encountered. Simply put, I trusted Darin and his staff when everything important to me in my life was on the line and would do so again. I highly recommend the Law firm of Copelan-Gardner and Gardner
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Posted by Naren | December 8, 2010
The best Lawyer ever I seen.
He goes above and beyond of knowledge and capability that required as a great lawyer. I know him personally, and he earns my trust in all respect. He is not only a great lawyer but also he and his staff's customer service is Outstanding. He treat his customer with his HEART and tries best to solve his/her problem(s). I strongly recommend to get him as your legal advisor, and I'm sure you will overcome your stress soonner than any other lawyer can do.
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Posted by Lamont | June 4, 2010
Trustworthy attorney that is fair
After being swindled by my prior attorney I wasn’t too happy with the court system. So I approached Darin with a long handled spoon, but quickly realized that it wasn’t about the money, but how they can help protect me and my children without putting us in a more strenuous position. Everyday and every court appearance were treated like the last and preparation was key in my cases success. I am a single father that never gave up, but most importantly I had am attorney that believed in what was right. I look at him as part of my family and wouldn’t choose anyone else to represent me or them!
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Posted by Jon | March 16, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Darin Gardner
Darin was very available and handled my child custody nicely. He was able to present the facts timely and competently in front of the Judge. He made suggestions that were beneficial during the case preparation and hearing.
Posted by Jeff | December 18, 2010
Satisfied
If you are looking for a decent lawyer who will represent you fairly and evenly, then Darin is your guy. If you are looking for a shark to do as much damage to the other side, then look elsewhere. Darin has an intimate understanding of the law and is evenly balanced and fair, with an eye towards his client.
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Coplan-Gardner & Gardner, P.A.
  • 2008 - Present
  • Felony Division Chief
  • Fourth Judicial Circuit State Attorney's Office
  • 2001 - 2008

Education

  • Florida Coastal School of Law
  • Juris Doctor
  • 2000
  • University of North Florida
  • Bachelor of Arts
  • 1997

Legal Cases

  • State of Florida v. Rashaiem Jackson
  • Acquittal

Associations

  • Gator Bowl Association
  • Host Committee Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Florida Family Law Inns of Court
  • Associate Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Jacksonville Beach Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Jacksonville Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Florida Bar Association
  • Attorney
  • 2001 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Notable
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2020
  • Best Lawyer
  • Jacksonville Magazine
  • 2019
  • Best Lawyers
  • Jacksonville Magazine
  • 2018
  • Best Lawyers
  • Jacksonville Magazine
  • 2017
  • Best Lawyers
  • Jacksonville Magazine
  • 2016
  • Best Lawyers
  • Jacksonville Magazine
  • 2015
  • Top Lawyers in Jacksonville
  • Jacksonville Magazine
  • 2014
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Guest Speaker
  • Domestic Violence
  • 2011
  • Guest Speaker
  • Proper Police Report Writing
  • 2010
  • I Almost Got Away With It
  • Murder Prosecution and Flight to Avoid Prosecution
  • 2010

Attorney endorsements

Received (7)
Given (2)
Endorse Darin
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Darin feels very comfortable in the courtroom. He fights hard for his clients and is always prepared when he steps into court. He is very responsive and when the need arises I do not hesitate to give his name to a potential client."
Family Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Gardner is a knowledgeable and professional attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Gardner is an honest, ethical, and hard working attorney for his clients. I do not hesitate to recommend his office's services to my clients."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Darin is a hard working honest, ethical lawyer. He is thorough and has excellent trial skills."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 12
Relationship: Co-worker
"I highly recommend Darin as a criminal defense attorney as well as Family Law Attorney. He is a one of a kind type of lawyer. He just has that "it" factor. He works harder than any lawyer I know on his cases. He gets personally involved in his cases as if the matter was happening to him. If you have a criminal matter or family law matter, you want Darin as your attorney."
Family Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I regularly and consistently refer criminal clients to Mr. Gardner and do so with confidence. I have had excellent feedback. His knowledge and experience in this area of law is excellent. I have confidence in his skills to help my clients when out of my area of expertise."
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Jacksonville Beach Family Lawyer Darin C. Gardner
Darin C. Gardner
Family Attorney
Jacksonville Beach, FL
Licensed for 21 years