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Ethan Andrew Way

Criminal defense Attorney at Tallahassee, FL

5.0   137 reviews
  • Licensed for 24 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1998
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About Ethan

Learn Ethan’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    58%
    As a former Assistant Public Defender, Assistant State Attorney and private practitioner, I have handled cases ranging from DUI to 1st Degree Murder. I am Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law and "death qualified."

    25 years, 2,110 cases

  2. Family
    23%
    I utilize my trial skills in providing clients with effective representation at hearings, mediations and trials. I have handled cases involving child custody, relocation issues, and multi-million dollar asset and liability distribution.

    24 years

  3. Litigation
    14%
    I handled all aspects of civil litigation in State and Federal Court. I have represented hospitals, banks, insurance companies, small businesses, local governments, sheriffs and individuals.

    25 years

  4. Bankruptcy and debt
    4%
    Handling Chapter 7, 11, and 13, Personal and Business Bankruptcy cases in the Northern and Middle Districts of Florida.

    19 years

  5. International law
    1%
    I have handled HAGUE CONVENTION and ICARA cases in the Northern and Middle Districts of Florida.

    12 years

I have been practicing law since 1998.  I always strive to provide my clients with the best possible representation.  My focus is on communication between client, lawyer, adversary and the Courts.  Many, many matters can be effectively resolved through a comprehensive understanding of the facts in a given case.  And no 2 cases are just alike!

 

My practice is almost exclusively a trial practice, criminal and civil - state and federal.  But I also deal with family law, bankruptcy, contracts and administrative law matters.

 

I have offices in Tallahassee and Jacksonville and handle cases in the Panhandle and throughout Florida.  

 

I am a avid hunter and sportsman.  I enjoy spending time with my wife and 2 sons.  We travel, hunt and enjoy the outdoors together.

Photos and videos

Contact Ethan

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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  137 customer reviews
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Posted by Betsy | July 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Divorce Lawyer
I hired Mr. Ethan Way after my previous attorney of a year withdrew from my case saying there was nothing left she could do for me. Ethan swooped in full force to a messy situation and didn’t even flinch. He immediately scheduled Mediation and all paperwork was completed at this time. He is efficient, highly skilled and mostly kind. I appreciated feeling like he cared about me and my situation. I always felt prepared and had my questions answered….I had a lot! My only regret is that I didn’t hire him to begin with!
Read less
Response from Ethan Way July 21, 2023
Thank you for your kind words and appreciation.
Posted by anonymous | May 26, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Delivers results
Efficient, professional, very easy to work with. Ethan handled every step of the process and kept me regularly updated on the progress of my case. If you need someone to take the matters completely off your plate, be assured you will be taken care of.
Posted by Amanda | March 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The attorney you want on your side
Ethan has superior tact. He is quick thinking and with decades of experience he knows the basic facts to drive home before the judge. He was tough on me, he didn’t coddle me, he told me what I needed to hear and guided us to a favorable order. I was glad Ethan was on my side because when asked, I was even sensitive to the argument he would’ve presented for our opposition. Ethan knows how to build a successful case and cuts through A LOT of the legal nonsense. I recommend Ethan to all clients, but especially women who are tired of being pushed around. Heed his advice and you will be successful.
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Response from Ethan Way March 3, 2023
I appreciate your kind words and thank you for trusting me to assist you with your case.
Posted by Ashley | February 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Satisfied Divorce
Ethan is fantastic! He’s very straightforward and doesn’t beat around the bush. He’s also very polite and respectful, and he won’t waste your time or your money. If there’s something you don’t understand, he will break it down for you in simpler terms. Now I understand why he’s been my family’s attorney of choice for many years! If I ever need an attorney in the future, I’ll be sure to hire Ethan again! Absolutely zero complaints!
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Response from Ethan Way February 22, 2023
Thank you for your kind words. I appreciate your trust and your family's trust.
Posted by anonymous | January 31, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Representation
Mr. Ethan Way’s professionalism, legal knowledge, and candid approach to our case was a winning strategy. Grateful bringing years of unwarranted litigation to an end. I wholeheartedly recommend the Way Law Group to anyone seeking only the best legal representation.
Posted by Steven | January 30, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Beyond Excellent
Mr. Way went above and beyond what I expected from him. I was in constant contact with him, and never felt like I was lost or didn't know what was happening. Any information or any change in my case, Mr. Way relayed it to me immediately. His professionalism is top notch and his guidance surpasses all others.
Posted by mary | October 8, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce
Ethan Way handled my divorce and was great to work with! He was always available to answer questions, last minute fire drills from my spouse and his attorney, as well as helping me manage the emotions that came with a contentious divorce. It was truly amazing to be able to text when issues came up and get such immediate assistance, even after hours. I can't thank Ethan enough for his no-nonsense, calm approach to a very difficult family matter like divorce!
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Posted by J.P. | August 3, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Representation
This board certified criminal lawyer recently handled a criminal traffic matter for a relative. Highly recommend to anyone at Florida State or Tallahassee that needs representation.
Posted by Joe | August 1, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended
Mr. Way was a critical part of getting through my marathon of a 3 year divorce and I recommend him whole heartedly.
Posted by anonymous | July 21, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Straight to business
Mr. Way did an excellent job responding to my questions very quickly. He delivered as promised.
Posted by Maria | June 14, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
EXTREMELY GRATEFUL
My daughter is presently attending post-graduate school and received her first traffic violation. I have been in the legal system for over 22 years and have dealt with many different lawyers. Mr. Way came highly recommended. After handling my daughter's case, i understand why. His combination of personality and professionalism made the process much easier to handle. I am extremely grateful. Thank you Mr. Way
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Response from Ethan Way June 14, 2022
Thank you for your kind words. I appreciate your confidence in allowing me to assist your daughter.
Posted by Stephen | May 17, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you
I could not have been more satisfied with the outcome of my case. Hiring Ethan Way was definitely the right choice for me. Mr. Way was diligent in his pursuit for the best result for me amid a host of issues. Im sincerely thankful for his work on my behalf.
Response from Ethan Way May 17, 2022
Thank you for your kind words and your confidence in my representation of you.
Posted by Christine | April 11, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce matter
After consulting with several divorce attorneys, I hired Mr. Way to represent me. I found him to be highly intelligent and a more "out of the box" thinker than the other divorce attorneys I consulted. While there were a few things I would have liked to see happen differently, Mr. Way kept my relatively complex case focused on the essentials. Overall, I am very satisfied with the outcome. Mr Way was easy to reach, and responded promptly to messages. He remained conscious of time spent, and did not run up unnecessary fees or costs.
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Posted by lee | March 31, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding lawyer
"Without the help Ethan Way with Way Law firm, I know that I would not have had the successful outcomes I have had. Mr. Way took on an extremely difficult divorce case and encountered issues that no one expected and few had ever seen. He worked tirelessly to make sure that my children’s safety and the truth was presented intelligently as well as perfectly. He has stood by every one of my requests and guided me through the entire lengthy process with sympathy and understanding. Though we faced challenges, Mr. Way did not falter. His thorough research provided us the pathway we needed to rise to victory. I will only recommend Ethan Way. Ethan had response time to my questions regardless the time of day or night, response time prompt to say the least. I am proud to be a Way Law client and will continue to retain them for all legal matters that may arise as I know I am in the best hands."
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Posted by anonymous | February 27, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend
I hired Ethan to handle a complicated family law situation. Ethan provided expert counsel in both how to proceed and in creating a legal safety net in the form of a postnuptial agreement that addressed my situation perfectly. I highly recommend Ethan Way.
Posted by Justin | February 26, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
Ethan will help no matter the trouble. Great guy, great attorney! Highly recommended.
Posted by Heather | September 17, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Family Case
Where to begin… I hired Mr. Way for a family case involving a parenting agreement/child custody for my son. This case went on for over a year, and he has literally stood by my side and was only a phone call away at any given moment. Dealing with myself and my case was not simple!!! He made sure that he took the time to make sure all our “ I’s were dotted and T’s were crossed”, before moving to the next step! He was very detailed and made sure he kept me informed on every little thing. Mr. Way, went above and beyond to make sure I was completely satisfied, and I’m happy to say that our case is finally closing and I’m beyond excited with the outcome!! I highly recommend on hiring Ethan Way for any of your court battles, I can assure you that you will be happy with your choice.
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Response from Ethan Way September 17, 2021
Thank you for your kind review.
Posted by anonymous | August 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review
Hands down one of the best attorneys one could ask for. Went above and beyond in everything he did for me, cannot recommend him enough.
Posted by John | July 26, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolutely Superb!
Mr. Ethan Way is a fantastic lawyer, a consummate professional, and from day one I was amazed at his level of responsiveness. Emails were answered usually within minutes (unless he was in court or otherwise unable to reply) and his diligence in handling my case was outstanding. When I spoke with him he treated me as if I was his most important client and the result that he realized for me were above my expectations.
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Response from Ethan Way September 17, 2021
Thank you for your kind words. I appreciate it.
Posted by anonymous | April 23, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Out of state litigation
I was served with papers reference my business being sued in a US District Court in a northern state. Ethan took my paperwork, reviewed my case and notified the plaintiff's attorney that they had the wrong business. My business was removed from the lawsuit within days! Thank You Ethan!!
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Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 350-550 per hour
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • President
  • WAY LAW FIRM PA
  • 2005 - Present
  • Senior Partner
  • GILLIS WAY & CAMPBELL
  • 2013 - 2017
  • Partner
  • Gentry & Way
  • 2000 - 2005
  • Assistant State Attorney
  • Office of the State Attorney
  • 1998 - 2000
  • Assistant Public Defender
  • Office of the Public Defender
  • 1998 - 1998
View all work experience

Education

  • The Florida State University College of Law
  • Juris Doctor, with honors
  • 1998

Legal Cases

  • State of Florida vs. Andre McKenzie
  • Defendant was acquitted of 1st Degree Murder
  • State vs. DM
  • Defendant acquitted at a bench trial
  • Badger Capital, LLC, et al. v. Chambers Bank, et al.
  • Plaintiff dismissed immediately before cross-examination of a critical plaintiff

Associations

  • Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • President - Tallahassee Chapter
  • 2005 - 2008

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers - Criminal
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Florida's Legal Elite - Criminal Law
  • Florida Trend Magazine
  • 2010
  • Handgun Hunter of the Year
  • Safari Club International - Tallahassee Chapter
  • 2009
  • Board Certification in Criminal Trial Law
  • Florida Bar
  • 2004
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • DFS Lunch and Learn
  • Trial Practice
  • 2019
  • Law Practice Class 2L
  • Law Office Practice
  • 2012
  • FSU Law and Practice
  • Billing practices
  • 2011
  • Legal Writing II
  • Oral Advocacy
  • 2010
  • Tallahassee Police Department Lunch & Learn
  • Interacting with lawyers in the criminal justice system
  • 2009
  • Death is Different
  • Plea Negotiations in Death Penalty Cases
  • 2005
  • Civil and Criminal Jury Selection
  • Tips and strategies for successful jury selection
  • 2005
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (20)
Given (32)
Endorse Ethan
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 09
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have worked alongside Mr. Way providing research assistance and advice on multiple criminal matters. Mr. Way is always candid and professional, providing the best legal representation in every case he takes."
Litigation Attorney | Aug 10
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I highly endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 27
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have been opposite Ethan in criminal trial settings. He is thorough and professional."
Unknown Attorney | May 22
Relationship: Other
"Top-notch attorney. I endorse this lawyer."
Litigation Attorney | Apr 23
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Aug 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer with no reservation. An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community. Very hardworking and diligent. Consistently achieves superior results. Advice is always practical and on point. I recommend to anyone looking for an attorney who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of clients and achieving the most favorable result possible."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Ethan. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
General practice Attorney | Dec 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have seen Ethan in action and he is a zealous advocate for his clients. He has a vast knowledge of the law and the legal system. I would not hesitate to recommend Ethan Way."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 08
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Ethan is a great attorney who gets results for his clients. I would not hesitate to recommend him."
Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney | Jul 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"It is without hesitation that I endorse this lawyer. Ethan is an attorney that zealously advocates for his clients while maintaining high ethical standards and garnering the respect of his colleagues and the judiciary. Ethan would be a good choice for anyone needing legal assistance."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ethan is an accomplished and professional advocate. We served together as board members of our local chapter of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. I am familiar not only with his fine representation of clients but to his commitment to the criminal defense bar as well as his expertise in other practice areas. So when I needed legal advice on a personal matter, I trusted Ethan to handle it for me."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have had the opportunity to work with Ethan for a mutual client who had criminal charges in both Florida and Georgia. Ethan promptly returned all phone calls and was very knowledgable about Florida law and local courtroom procedure. I would not hesitate to refer a potential client his way for representation of DUI or any criminal charge."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Ethan Way is very responsive to his clients and fights aggresivly for them. I highly recommend him because of his professionalism and understanding of the law."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"A common issue in representing an individual in a criminal appeal is trial counsel failing to preserve the issue(s). I was referred an appeal from a case which Ethan Way tried. The legal issues in the case were meticulously and thoroughly preserved throughout the course of the trial. The Office of the Attorney General; which argues preservation in almost every appeal; conceded that the issue was properly preserved and ripe for appellate discourse. Mr. Way is board certified and recognized as an expert in criminal trial practice. I would be more than confident in knowing that Mr. Way was representing a relative or close friend of mine."
Family Attorney | Dec 10
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Mr. Way is an extremely knowledgeable and capable attorney who zealously represents his clients' interests. I highly recommend him when clients or friends seek family law or criminal representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 17
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I proudly endorse Mr. Way, as he is an ethical and zealous advocate for his client's rights. I have worked with him and would do so again!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I highly endorse this lawyer's work. I am familiar with Mr. Way's work ethic and the results he obtains for his clients. In the event any of my clients ever require criminal, family law, or bankruptcy representation, I have complete confidence in referring those clients to Mr. Way, knowing that they will receive the highest level of representation available."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 03
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I highly recommend the legal skills of Ethan Way. Ethan has distinguished himself among the lawyers in the Tallahassee area through his knowledge of law and procedure and his total committment to the best interests of his clients. He enjoys enormous respect among his colleagues and the judges before whom he practices. In addition to his successful practice, Ethan contributes his time to the Florida Bar Committee for Board Certification in Criminal Law and will serve as the vice-chair in the coming year. His designation as an expert in Criminal Trial Law is just one of his many positive accomplishments. I recommend his services without hesitation."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Child custody
Speeding and traffic ticket
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Litigation
Criminal defense
Personal injury
Criminal defense
General practice
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Real estate
Criminal defense
Administrative law