Skip to main content

John Matthew Leace

Criminal defense Attorney at Tallahassee, FL

5.0   43 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 24 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1999
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS, PROTECT YOUR FUTURE

Criminal Defense Attorney with a proven track record of providing aggressive and affordable legal representation for clients from all walks of life. Experienced in handling cases ranging in severity from traffic offenses to first degree murder.

Awards

Client's Choice 2022,2021,2020,2012
Client's Choice
2022 2021 2020 + 1 ...
Top Contributor 2022,2021,2020,2014,2012
Top Contributor
2022 2021 2020 + 2 ...

Photos and videos

View more

Contact John

Leace Law, PA
414 N. Meridian Street
Tallahassee, FL, 32301

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  43 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
0%
Client's Choice 2022
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Keith | August 21, 2014
Outstanding, trustworthy legal counsel A++++
John stood by me through a 1 1/2 year criminal court case. He was honest, communicative and a pleasure to have as my attorney. He had the experience and knowledge to know how to proceed with my case and, more importantly, how to deal with the DA in my case. The outcome of my case ended up being far better than I expected. Not only was he my attorney, but he treated me like a friend and provided me with other resources throughout my case, to assist with other personal problems that arose during the case. I highly recommend John as an attorney in any case you might have. He is top notch and will give you the best outcome for your current situation.
Read less
Posted by Spencer | May 17, 2013
If you have the need, John is exceptional.
John represented me as professionally and advantageously as possible, I have the utmost confidence that he did the best thing possible for me at all stages given the environment he operated in. If a serious need arose he would be the first person I would speak to and think of, even with having relocated 500 miles away, I wouldn't hesitate a moment to recommend him; the largest regret I have in the way I handled the case John represented me in was not retaining him to represent me in the portion that was heard in South Florida, instead opting for local counsel, who left me well aware of the difference between his and Johns quality of work. I have since had much to do with many non criminal attorneys, he has stood out as a man of his word, one who set the expectations just below what he delivered 100% of the time, a straightshooter. In my eyes his professionalism and demeanor not only benefited the ultimate outcome of my case but as a young man, it truly aided in my ability to cope with accusations and consequences I never thought I'd face. I don't know what I would have done without his involvement, he always told the bad news first, was straightforward about it, and would follow it up with what he knew he could deliver to improve the situation, he always delivered if he said he would. I cannot thank him enough for his help during a bizarre time in my life.
Read less
Posted by John | August 2, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Criminal Attorney in Tallahassee!
John took my case after another very well known local Attorney had been representing me for almost 3 years. This other Attorney took my money and told me he could get the case resolved fast. Well fast forward three years nothing had been done. So I called John he looked at my case. Showed me where the other Attorney had just been asking for extension after extension never doing any real work on my case. I then fired that Attorney and hired John. When John took over my case it was such a relief,for the first time I actually felt like I had an Attorney who cared about me and my case. John was able to take a felony case and have it resolved/Dismissed in less the Three month. If I would have hired John from the start I could have been able to save thousands that I Paid to the first Attorney and not have dragged a case out for 4 years of my life. If you want a great Attorney who will fight for you at a fair price, John is your man. His legal assistance Gretchen is great too!!
Read less
Posted by Jay | May 23, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Early Termination of Supervision - After years of waiting for the State to do right, John got my life back
John Leace gave me back the opportunity to live my life. In 2023 John managed to eliminate 3.5 years of supervision off my 8 year probation sentence by negotiating an early termination of supervision. Here is what John does well: He clearly communicates what to expect. He does not embellish or overreach in his expectations. He is responsive to emails and phone calls. He provides clear costs and fees. He listens and makes sure he understands what you are asking from him. Here are the negatives: He needs a better website.
Read less
Posted by Jane | February 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
I highly recommend Mr. John Leace for any legal matter you may be facing. He was very detailed & informative upon our initial meeting and I KNEW he was the right attorney for my case. John was able to get my situation resolved & ultimately my charges were dismissed! He is a very caring attorney.
Posted by Robert | January 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and Efficient
I recently was blindsided by an IRS investigation. I retained Mr. Lease who quickly calmed me down and walked me through the procedure. He reached out to the Federal Prosecutor and the Investigators. Mr. Lease kept me informed of the process while he negotiated on my behalf. He was able to help me get the investigation dismissed. I hope I won't need his services in the future but won't hesitate to call him if I do. I would recommend Mr. Lease to anyone in need of a great Criminal Attorney.
Read less
Posted by Allison | November 16, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional and Caring
John got the best possible outcome for my husband's criminal case. He was well-versed in the law and I felt confident in his ability to defend my husband. He was honest and caring. He was always there to answer any questions we had. I would highly recommend him.
Posted by Josh | November 15, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Client
A true professional and master of his craft. I recently got jammed up in a sticky legal situation that occurred out of state. After doing some research, I called John and he helped resolve a very stressful dilemma from start to finish. John will fight for you and do whatever it takes to secure the W. Hire this man or put him on retainer!
Read less
Posted by Ivan | September 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honest Review
If you are ever in any type of trouble with the law, John is attorney you should hire. I can assure you, he will have your best interest at heart & fight to get you the best case scenario. He is honest & up front & also affordable. Great man, even better attorney.
Posted by Robert | August 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended
If you need legal help John is definitely the one to call, helped me tremendously when I was in a tough spot. He will answer all your questions and guide you through whatever legal ordeal you find yourself in and will fight hard for you in court, John is my attorney from now on no matter what.
Posted by anonymous | March 9, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommended
I recently hired John for my legal matter which became slightly complicated once we moved forward. John was very clear and concise when we discussed the case and his rates, was confident in getting me results that I needed, and did just that. The process was slow but only due to the circumstances and timing, however John delivered above and beyond. He literally achieved the best possible outcome for me. He was diligent in fighting through the red tape of the system and eventually got us the outcome I was hoping for and he was working for. I will recommend John to anyone who needs assistance in Tallahassee (Leon County). I am also confident that he would direct a person in right direction if he could not take a case for some reason. Follow up and follow through on assisting me with the external moving parts of the matter have been great as well. John really did hit a home run for me. Truly appreciated and thankful for him. He was a Godsend.
Read less
Posted by stan | March 8, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
right person for the job
was very good keeping in contact. Covid made getting things resolved harder. John did a great job keeping us informed. The office was very accessible during this process.
Posted by anonymous | November 18, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Couldn’t be happier!
I hired Mr. Leace to represent me in a case that had the potential to upend my entire life. I am a licensed professional. Likewise, I was in a position wherein I faced the possibility of my livelihood being upended. Mr. Leace listened to every detail of my case, he heard what was important for me to achieve in my defense (chief among them, protecting my livelihood), and, while friendly and optimistic, he was also very clear about what could reasonably be ultimately expected. As it turned out, he was able to deliver on every concern I laid forth to him in our initial meeting. He was moreover able to resolve the entire matter surprisingly quickly, allowing me to begin to put the entire embarrassing matter behind me. As the title suggests, I couldn’t be happier with his professionalism, his friendliness, and the results of his work. I highly recommend Mr. Leace!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | October 29, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Underage Drinking
John Leace and his firm were absolutely incredible to work with in regard to my daughter's detainment for underage drinking. From the moment we spoke to John he put us at ease and he informed us of our daughter’s rights. John believed that the detainment was not legal as the arresting office had no right to suspect she was doing anything illegal and consulted us to fight this in court. We agreed to follow John's advice and he was 100% correct and all charges were dropped. I highly recommend John Leace and his team for any legal needs you may have.
Read less
Posted by Recardo | October 2, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He fights for you
Mr. Leace is an awesome attorney to have representing you. He posses all the traits and characteristics a lawyer should have, when representing their clients! I was wrongly accused in a traffic stop, Mr Leace represented my case and had my charge drop! This man works with you, while working for you! Hands down the best!
Posted by anonymous | September 15, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Aware of everything
Did a great job with staying on top of the case and looking out for my best interests. Was always clear on the direction of the case.
Posted by Dawn | September 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Life Saved - Literally
John Leace was by our side in our hour(s) of need. He went the extra mile for us time and time again. Always caring, compassionate, and personable - John was prompt to meet our needs as well as reassuring when the going got tough. We are more than satisfied with the resolution of our case and would certainly recommend John. He was literally a life saver. Thank, you John.
Read less
Posted by Jeremy | July 20, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great and easy to work with!
John was amazing and efficient in handling my case. Even with this happening in the middle of COVID he managed to get this handled quickly. I had nothing to worry about after hiring it and my case turned out just the way I wanted. I highly recommend him.
Posted by anonymous | September 6, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
great lawyer
I consulted with John on a very personal matter. he was compassionate and understanding. ultimately he pointed me in the right direction and didn’t even charge me. if i ever have a new legal issue, John will be my first call.
Posted by Mike | July 22, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fantastic Work for His Clients
I was referred to John through a friend, and was extremely happy with my results. There can be a law of uncertainty revolving an ongoing case, since not many are familiar with the details and framework of the court. John did a great job of making me a feel a bit more assured, and more informed on my situation to ease that uncertainty. On top of being much more comfortable in the situation with John as my attorney, I could tell that the rest of the court revered and respected him throughout every conversation they had. Without him, I'm not sure that I would have been able to successfully get my degree - and a career that I've come to enjoy without his guidance!
Read less
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Founder
  • Leace Law, PA
  • 2022 - Present
  • Shareholder
  • Brooks, LeBoeuf
  • 2012 - 2022
  • Founder/Attorney
  • Law Offices of John M. Leace, P.A.
  • 2002 - 2012
  • Associate
  • Local Defense Firm
  • 2001 - 2002
  • Prosecuting Attorney
  • State Attorney, 2nd Judicial Circuit
  • 1998 - 2001
View all work experience

Education

  • The Florida State University College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1998
  • Florida State University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1995

Legal Cases

  • State v. Whitaker
  • Dismissal
  • State v. Langston
  • Dissmissal
  • State of Florida v. Troy Phillips
  • Acquittal
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Florida Justice Association
  • Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • Public Justice
  • Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Florida Bar, Criminal Law Section
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
  • Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2002 - Present
  • Tallahassee FACDL
  • Member
  • 2002 - Present
  • Florida Bar
  • Member
  • 1999 - Present
  • William Stafford Inns of Court
  • Member
  • 2003 - 2005
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top One Percent
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel
  • 2021
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2021
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2021
  • Top One Percent
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel
  • 2020
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2020
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2020
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2019
  • Top One Percent
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel
  • 2019
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • Top One Percent
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2017
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2017
  • America's Most Honored Professionals
  • American Registry
  • 2017
  • Top One Percent
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel
  • 2017
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2016
  • Top One Percent
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel
  • 2016
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • Top Attorneys
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel
  • 2015
  • AV Peer Review Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2014
  • Top Contributor
  • AVVO
  • 2014
  • Client's Choice-Criminal Law
  • AVVO
  • 2012
  • Service
  • State Attorney's Office
  • 2001
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Trial Practice
  • Voir Dire
  • 2016
  • Legal Negotiations
  • Criminal Negotiations
  • 2014
  • LawCall
  • DUI Law
  • 2011
  • Fraterninty Risk Management
  • Hazing Laws
  • 2006
  • FSU Pre-Law Society Guest Lecturer
  • DUI Defense
  • 2005
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (16)
Given (7)
Endorse John
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. John is a very professional and dedicated trial lawyer. He aggressively represents his clients and thier interests. He is one of the preeminent criminal defense lawyers in the Tallahassee area."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 29
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"John is an amazing attorney. If I were faced with a criminal charge, he is the first person I would call. He's a great trial attorney and has as much knowledge about criminal law as anyone I know. I would recommend John to anyone looking for a criminal defense lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. He is an excellent attorney and puts his clients first."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 03
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse John. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 01
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"As a former prosecutor, I have had the opportunity to work against John Leace. As a criminal defense attorney, I have had the opportunity to work with him. Having seen him in action from both sides of the fence, I can say that John works tirelessly to obtain the results his clients deserve. I would recommend him to anyone looking for zealous and effective legal representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John is an excellent lawyer who gets results for his clients. I would not hesitate to recommend him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 03
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"John is an excellent attorney and always fights for his clients. He will do a great job on your case."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I met Mr. Leace several years ago when he was representing a client that I was prosecuting. He fought hard for his client, filing all the appropriate motions and pointing out the weaknesses in my case. He did so while remaining cordial and professional. And ultimately negotiated a very favorable plea bargain for his client."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John Leace is a terrific attorney. He is well respected throughout North Florida for his knowledge of criminal law and his ability to apply that knowledge in practical ways. I worked with and for Mr. Leace on many serious felony cases. I can personally attest that he does great work on behalf of his clients. On occasion I cannot handle a case due to a conflict of interest. When that happens, Mr. Leace is the first attorney I direct a potential client to consult with."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 16
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"When I started my legal career as a state prosecutor, I litigated many cases against Mr. Leace. He was always professional and very prepared. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone seeking legal assistance."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I've known John as a fellow lawyer in the community for years. Over the years I have witnessed John continually display knowledge, skill and professionalism. John obtains great results; oftentimes in tough cases. I wouldn't hesitate for a second to send a friend or family member to John for representation."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work."
View more endorsements
Employment and labor
Criminal defense
General practice
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Tallahassee Criminal defense Lawyer John Matthew Leace
John Matthew Leace
Criminal defense Attorney
Tallahassee, FL
Licensed for 24 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available