Skip to main content

Joseph Cameron Bodiford

also known as Joe Bodiford, Joseph Bodiford
  Save
Avvo Rating10
  • Tallahassee, FL
  • Licensed for 24 years
  • Free consultation
View more
Joseph Cameron Bodiford
Joseph Cameron Bodiford
AboutContactReviewsCost

About Joseph

State AND Nationally Board Certified Criminal Trial Law EXPERT. Our team is here to help you!

Small town boy, big city lawyer

I was born and raised in Tallahassee, Florida.  I'm a sixth-generation Floridian and the great-great-great-grandson of a Florida pioneer (as recognized by the Florida State Genealogical Society).  I love this State and its people.  I have dedicated my practice to representing people charged with crimes, or appealing a conviction.

 

Tallahassee criminal defense attorney

I am Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by the Florida Bar, Board Certified in Criminal Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, AVVO rated "10", AV*-rated by Martindale-Hubbel.  I hold an LL.M. (Master's of Law) in Advocacy.

 

I am a former  prosecutor.  I am an adjunct professor of law at the Florida State Univeristy Collge of Law (where I teach trial skills and am co-director of the school's trial team).  I am formerly an adjunct professor of law at Stetson Law, where I taught Trial Advocacy, Florida Criminal Procedure, Survey of Florida Law (Criminal Procedure, Premises Liability), and Legal Drafting.

 

Criminal defense lawyer in Tallahassee

 

I have over 19 years of experience, and have been a criminal defense attorney since 1999.  I have tried over 120 jury trials, and am accomplished trial advocate.  Being Board Certified allows me to say that I am an EXPERT in criminal trial law.  I am looking forward to speaking with you, and discussing how I can help you with your Tallahassee criminal defense case.

 

Please visit www.TallahasseeCriminalDefense.com for more information.

 

If you need a Tallahassee or Leon County criminal attorney, Tallahassee criminal lawyer, Leon County defense attorney, Tallahassee defense lawyer, please give me a call.  Consultations are always complimentary, and at no charge!

Practice areas

Federal crimeDUI and DWIAppealsCriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 40%

    I have handled thousands of criminal cases, as a prosecutor (1996 - 1999) and as a defense attorney. I have tried over 100 JURY TRIALS, in State and Federal court, all over Florida. I have tried hundreds of non-jury (or "bench") trials. I have litigated hundreds and hundreds of motions to suppress, dismiss, and the like. No one has the experience and credentials that Joe Bodiford does - he and his team can help you!

    24 years, 5,000 cases

  2. Appeals: 25%

    Criminal appeals in State and Federal court. Also post-conviction motions, habeas corpus petitions, and motions to correct or modify sentences. No one has the experience and credentials that Joe Bodiford does - he and his team can help you!

    24 years, 100 cases

  3. DUI and DWI: 20%

    I have been published in 3 books about DUI defense, and have lectured other attorney on defending DUI cases. My firm has successfully handled 100s of DUI cases. No one has the experience and credentials that Joe Bodiford does - he and his team can help you!

    24 years, 500 cases

  4. Federal crime: 15%

    Very experienced in Federal criminal cases. Federal jury trials, suppression hearings, and extremely knowledgable about the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. No one has the experience and credentials that Joe Bodiford does - he and his team can help you!

    21 years, 50 cases

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

1286033 1248001176

1286033 1293487189

1286033 1296608052

1286033 1300846905

1286033 1301269245

1286033 1301269256

1286033 1301269268

1286033 1301269279

1286033 1301269289

1286033 1301269298

1286033 1301269307

1286033 1301269317

1286033 1301269327

1286033 1301269335

1286033 1301269344

1286033 1301269352

1286033 1301269364

1286033 1383170875

1286033 1479147545

1286033 1479147578

1286033 1479147610

1286033 1479147638

Contact

501 E Tennessee St.
address map

Bodiford Law, P.A.

501 E Tennessee St.
Suite B
Tallahassee, FL, 32308

Fax (850) 792-6097
Website
www.bodifordlaw.com

bLAWgger.com - view of the legal world by criminal trial lawyer, author, commentator, and lecturer JOE BODIFORD.

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
FLMember in Good Standing199609/29/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers31
Legal guides2
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Tampa Bay's Top LawyersTampa Bay Magazine2010
SuperLawyer 2009SuperLawyer2009
SuperLawyer 2008SuperLawyer2008
Meritorious Public Service CertificateThe Florida Bar2008
Re-certification in Criminal Trial LawFlorida Bar Board of Legal Specialization and Education2008
Board Certification, Criminal Trial LawFlorida Bar Board of Legal Specialization and Education2003
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Adjunct ProfessorStetson University College of Law2009 - Present
Board Certified Criminal Trial LawyerBodiford Law, P.A.1999 - Present
Adjunct Professor and Trial Team Co-directorFlorida State University College Of Law2015 - 2017
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Tallahassee Bar AssociationDirector2014 - Present
William H. Stafford American Inn of CourtMaster2014 - Present
Hillsborough County Association of Criminal Defense LawyersDirector2001 - Present
Florida Association of Criminal Defense LawyersN/A1999 - Present
Florida Association of Criminal Defense LawyersN/A1999 - Present
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
Business Litigation in Florida, Sixth Ed.Chapter 22: "White Collar Crimes"2010
The Defender (Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers)"Beware of the BLAWG"2009
The Defender (Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers)"The 3:32am sleep lawyer's guide to answering the 24/7 line"2009
Business Litigation in Florida, Fifth Ed.Chapter 22: "White-collar Crimes" (renamed)2005
Traffic and DUI Manual(Editor)2002
Business Litigation in Florida, Fourth Ed.Chapter 22: "Business Crimes"2001
Florida Evidence Courtroom Manual (Eleazer)(Research assistant)1995
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Stetson University College of LawLL.M - Master of Laws2014
Stetson University College of LawJD - Juris Doctor1995
Florida State UniversityM.M. - Masters in Trumpet Performance1993
Florida State UniversityB.A., Music1991
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Public Defender Training SeminarEthics in Handling Criminal Cases2011
Law School for PhysiciansStrategies for Defense of Pill Mill Cases2011
Handling First DUI CaseClient Intake, The Basics of DUI Science (DUI Cases)2011
FSIPP Annual Meeting"Defense strategies for "Pill Mill" Cases"2011
First Domestic Violence CaseClient Intake, The Law and Consequences (DV Cases)2011
Basic Criminal LawCriminal Representation in Florida2011
Advocacy Resource Center (ARC)Ethics in Criminal Cases2010
"If your client is arrested . . . "Intro to criminal law for civil attorneys2010
"If Your Client Gets Arrested . . . "Criminal law2010
"Drinking, Drving, and Your Career"DUI and law students2010
"Criminal Appeals" Bridging the Gap from Trial to Appeal"Criminal Appeals; criminal law2010
Basic Criminal LawDUI Defense; The Basics of Criminal Defense2009
Basic Criminal LawThe Basics of Criminal Defense2008
Criminal PracticeCriminal Appeals2007
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
Jones v. StateREVERSED
Ziegler v. StateREVERSED
State v. LefeverNOT GUILTY
State v. SuliemanJURY TRIAL: NOT GUILTY AND LESSERS
Andre Bryant v. State of FloridaCase about jury instructions.
Robinson v. StateDenial of post-conviction motion REVERSED
State v. WellerCASE DISMISSED AFTER MOTION TO SUPPRESS
State v. LucasCASE DISMISSED AFTER MOTION TO SUPPRESS GRANTED
State v. DosseyMOTION TO DISMISS GRANTED
State of Florida v. Benjamin SmithMurder conviction SET ASIDE

Reviews

(58)
5 Star
95%
4 Star
2%
3 Star
2%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
2%
Review Joseph Bodiford

Best Lawyer in town

Posted by

I knew Mr. Bodiford was the lawyer I needed on my side from the moment I met him for a consultation. He is easy to talk to and very honest about what can happen. His prices are the best in town. He truly cares about his clients. I've never seen a lawyer call you after 5, on the weekends or even near a holiday but Joe will. As soon as he knows something about your case, you will know. My charge carried a sentence of up to 15 years and Joe got me zero! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for doing everything you said you would. If you need a criminal defense attorney, look no further!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Knows the system

Posted by

Joe is a first class professional. His years of experience as a prosecutor and a trial attorney are evident in the way he can fluidly navigate the judicial system. He has extensive contacts in the Tallahassee criminal justice system and at FSU. I retained Joe's services when my child was arrested while attending FSU. I connected immediately with Joe who maintained contact communication with us as the case progressed through the criminal justice system. I hope that I never need the services of a criminal attorney in the future, but if I do, Joe's the man.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

The Best!

Posted by

Simply the best! I am so happy that I chose Mr. Bodiford, and Mr. Coens to help me with my incident. They were easy to talk to, and I was always kept up to date on what was happening. I would often call late in the day, and they were there to help me. I would definitely recommend them.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Wish I had hired Joe and Gannon first!

Posted by

Joe and Gannon handled my appeal of a wrongful conviction, on a very minor charge, motivated by political grudges and mired in civil rights violations. They were there to help me when I was at the end of my rope and our interactions were professional, positive, clear/concise, on-task and reassuring. As to their work, it was OUTSTANDING! Of course, I won the appeal. My case was not clear-cut, but their brief made it so, prompting the appeal judge to rule (without a hearing!) that I should never have been tried to begin with. Now THAT is a result. It was so strong, it may have prompted the judge who ruled against me to resign... right after she was re-elected! I can't thank Joe and Gannon enough for their commitment to justice, fairness and serving me as the client. My only regret is that they don't handle civil cases - so those who acted to illegally arrest and charge me would be made to face the consequences of their actions. I can hardly wait to get arrested again! Kidding, but if I do, I'll go to Joe and Gannon first.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great Job

Posted by

Joe and Gannon helped us through a very difficult family situation. They gave us peace at the outset through their empathy and that they understood the process and what was ahead of us. They are entrenched in the Tallahassee law community and their network of contacts were invaluable. They kept us informed of the cases progress and in the end were successful at getting all the charges dropped. I would highly recommend their law practice.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Gannon Coen

Posted by

Gannon was very responsive during a particularly stressful event for the family. My son was able to meet with Gannon almost immediately and learned the available options for his case. Gannon presented the options in a reassuring way in terms that a non-lawyer could understand. His careful research resulted in a strong supportive case that resulted in a great outcome for us. We are very thankful and appreciative for his work and we highly recommend him.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Thanks Gannon!

Posted by

My husband and I were very satisfied with Gannon’s handling of my case. He was so nice and understanding, he was always quick to respond to all of my questions. He kept me apprised of all progress of my case, so I didn’t have to sit back and wonder. The stressful time I was going through was made so much easier with Gannon guiding me through the process, and I will definitely recommend your firm to anyone. Gannon handled everything with dignity and compassion, just what people need in stressful situations.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Best Attorney in Tallahassee!

Posted by

I honestly couldn't be any happier with my choice in Joe Bodiford for my criminal case. His price is fair, he's a straight shooter, and he really cares about his clients. When I got my DUI, I thought my life was over... until I met with Joe. He told me to focus on straightening up my life, to focus on school and stay out of trouble, and to let him worry about the case. And he sure as hell came through. Not only did I never have to set foot in court, but Joe set it up so that my charge was reduced to a Reckless Driving, and I am now in the process of getting my record sealed. If I ever have any issues in the future, Joe is going to be my first call. Thank you for everything!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Best decision I ever made!

Posted by

After exploring the options for criminal defense attorneys in Tallahassee, I decided to hire Joe to handle my case, and it was the best decision I ever made. Right off the bat in the free consultation you could tell that Joe was very knowledgeable and experienced in Florida criminal law. Most importantly, he was always honest and upfront with me about the facts of my case and what I was looking at. He was also very reasonable with his price, and you can tell he really wants to help you! In the end he came through for me tenfold. Less than a year after hiring Joe, my record has now been expunged and this whole mess is behind me. I could not be more grateful for his help, and everything he has done for me. If you want an attorney to go to bat for you, this is your guy!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Not guilty!

Posted by

Hire Bodiford - I went to trial with him and was found not guilty. He and Ganon are the best.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(27)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Johanne Valois-Shoffstall, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 15, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Joe Bodiford is the kind of criminal defense attorney I would hire for myself, God forbid I ever needed one! He is ethical and extremely caring. He goes the extra mile to prepare his cases. He is creative and is not afraid to run ideas by others and listen to what we have to say so that he may assess whether there is room for improvement to any given strategy. For Joe Bodiford, the client definitely comes first and the best representation is the only service offered.

Scott Davis, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 6, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Joe since 1998 when he was a prosecutor with the State Attorney's Office. As a prosecutor, he was a tenacious opponent. As a defense attorney, he is an outstanding litigator who cares about his clients and fights hard for their rights. He has also been heavily involved in various organizations in the legal community. I am proud to know Joe and he is on a very short list of attorneys who I consult with and can confidently refer clients to.

Randall Grantham, Appeals Attorney on Nov 18, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Joe is extremely intelligent and knows how to present a compelling argument in the best possible manner. Plus he's a great guy. Heartily endorse him.

Melissa Wilson, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 2, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Over the last dozen or so years, I've had ample opportunity to witness Mr. Bodiford in action. He is always well prepared and a great advocate.

Shiobhan Olivero, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 9, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Joe is an outstanding attorney. I would highly recommend him to anyone I know that needs his services.

Michael Waddington, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 4, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Joseph. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community.

Michael McGinn, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 15, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Joe is one of the most knowledgeable and well respected attorneys in the area. I would highly recommend him to anyone who is in need of representation for a criminal case.

Johanne Valois-Shoffstall, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 15, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Joe Bodiford is the kind of criminal defense attorney I would hire for myself, God forbid I ever needed one! He is ethical and extremely caring. He goes the extra mile to prepare his cases. He is creative and is not afraid to run ideas by others and listen to what we have to say so that he may assess whether there is room for improvement to any given strategy. For Joe Bodiford, the client definitely comes first and the best representation is the only service offered.

Mary Corn, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 14, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Lori Palmieri, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 14, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I've known Joe for many years. He and I served on the Criminal Law Board Certification Committee for The Florida Bar and are fellow criminal defense attorneys in the Tampa Bay area. Joe is very innovative and forward-thinking in his defense strategies and does a terrific job for his clients.

Christopher Dyer, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 13, 2014
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I endorse this lawyer. I have seen Joe in the courtroom numerous times, both when we had cases against each other when I was a prosecutor and while looking from the sideline as a criminal defense attorney. He is very- very good- I would consider him for a family member or friend if they needed a criminal defense attorney.

Nicole Denmon, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 13, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Bodiford is a highly skilled and passionate criminal defense attorney.

Michael Misa, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 13, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Joe is a very competent attorney who fights hard for his client's. Any prosecutor knows they need to bring their best game when up against Joe.

David Hardy, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 11, 2013
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I first met Attorney Bodiford when I was serving as an Assistant State Attorney in Tampa. Attorney Bodiford represented several defendants whom I was prosecuting. I was immediately impressed by Attorney Bodiford's encyclopedic knowledge of the law and the dedication he showed to his clients. Joe Bodiford is one of the most respected attorneys in the Tampa Bay Area. I endorse him wholeheartedly.

Syed Ahmed, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 5, 2013
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I endorse this lawyer.

Betty Jones, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 25, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Kevin Sparkman, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 12, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Anthony Rickman

I endorse this lawyer.

Tracey Sticco, Criminal defense Attorney on May 10, 2012
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I endorse this lawyer. As a prosecutor, I had the privilege of trying a very complex drug trafficking case against Joe and was so impressed with his level of professionalism and depth of knowledge about the law. He was truly a pleasure to work with and I would absolutely recommend Joe to anyone seeking an intelligent, articulate, and personable attorney.

John Grant, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 10, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse this lawyer. It's hard to believe that I have known Joe for almost 15 years! I knew him at Stetson, as he was finishing his work while I was an adjunct professor. He was a hard worker who was dedicated to his craft. I then knew him when we prosecuted cases together. He was an excellent prosecutor and has carried his work into the private sector as a well respected and competent criminal defense lawyer. He's a good man to have on your side.

Richard Alexander, Criminal defense Attorney on May 26, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Joe is scary good. I've known Joe for several years and not only has he earned an excellent reputation in the community, but he is always willing to share tips and tools of the profession, to include occasional "war stories." We recently spoke at a DUI seminar together and he could not have been more cordial or gracious with his time and materials. I am proud to be a fellow member of the Bar with individuals of his caliber.

Jeff Paulk, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 19, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I know Joe to be an excellent attorney. Joe has worked with me on criminal cases and I trust his advice and counsel. Joe is also always ready to help a fellow member of the Bar.

Cost

RATES
    • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs60 minutes
    Recent Posts

    bLAWgger.com - view of the legal world by criminal trial lawyer, author, commentator, and lecturer JOE BODIFORD.

    Legal guides written by Joseph Bodiford