Licensed for 52 years

State FL

Acquired 1971

Status
Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

Claude Ashton Van Hook III

Criminal defense Attorney at Deland, FL

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Excellent representation! A communicative and very professional lawyer.

Best DUI Lawyer

Mr. Van Hook has represented me multiple times, for a reason. He has managed to not get me charged with DUI due to his vast knowledge and specialties in such matters. In the most recent time he was able to get the case dropped by getting the traffic stop itself deemed unlawful. I don’t think one could ask for anything more from an attorney. His court performance is impeccable and impressive. He sees the law from a different perspective than others and I couldn’t ask for anything else. You are wise to hire him to represent you.

About Claude

Learn Claude’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Claude Ashton Van Hook III of Deland, FL is a former felony chief of Prosecution of Seminole County. He is also a board certified expert criminal trial attorney who offers reliable and high quality legal counseling and services. He has 40 years of experience in the criminal law practice.

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Claude Ashton Van Hook III

536 W New York Ave

Deland, FL, 32720

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

28 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

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1 Star

Posted by anonymous | December 20, 2022

Excellent representation! A communicative and very professional lawyer.

Mr Van Hook represented me when I was in college. He did so in a way that allowed me to maintain a clean record, and communicated with me throughout the process. He was a very kind man, a pleasure to work with, and did a hell of a job for me. I'm glad I chose him to represent me, and I HIGHLY recommend him if you're seeking representation!

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Posted by Ron | October 18, 2022

Best DUI Lawyer

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Posted by anonymous | May 14, 2022

Mr Claude Van Hook lll

Mr Claude Van Hook lll was very professional. I had my first DUI case ever so I had a lot of questions for him And he was always available and made time for me. He managed to get my DUI down to a reckless instead. I hope never be in trouble again, but if I did I would definitely call him again.

Posted by anonymous | June 23, 2021

Great lawyer

Mr. Vanhook is a great lawyer he did a good job with my case and had all the charges dropped.

Posted by Jordan | April 27, 2021

Professional and Proficient

Mr. Van Hook went above and beyond all expectations. He is professional and thorough. He helped my daughter who was facing 5 years (in adult felony court) reach a deal with the state for just 6 months juvenile probation. He never stopped fighting for my daughter and the injustice of her charges. He was well prepared to take it to trial and only by my daughters choice did we go with a plea. If you want to stay out of prison go with VAN HOOK!

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Posted by anonymous | February 25, 2020

Great lawyer

Excellent Representation knowledgeable of court navigation good client attention HIGHLY recommended he’s just a great lawyer all they way around the board

Posted by Corey | October 4, 2019

Awesome Attorney

Attorney Van Hook is hands down the best attorney I've ever had represent me. He's very thorough, very much hands on. The moment I walked out of his office I was confident that my case would be not only resolved, but my case would be won. And it was. I recommend before you hire a lawyer for your case, please give Attorney Van Hook a call. I promise, you won't regret it.

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Posted by Anita | February 11, 2019

Mr. Claude Ashton Van Hook III truly has a gift.

I was charged with a 2nd degree felony and 1st degree misdemeanor. Mr. Van Hook III got me a PTI (6-month deferment) and all will be dismissed. Amazing!!! My husband had been represented by Mr. Van Hook III in a Jury Trial. Mr. Van Hook III is an outstanding Attorney and in front of a Jury you couldn't ask for a better trial lawyer. So, when I needed help, we knew where to go. I would not trust my life with any other Attorney. Thank you so much A.B.

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Posted by Kristina | January 23, 2019

Best lawyer in town!!.

I’ve had a few cases over the years and Mr. Van Hook is always my go to guy! He gives the best and realist advice. I recommend everyone I know to him. Definitely the best lawyer around!! You won’t be disappointed!!.

Posted by Anthony | October 18, 2018

Thank You Attorney Van Hook

The first time I hired Attorney Van Hook was approx.15 years ago, and he handled my case with honestly and integrity, I hired him again 2 years ago and again, had the same outcome, Attorney Van Hook is definitely an attorney I feel very confident to recommend to any of my families or friends that need a great Attorney. Thank you for the great service Attorney Van Hook........A.D.

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Posted by anonymous | May 18, 2018

Defendant

Mr. Van Hook is very professional and great at his job! I felt he really wanted to identify with me and understand my case, in doing so he achieved a fast and powerful victory. I would recommend Mr. Van Hook hands down! He gets results!

Posted by anonymous | March 9, 2018

Excellent Attorney

I got in some trouble and Mr. Van Hook got me out of it. Got ALL charges against me dropped!! I can never thank him enough for all the work he did for me. Excellent attorney!

Posted by anonymous | December 18, 2017

The best lawyer you can have.

A fantastic attorney I would recommend him to anyone that needs help. I used him and very pleased with the outcome,thank you again.

Posted by Chris | June 28, 2017

Unequivocally the best...Client and goal focused

Mr. Van Hook's attention to detail, research and knowledge of case law are amazing. His tact with engagement of the court, prosecution and jury is something to behold. From my initial interview to adjudication, Mr. Van Hook made it a point to always communicate the possible outcomes and emphasize the strengths of the case while balancing mitigating factors such as previous record, evidence and intent of the prosecution. His adeptness in jury selection and the ability to navigate the judicial system are beyond reproach. His ability to seamlessly interact with the Court, prosecution and jury should serve as an example for all attorneys. I cannot thank Mr. Van Hook enough for being willing to take a case to trial that defended rights.

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Posted by Kimber | June 23, 2017

Outstanding!!

I hired Mr. Van Hook to represent me in a criminal case. The State prosecutor kept coming to us with offers of prison time. I was so worried that I was bound for prison. Mr. Van Hook did not stop . He was able to clear me of all charges. He is extremely reasonable on price, professional, he kept me informed always. I highly recommend Mr. Van Hook to anyone seeking legal council! I might add, this is the second time I hired Mr. Van Hook. Both times winning my case!

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Posted by Joshua | June 18, 2017

Awesome Job!

Mr. Van Hook did an awesome job in defending myself. He was very confident that he could get the charges reduced and he did exactly that! Since the charges were reduced I can carry on with my life and move forward in the direction to better fulfill my career. I would highly recommend Mr. Van Hook to any friends of mine needing legal advice or help. He has exceeded his expectations in professionalism and expertise! Thank you Mr. Van Hook in defending my case for me!

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Posted by anonymous | March 21, 2017

Saved me from the employee from hell..

Mr. Van Hook was able to get the false charge against me dismissed completely. He is very professional and experienced. I would use him again, if I have the misfortune of hiring another nut case. I would recommend him to my family or friends.

Posted by Lisa | December 13, 2016

Great lawyer

Very professional, courteous and caring. Got results the next day!

Posted by Michelle | November 29, 2016

Thank you

I hired Mr. Van Hook to help me get through a very stressful situation that I was in. What he did for me was amazing beyond words! I would recommend to anyone who needs the Best DUI attorney to give him a call!. Thank you again Mr. Van Hook

Posted by Diego | July 26, 2016

One of the best lawyers in Florida

Best Lawyer!! I hired Mr. Van Hook to represent me in my criminal case where I was facing more than 35 years of jail if I was found guilty. Facing 2 felonies second degree , one felony third degree and 2 misdemeanours. The case was set for trial that lasted two days, during trial he destroyed the "alleged victims" and impeach them several times. He has many years of experienced and he is a Board certified criminal Trial Lawyer. We obtained a great victory on the trial where the 2 felonies second degree were reduced to misdemeanors. My sentencing was 1 day in jail, yesss only 1 day!! and 6 months probation plus I got withheld adjudication meaning that I will be able to seal my record . I have no words for Mr Van Hook, he is simply the Best lawyer in Florida!!!. If you are in big problems you are in the right place there is no doubt that Mr Van Hook will help. He is well Known in Court for his great victories!!!

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Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Board Certified Crminal Trial Attorney
Claude Ashton Van Hook, III Law Office
1977 - Present

Teacher educator
Seminole Community College
1980 - 1983

Chief of the felony division
Seminole County State Attorney's Office
1973 - 1976

Prosecuting Attorney
Seminole County State Attorney's Office
1972 - 1976

View all work experience

Education

University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1970

Bellmont Abbey College
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1967

DeLand High School
High School Diploma
1963

Legal Cases

State v. P. S.
Reduced to 2 misdemeanors

State v. B
Entered into deferred prosecution agreement. Charges dropped in about 3 weeks

State v. J.J.
DUI completley dropped in return for a plea to a dry reckless, that is to say, not alcohol related.

View all legal cases

Associations

Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
member
1995 - Present

The Florida Bar Board Certified Lawyers
member
1992 - Present

Volusia County Bar Association
member
1980 - Present

American Bar Association
member
1973 - Present

National College of District Attorneys
Member
1976 - 1977

National District Attorneys' Association
member
1975 - 1977

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Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

2015 Premier 100 Trial Attorney
American Academy of Trial Attorneys
2015

Nationally Ranked Superior DUI Atty
National Advocacy for DUI Defense
2014

Board Certified Criminal Trial Law since 1992
The Florida Bar
2013

Re-Certified Criminal Law
Florida Bar
2007

Re-Certified Criminal Law
Florida Bar
2002

Re-Certifed Criminal Law
Florida Bar
1997

Board Certified Criminal Law
Florida Bar
1992

Who's Who In American Law
Marquis Who's Who Publications Board
1984

Model Citizen Fireman of the Year Award
Gallager Reality
1981

American Jurisprudence
University of Florida School of Law
1969

View all awards

Publications

27 Fla. L. Weekly Supp. 633
State v. R. R
2019

25 Fla. L. Weekly Supp. 202
State v. M.H.
2017

24 Fla. L. Weekly Supp. 974
State v. A.R
2016

22 Fla. L. Weekly Supp. 604
State v. W.T.
2014

20 Fla. L.Weekly Supp. 430
State v. J..S.
2013

19 Fla. L. Weekly Supp. 1031
State v.S.
2012

18 Fla, L.Weekly Supp. 1176
State v. N.G.
2011

18 Fla.L. Weekly Supp.863
State v. R.C.
2011

18 Fla.L.Weekly Supp 522
State v. K.T.
2011

18 Fla,L.Weekly Supp 470
State v. W. K.
2011

18 Fla.L. Weekly Supp. 1136
STATE v A. C.
2011

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Speaking Engagements

DeLand Middle School
Civil v. Criminal Law
1990

Stetson University
Truth and Lies
1984

DeLand Police Department
Defending DUI Cases
1984

Stetson University Class taught by Kindred
Truth and Lies
1983

Optimist Club of DeLand, Fl.
DUi Law
1983

Deltona Jr. High Law Week
Criminal Law
1983

DeLand Jr. High School
Criminal Law
1983

Stetson University Class taught by David Thomas
Van Hook Trials
1982

St. Peters
Crime and the Bill of Rights
1982

Seville Elementary Law Week
Mock Trial Presentation
1982

DeLand Jr. High Law Week
Criminal Law
1982

St. Peters Catholic School, DeLand, Fl.
Crime and the Bill of Rights
1981

Kiwanis Club of DeLand
Criminal Law
1981

DeLand Jr. High
Auto Accidents and Manslaughter
1981

DeLand Jr. High
Plea Bargaining, Death Penalty, Voir Dire Techniques
1980

DeLand High School Law Week
Sexual Battery, Due Process, Capital Punishment
1980

West Volusia Legal Secretaries
Criminal Procedure
1979

DeLand Jr. High Law Week
1976,77,78 changes in criminal law, Juvinile law, branches of government
1979

DeLand High School Law Week
Sexual Battery, Due Process, Legal Misconceptions
1979

Lake Brantley High School
The law
1978

DeLand Jr.High School
4th, 5th, and 6th Amendments
1978

DeLand High School
Sexual Battery and Due Process
1978

Lake Brantley High School
4th, 5th, and 6th Amendments
1977

Lyman High School
Child Abuse
1976

Lyman High School
Sexual Battery
1976

Delivered 30 speeches at schools and service clubs through out Volusia and Seminole Counties from 1976 to 1990
The Law
1976

Bankers Security Seminar
Worthless Checks
1976

Sanford Plaza Merchants
Worthless Checks
1975

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Attorney endorsements

Received (8)

Given (6)

Endorse Claude

Richard Jackson

Criminal defense Attorney | May 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. Van Hook for many years, and he is a knowledgeable attorney and a zealous advocate for his clients. Mr. Van Hook is very well respected in the legal community."

A McNeilly

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

James Weart

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Claude Van Hook for over 30 years. I would highly recommend him to anyone who has a criminal problem in the Volusia County area. Claude has successfully tried hundreds of cases and does an outstanding job in the courtroom. He also is a very ethical lawyer who has an honest relationship with his clients."

Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Geoffrey is a superb criminal defense lawyer. He is aggressive, compassionate, and fights like a warrior for his clients."

Michael Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Claude. He is a highly skilled trial lawyer that aggressively fights for the rights of his clients."

R. Jason de Groot

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Van Hook is the best criminal defense attorney I know. I have known him for over 20 years and have found that he is one of the only attorneys I can trust. He is the heavyweight that you want in your corner."

Ivan Clements

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Claude A. Van Hook III , a Board Certified Expert in criminal trial law. I have known him for more than 20 years, since I was a prosecutor Volusia County. He represented some of the people that I prosecuted. I found him to be extremely competent, hard working and dedicated to his many clients. I would, and do, recommend this attorney to those charged with criminal offenses and would not hesitate to retain his services if I were in need. He is among the very few in this county who are certified experts in criminal trial law."

Michael Herring

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Claude to be a skilled and competent criminal trial lawyer for almost 30 years. He has tried about every kind of criminal case known and was a pioneer in defending against the State's use of DNA evidence in criminal cases."

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Claude Ashton Van Hook III

About Claude

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