Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
4.7 /5.0
17 Client Reviews
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Joel C. Wilson
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About Joel
Biography
Joel is an experienced attorney who has represented thousands of clients in the Orlando and Central Florida area in criminal defense, dui, divorce & family law cases. Originally from Wisconsin, Joel completed his Bachelor of Science in Business and graduated with honors (Summa Cum Laude) before moving to Florida to attend law school at Florida State University.
Joel graduated from Florida State University with his Juris Doctorate in December 2001 and passed the Florida Bar on his first attempt. In addition to his Bachelor of Science (BS) and Juris Doctorate (JD), Joel has also completed his Masters of Business Administration (MBA).
While in Law school, Joel completed an externship for the Attorney General's Office where he conducted research and attended hearings on numerous legal actions involving the State of Florida. Joel also completed an externship with the Children's Advocacy Center where he assisted children and families with a wide range of family law issues. Joel also completed a law program at the University of Oxford in England.
After law school, Joel went to work for the State Attorney’s Office in Miami-Dade County as a Prosecutor. While at the State Attorney’s Office, Joel quickly moved up, and was soon entrusted to handle major felony cases. He was the lead prosecutor on hundreds of criminal cases, including cases involving attempted murder, drug trafficking, sexual battery, armed robbery and numerous other felony and life felony charges. After leaving the State Attorney’s Office, Joel moved to the Orlando area and worked for the Public Defenders office where he gained additional experience from a defense perspective before starting his own law practice.
Joel also has significant trial experience, having tried over 75 cases during his career as an attorney. While most cases do not need to result in a trial, there are cases that will go to trial. When a case cannot be resolved except by trial, you will want an experienced trial attorney on your side to present your side of the case to the Court in a persuasive and effective manner in order to achieve the best results possible.
In addition to his legal education and background, Joel is a military veteran having served 13 years in the military prior to law school. Joel received an Honorable Discharge before moving to Florida to pursue his desire of helping others as an attorney.
Orlando Criminal Defense, DUI, Divorce & Family Law Attorney, Free Initial Consult, Avail 24 Hours
Orlando Divorce & Family Law Attorney, Free Initial Consult, Avail 24 Hrs, Over 13 Yrs Experience
Practice Areas
2
Practice Areas
Divorce and Separation
70%
23 years
Child Custody
30%
23 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2019
Licenses
Licensed in Florida for 23 years
State: Florida
Acquired: 2002
No misconduct found
Location
Gallery
Joel C. Wilson's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 16 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by anonymous | February 28, 2021 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
G.R.
Mr. Wilson and his office were most helpful in handling my expungement process. Mr. Wilson was especially instrumental during the actual expungement hearing. I am most grateful for all his support, guidance and expertise. I would highly recommend Mr. Wilson to anyone seeking legal counsel.
Posted by Ron | October 18, 2019 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Highly recommended attorney!
My family matter was very challenging and involved several states. Attorney Wilson learned the facts of my case and established a strategy for resolution. He was ALWAYS responsive, attentive, and sensitive to my needs. Attorney Wilson and his team are amazing! In my profession, I work with many a...
Posted by DK | September 20, 2019 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Joel Wilson has "Never" been too busy to make time for my concerns..
Never dreaming I could get an answer, I called Joel Wilson because of an unexpected emergency legal problem that if not addressed properly could have cost my son 15 years in prison. Joel answered the phone and reassured me that everything that could be done was done. Many phone calls later everyth...
Posted by Alexander | July 3, 2019 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Amazing Attorney
Joel Wilson is an amazing attorney!! He is nice, considerate and gives you realistic expectations about your case. He is handling my divorce with child custody case and while the entire case has been stressful he has been there to explain everything to me in detail. It is almost impossible to find an...
Posted by Craig | June 3, 2019 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Craig
Wilson Law Firm is the best!!! If you need a lawyer they are amazing. They helped me with my divorce and I could always call them! Thanks!!!!!
Joel C. Wilson's Lawyer Endorsements
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Joel has a great understanding of how the legal system works. Joel keeps his clients informed of what is happening on their cases. He works very hard to make sure every client gets the best representation."
"I highly recommend Joel! He is an excellent attorney who is always available and puts his clients first."
"Joel is a fantastic individual and very competent lawyer. I have known him for many years and he is easily one of the most reliable individuals I know. Whether he represents you on a family law matter or DUI, you can trust that he is working hard for you and will provide you with accurate and sound advice."
"I have known Joel for more than fifteen years and consider him to be a dedicated professional who always tries to protect his client's interests. I highly recommend him in helping resolve family law disputes as well as in criminal defense cases."
"I have known Joel Wilson for 14 years; he is very knowledgeable, personable, hard-working and trustworthy. Joel is a true professional and I highly recommend him!!"
"I previously worked with Mr. Wilson in Miami, Florida. He is very dedicate to his work and is a zealous advocate for his clients. I would endorse him."
"I have known Joel for over 10 years. He is a top criminal defense attorney with an intimate knowledge of the law and strong work ethic. He has also assisted me in my role as a State Senator in reviewing several important pieces of criminal law legislation"
"Joel Wilson is a guy you can trust. He is an excellent lawyer and will always have his client's interests at heart. He is someone you can count on!"
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Joel is an incredible advocate who is very knowledgeable in the fields of family and criminal law. I frequently discuss strategy with him and am always pleased with his insight. I have referred numerous potential clients to Joel in the past and those people have come back to me and told me how impressed they are with him. He is a great person, a great friend and an excellent lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Joel has the experience and determination to get results. He will zealously represent his clients. I would recommend Joel for family law cases."
"Joel is extremely knowledgeable in his field and works hard for his clients. I would feel confident having him represent myself or a family member."
"I endorse this lawyer. Joel Wilson is a great criminal defense attorney. He has worked both sides of a criminal case; he served as a state prosecutor before opening up his own practice which includes criminal defense work. He knows the law and how to protect our citizens in the legal justice system."
Christopher Atcachunas
Divorce and separation lawyer | Dec 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Very knowledgable family law attorney - always professional when working with clients and co/opposing counsel."
"I endorse this lawyer."
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Experience
Honors
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2023
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2022
Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers
2022
Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2021
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2020
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2019
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2001
Book Award, Florida State University College of Law
2001
Distinguished Pro Bono Service, Florida State University College of Law
Work Experience
2007 - Present
Managing Partner, Wilson Law Firm
2005 - 2007
Partner, Calzada, Hamner & Wilson
2004 - 2005
Public Defender, Seminole County Public Defender's Office
2002 - 2004
Prosecuting Attorney, Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office
2001 - 2001
Legal Intern, Attorney General, Florida
2000 - 2000
Legal Intern, Children's Advocacy Center
1989 - 1999
Operations, United States Air Force (Active Duty)
1986 - 1989
Operations, United States Air Force Reserve
Associations
2013 - Present
Orange County Bar AssociationMember
2012 - Present
Central Florida Association for Women LawyersMember
2005 - Present
Central Florida Criminal Defense Attorneys AssociationMember
2005 - Present
Florida Bar, Family Law SectionMember
2005 - Present
Florida Bar, Criminal Law SectionMember
2005 - Present
U.S. District Court - Middle District of FloridaMember
2002 - Present
Florida BarMember
2005 - 2013
Florida Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
Sample of Legal Cases
L.L. v. T.L. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
R.F. v. K.F. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
C.H. v. C.H. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. C.A. - Domestic Battery by Strangulation & Battery Domestic Violence
Case Dismissed
State v. B.H.W. - Grand Theft Over $100,000 and Scheme to Defraud
Case Dismissed
K.D. v. D.D. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
C.C. v. B.S. - Divorce
Parties Reconciled and Stayed Married
State v. C.J. - Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
State v. J.H. - Possession of Cannabis
Case Dismissed
State v. P.R.F - Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
State v. J.E.C. - Burglary of Dwelling with Assault or Battery
Case Dismissed
C.M. v. J.M. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. S.P.M. - Possession of Cannabis & Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Dismissed Possession of Cannabis charge, Withold of Adjudication on Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Credit Time Served
State v. A.L.C - Providing False ID to Law Enforcement
Case Dismissed
State v. M.G.H - DUI
Withhold Adjudication for Reckless Driving Alchohol Related with Probation
A.B. v. B.B. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
C.E. v. J.E. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
M.K. v. A.M. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. J.B. - DUI with Property Damage and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Dismissed Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Adjudication for DUI with DUI minimum penalties
S.M. v. A.M. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. B.J.F. - Attempted First Degree Murder, Aggravated Battery, Battery on Law Enforcement Officer etc.
Not Guilty by reason of Insanity
State v. L.S. - DUI (2nd Offense)
Adjudication, 30 days jail, probation
State v. A.I. - Grand Theft
Adjudication WIthheld for Petit Theft and Probation
State v. L.J.D. - Selling Alcohol to Person Under 21
Case Dismissed
State v. H.J.L. - Possession of Psilocybin, Possession of Cannabis & Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Case Dismissed
State v. V.I. - Dealing in Stolen Property & Petit Theft
Dismissed Dealing in Stolen Property, Withhold of Adjudication on Petit Theft, Probation
M.Q. v. E.Q. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. J.P.W - Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
State v. C.A.S. - Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell & Possession of Cannabis
Case Dismissed
State v. G.M. - Burglary of a Dwelling with Assault or Battery & Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
N.J. v. O.J. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. D.A.T. - Petit Theft
Case Dismissed
State v. C.L - Felony Battery & Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
J.E. v. J.E. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. G.M. - Possession of Heroin & Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Withhold of Adjudication on Possession of Heroin, Adjudication on Possession of Drug Paraphernia - Credit Time Served
J.V. v. M.F.V. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
S.H. v. G.H. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. R.M. - Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
A.J.V. v. N.V. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
D.S. v. Y.S. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
L.R. v. C.C. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
A.V.R. v. V.M.C.
Marriage Dissolved
State v. P.R.S. - Aggravated Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
State v. R.S. - Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
State v. K.D. - Cruelty to Animals (Felony)
Adjudication to Misdemeanor Cruelty to Animals, Probation
State v. M.J.B. - Possession of Cocaine
Case Dismissed
A.B. v. A.B.C. - Divorce
Marriage DIssolved
State v. M.M.J. - Tampering with Witness, Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
State v. C.G. - Aggravated Battery
Case Dismissed
K.M. v. J.M. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. P.M.K. - Possession of Cannabis & Attempted Destruction of Evidence
Dismissed Attempted Destruction of Evidence, Adjudication Withhold on Possession of Cannabis, Credit Time Served
M.E.C. v. D.T.C. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. R.D. - Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
State v. F.P. - Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Case Dismissed
State v. E.N.D. -Battery (Domestic Violence) & Resisting Officer Without Violence
Case Dismissed
L.F. v. M.F. - Divorce
Parties Reconciled and Stayed Married
J.R.D. v. M.L.D. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. J.V. - Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dimissed
State v. F.R. - DUI
Case Dismissed
State v. Y.B. - Possession of Cannabis & Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Case Dismissed
State v. G.O. - DUI with Property Damage
Adjudication to DUI, Probation
State v. G.F. - Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
State v. K.K.M. - Driving While License Suspended
Case Dismissed
State v. D.E.K. - Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
State v. J.S. - Child Abuse & Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
State v. S.J.R. - DUI
Case Dismissed
State v. B.N.S. - Obtaining Unemployment Compensation by Fraud
Case Dismissed after Diversion Program
J.W.V. v. A.E.V. - Divorce
Parties reconciled and stayed married
State v. D.P.B. - DUI (2 Cases)
Both Cases Dismissed
State v. L.A.O. - Obtaining Property by Worthless Check
Case dismissed after Diversion Program
A.S.K. v. K.S.F. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
L.R.D. v. R.A.D. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
M.J.R. v. T.R. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
G.S. v. M.P. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. A.L - Drug Trafficking VOP
Reinstated to Probation
State v. C.I.O. - Driving While License Suspended
Case Dismissed
State v. R.T.M. - Battery (2 Counts)
Case Dismissed after Diversion Program
State v. O.F.O. - DUI
Case Dismissed after Diversion Program
M.U. v. R.U. - Divorce
Parties reconciled and remained married
Y.K.O. v. J.K.M. - Divorce
Marriage Dissolved
State v. B.K.B. - DUI Violation of Probation
Case Dismissed
State v. C.L.H. - Obtaining Property by Worthless Check
Case DIsmissed
State v. R.R. - Solicitation to Commit Prostitution
Case Dismissed
State v. C.R. - Petit Theft
Withhold Adjudication, Fine & Cost
State v. M.S. - Battery
Case Dismissed
State v. G.A. - Petit Theft
Withhold Adjudication, Fine & Court Costs
State v. J.E.M. - Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Adjudication Withheld, Credit Time Served, Fine and Court Costs
State v. J.M. - Battery (Domestic Violence)
Case Dismissed
Education
2004
Upper Iowa University
MBA - Master of Business Administration
2001
Florida State University College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1998
Upper Iowa University
BS - Bachelor of Science
Speaking Engagements
2010
Legal Studies Class - Guest Speaker
Law Practice
Publications
2009
CBS Sports
CBS Sports Article
2009
Orlando Weekly
Mulligan
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
Living with someone for 15 years and married for 3 years, am I able to get alimony or any compensation?
22 Jul 2015
Q&A
How do I find and get a copy ofthe dna results that I already took for child support?
22 Jul 2015
Q&A
Do I pay child support on months with 5 weeks in them?
29 Jun 2015