Michael Howard LaFay

Michael Howard LaFay

4.3
Rating: 9.7

Licensed for 41 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Orlando, FL
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, White Collar Crime, Federal Crime ... +2 more

189 South Orange Av, Orlando, FL

About Michael

Biography

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 35%

All types of criminal defense matters including drug offenses (trafficking, possession, sale an delivery, manufacturing), criminal appeals, juvenile law, domestic violence, post conviction relief

35%
White Collar Crime 20%

All types of Fraud (bankruptcy fraud, mortgage fraud, tax fraud, financial fraud), money laundering, Embezzlement, RICO

20%
Sex Crime 15%

Child Pornography, Computer and Internet Sex Crimes, sexual battery, Child molestation, Traveling to meet a minor, Unlawful sex with a minor

15%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


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Licenses

Licensed in Florida for 41 years

State: Florida

Acquired: 1985

Member in Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in New York for 41 years

State: New York

Acquired: 1984

Currently Registered

No misconduct found

Location

NeJame Law

189 South Orange Av, Orlando, FL, 32801

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Michael Howard LaFay's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.3 /5.0

15 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (15) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 reviews | Cost of Services

Posted by Matthew | December 03, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Best lawyer ever.and ive had a lot.

First of all let me start by saying that i was legitimately guilty.im pretty sure thats the first thing i told him.i have already been to prison for 5 years for manufacturing meth and delvery and sales of that same meth. Then i got charged with the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Let me... mention they had a confession. However forced. They had it and the judge allowed it.hear this next part loud and clear for you real criminals who read this.minmum mandatory for this charge is 3 years in prison.that means by law i can get no less than 3 years but thats exactly what happened. The way he operates in a courtroom is amazing.they changed prosecutors 3 times because in hearings he made them look like beginners. Until they got their best guy.a real hard ass for wanting to win.and in the end i did 6 hours in jail.he sent his personal bail bondsman to the jail and had my bail posted with no money. Yes .u read this right.he also took my case on payments. And when i fell behind he let me work off some cash.who does this?no one right.well the classy people at the nejame law firm did that but more specifically mike lafay did this..also i never had to take off work for court in this year long process.i think i went a total of three times.in the end i got four years probation after the case was over and i was serving my probation he continued to be my attorney. He filed for early term two times at no extra charge.and i have been a free man for two months now.i have gained my freedom and a friend from one bad ass lawyer.#superman @ Michael Lafay. I truly beleive if had any other attorney i would have been sent back to prison on the express line.

Posted by Wendy | November 12, 2014 | Criminal Defense

Review of Attorney Lafay

This attorney took my money and then messed up in court in one of my hearings and had to have an attorney represent him to protect himself and left me hanging. He immediately withdrew from my case and did not refund my money. I kept copies of all the hearings from court and now realize not only did ...he cost me my money but no ability to pay another attorney without borrowing. He did nothing on my case and did not keep me informed about what was happening or what things he was doing that affected me. I had no information and chance to assist in the direction he was going. Would not recommend him or the firm he works for to anyone. He was not diligent in assisting me. He got scared for his own future and quit even though he messed it up himself in court. I have copies of the hearings to prove he acted without my knowledge and spoke to my accuser without my knowledge.

Michael LaFay

Replied last November 12, 2014

I represented this client in 2002. During the case, the prosecutor sought to subpoena me. I fought this subpoena for one year in the Orlando courts and the appellate courts. When the appellate court decided that the prosecutor could interview me, the Florida Bar told me that I had to withdraw from the case even though I would not be providing any information against my client or even answering their questions. I had no choice in withdrawing from her case once the Florida Bar instructed me to do so. The client was well aware of this. This criticism is completely unfounded

Posted by Sheila | November 10, 2014 | Criminal Defense

Stuck with me thick and thin

My family hired Michael 5 years ago today, Michael never left my side, even after my funds were ALL gone. Not knowing the Lord would take almost 5 years to take this to trial, Michael was there every step of the way giving everything he had to my case but asking for nothing. He was/is an amazing lawy...er with awesome dedication to his client! We prevailed.I am free today because of the Lord and having Michael in my corner! :)

Posted by anonymous | August 04, 2014 | Lawsuits & Disputes

I would not recommend Michael Lafay

Mr. Lafay tells you everything he knows you want to hear, but once you pay him, you hear nothing else from him, AT ALL. he does not keep you up to date or informed about anything related to your case. Does not respond in a timely manner, and is always short whenever you catch up with him. You will n...ot know anything about a court date or anything until the day before, you have no chance to go over anything before you know you are in front of the judge no warning, no nothing. I wish like hell I can get my money back.

Posted by Mark | September 05, 2010 | Criminal Defense

100+% Criminal Defense Trial Lawyer as real as you can get!!!

My son got charged with 5x Attempted Murder and 5x Aggravated Assault. I have spoken to many Super Lawyers while shopping around for the best representation that I can get for my son across the State of Florida. A few of the Super Lawyers indicated just like Mr. Lafay indicated that this case has to... go to trial. Mr. Lafay rate in comparison with the other Super Lawyers was unbelievable for the experience and very high quality work that was laid out in the court room time after time. The State and Police Officers were both very much under very heavy pressure from day one. Mr. Lafay left no stone unturned, everything were examined and presented in getting this case ready for trail. This case was definitely worked to the fullest by Mr. LaFay. For the rate that Mr. LaFay charges I still can’t believe it for the very high quality representation. For a lawyer that doesn’t mislead and actually tries his very best for you Mr. Lafay is the man!!!

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Michael Howard LaFay's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Michael
Jaya Balani headshot
Jaya Balani

Criminal defense lawyer | May 23

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael LaFay is an amazing attorney who knows the law and strategies so well."

Eric Harold Barker headshot
Eric Barker

Criminal defense lawyer | May 20

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael's legal skills are second to none and is a master strategist. He is a board certified trial lawyer who is a tireless worker. He has the savoir faire and courtroom skills necessary to impress the judge and jury."

John W. Zielinski headshot
John Zielinski

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 18

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is a highly respected litigator that will provide a well thought out, calculated defense strategy for his clients. He regularly thinks outside the box to the benefit of his clients. I strongly endorse this lawyer."

Michele Diglio-Benkiran headshot
Michele Diglio-Benkiran

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 08

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is a highly experienced criminal attorney. He is vigilant for his clients. He has proven himself highly effective in his representation of his clients. I endorse him."

David L. Haas headshot
David Haas

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 04

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is fearless, aggressive and smart. He does a tremendous job in advocating for his clients and protecting their rights."

Francisco Fraerly Symphorien-Saavedra headshot
Francisco Fraerly Symphorien-Saavedra

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 19

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is one of the top 5 criminal defense attorneys in the state. He is fearless and relentless in his pursuit of a positive outcome. I would and have recommended Michael to my dearest friends and family members."

Avita Mosai Samaroo headshot
Avita Samaroo

Unknown lawyer | Nov 09

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. LaFay is an extremely talented attorney."

Paige L Carlos headshot
Paige Carlos

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 06

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is one of the best criminal defense attorneys in Orlando. He is very respected by his colleagues and always goes above and beyond for his clients. I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements

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This attorney hasn't created any attorney endorsements recently on Avvo.

Experience

Rating:  9.7 (Superb)

Honors

2019

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2018

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2017

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2016

Featured as "Top Criminal Defense Attorney", AVVO

2016

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2015

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2014

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2014

Top Law Firm, Orando Business Journal

2013

Board Certification in Criminal Law, The Florida Bar

2013

top lawyer in Orlando, Orlando Life Magazine

2013

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2012

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2011

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2010

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2009

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2008

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2007

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2006

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2005

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2004

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2003

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2002

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2002

Davis Award, Governor of Florida

2001

Meir Award, Orlando Police Department

2001

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2001

Outstanding Prosecution, Orange County Sheriffs Office

2001

Sheriff's Citation for Excellence, Orange County Sheriff's Office

2001

Certificate of Commendation For Excellence, Orange County Sheriff's Office

2001

Honored for Trial work, DEA Heroin Task Force

2000

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

1997

Davis Award for Excellence, Medicaid Fraud Task Force - Presented by the Governor

1997

Faculty Lecturer, Florida Police Academy

1994

Faculty Speaker, Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association

Work Experience

2002 - Present

Partner, Nejame Law

Associations

1985 - Present

Florida Bar

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

2014 Triple Homicide

Not Guilty

2010 Capital Sexual Battery

Not Guilty

2011 Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

2011 DUI/ Resisting Arrest

Not Guilty

2011 Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

The Court threw out the breath test due to source code violations and the jury disbelieved the arresting officer

2012 Driving UInder the Influence (DUI)

Not Guilty

2012 Bribery - Charged in Federal Court

Not Guilty

2013 Possession of Drugs

Case dismissed

2014 Scheme to Defraud/Grand Theft

Not Guilty

2014 Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer

Client acquitted of all felonies. Found guilty of a traffic offense of reckless driving.

2010 Trafficking in Heroin

The defendant received a significantly lesser sentence

2014 First Degree Murder Charge

Not Guilty

2015 Racketeering/Trafficking in Pills (Pill Mill charges)

Case dismissed

2016 Conspiracy/Trafficking in Cocaine Dropped

Case dropped

2016 Conspiracy/Trafficking in Cocaine

Not Guilty

2016 Conspiracy to Traffic in Cocaine

Not Guilty

2016 Robbery

Case dismissed

2017 Trafficking in Cocaine and Possession of a Place for Trafficking

Not Guilty

2017 Battery

Not Guilty

2007 Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Death

Not guilty

2017 Battery

Not Guilty

2006 Attempted Murder

Not Guilty

2006 Driving Under the Influece (DUI)

Not Guilty

2006 Driving Under the Influece (DUI)

Not guilty

2006 Driving Under the Influece (DUI)

Not guilty

2006 Lewd and Lascivious Battery

Not Guilty

2006 Attempted Murder

Not Guilty

2007 Aggravated Battery

Not Guilty

2018 Driving Under the Influece (DUI)

Not Guilty

2007 Trafficking in Cocaine, 400 grams or more

Probation (instead of the minimum sentence was 15 years in prison)

2007 (Driving Under he Influence) DUI

Not guilty

2007 Sexual Battery

Not Guilty

2008 Attempted First Degree Murder/Kidnapping

Significantly reduced sentence. The case is currently on appeal.

2009 (Driving Under the Influence) DUI

Not Guilty

2009 Multiple Counts of Robbery with a Firearm, Aggravated Battery and Aggravated Assault

The robbery charges were reduced and the remaining counts were reduced to misdemeanors.

2009 Trafficking in Cocaine

Rather than go forward, the State agreed to a sentence of two years of probation.

2010 Boating Under the Influice (BUI) Manslaughter

Acquitted of BUI Manslaughter. The defendant was found guilty of the misdemeanor of Boating Under the Influence (BUI).

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Education

1983

American University, Washington College of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1980

Muhlenberg College

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Publications

1994

Medical Trial Practice Quarterly "The Wrongful Death Action" (Co-Author)

1983

New England Journal on Criminal Confinement "Double-celling in the Prisions"

Languages

English

Italian

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution