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 - 4 of 4 reviews | Responsiveness

Posted by Ama | May 31, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Highly Recommend

Attorney LaFay and his team provided outstanding legal representation for my loved one during a very complex and high-stakes drug case. From the beginning, it was clear that we were in capable hands. The case carried a potentially hefty sentence, but thanks to Attorney LaFay's deep legal knowledge, e...xceptional technical skills, and meticulous preparation, he was able to win at trial and justice was served with a not guilty verdict! His courtroom presence and professionalism were truly impressive, and it was evident that every aspect of the defense had been carefully thought through and executed. I also had a great experience with Lisa and Brittany, key members of Mr. LaFay’s team. Both were incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. They were responsive, communicative, respectful, and friendly. They put in countless hours behind the scenes, ensuring that every detail was addressed and we always felt informed and supported. This was one of the most stressful times, but with Attorney LaFay, Lisa, and Brittany on our side, we never felt alone. We are beyond grateful for their hard work and dedication. I highly recommend Mr. LaFay to anyone in need of top-tier criminal defense representation.

Posted by Beverly | April 30, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Completely satisfied

Our first visit with Mr Lafay gave us something we had not experienced from previous Lawyers Confidence that he would do all that's in his power to help our situation. Their wasn't one question I could think of that he didn't answer with no problem, we felt a sense of security that we was surely... in the right place, this was our first visit We knew within a instant that we was in the right place, right lawyer, for the Job, he gave us 100% confidence that he would work hard and stay dedicated to working hard to resolve this case, in the beginning he told us he would file some paperwork that was done, never did I had to call him up or check to see if the job was done he's a man of his WORD, we are truly satisfied with Mr. Lafay: I truly encourage anyone in need of a lawyer too seek Mr. Lafay office you won't be Disappointed.

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 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.

See All Client Reviews

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.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • 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