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Richard Earl Hornsby

Criminal defense Attorney at Orlando, FL

4.9   312 reviews
  • Licensed for 22 years
    State FL
    Acquired 2001
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About Richard

Learn Richard’s areas of practice.

1
Practice area
  1. Criminal defense
    100%

    23 years, 5,000 cases

One of the best criminal defense lawyers in Florida over the past two decades, Richard Hornsby has developed a reputation for achieving exceptional results under difficult circumstances. He is recognized as an expert in criminal trial law by the Florida Bar and prides himself on obtaining the most favorable result possible for his clients. If you find yourself in need of an aggressive criminal defense attorney, the only real option is Richard Hornsby.

Richard Hornsby is a third generation Central Floridian and a second-generation criminal defense lawyer. Richard obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Master of Science in Forensic Science, and Juris Doctor from the University of Florida. He also holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida.

Richard is Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by the Florida Bar and Board Certified in Criminal Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

Richard serves as the Legal Analyst for the Central Florida NBC affiliate, WESH 2 News, and is frequently called upon to provide legal commentary for the Orlando Sentinel.

In 2007 he was voted Best of the Bar in Criminal Defense by the Orlando Business Journal. In 2016 he was recognized as a Legal Elite by Orlando Style Magazine. In 2021 he was recognized as a Legal Elite by Florida Trend Magazine. And he has been recognized in Super Lawyers Magazine every year from 2012 through 2022.

Photos and videos

http://www.RichardHornsby.com Orlando Criminal Lawyer Richard Hornsby was asked by Fox 35 Reporter Shannon Butler of Orlando, Florida, to discuss a procedural rule that might allow Casey Anthony to avoid manslaughter or murder charges.
http://www.RichardHornsby.com Orlando Criminal Lawyer Richard Hornsby was asked by ABC Reporter Mary Nguyen to discuss the impact a fellow criminal lawyer might have on the Casey Anthony case.
http://www.RichardHornsby.com Orlando Criminal Lawyer Richard Hornsby was asked by Fox 35 Reporter Melissa DiPane whether Casey Anthony could be charged with the death of her daughter; even if no body was found.
http://www.RichardHornsby.com Orlando Criminal Lawyer Richard Hornsby was asked by ABC-WFTV Reporter Steve Barrett to discuss the likely cost of retaining the experts necessary to defend Ms. Anthony.
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Contact Richard

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Richard E. Hornsby, PA
1217 East Robinson Street
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Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  312 customer reviews
Posted by Perry | November 13, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
5 Star
Richard Horsby was a beacon of hope to my family at a time when our options of a satisfactory resolution seemed nearly impossible. He is wicked smart and really made a difference in my case and my life. Richard got the case dismissed with nothing but the truth! He has a concise, terse, pithy personality, but I recommend him with all my heart. Thank you, Richard! You really helped me, and my family close the chapter on this incident.
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Posted by anonymous | November 11, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Attorney Review
If you want a straight forward guy who will take care of your case fast, this is your attorney. Although he is brusque, he will resolve your case in your best interest.
Posted by Shadow | November 8, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Richard Hornsby is a professional lawyer with great expertise
Richard Hornsby was extremely professional and worked diligently on my case. He stayed on my case and I thank him for helping me to win my case. If I ever needed help again he will be the first lawyer I will call R. Jeanbaptiste
Posted by Michael | July 17, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Richard Hornsby, P.A.
Richard Hornby, P.A. was a great hire for my circumstances. I contacted him through his message service during the weekend and he responded before the end of the weekend. We discussed my circumstances, he clearly explained the law, and informed me of my options. This having been my only encounter with the law, Richard provided great comfort with his knowledge and expertise. Mr. Hornsby quickly assess my case and laid out the step required to address may case with the legal authorities. Mr. Hornsby was very professional, well-organized, and proficient in his approach. My case was dismissed within 21-days. I recommend Richard Hornsby if you ever find yourself in need of a criminal defense attorney.
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Posted by anonymous | June 27, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Richard Hornsby
Handled everything professionally and had me up to date with everything would recommend to anyone looking to have a case handled
Posted by Dario | December 30, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Richard Hornsby Gets Results!
Hiring the right lawyer is a critical component to your chance of winning any case. As I searched for the perfect lawyer, Richard Hornsby stood out among others as experienced, and confident! This is how I knew; I had found the right fit for my case. Richard Hornsby immediately started working on my case. He understood my urgency, and the importance of having a winning outcome. I received the positive results I was looking for, and had my case dismissed in a short period of time. Richard Hornsby has what it takes to get the results you need. At the end Richard Hornsby got my records expunged and sealed. Richard Hornsby for hire! You won't be disappointed!
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Posted by Steven | October 8, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Quick, Efficient Response
Mr. Hornsby acted quickly upon my request for his services, and remained responsive throughout the process, answering all of my questions promptly. I wouldn't hesitate to contact him again if the need were to arise.
Posted by anonymous | August 14, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent
I was visiting from out of state and found myself on the wrong side of the law after a misunderstanding. I hired Richard to assist me. He promptly began working on my case. Through his assistance, the charges against me were dropped by the State and now my record has been expunged. I am now able to move forward with my life, professionally and personally.
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Posted by Richard | July 28, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Diligence and Professionalism
From the moment Mr. Hornsby took on my case to the final email he has been professional, diligent and courteous. When handling my case he clearly conveyed the steps required and kept in contact with me throughout the process. He made the whole process quick and painless.
Posted by Candelario | July 13, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent!
Mr. Hornsby was able to help and resolve my case in a timely manner. He had a quick response rate with any questions I had! Thank you for everything you did!
Posted by Stacey | June 6, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Stacey S.
Attorney Hornsby is very responsive. As soon as I called him, he was able to get back to me within five minutes at a very crucial time in my life. He listened to me and advised me on next steps. He understood my very complicated case and helped me maneuver the many steps of the court system along the way. I would highly recommend Attorney Hornsby to anyone that would need an exceptional defense attorney.
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Posted by James | May 2, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thankful for a good lawyer
Finding yourself in a legal situation can be very unsettling and scary. Luckily I was able to find Mr. Hornsby who was able to review all of the details and clearly outline my next steps in resolving the matter. He was honest and upfront and helped me through every step of the process. Highly recommend his services if you find yourself in any legal matters. Thank You Mr. Hornsby!
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Response from Richard Hornsby May 3, 2022
James, I am glad I was able to assist you in your time of need. Wishing you all the best with your future endeavors - Richard Hornsby
Posted by anonymous | April 1, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Representation
Very direct, no nonsense and professional .... would recommend Richard to friends and family .... he is great to have on your side
Response from Richard Hornsby April 8, 2022
Glad I could help during your time in need and get your case dismissed!
Posted by anonymous | February 1, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Attorney that Fights for you.
Richard Hornsby is an amazing attorney. He’s not there to screw around and he takes his work with lots of passion. He also responds within 24 hours and keeps you updated on your case so remember to respond back as he’s trying to help you. I’m referring him to all my friends and family and I can’t thank him enough. He’s the type of lawyer you want on your side when you’re in that courtroom. Thank you!
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Posted by Jon | January 19, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
One word…stellar
I went to Mr. Hornsby seeking an early termination for probation. My case was extremely complicated. I was due to have it finished at the three year mark (early - potentially with a five year sentenced probation). Due to academic issues (graduation) at an Ivy League institution I sought to have to have the probation termed at a year and three months. Mr. Hornsby went to bat for me and achieved the impossible. He’s the person that I will consult with any legal issues I have in the future. There’s a reason he’s highly in demand. He’s focused, results driven and one word….stellar. If you need representation, please call him.
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Response from Richard Hornsby January 25, 2022
Jon, I am glad we were able to resolve your case quickly and get you on your way. Thank you for allowing me to represent you. - Sincerely, Richard Hornsby
Posted by Jenny | January 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Student
Richard saved my and my unborn daughter’s life completely. I almost had my entire future destroyed by someone willfully and vindictively. Richard protected me, considered all evidence, and fiercely advocated for me and had my case dropped in less than a month. He deserves recognition for his awareness of what constitutes as true DV and I owe everything to him. He is very blunt, assertive, and definitely an alpha type personality and that is what you NEED, believe me! He is direct but he is not unkind. Thank you so much for actually saving my life and creating an outcome for my upcoming daughter and I that serves us and enables me to still fulfill my dreams.
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Response from Richard Hornsby January 7, 2022
I am glad I was able to assist you in getting these fabricated charges dismissed quickly and I wish you all the best with your future endeavors.
Posted by Gus F. | November 8, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. Hornsby was great in many ways.
He informative and helpful along the way. Was able to get my case dismissed then expunged from my record. I would recommend Mr. Hornsby to anyone that is looking for a good person and lawyer.
Response from Richard Hornsby November 9, 2021
I am glad I was able to help you get your case dismissed and expunged. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors.
Posted by Stephanie | September 22, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hard worker
I’m very grateful for Mr Hornsby He worked faithful, and diligent in my son’s case
Posted by anonymous | September 21, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great job
Very straight forward. No BS. Very quick to respond. Positive results. I would definitely utilize Attorney Hornsby’s services again.
Response from Richard Hornsby September 21, 2021
Thanks for allowing me to assist you with this matter. I am glad we were able to get it dismissed quickly.
Posted by Luis | July 26, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer in Orlando
Did a great job taking my case. I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. I would hired mr hornsby in a heartbeat.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Richard E. Hornsby, P.A.
  • 2005 - Present
  • Associate
  • Woolfolk & Jordan, P.A.
  • 2003 - 2004
  • Assistant Public Defender
  • Office of the Public Defender
  • 2000 - 2003

Education

  • University of Florida College of Pharmacy
  • Master of Science in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • 2014
  • University of Central Florida
  • Master of Science in Criminal Justice
  • 2003
  • University of Florida, College of Law
  • Juris Doctor
  • 2000
  • University of Florida
  • Bachelor of Arts
  • 1996
View all education

Legal Cases

  • State v. R.S.
  • Not Guilty
  • State v. F.A.F
  • Not Guilty
  • State v. V.S.D.
  • Not Guilty
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Florida Bar
  • Criminal Procedure Rules Committee
  • 2022 - Present
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • NORML Legal Committee
  • Lifetime Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • Association of Trial Lawyers of America
  • Member
  • 2004 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Lifetime Member
  • 2001 - Present
  • Orange County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2001 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2001 - Present
  • Central Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • President
  • 2007 - 2008
  • Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, City of Orlando
  • Member
  • 2006 - 2010
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2022
  • Florida Legal Elite
  • Florida Trend Magazine
  • 2021
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2021
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2020
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2019
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2018
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2017
  • Legal Elite
  • Orlando Style Magazine
  • 2016
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2016
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2015
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2014
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2013
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2013
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2013
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2012
  • Board Certification in Criminal Trial Advocacy
  • National Board of Trial Advocacy
  • 2009
  • Board Certification in Criminal Trial Law
  • The Florida Bar
  • 2008
  • Best of the Bar, Criminal Defense
  • The Orlando Business Journal
  • 2007
  • Trial Practice Book Award
  • The University of Florida College of Law
  • 2000
View all awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Public Defender Training College
  • Jury Selection for Real Attorneys
  • 2008
  • Public Defender Training College
  • Effective Closing Arguments
  • 2007
  • Public Defender Training College
  • Search and Seizure in Florida
  • 2006
  • Public Defender Training College
  • Basics in Criminal Pleadings
  • 2004
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (46)
Given (26)
Endorse Richard
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Richard Hornsby is a heavy weight. If myself or a family member was in trouble for any serious felony case, Richard would my top pick in Orlando. Richard Hornsby does not play! He is outstanding at law and as a person. First class."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Richard is one of the finest lawyers I know and a ferocious litigator. Some people may misunderstand his bluntness, but he cuts to the core of issues without wasting clients time with sugar-coating."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 27
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have had the pleasure of knowing Richard Hornsby since he was a rising star in the Public Defender’s Office more than a decade ago. Richard is a gifted trial lawyer and fearless legal advocate on behalf of his clients. I enthusiastically endorse this criminal defense lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Through the years I've sent several referrals to Mr. Hornsby and I will continue to do so, this guy knows what he's doing. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Richard is a superb attorney. His knowledge of the law and prowess in the courtroom is widely known throughout central Florida. I highly recommend Richard Hornsby."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Highly respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Hornsby is an attorney who has that very rare"special sauce" that makes him one of best trial attorneys in Florida. He possesses a wide range of knowledge, along with a tenacious will, that when put together, allow him to get the optimal results for each of his clients. Our Firm highly endorses Mr. Hornsby."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Hornsby aggressively defends every case he handles, and is a great advocate for his clients. Clients are well informed and expertly represented. Mr. Hornsby is also a very helpful resource for colleagues. My endorsement is not just that of a colleague, but also that of a former client."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. If you are looking for a real trial lawyer, then Richard should be your choice. He is a relentless advocate for his clients, and doesn't shy away from taking cases to trial. Top notch."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Richard Hornsby is very well known locally as a dedicated, talented, and passionate advocate."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"This Hornsby fellow is a rare breed in our age of declining jury trials and plea-bargain, conveyor-belt justice. Good on his feet and good in his seat, Richard's motion practice is built on thorough research and creativity - I know because I've seen his pleadings. It is often enough to seriously wound the State's prosecution. But if one goes to trial, woe unto those who seek harm for his client. Richard's unrelenting trial preparation and ferocious advocacy speaks, I think, to his respect for the best traditions of our great profession. F.Lee Bailey once said a good criminal defense lawyer has to be a maverick and a renegade. That sure fits Hornsby. There are many fine lawyers in this town, but if there was a survey that polled Orlando criminal lawyers whom they would hire if a loved one was arrested for a serious crime (and it could not be themselves or their partners), I believe Richard would be on the short-list."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Hornsby is a damn good trial lawyer. He likes to say he is a better trial lawyer than me. He is not afraid to take a case to trial. He is gifted. I only beat a few times at trial when we were very young so I know he is solid. He also has sharp as a tack legal mind. He thinks highly of himself but I think it is well deserved. I think highly of him too. His theatrics in the courtroom do not go unnoticed (by me) and as such, he wins over a jury."
Violent crime Attorney | Mar 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
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