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Richard G. Canina

Criminal defense Attorney at Melbourne, FL

4.9   39 reviews
  • Licensed for 37 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1985
    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.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    50%
    All felony and misdemeanor criminal offenses including: sexual offenses, drug trafficking, prescription drug crimes, violent crimes, fraud, racketeering, burglary, DUI, child abuse, juvenile offenses, theft crimes, federal crimes.

    38 years, 7,500 cases

  2. DUI and DWI
    20%

    38 years

  3. Sex crime
    20%

  4. Domestic violence
    5%

  5. Federal crime
    5%

AGGRESSIVELY DEFENDING THE ACCUSED SINCE 1985. 

 

For nearly 35 years, attorney Richard G. Canina has been practicing exclusively in the area of criminal defense law in Brevard County, FL. Mr. Canina graduated with Honors from The University Of Florida at age 20, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. He later attended Stetson University College of Law, where he received his Juris Doctorate. While at Stetson, Mr. Canina served as Vice President of Sigma Nu Phi Legal Fraternity and successfully completed an internship with the Office of The Public Defender, Sixth Judicial Circuit.

 

After graduating from law school Mr. Canina took a position with the Brevard County Public Defender’s Office, where he served as an Assistant Public Defender in the trial division for nearly five years. As an assistant Public Defender, Mr. Canina aggressively defended thousands of clients with charges ranging from misdemeanor traffic offenses to first degree premeditated murder.

 

Mr. Canina is a full member of the Florida Bar. He is also licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. He has been a member of several legal organizations including the Brevard County Bar Association, The Orange County Bar Association, The Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers. He has recieved numerous awards and accolades including a perfect 5 out of 5 Martindale Hubbell Client Rating, a perfect 10 "Superb" Avvo Rating,and the Client's Choice award. Most recently, he was named to the prestigious  "Top 100 Trial Lawyers"  List by the The National Trial Lawyers and was awarded the "Superior DUI Attorney" ranking by the National Advocacy for DUI Defense. 

 

Mr. Canina has dedicated his career to defending the legal rights and freedoms of the accused. His practice focuses 100% on criminal defense and criminal trial practice. He is proud of the fact that he has never worked as a state prosecutor. His philosophy is to unconditionally help his client no matter what the allegations may be.

 

 

 

DISCLAIMER: The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established. Areas of practice and Attorney Bio does not reflect Board Certification. Client reviews and testimonials are solely the opinions of said reviewers and in no way constitute the views/opinions of the lawyer. Prospective clients may not obtain the same or similar case results. 

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Contact Richard

Similar lawyers nearby

The Canina Law Firm
1901 S. Harbor City Blvd
Suite 804
Melbourne, FL, 32901

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  39 customer reviews
5 Star
 
97%
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3%
Posted by Cody | June 6, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
FANTASTIC
This is my first time in my life needing a lawyer of any kind! Scared to death, facing false accusations and the possibilities of me losing my children I was petrified and had NO IDEA what to do. I was referred to Rick by a close friend, first was my injunction hearing I needed taken care of immediately in order to still see my kids. He could have easily taken my money and the case (like most lawyers would) HOWEVER, unlike any lawyer I've ever heard of says to me " your criminal case we can take no problem, however with this Injunction its more family related and I know a family attorney that will be great for this case. He turned down thousands of dollars In order for me to be represented the best way possible for my kids! The lawyer he recommended was absolutely amazing as well and won my case! Rick always takes the time to answer my questions and lets me know what's going on with my case! I pray I never need another lawyer but IF I do or I know someone who does Rick will be the only one I ever recommend!
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Posted by Nick | July 14, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The BEST
I was recently represented by the Canina Law Firm. As it is a family practice, I was represented by just that, the Family. They were extremely professional, informative, realistic with case outcomes, straightforward, kind, compassionate, and caring. I cannot say enough great things about this Law Firm. They spoke with me not just about my case but who I was as a person and what I was trying to do with my life. I believe by getting to know me a little better they were able to try my case in a way that got the best possible outcome. I was offered a plea by the DA right away. With the case info and everything they learned about me they went back and negotiated a better deal. In fact, it was the best possible deal I could have hoped for. I plan to never have the need for a lawyer again. However, if I do, I will retain the services of the Canina law firm. I recommend this law firm to anyone that wants lawyers to fight for them like you would fight for your own family. Finally, the Canina family law firm has a tremendous respect and devotion for Veterans. Speaking as a veteran, I cannot thank them enough for the services they provided which will allow for my return to military service, the compassion they have shown me, and the gratitude they have given me for my service and desires to return to service. Thank you again Canina family for all that you have done for me!
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Posted by Cliff | May 27, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Stellar Law Firm
I had the wisdom to choose Canina Law Firm in Melbourne, an established law firm consisting of a father and his two children. The considerate time they spent with us to explore our matter and professionalism and knowledge of how things work in that matter brought complete success and we are extremely grateful for their diligence, attentiveness, and keeping us in the loop every step of the way.
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Posted by Mike | September 22, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Couldn’t be happier!
I found Mr. Canina originally when looking for a criminal defense lawyer on this very site. After reading some of his previous clients reviews, I was excited, yet skeptical. Sounded too good to be true. I’m here to tell you it wasn’t. From the beginning Mr Canina was honest, knowledgeable, and straightforward. All things which can be difficult to find in an attorney. The result of the case was quite literally the best case scenario, and my family and I couldn’t be happier. Thank you to everyone at the Canina law firm for your amazing work!
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Posted by anonymous | May 21, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The BEST
I was referred to Mr. Canina a few years back and couldn't have been more ecstatic about my experience/outcome. They are hands down the best firm in the Melbourne area. I promise you will not be disappointed no matter what your situation calls for. Don't take the chance, see Mr. Canina
Posted by anonymous | April 11, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer ever
Richard Canina, as well as his daughter and son, worked extremely hard on my case of a felony drug charge as a juvenile after being arrested just a few months prior of the new arrest. Mr. Canina got me the best possible outcome and I now have a chance to get my record clean. Cannot be any more thankful for what he has done.
Posted by anonymous | December 6, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Phenomenal
Richard and Rick Jr. represented me twice, concerning the same case, and both end results were excellent. Initially I was charged with two very serious felonies which, due to their efforts, were substantially dropped down to misdemeanors. They kept me out of prison and were able to attain mail in probation; a very light misdemeanor probation that prevented me from having to report directly to the probation officer. The second time they represented me it entailed alleged violations of probation consisting of the following; failure to notify probation of leaving the state, consumption of alcohol while on probation, possession of firearms while on probation, and failure to comply with random drug testing. THEY KNOCKED IT OUT OF THE PARK. I was released at the arraignment hearing with no further probation, absolutely exhilarating. When you are questioning whether or not to go with this firm realize you will be receiving the following; two generations of exceptional lawyers, lawyers that take the extra steps needed to INDIVIDUALIZE your case in order to make a proper representation, of you, to the prosecutors and the judge, lawyers that pick up the phone to speak with you and console you in reference to your case, lawyers that have been in the business long enough to establish a solid network within the court system.
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Posted by Tara | July 26, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ten Star
I hired Richard Canina after I was arrested for a felony. Scared to death and sick to my stomach, facing a 3 year minimum mandatory prison sentence, I consulted with Rick and his son. They were both down to earth, professional, friendly, family oriented and honest about my situation. Got a good feeling about Richard Canina and Rick Jr. so I hired them. From that day on, Rick's door was always open to me for questions I had, my concerns and he always provided me with case updates. He is a wonderful person and an phenomenal lawyer- everyone in his office was just so attentive, educated and professional. I trusted Rick with my life and he worked hard for me and I never had to see the inside of a jail or prison. I highly recommend Richard Canina. He's sharp and he cares unlike a stereotypical lawyer. He literally saved my life and the outcome of my case was a platinum dream come true. All cases are different, but here is a lawyer who will work for you, you will not be disappointed in the slightest.
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Posted by anonymous | June 28, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Gets the Best Results Possible!!!
This guy works miracles! I was coming home from a bar after a pretty wild night and was stopped by the Palm Bay PD. Cop saw a bunch of beers in my car and said I failed all the sobriety test. I was arrested for DUI. I thought it was hopeless after a few lawyers told me I’d probably get convicted and have a DUI on my record. Then I heard about Rick and his son and wound up hiring them because they at least gave me hope. Rick walked me through all the DMV issues and immediately got me a hardship license. They got all the evidence and worked my case for many months. They always made time for me and kept me up to speed on everything about my case. In the end, Rick was able to get me out of the DUI and got the State to reduce the charge to a Reckless Driving! All the good things I had heard about this firm were TRUE. I couldn’t be happier with the result I got. Thank you!!!
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Posted by Mark | May 24, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Big Help!
Rick couldn't have been more helpful in helping me and representing me in my DUI case. Rick helped me by getting the charges reduced and negotiating the terms of the plea I ultimately accepted. This makes a big difference in the potential total fines and insurance costs! Most importantly, Rick gave me incredible insight into the world of criminal law and the litigation process. Because of Rick's experience, he knew to ask for reductions in some of the probation requirements that most attorneys don't even know to negotiate for. This has helped me fulfill those requirements much quicker! Rick was very dedicated to helping me out during a very stressful time and his knowledge and experience made me feel much more comfortable in making decisions on how to proceed. Rick and his entire office have my sincere thanks.
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Posted by anonymous | May 15, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Incredible Job!
Hired Richard Canina for my daughter who was arrested for multiple felony domestic violence charges. We met with several different lawyers, but Rick immediately stood out among the crowd. Let me tell you: this man is the REAL THING...incredibly intelligent, detail oriented, and caring throughout the entire case. You can tell he genuinely loves what he does and cared for his clients like family. Mr. Canina was always honest and straightforward with us. His office has an open-door policy and he always took extra time to answer our questions. When an offer for resolution was made by the State's Attorney, Richard was up front with us and recommended against accepting the State's offer because he wanted to investigate the case more fully. He didn't just rush her into a resolution that she wasn't comfortable with (another lawyer did this with her in the past). Ultimately, after many months of working the case, her charge was reduced to a misdemeanor with no incarceration and no conviction. We are all incredibly grateful for what Mr. Canina and his office has done for us. My daughter now has now gotten her life back together and is doing extremely well. Thank you Rick !!!
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Posted by anonymous | March 28, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Extremely Satisfied!
I was looking at a drug felony; possession over 20 grams with a possible 5 year sentence. I was referred to Canina & Canina. Mr. Canina is very experienced and knew exactly what end result he wanted for a first time offender. He is very honest and up front about everything. It took 2 court dates, but ended with charges dropped to a misdemeanor with probation. You can't go wrong with choosing this firm.
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Posted by anonymous | March 21, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Traffic Accidents and Related Legal Charges
I was the luckiest person to have Mr. Canina as my lawyer. All charges were dropped because of his diligent effort and command of the law, properly presenting the facts and me in court. I was lucky to pick him from a search list on Google. He was # 8 down the search list ... I had no recommendation from anyone when I decided to have him represent me, and that is why I say that I was lucky having him represent me! I am writing this review and endorsement of Mr. Canina ... because, I was lucky to go with my got feeling and pick # 8 down the list of search results-not everyone else would have done that without a recommendation. He does NOW have my strongest endorsement and recommendation -all charges against me have been dismissed.
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Posted by Woody | October 21, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Rich really came through for us!
Rich Canina did an excellent job of defending our son! Our son had been floundering in the justice system for years because his mental disabilities were not properly considered and addressed. Rich and his team fully addressed those issues and got our son's sentence down to a reasonable level. A father will now have 4 extra years to spend with his daughter and an opportunity to get his life back on track. Thanks again Rich!!
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Posted by Armand | December 23, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best criminal defense lawyer out there
Rick is hands down the best lawyer you could possibly hire. Whether your charges are minor or very serious, he will go above and beyond to take care of you and make sure you are represented with the best defense you could possibly have. I was facing a mandatory minimum of 20 years on one charge alone, and after about 9-10 months, I walked out of the court room with 3 years of probation with early termination after 2, and adjudication withheld. Not only was he able to save me from a lengthy prison sentence, but he saved me from incarceration completely and got me the best outcome I could ever ask for with my case. He never faltered at any point in time, and he kept me reassured that I would be taken care of every step of the way. He was extremely polite, straightforward, and honest, and kept a very professional demeanor throughout my entire case. He even gave me his personal phone number in case I had any questions or concerns after normal office hours, or needed to get in touch with him in an emergency. His staff is also very polite, and calls and questions are returned and answered not long after they are received and/or asked. If you are looking for a lawyer to hire, look no further. If you want the best representation you can get, look no further. I would definitely recommend this lawyer to anyone that needs legal help, and if I ever run into another problem in the future (I sure hope I don't), I know exactly who I am going to hire because of the phenomenal representation he gave me before.
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Posted by Anthony | September 1, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank You!
Mr Canina and his son did an amazing job the first time around and we found ourselves needing their services again. They left me speechless and I am so grateful for their services. They helped us for a felony V.O.P. They're amazing and so down to earth! Love your family Mr.Canina Marengo Family
Posted by anonymous | August 25, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
5 stars isn't enough!
This lawyer had exactly 10 days from the day i retained him to get with prosecutor and not only hit a "GRAND SLAM!" (Exact words of Mr. Canina Sr.) But got me a deal you couldn't even imagine.. and Mr. Canina Jr. stayed in contact with me at the jail up to the minute I was released from custody! If you have any sense in your head and need an attorney and you don't go with this firm, then save your money all together and just go with a public defender! I assure you you will not be disappointed! 5 stars isn't enough! They deserve 10!
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Posted by anonymous | May 19, 2015
So Glad I found this firm
When one is wrongfully accused of a crime, the individual feels he needs to fight the charges even more vigorously, and I went to the correct man for this situation. Since then, i have referred another client to him, and we are both in in agreement , that we could not have requested better representation. Also, impressive is the way that this firm makes one feel AFTER the case has been completed. They have invited us back to discuss any remaining legal questions, and they have made me feel as though i am, sort of, part of the firm. I have been back several times, already, to get further advice. If people ask me who to retain for a criminal charge, i cannot imagine suggesting anyone other than Mr. Canina.
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Posted by Todd Burritt | May 14, 2015
LIFESAVER!
This man has represented me in several situations. I had some serious charges.46 counts of dealing in stolen property and he got it down to 1. I was looking at many years in prison and he got me out of it. Also got arrested for drug trafficking last year and wasn’t guilty, Rick got the charge dismissed. I probably didn’t deserve the best, but I GOT the best. Because of him, I’ll become a better man. I owe my life to Rick Canina.
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Posted by James | May 12, 2015
Nothing but the best...
I retained Mr. Richard G. Canina for a DUI case. Rick provided me with the highest level of professional legal counsel available. The advice and representation I received throughout this difficult process was everything I could hope for. Rick went above and beyond my expectations in helping me in my case. He was very prompt in answering all the questions I had and constantly kept me informed about what was going on with my case. Finding an attorney of this caliber that truly cared about what I was facing did not come easy until I contacted his firm. Rick was extremely professional/knowledgeable and I would highly recommend contacting him if you need a great criminal defense attorney.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 90 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner/Founder
  • Richard G. Canina P.A.
  • 2008 - Present
  • Partner
  • Mitchell and Canina P.A.
  • 1990 - 2008
  • Assistant Public Defender
  • Public Defender's Office, 18th Jud. Circuit
  • 1985 - 1990
  • Certified Legal Intern
  • Public Defender Clinic
  • 1984 - 1985
  • Criminal Law Clerk
  • Lee Fugate P.A.
  • 1983 - 1984
  • Certified Corrections Officer
  • Florida Department Of Corrections
  • 1981 - 1982
View all work experience

Education

  • Stetson University College of Law
  • Juris Doctor
  • 1985
  • Florida Corrections Officers Training Institute
  • 1982
  • University of Florida
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1980
  • St. John the Baptist DHS
  • NY State Regents Diploma
  • 1977
View all education

Legal Cases

  • State v. R.H.
  • Client pled open to the court. The Judge reinstated him to probation and,finding grounds for a downward departure sentence, placed him on community control and probation for the computer solicitation charge while withholding adjudication.
  • State v. S.W.
  • The State agreed to amend the charge to vehicular homicide, which avoided the mandatory minimum. The client pled open to the court and was sentenced to 90 days in the Brevard County jail followed by 2 years of community control and 13 years of probation.
  • State v. L.B.
  • The State agreed not to file formal charges for witness tampering. The client pled open to the court and was sentenced as a Youthful Offender to 364 days in the Orange County Jail followed by 5 years of probation. Adjudication was withheld.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Orange County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 1995 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida
  • Member
  • 1987 - Present
  • Florida Bar
  • Member
  • 1985 - Present
  • Brevard County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1985 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Sigma Nu Legal Fraternity
  • Vice President
  • N/A
  • Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers
  • Member
  • N/A
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Superior DUI Attorney
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2016
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Superior DUI Attorney
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2015
  • Client Distinction Award
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • Preeminent 5.0 out of 5
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • Recognition for Service
  • PAL
  • 2015
  • Client's Choice Award
  • Avvo
  • 2014
  • Top Contributor Award
  • Avvo
  • 2014
  • Preeminent 5.0 out of 5
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2014
  • Top Contributor Award
  • Avvo
  • 2013
  • Client's Choice Award
  • Avvo
  • 2013
  • Certificate of Merit - Public Defender Clinic
  • Stetson College of Law
  • 1985
  • Honor Society
  • University of Florida
  • 1980
  • Graduated Cum Laude
  • University of Florida
  • N/A
View all awards

Publications

  • Website
  • melbournedefenselaw.com
  • N/A

Speaking Engagements

  • Brevard County Bar Association
  • Administrative Hearings in DUI Cases
  • 1992
  • Guest Lecturer
  • Florida's Habitual Felony Offender and Habitual Violent Felony Offender Statutes
  • 1991
  • Women In Law Seminar
  • Discrimination Against Women in Corrections
  • 1985

Attorney endorsements

Received (19)
Given (18)
Endorse Richard
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rick Canina is a superb criminal defense attorney and a great role model. I highly endorse and recommend him!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse attorney Richard Canina. He donates his time to provide excellent legal answers on Avvo from citizens seeking advise. A respected member in the legal industry."
Unknown Attorney | Jul 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Richard. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Richard is a man of experience and expertise. If you have been unjustly accused of committing a crime, you can count on Mr. Canina to competently counter such a claim in court."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have had the pleasure of referring several people to Rick for his assistance. He is very attentive to the needs of his clients and is very well respected in our legal community."
Personal injury Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Richard is a legal go-to guy in the area of criminal law. His legal background & responses on Avvo are excellent."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"When you hire Rick Canina you have a lawyer you can count on. I have known Rick for over 20 years and he is a steady, smart, professional and aggressive when appropriate. When I used to be a prosecutor, I knew I was in for a fight because Rick is a foot soldier of the constitution and will protect his clients to the bitter end. He is a great lawyer!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rick was a worthy adversary when I practiced criminal law as a prosecutor. He is considered an outstanding criminal defense attorney in Brevard County."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Rick has a reputation as a superior criminal defense lawyer. His ethics are impecable and his competency is first class."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Rick for more than 20 years, and he is an excellent criminal defense attorney with a proven track record. He is well-respected in the legal community for his knowledge and skill."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr Canina for 30 years and I have always found him to be honest and forthright as well as being a very intelligent and skilled attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rick Canina is a highly qualified defense attorney with a capable staff."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Attorney Canina. From his answers and time on Avvo, it is clear he is dedicated to serving those in need and his clients. It's rare that lawyers spend so much valuable time helping the community, for free, and I applaud him for doing it to such a great level. Kudos."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known Attorney Canina since shortly after having moved to Brevard County. We’ve previously represented codefendants in the same matter. As a fellow Brevard County criminal defense attorney, I am well aware of what it takes to be effective in this field and in this county. Rick has a solid background in criminal defense and has handled a variety of cases. His efforts and professionalism both inside and outside of the courtroom can only serve to benefit his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer without reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 05
Relationship: Family member
"I endorse this lawyer. He's the reason I became a lawyer :)"
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