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Kenneth David Padowitz

Criminal defense Attorney at Fort Lauderdale, FL

4.9   62 reviews

also known as Ken Padowitz

Free consultation
Free consultation
  • Licensed for 37 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1986
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About Kenneth

Learn Kenneth’s areas of practice.

1
Practice area
  1. Criminal defense
    100%
    Preeminent Criminal Defense -Trial Lawyer 33 years. Former Homicide Prosecutor. 300+ Jury Trials.

    37 years

PREEMINENT CRIMINAL DEFENSE -TRIAL LAWYER 36 YEARS. FORMER HOMICIDE PROSECUTOR. 300+ JURY TRIALS.

Practicing Law for 36 years -   

Kenneth D. Padowitz  is a Criminal Defense lawyer at Kenneth Padowitz P.A. and is recognized in the legal community as a leading provider of strategic and aggressive representation to those accused of crimes, at both State and Federal levels. We specialize in high profile and high-stakes criminal defense cases. We also provide our sophisticated, and aggressive representation to those who have been charged with misdemeanors, such as DUI. Our law firm is geared towards providing the strategic criminal defense that is needed to defend our clients’ freedom, and we have extensive trial experience to back it up.

 

Ken was a former Veteran Homicide Prosecutor with the Broward County State Attorneys Office for 16 years and is uniquely qualified to resolve your criminal investigation or charge. Ken is an “AV” rated lawyer for 10 years in a row, the highest rating given by Martindale-Hubbell and is rated 10.0 on and was honored in Florida Trend Magazines "2009 and 2018 "Legal elite". He in the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers and recognized by Super lawyers as a Super Lawyer. Ken Padowitz was honored in South Florida’s Top Rated Lawyers, and is “Lead Counsel” rated. Ken has tried over 300 jury trials, including over 35 First Degree Murder trials. He had one “Not Guilty” verdict out of the 35 murder trials he tried.

 

As an Assistant State Attorney in the Homicide Unit, Ken prosecuted many high-profile trials, which include the case against Lionel Tate, a 12 year old indicted by a grand jury as an adult in the murder of a 6-year-old girl, Tiffany Eunich. The defendant blamed professional wrestling for the child’s death. The jury convicted him of 1st degree murder.

 

Another one of those high profile trials include the case against Kenneth Pierce, convicted of the hit and run death of little Nicole Rae Walker. Pierce drove off the road on a Dania street and drove into a group of five children. A two-month manhunt led to the widely publicized trial and conviction of the defendant.  A computer animation reenactment of the crime was introduced into evidence at trial, by Ken, for the first time in a Florida courtroom. The appellate court upheld this visual evidence in a written opinion - the first case law in the United States to allow the use of animation in a criminal trial.

 

In Civil law, Ken won a verdict over Two Million dollars representing a Miami Hurricanes Football player who was attacked by the former Heavyweight World Boxing Champion, Shannon Briggs.

 

Broward criminal lawyer, Kenneth Padowitz, is an Adjunct Professor at Nova Southeastern University Law Center for the past 17 years and has taught and lectured extensively in the areas of trial advocacy, scientific evidence and trial exhibits. He was a Faculty Instructor for the National Institute of Trial Advocacy, Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association, University of Florida Law School prosecutor/Public Defender course, Institute of Police Technology and Management and the National Student Leadership Conference at American University in Washington D.C. and Stanford University in California. Ken was the Director of the Pre-Law program at American Heritage High School for five years where he taught students five days a week before going to court. Ken has previously sat as Chairman of a Grievance Committee for the Florida Bar, which handles matters of attorney misconduct and discipline.

 

Ken is frequently called upon by the news media for opinions and discussion on various legal issues being debated in the country and our community. He has appeared on 20/20 with Barbra Walters, ABC-Good Morning America, Larry King Live, The O’Riley Factor, CNN News and Headline News, CNN-The Morning Show, NBC-The Today Show, The John Walsh Show, Montell Williams, Phil Donohue, Wolf Blitzer Reports, MSNBC News, Burden of Proof, Hannity & Colmes, Gretta Van Susterns’ ‘The Point’, Court T.V., Forensic Files, American Justice, The Mitch Album Show, National Public Radio ‘All Things Considered’, many international television shows, a frequent legal expert on the Fox News Channel,  and appeared in such publications as National Trial Lawyers Magazine, People Magazine, Rosie Magazine, Maclean’s magazine, Multimedia World, The Prosecutor Magazine, Readers Digest and the front page of The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Miami Herald and Sun-Sentinel as well as numerous other magazines and newspapers across the country.

 

Ken Padowitz graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and from Nova Southeastern Law School with a Juris Doctor degree.  He was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1986 and is a member of the Federal Trial and Appellate Bar.

 

 

Kenneth Padowitz, P.A.   

      

888 South Andrews Aveneue

Suite 205

Fort Lauderdale, Fl  33301

 

 

 

 
 

Awards

Client's Choice 2023,2022,2021,2020,2019,2016,2014
Client's Choice
2023 2022 2021 + 4 ...

Photos and videos

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Contact Kenneth

Kenneth Padowitz P.A.
888 S Andrews Avenue
Suite 205
Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33316

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  62 customer reviews
5 Star
 
97%
4 Star
 
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3 Star
 
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2 Star
 
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1 Star
 
3%
Client's Choice 2023
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Pedro Baez | July 17, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ken Padowitz - Super Lawyer
Ken Padowitz is not only great attorney and the one of the smartest professionals I have ever encountered, he is also compassionate and aggressive. I was caught up in a personal situation that if not properly handled, it could have tarnished my reputation, harm my business and ultimately change the rest of my history. With the help and advice from Mr. Padowitz, the previously mentioned fears went away during the first hearing, really within 20 minutes. Furthermore, he made certain that the court understood the injustice been done to myself, making certain that my rights also matter and needed to be protected. No one plans to be wrongfully accused, but if you do? Call Ken Padowitz. Ken the Super lawyer!!!
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Posted by George | March 10, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Proffessional!
Mr. Padowitz recently assisted me with an Injunction my wife filed against me. Just by listening to the facts I presented, he was able to navigate through the untruthful allegations and bring the truth in front of then judge, who dismissed the case. Amazing clarity cutting through the weeds to get to the truth, I will forever be grateful for that.
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Posted by Marco | February 3, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Complement
I had a lot of changes on my name and Kenneth did a excellent job doing what he said in the beginning, and I ended up with a felony charge out of my name. Thank you!
Posted by anonymous | January 21, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
An Amazing Attorney
My spouse and I had the pleasure of meeting Kenneth Padowitz when we enlisted his help with a legal matter. Not only was it a pleasure, but it completely changed our viewpoint on lawyers in general and their profession. When we arrived at his office for our consultation, we were beyond nervous. We had never needed to obtain counsel from a criminal defense lawyer before that day. He discussed our situation and broke down the allegations, the law, and how the court system works in layman's terms that we both could easily understand. However, beyond breaking the situation down into simple terms, he communicated with us as one would communicate with family. Without pretense, judgment, or anything other than respect and compassion. Kenneth is not an inexpensive attorney but well worth his fees. If ever needed, we would retain him again without hesitation. He not only did everything he said he would do, but he also went above and beyond what I would have ever expected from him or any lawyer. We cannot recommend him enough. His professional pedigree is beyond strong enough to retain his services, but what really sets him apart from other lawyers is the good-hearted person that he truly is. He made a potentially bad situation live able and treats you as a person. He is the best, on every imaginable criterion you could ever use to evaluate him.
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Posted by anonymous | January 14, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
amazing
outstanding! best results possible in the quickest time span. got my case completely dropped, would HIGHLY recommend for anyone no matter what the case is
Posted by Kevin Cardenas | December 26, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best
Mr Padowitz in my opinion is one of the greatest attorney’s out there. About 5 years ago, I was facing 7 years in prison and I’ve never been in any trouble with the law. I had no clue what was going on or what was going to happen to me, but Mr. Padowitz sat me down and assured me that he was going to work hard to get the best possible results for me. Mr Padowitz definitely made everything seem more relaxing and he walked me step by step during my whole case. Mr Padowitz would also keep me up-to-date on regular basis. He is always available when I needed him at the end. I was given 5 years probation and withhold of adjudication. Thank you Mr Padowitz
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Posted by Marco H. | November 20, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
"...The attorney of attorneys..."
Attorney Padowitz has demonstrated innumerable times his professionalism and expertise. I am glad to have retained him, and to have arrived to the outstanding results I was expecting. Undoubtedly, I recommend him with ample emphasis on his experience and knowledge.
Posted by Patrick Q | November 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
20 Years in Prison Reduced to Traffic Citation
Kenneth "Ken" Padowitz saved my life. I was facing 21 years in prison for crimes I did not commit including, Aggravated fleeing and eluding law enforcement with lights and sirens activated, Carrying a firearm without a permit, and DUI resulting in property damage with BAC greater than .150. He kept me out of jail the whole two years my case has been going on. One of the officers who falsely charged me also told the judge to hold me without bail, so I would have rotted in jail the entire time until my trial. That corrupt officer recently resigned the police department and had to surrender his police officer's certificate before they could fire him and he will never work in law enforcement again. Ken got me the ridiculous plea of no contest to reckless driving with withhold adjudication, which means I wasn't found guilty of anything, no fines, no points, no criminal record, etc. Again to put this in better perspective: Because of Kenneth Padowitz I went from 21 YEARS in Prison to a No Contest Reckless Driving Misdemeanor with Withhold Adjudication! If your freedom is on the line you must do whatever it takes to protect it. Hiring Ken Padowitz as your criminal defense lawyer will protect your freedom.
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Posted by anonymous | October 9, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolute Highest Levels of Legal Knowledge, Skill and Integrity
During my first conversation with Attorney Padowitz, he assured me that the matter could be handled favorably. He was correct. I feel that he is an exceptional attorney who truly cares about his clients. He was diligent in protecting my rights and ultimately justice was served. I also feel that he posses the absolute highest levels of professional legal knowledge, skill and integrity. I am truly grateful to have found and attorney who has earned so much praise throughout his legal career.
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Posted by anonymous | August 6, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Attorney
Mr.Ken Padowitz and his Law Firm has been such an amazing and beneficial firm in dealing with my case, he’s very precise. I was intimidated with everything that was going on and even frustrated but Ken knew and understood how I felt and explained everything to the best of my understanding knowing I’ve never been in any legal trouble before, he’s truly a Man of his words and when he says he’s going to approach the court a center way it’s always for your best interest and always rules in his favor. Excellent Attorney and his Firm was extremely helpful, patient, and very understanding with me, would recommend him for your Attorney. My case was extremely serious and Mr. Ken got my Case Dropped Completely highly recommend Kenneth Padowtiz and his Law Firm
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Posted by Bonnie | September 30, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ken got my DUI case dismissed
Ken was brilliant from start to finish. The first thing he told me was “I’ll treat you and and any other client like my sister because I care that much.” From day 1, he explained in great detail how the process worked, and was thorough in his response to any question I had. Ultimately my case went to trial, and after 2 days in front of a jury, the Judge dismissed the case. Ken was articulate, passionate, and fought for me and my case. He clearly spent hours analyzing my case and the result speaks for itself. Put your confidence in Ken to help you with any DUI, you want him in your corner, trust me.
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Posted by Michael | July 9, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Positive lifechanger, thank you!
Do It! Hire Mr. PADOWITZ. I was being accused of 4 very serious crimes, I was arrested on june 6th 2023 for crimes I did not commit and once my bond posted and was out on house arrest I hired Mr. Kenneth Padowit. I was scared to lose my life in prison for something I did not do and Mr. Padowitz and his team of legal experts got my case dischaged in the first appearance. Today, July 9th 2023 I am free with all my charges discharged so please let my testimony be enough to help you make the right choice and hire him. My deepest and heartfelt appreciation to you.
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Posted by Ray Rapaglia | May 5, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
CEO
Ken Padowitz is an outstanding attorney, who really cares about his clients. We, at James Club Recovery have worked with Mr. Padowitz, helping clients, who struggle with substance abuse and mental health issues, to turn their lives around. Ken understands recovery and always looks out for the best interest of his clients. I highly recommend this great lawyer.
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Posted by Renee | April 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
An exceptional.attorney
I would like to thank Mr.Kenneth Padowitz for saving me from a terrible and untrue accusation and for saving a life of my beloved pet. Me.Padowitz is the best attorney anyone can ask for and it is a pleasure to work with him and his team. Me.Padowitz is not only an exceptional attorney but he is also a compassionate and caring human being. I would recommend him to anyone who needs assistance in a difficult case.
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Posted by anonymous | March 27, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A+++ Attorney
I was recommended by Ken on a Sunday evening and I was on the phone with him 15 minutes later. His outstanding resume and confidence in my case made me feel absolutely certain I chose the right attorney. I was not disappointed. By the end of the week the case was resolved favorably and I couldn’t be more relieved. Hire Ken- there no one better!
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Posted by Yonathan | December 22, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
look no further
For anyone reading this: you are probably in a situation where you are concerned, maybe even worried. After a while all these reviews read like blah blah blah. I don't know about other lawyers, but I have had experience of being defended by Ken Padowitz. He listened, he was truthful, he was calm and informed, and he was committed to mounting the most effective defence possible. And he won.
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Posted by Deny | September 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best Attorney Ever
Ken has got to be the best attorney ever. I Ken always kept me informed about my case. Honest, straightforward and gets the job done.
Posted by Brittney | September 19, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best attorney hands down!
Ken Padowitz is the light at the end of your dark tunnel!! There is not a better criminal defense attorney… I can not put into words exactly how happy I am that I chose to hire him with my legal issues. Without saying too much, my situation was extremely complex and I was facing serious time. Ken went above and beyond for me and made the entire process seem seamless and put my anxiety to rest. He is a good, honest man… he will put your case first and become like family. Ken, thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me back my life and my freedom. 5 stars.
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Posted by anonymous | April 5, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Padowitz Law Firm did a great job!
This week marked the one-year anniversary of one of those events in life that requires the aid of a good attorney. I chose the law offices of Kenneth Padowitz from a list of many fine attorneys. A couple of months ago, the case was dismissed and the legal issues I faced were removed. I am very glad to have chosen the Padowitz Law Team. They all were very helpful and supportive throughout the many months that cases take to complete. In my case, Joshua Padowitz represented me in court. He always informed me of the various steps and what I might expect, very professional. The paralegal team was also very supportive and responsive. They handle the day-to-day requirements and ensure things are addressed at the proper time. Thanks, Shane, for your dedication and humor, it made the legal ordeal I was facing manageable. I highly recommend these fine professionals. It is true, you get what you pay for. Many Blessings All!
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Posted by anonymous | February 28, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best!
I cannot thank Mr. Ken Padowitz and Mr. Josh Padowitz for their diligent work on my case. Their knowledge and expertise is worth every penny when you life is on the line. I had almost lost complete hope before I retained this law firm. They were always available whenever I had a question. Shane, their paralegal, was always a phone call away. Shane was very patient and understanding. I wish I hadn’t wasted money elsewhere before I hired these gentlemen. I would recommend not wasting your money hiring anyone else. They are worth every penny. Thank you Mr. Padowitz!
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 120 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Criminal Defense Trial Lawyer
  • Kenneth Padowitz P.A.
  • 2005 - Present
  • Partner
  • Karmin Adler & Padowitz
  • 2002 - 2005
  • Adjunct Professor
  • Nova Southeastern Law School
  • 1987 - 2005
  • Assistant State Attorney
  • Broward State Attorney's Office
  • 1986 - 2002
View all work experience

Education

  • Nova Southeastern University - Shepard Broad Law Center
  • law
  • 1986
  • University of Florida
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1983

Legal Cases

  • State v. Brian XXXX
  • Verdict: Not Guilty by Jury
  • State v. Anthony XXXXX
  • Affirmed on Appeal - Case Dismissed
  • State v. Kenneth Pierce
  • Conviction at trial as Prosecutor. Affirmed on Appeal.

Associations

  • B’nai B’rith Justice Unit
  • Vice President membership
  • 2005 - 2008
  • Florida Bar, Grievance Committee
  • Chairman
  • 2003 - 2005
  • Pre-Law Advisory Committee
  • Member
  • 2000 - 2001
  • Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association
  • Faculty Instructor
  • 1991 - 2002
  • Institute of Police Technology and Management
  • Faculty Instructor
  • 1990 - 2002
  • Broward County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1987 - 2008
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • AV Preeminent Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell®
  • 2019
  • America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorney's
  • America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorney's
  • 2019
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • Best Lawyers
  • 2019
  • Florida Trend Legal Elite
  • Florida Trend Legal Elite - The Top Lawyers in Florida
  • 2019
  • AV Preeminent Rated for 10 years
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2017
  • AV Preeminent Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2016
  • Recognition as Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Who's Who in America
  • Marquis Who's Who in America
  • 2016
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Recognition as Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • AV Rated, Highest Lawyer Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2012
  • Florida Legal Elite - The Top Lawyers in Florida
  • Florida Trend Magazine
  • 2009
  • Appreciation for Dedicated Service Award
  • Broward State Attorney's Office Homicide Trial Unit
  • 2002
  • Distinguished Faculty Award
  • Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association
  • 2001
  • ABA Trial Team Coach's Award
  • Association of Trial Lawyers of America
  • 1995
  • Outstanding and Dedicated Performance Award
  • Broward State Attorney's Office Child Abuse/Sex Crimes Unit
  • 1990
  • Recognition for Outstanding Leadership
  • Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity
  • 1986
View all awards

Publications

  • National Trial Lawyers Magazine
  • Forensic Animation - The 21st Century Eyewitness
  • 1995
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • NSU Law School
  • The Prosecution Of Lionel Tate
  • 2001
  • D.U.I. Trial Advocacy School
  • Prosecution of D.U.I.
  • 2001
  • U.F. Law School Lecture
  • Computer Animation as Evidence
  • 1997
  • Anglia Polytechnic University Legal Seminar
  • American Criminal Justice System
  • 1996
  • FPAA Evidence Seminar
  • Evidence Seminar
  • 1993
  • FPAA D.U.I./Vehicular Manslaughter Seminar
  • D.U.I./Vehicular Manslaughter Seminar
  • 1993
  • Broward County Trial Lawyers Association Meeting
  • Computer Animation in the Courtroom
  • 1993
  • B.C.C. Criminal Justice Institute
  • Criminal Justice System
  • 1992
  • NSU Criminal Law Class, Lecture
  • Criminal Justice System
  • 1991
  • Institute of Police Technology and Management
  • D.U.I. Manslaughter Prosecution
  • 1991
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (8)
Given (10)
Endorse Kenneth
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"The consummate advocate. Ken has a well-earned reputation as a fierce litigator. It is withouout hesitation that I recommend this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Ken for over 30 years. He is an outstanding Lawyer with superior knowledge of criminal lw. He is highly motivated to get the best result for a client. He excels in all areas of law practice and is admired for his tenacity and passion to achieve his goals. I would have Ken represent anyone in my family if they were to have a need for his skills. He is an excellent trial attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ken is a true pro, with years of real experience handling cases at every level."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Kenneth. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Mr. Padowitz my entire legal career. There is no question that he is one of the best trial lawyers out there. He is unconditionally there for his clients and he is always there to mentor lawyers with lesser experience. You can't go wrong with Mr. Padowitz. He is truly a lawyer's lawyer!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Experience, knowledge and a personal commitment to his clients make this attorney stand out in the legal community.,"
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney Padowitz is a very compassionate and committed attorney who zealously and ethically represents his clients in state and federal court. His commitment to excellence and justice are his trademarks to his success as a professional and a friend. I strongly recommend Attorney Padowitz for those criminal and/or white collar crime matters that some times arise out of the seemingly most innocent actions."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Padowitz is a most zealous advocate, admirable in his contribution to the community, and his clients. I would recommend him to any client!"
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Fort Lauderdale Criminal defense Lawyer Kenneth David Padowitz
Kenneth David Padowitz
Criminal defense Attorney
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Licensed for 37 years
Free Consultation