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Gary Kollin

Civil rights Attorney at Fort Lauderdale, FL

4.4   21 reviews
  • Licensed for 44 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1979
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About Gary

Learn Gary’s areas of practice.

For over 43 years I have been an expert lawyer specializing in POLICE ABUSE, police misconduct, false arrest, excessive force. illegal search, criminal defense (trial and appeals), and civil rights cases. I represent clients in the state and federal courts suing police officers as well as clients charged with all levels of crimes ranging from petit theft to first degree murder including federal charges of drug trafficking and continuing criminal enterprises. I am also an expert lawyer specializing in appeals in all Florida and federal appeal courts.

I became a member of the Bar in 1979. In addition to my over 36 years of private practice experience, I served as a prosecutor (assistant state attorney) in Broward County and a chief of the Florida Medicaid Fraud Unit. 

In my civil rights/police misconduct practice, I sued and won cases against the FBI, Miami Beach Police Department, Ft. Lauderdale Police Department, Miami-Dade Police Department, Hialeah Police Department, Broward Sheriff's Office, Palm Beach Sheriff's Office, Brevard County Sheriff's Office, Ft. Pierce Police Department, Port St. Lucie Police Department, Hendry County Sheriff's Office, Hollywood Police Department, Davie Police Department, Coral Springs Police Department, Lauderhill Police Department, Hallandale Police Department, Surfside Police Department, Boynton Beach Police Department, Sweetwater Police Department, Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Highway Patrol, Martin County Sheriff's Office  and many others. I have obtained hundreds of thousands of dollars for my clients who suffered at the hands (and feet) of law enforcement officers.

I argued the case of Smith v. United States, 508 U.S. 223 (1993), before the Supreme Court of the United States where the justices of the Supreme Court appointed me to represent the petitioner John Angus Smith. Harvard Law School uses that case to teach statutory construction to its law students.

In addition, I was counsel in a 221 person class action suit, Jones v. Sheriff, 9 Fla. L. Weekly Fed. D107 (S.D. Fla. 1995), against the local Sheriff where the federal judge determined that the Sheriff's procedure of holding people in jail after they were found not guilty was unconstitutional The judge awarded over $1,000, (one million dollars) to the class.

Photos and videos

Attorney Gary Kollin discusses how probable cause affects false arrest and civil rights lawsuits
Gary Kollin discusses his client who had been beaten in jail by a guard on Russia Today Television
Attorney Gary Kollin discusses civil rights and constitutional rights lawsuits
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k744IQPsUOY
View more

Contact Gary

Similar lawyers nearby

Gary Kollin
1856 N Nob Hill Road
Suite 140
Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33322

Reviews

4.4 / 5.0
  21 customer reviews
5 Star
 
86%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
14%
Posted by Adaline | January 19, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Best attorney
You couldn't ask for kinder compassionate attorney. He took all time I needed to hear all the details about my case.
Posted by Stacy | March 16, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great attorney
I called Mr Kollin to get information and he informed me of everything I need to know about an appeal. He was great to talk to. He stayed on the phone for almost an hour, I've never seen that before. I will definitely be calling him to help my son.
Posted by Prince THabit | February 2, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
MY KIND OF LAWYER
I wanted Gary Kollin to take my case but he had a full case load. However over the phone he gave me at least 20 min giving me some great NUGGETS on how to proceed and handle my case . Mr Kollin even shared some valuable cases for me to study. So though he could not handle my case he still deserves 5 ***** in my book. thanks Mr. Kollin Prince Thabit
Read less
Posted by Andrew | January 27, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Responsive and Transparant
" Time is the greatest gift we can give someone " & Mr. Gary was the only Attorney who gave me his time willingly when I needed it most. I appreciate his faith in me and I thank him for his Expertise.
Posted by Ryan | January 3, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very knowledgable
Mr. Kollin was Very Helpful and knowledgeable and even though he was unable to take my case for geographical reasons, I am happy that I was able to talk him.
Posted by Dr,. Peter | December 10, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Civil Rights
This was an AVVO consultation. Attorney Kollin is an expert in his field(s). Helped me to understand the legal issues I was facing and the correct avenue to proceed. Very patient at that.
Posted by Richard | November 1, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Review for Mr. Kollins
Mr. Kollins was eager to help, and provided multiple resources while he was consulting me. He listened to the fine details, and inquired on a few things which made me feel very well heard. Although my case could not be taken due to logistics, Mr. Kollins led me in the right direction with information and next steps.
Posted by Marshall | August 12, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
I contacted Mr Kollin concerning a potential claim, he was very attentive to detail, he asked all the correct questions and he got to the heart of the issue at hand. I found Mr Kollin to be professional kind and honest. I found him to be sympathetic towards my plight as an African-American male who suffered at the hands of police misconduct. I can honestly say that Mr Kollin has shown himself to be more than just a simple attorney he is a man amongst men who would go to the extra step to the develop a friendship with his clients and he refers to us as team members.
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Posted by Byron | July 26, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great attorney
Mr. Kollins firm goes above and beyond. Mr. Kollin was very helpful, knowledgeable and informative. Mr. Kollin took his time to listen and they care. Fantastic firm that anyone would be priveldged to represent you.
Posted by anonymous | March 29, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent free consultation
If you want the honest truth, Gary is your guy. He doesn’t beat around the bush and he tells you how it is. For somebody like myself who has trust issues, Gary was super accommodating with his knowledge of the law, as well as some predicted outcomes. Also, Gary doesn’t take an arm and a leg from you when it comes to retaining him, which I am extremely grateful for. A lot of attorneys out there are charging double/triple the amount for the same kind of results that Gary can get. I like his old school approach.
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Posted by Robert Leen | January 19, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Powerful Advocate
I recommend this lawyer's work. I've known Gary since we were both young assistants in the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office, where Gary honed his trial skills. Gary is knowledgeable, a skilled negotiator and powerful advocate. Definitely a 5 star attorney!
Posted by Robert | January 16, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Sanchez
I can truly say, no lawyer I've dealt with has spent as much time on initial call as Gary! My case is actually out of his area but he still listened and discussed my case until I was understanding of the way forward. He even suggested brilliant Mothers Day ideas and you can tell he was really sincere and family driven. I hope you take my case Gary Kollin. Either way I appreciated your time!
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Posted by anonymous | December 19, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Super lawyer
Mr Kollin took his time and explained the difference in steps and situation at no cost. He made me feel important and sympathized with the situation. He told me what i needed to hear and not what i wanted to hear. If you are looking for a Super Lawyer who knows his stuff look no further .Thanx MR Kollin!!!
Posted by Banks | September 19, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great Attorney
He gave me great advice on a case I’m currently involved in. The advice he gave help me to move forward in my dependency case that I’m currently in.
Posted by Johny | April 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Whatever it takes
My experience with Mr.Kollin was in 2005. A referral from a past client was enough for me to drop my previous counsel. Mr. Kollin was the epitome of a confidence-inspiring consummate professional. Willing and able to do whatever it takes to maximize true justice, his hands-on approach was unprecedented in my case. A unique, wise but surprisingly down-to-earth advocate.
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Response from Gary Kollin April 18, 2019
Thank you for this wonderful comment. I am so glad I helped you.
Posted by anonymous | February 11, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Short and sweet!
Gary was great in responding to my question. He understood exactly what I needed answered and provided me with the law. In addition, he took the time to give great advice. Very supportive. I appreciate brevity and competence, I appreciate Gary Kollin
Posted by Thebabiesmomma | October 18, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Timely and Informative
Mr. Kollin responded quickly to my question and provided invaluable information. In fact, he was the first person to give us a glimmer of hope. I thought he took the question seriously, considered options and provided the most useful response. It felt more like a consultation than just a simple pat, blow-off answer. I appreciate that.
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Posted by Ryan | August 14, 2012
Gary Kollin, one of the best in the business!
My son, Ryan Jagassar hired Gary to represent him in his criminal defense court matter and Mr. Kollin did an exellent job representing him! As Ryan's mom, I was terrified that my son would have been found guilty and the conviction would have ruined his life! Today, seven years later, my son has grown into a well respected, responsible young man. He has his own business and is making great stride towards having a successful future. My family and I are fortunate that it was Ryan's decision to choose Gary Kollin to represent him. Ryan said that after speaking to Gary, he felt that Gary was straight foward, honest and tough!
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Posted by Bob | September 3, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Worst attorney in south fl my honest opinion.
Call him only if you want to be insulted. I can't believe he is actually an attorney. It's one thing to be not helpful but another to be rude and unprofessional. He will not allow you speak he prefers to over talk you and cut you off Everytime you speak. Never have I spoken with such a negative person. Call him and you will see.
Posted by Dallas | April 3, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Rude
Always rude and throwing shade always has something slick to say very biased
Response from Gary Kollin April 17, 2023
Compare this review with my 5 Star reviews. A very disgruntled person about his or her life
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Chief Litigation Counsel
  • Gary Kollin, P.A.
  • 1987 - Present
  • Field Counsel
  • Florida Auditor General's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit
  • 1985 - 1987
  • Assistant State Attorney
  • Broward State Attorney's Office
  • 1982 - 1985
  • Assistant Public Defender
  • Broward Public Defender's Office
  • 1979 - 1981
  • Computer Programmer/Analyst
  • Peter Bent Brigham Hospital
  • 1975 - 1976
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Miami School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1979
  • Harvard University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1975

Legal Cases

  • Alan S. Jones v. Sheriff of Broward County, Florida
  • Over $1.2 million dollars awarded to 220 persons
  • John Angus Smith v. United States PASTE into browser www.oyez.org/cases/1992/91-8674
  • 508 U.S. 223 (1993); United States Supreme Court
  • Jorge Rodriguez and Maria Rentel v. Sheriff of Broward County, Florida
  • Settlement in the amount of $350,000

Associations

  • Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 1987 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 1980 - Present
  • The Florida Bar
  • Member
  • 1979 - Present
  • Lawyers in MENSA
  • Top 2% IQ
  • 1971 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyer in Civil Rights and Police Misconduct
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2022
  • Super Lawyer in Civil Rights Law
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2021
  • Super Lawyer in Civil Rights Law
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2020
  • AV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2020
  • AV Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2019
  • AV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • AV Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2017
  • AV Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2016
  • AV Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • AV Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2014
  • Super Lawyer in Civil Rights
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • AV Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2013
  • Super Lawyer in Civil Rights Law
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2012
  • Super Lawyer in Civil Rights Law
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2011
  • AV Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2011
  • Board Certified as an Expert-Criminal Appellate Law Since 1993
  • The Florida Bar
  • 2010
  • Board Certified as an Expert in Criminal Trial Law Since 1990
  • The Florida Bar
  • 2010
  • Nationally Board Certified in Criminal Trial Advocacy Since 1993
  • National Board of Trial Advocacy
  • 2010
  • Super Lawyer in Civil Rights Law
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2007
  • Million Dollar Advocate
  • Million Dollar Advocates Forum
  • 1996
  • Leading Florida Lawyer in Criminal Law
  • American Research Corporation
  • 1993
  • Recognized Lawyer
  • Who's Who in American Law -Marquis
  • 1987
  • Member
  • MENSA
  • 1971
View all awards

Publications

  • The Florida Court Reporter
  • To File or Not to File, That is the Question
  • 1997
  • Florida Defender
  • Post Acquittal Detention: Go Directly Back to Jail
  • 1995

Speaking Engagements

  • United States Supreme Court
  • http://www.oyez.org/cases/1990-1999/1992/1992_91_8674/argument
  • 1993

Attorney endorsements

Received (16)
Given (8)
Endorse Gary
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Kollin's resume speaks for itself. To boot, his passion for the practice of law and his knowledge of the law set him apart. I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer Kollin. His helpful answers posted to Avvo are a benefit to the community and other lawyers."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Attorney Kollin."
Civil rights Attorney | Nov 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Kollin provides a much needed service on Avvo. He donates his time to individuals who are in need of immediately legal answers."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"It has been my pleasure to have worked with Mr. Kollin on many discussions on Avvo forums in our pursuit to offer legal advice to those who need it most. Mr. Kollin is always one of the most knowledgeable attorneys, quick to respond, and empathetic to the needs of the potential clients. After reviewing his body of work outside of the Avvo forums, I am in awe of his accomplishments. I absolutely endorse this lawyer."
Civil rights Attorney | Feb 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Year after year the answers of Mr. Kollin are consistently accurate, analytic, and customized to the needs of the Avvo askers. These are exactly the qualities that every client would look for when hiring an attorney."
Litigation Attorney | Nov 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr Kollin is an exceptionally knowledgeable and effective advocate for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 12
Relationship: Other
"Attorney Gary Kollin is a truly exceptional legal mind. Very rarely do you see a lawyer practice so many different areas of law and display a true expertise in all of those areas. As a criminal defense attorney, I can tell you there is no better advice, and no better reasoned analysis than attorney Gary Kollin. I am honored to endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Kollin is well known in the community for his skill set."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Gary. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Class action Attorney | Jan 21
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Have known Gary for over 20 years and have the highest respect for his knowledge and ability. I endorse Gary."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 28
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Great lawyer. Very creative. A bulldog who doen't stop."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Civil rights Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer. I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Kollin as his law clerk in 2000 - 2001. I have met many lawyers since that time. Therefore, I can state unequivocally that Mr. Kollin is one of the brightest lawyers I've met. Anyone seeking counsel in Mr. Kollin's areas of practice should look no further than Mr. Kollin."
View more endorsements
Civil rights
Criminal defense
Lawsuits and disputes
Criminal defense
Commercial real estate
Criminal defense