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Brian Lee Michael Balaguera

Criminal defense Attorney at West Palm Beach, FL

5.0   11 reviews

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About Brian

Learn Brian’s areas of practice.

 

I am a native of Brooklyn, NY and moved to Palm Beach County in 2001.  I have had the passion to become a criminal defense lawyer since the beginning of my collegiate career.  In 2003, I earned an undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice with the intention of continuing to Law School.  Thereafter, I attended the Shepard Broad Law Center at Nova Southeastern University until my graduation in 2006. 

 

While at Nova, I participated in various trial teams and student organizations.  Specifically, I was a member of the Nova chapter of an organization called ATLA (American Trial Lawyer's Assocation).  I represented Nova as a competitor on the following trial teams:  National Texas Young Lawyers Association Trial Team, National Trial Lawyers Association of Trial Lawyers of America Trial Team, and the Chester Bidell Trial Team.  I also served as the Public Relations Coordinator for this organization.  In addition, I received the highest grade in the subjects of  Trial Advocacy and Criminal Pre-trial Practice.  I also served as a Certified Legal Intern (CLI) at the Palm Beach State Attorney's Office, which means I handled actual cases and spoke on the record in criminal court as an intern prior to my bar admission in 2006.  This proved to be a great learning experience. 

 

Following graduation in 2006, I finally began my career as a criminal defense attorney at the Palm Beach County Office of the Public Defender. In August 2007, I attended the State of Florida's Defender College and received an award for "Best Advocate."  While employed as an Assistant Public Defender, I represented clients in the Felony Division, the Appellate Division, the Domestic Violence Division, the County Court Division, and the Juvenile Division. During this time, I zealously represented thousands of clients facing charges ranging from non-violent misdemeanor offenses to violent felony offenses punishable by life imprisonment. I also have experience dealing with cases involving violations of probation and cases with enhanced sentencing penalties such as Prison Release Reoffenders (PRR), Habitual Violent Felony Offenders (HVFO), Habitual Felony Offenders (HFO), and Violent Career Criminals (VCC). 

 

In 2009, I left the Public Defender's Office to become an Associate Attorney at Entin and Della Fera, P.A., a prestigious private criminal defense law firm in Fort Lauderdale. While at this firm, I assisted clients all throughout the State of Florida.  I handled cases in both State and Federal Court.  In 2010, I decided to start my own practice.   It is my firm's mission to be accessible to our clients, in addition to providing zealous representation.

 

Throughout my career, I have gained extensive trial experience.  This includes creating a multitude of pre-trial and post-trial motions that focus mainly on the exclusion of evidence and protecting my client's Constitutional rights.  As a result of handling thousands of cases throughout the State of Florida and in Federal Court, I have gained a reputation as an aggressive, hard working, well prepared, and motivated criminal defense attorney who cares about my client's rights.  I am a member of the Florida Bar and licensed handle cases in United States Supreme Court, 11th Circuit Court of Appeal, Southern District of Florida and the State of Florida. 

 

Firm Website: 

 

 

Photos and videos

Licensed for 16 years
State FL
Status Member in Good Standing
Acquired 2006
Updated 02/23/2023

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

Contact Brian

Similar lawyers nearby

The Balaguera Law Firm, P.A.
500 Australian Ave South
Suite 533
West Palm Beach, FL, 334016241

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  11 customer reviews
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Posted by Evan | March 1, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exactly what is needed.
Brian is a highly intelligent experienced lawyer that is consistent and helpful. He’s the kind of person that you want on your side when you’re going through some of the most important difficult moments of your life. I will forever be grateful for not only his ability to maneuver within the courtroom, but also his humanity and decent approach to communicate with me outside of the courtroom. Brian is a credit to his profession and his community. I cannot recommend him and his services highly enough.
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Posted by anonymous | April 4, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Impressive, courteous and intelligent
Attorney Balaguera is an amazing attorney. From the minute he met with me I knew he would handle my case with the utmost care and attentiveness. I could not have received better results other than what he was able to provide. I would recommend Brian to handle any legal matters to anyone.
Posted by Andre H. | February 9, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Mr. Balaguera is an Attentive and Sincere Attorney
I contacted Brian and he was very honest and forthright about my expectations and costs. Even though I did not proceed, I do highly recommend Mr. Balaguera as a private attorney. He met with me in person and discussed everything I needed to know about my situation, which I greatly appreciated. If you want someone who is humble and very transparent, then Brian Lee Balaguera, Esq. is your attorney.
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Posted by Helena Y. Farber | October 9, 2014
He should be your first and only call when somebody is in trouble with the law!
When a family member got in trouble, Brian was the first and only call I made. He did a wonderful job, kept the involved parties informed, and achieved a great result. As a fellow attorney, I know a good attorney when I see one. Thank you Brian!
Posted by rachel g | May 30, 2012
Best attorney in South Florida
The best lawyer in the state of Florida. He was always easy to reach and always upfront and honest with everything. His prices were not only fair but he always informed me of costs that may occur. He was very knowledgeable and always looked out for my best interest. He really cares about his clients and gives a 100 percent on all his cases. I had referred many people to him and will continue to in the future. ra
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Posted by David F | February 24, 2012
30yr old State of R.I. DUI
Mr Balaguera returned my phone call within minutes and addressed my situation immediately. He had results on my 30 yr old citation within a few days and I felt confident that this would be resolved in a short amount of time. Highly recommend using his service for your legal issues. " I ain't lying-you better be using Brian."
Posted by Pam | February 6, 2012
HOV lane ticket dismissed!
A few months back, I was ticketed by a FHP officer for traveling in HOV lane during hours. The ticket would have been nearly $200 if I paid it, but Mr. Balaguera got it dismissed! His fee was very affordable and much cheaper than paying the ticket.
Posted by Carlos | August 3, 2011
Charges dropped
I'm very satisfied with the work Brian did to get me off the hook with my charges of Assault and Resisting arrest 10 days before my court date, he handled my case in a professioanal and respectful way, I never felt like I was being taken advantage of like you do with other lawyers. Thank you Brian.
Posted by Ryan | July 27, 2011
Brian Balaguera, totally Rocks …. !
I was arrested for a drug possession charge, it was my first time being arrested and I was totally scared. I did not know what to do, who to talk to and more importantly who to trust. The system is not perfect I learned this very quick….. bad things do happen to good people …. just being in the wrong place at the wrong time is all it takes. Brian was supper informative walked me through all my options and totally informed me of all possible outcomes. I am firmly convinced that due to all his experience and knowledge I was able to get my case dismissed in record time….. Thanks Brian for your dedication and commitment to me. Ryan
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Posted by anonymous | July 26, 2011
Awesome DUI attorney
I would recommend Mr. Balaguera to anyone who requesed my advice. He was incredibly professional and always returned my calls and texts in a timely mannor. In fact, he would contact me weekly to give me a status update. Due to his incredible knowledge of the law, my case was totally dismissed by the judge. I truely believe that my case would have not had the positive outcome if I had not been fortunate to find Mr. Balaguera, who is passionate about his job and clients.
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Posted by Anonymous, Palm Beach | July 26, 2011
Ticket was dismissed!
I would reccomend Mr. Balaguera. He handled my traffic ticket for expired registration. The ticketing officer told me it would not be dismissed since the registration was expired for over 6 months, but Mr. Balaguera got the job done!
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Cost

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

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Associate Attorney
  • Entin and Della Ferra, P.A.
  • 2009 - 2010
  • Assistant Public Defender
  • Office Of The Public Defender, 15th Judicial Circuit
  • 2006 - 2009

Education

  • Nova Southeastern University - Shepard Broad Law Center
  • 2006
  • Florida Atlantic University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2003

Legal Cases

  • Client’s name withheld per client’s request and for confidentiality purposes
  • Dismissed
  • Client’s name withheld per client’s request and for confidentiality purposes
  • Case dismissed
  • Client’s name withheld per client’s request and for confidentiality purposes
  • Dismissed
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Palm Beach Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Board Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Trial Lawyers of America
  • Officer
  • 2007 - Present
  • Florida Bar
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Best Advocate Award
  • Florida Defender College
  • 2007
  • Book Award - Criminal Pre-trial Practice
  • CALI
  • 2005

Publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Guest Speaker - Criminal Justice Seminar
  • Criminal Law
  • 2010
  • Graduation Ceremony
  • Graduation Speaker
  • 2010

Attorney endorsements

Received (28)
Given (22)
Endorse Brian
Unknown Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An excellent lawyer who treats clients with patience, care, understanding, and utmost professionalism - an even better person and I wholeheartedly recommend for future services."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I worked with Brian for several years and was able to observe firsthand his work ethic and knowledge of the law when it comes to his clients. You can count on Brian to do everything within his power to make sure you get the results you are seeking. I wholeheartedly endorse Brian as an attorney you want on your side."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 27
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Balaguera fights tirelessly for his clients. He is highly skilled, knowledgeable, and focused on getting results. No doubt, he is an excellent choice."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Mr Balaguera is an incredibly skilled trial attorney and a fierce negotiator. I highly endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Brian. He is knowledgable with a keen sense of detail. He goes the extra mile for everyone in his career no matter what side you're on. Exceptional attorney!"
Personal injury Attorney | Jul 22
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this talented and knowledgeable attorney, who is well-respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Brian. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Balaguera is a zealous advocate who cares about his clients. For these reasons, I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Brian is a very effective criminal defense attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Brian is a true fighter whether in the courtroom or negotiating with the State Attorney. He zealously defends his clients and ensures that his clients come out with the most favorable resolution to their case that is possible."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 29
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Brian is a highly intelligent, contentious and extremely knowledgeable litigator. As a former prosecutor and current defense attorney I can recommend him with confidence that he will explore every available option in a criminal case to the benefit of his client."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Appeals Attorney | Jan 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have referred to Brian several clients who needed criminal help to avoid severe immigration consequences. He has proved to be an excellent advocate getting great results for my clients. I definitelly endorse this attorney."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
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