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Maria Pavlidis

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Avvo Rating10
  • Tampa, FL
  • Licensed for 17 years
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About Maria

Practice areas

DUI and DWISex crimeViolent crimeCriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 60%

    18 years

  2. Violent crime: 20%

    18 years

  3. Sex crime: 15%

    18 years

  4. DUI and DWI: 5%

Languages spoken

Greek

Contact

402 East 7th Avenue
address map

McCarty Gonzalez Pavlidis & Whidden, LLC.

402 East 7th Avenue
Tampa, FL, 33602

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
FLMember in Good Standing200312/20/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers0
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
James H. Kynes Memorial in the Trenches AwardHillsborough County Bar Association Trial & Litigation Section2019
Board Certified in Criminal Trial LawThe Florida Bar2015
Professional Attorney of the Year, Major Crimes BureauLaw Office of Julianne Holt2011
Attorney of the Year, Major Crimes BureauLaw Office of Julianne Holt2009
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Managing PartnerMcCarty Gonzalez Pavlidis & Whidden, LLC2014 - Present
Litigation AttorneyPrivate Civil Practice2013 - 2014
Attorney, Major Crimes BureauLaw Office of Julianne Holt, Public Defender2003 - 2012
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Hillsborough County Association of Criminal Defense LawyersVice President2020 - Present
Hillsborough Association for Women LawyersN/A2020 - Present
Hillsborough County Association of Criminal Defense LawyersExecutive Board MemberN/A
Hillsborough County Bar AssociationN/AN/A
Journal of Law and Public Policy, University of Florida College of LawResearch Editor2001 - 2002
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of LawJD - Juris Doctor2003
University of TampaBS - Bachelor of Science2000
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
CLEDefending a Baby Death Case: Understanding the Science2014

Reviews

(16)
5 Star
100%
4 Star
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1 Star
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Review Maria Pavlidis

Exceptional Attorney for Complex Cases

Posted by

I could not have chosen a more experienced, dedicated, and skilled attorney than Ms. Maria Pavlidis as my defense attorney when facing a felony sexual battery charge. After hiring Ms. Pavlidis by referral through a second attorney I hired for the same case, it was clear from the start that Ms. Pavlidis had my best interest at heart. While the other attorney made an assumption that my case would certainly go to trial, Ms. Pavlidis instead focused on addressing each piece of evidence, hearing, and deposition individually as part of a holistic and assertive strategy. Her strategy highlighted the flaws and inconsistencies of the case and drew out the false accusations. Through Ms. Pavlidis’ knowledge, depth of experience, and aggressive defense approach my case was finally dismissed after two years of an exceptional defense. I would not hesitate recommending Ms. Pavlidis as your defense attorney.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent Attorney

Posted by

Maria is an excellent attorney. She worked very hard for us to achieve the best results possible for our son. She has good relationships with prosecutors, which helped us achieve a plea agreement that we could live with. She truly cared about us and always made us feel that we have a great friend working for us. She is smart and knows her stuff well. She treated us with utmost respect and was always very warm. We know that without her, we would not be where we are today. She invested many hours to our case, and was dedicated. I highly recommend her!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent attorney

Posted by

Maria Pavlidis is an excellent attorney, she really listens to her clients and works hard to accomplish the best outcome. She treats you with respect and she truly cares. You feel the personal attention she gives you. I highly recommend her.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Dedicated from beginning to end

Posted by

If you are looking for someone that works overtime for their clients, search no further. Maria played a vital part in my criminal defense case. She is super vigilant and looks at a case from all angles; which was pivotal to my defense in my criminal jury trial. Maria was super helpful at making me feel comfortable from a very uncomfortable position. Due to Maria's expertise in picking jurors, opening statements, closing arguments, and direct and cross examination, my peers found me NOT GUILTY. Maria is a blessing to my family and myself.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Amazing!

Posted by

Maria is a highly trained and skilled attorney. She reviewed my case from all angles and guided me through my legal situation. Maria has such a caring and dedicated spirit that I felt she was "in the battle " with me. Because of her help my case went away. I would definitely hired her again!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Amazing!! Phenomenal!!! Outstanding!!

Posted by

Amazing!! Phenomenal!!! Outstanding!! These words don't even come close to describing Maria Pavlidis and her partner Lily. They were committed from beginning to end. Giving their all the whole way thru. Our family would not have made it through this year if it wasn't for their expertise. They are a true blessing to our family and I can't thank them enough. If you are looking for a kick butt professional , Maria is your girl.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Exceptional attorney. Hard-working, knowledgeable, and caring

Posted by

A colleague who has had first-hand experience with Lily McCarty and Maria Pavilidis recommended them to me after I had been arrested for a DUI. From the first conversation I had with them over the telephone to the final outcome of my case (great outcome), I could not have asked for a better team. They were honest from the very beginning about the possible outcomes of my case and answered all of my questions and concerns as they came up during my case. Both Lily and Maria attended every meeting that was conducted and appeared at every court appearance that I had to attend. It will put your mind at ease knowing that you have two remarkable individuals working hard for you. Throughout my case, there were ups and downs that occurred (both related and unrelated to my case), and both Lily and Maria would check in with me to see how I was doing. You cannot buy that kind of service, and that is what makes them great at what they do.

Honesty and Integrity

Posted by

Absolute best. I highly recommend Maria . It's wonderful to see honesty and integrity still exists in today's legal system.Maria worked endlessly on a difficult case and was truly well prepared and tenacious when needed.Each motion was thoroughly explained and presented in a professional manner shorting my probation by years.

The best attorney

Posted by

She was my public defender at the beginning of my case 7 years ago and she did everything possible for me, I never knew she would work that hard for me. She is caring and honest and fights for you every step of the way. I hired her last month to have me early termed and she made it possible through all of her hard work. I appreciate her and to me shes my angel.

heaven sent

Posted by

Long story short.. had a hard case and she was my public defender she saw through everything and did more than I could have ever thought to defend me, no matter what she was there even on an emotional level you get people who do their jobs because they really love what they are doing, so they do everything to a tee. She was on top of everything even in my darkest times she showed me the light I had hope and a defense that backed it up I truly was blessed to have her on my team. She works, fast,i Was always in the loop, stood her ground. She fights hard there's no backing down for her..she doesn't treat you like another case or number with Maria your a person not another static, she's honest, upfront and driven by a passion for justice! Amazing women and attorney
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Attorney endorsements

(12)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Theodore Panagiotopoulos, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 3, 2016
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I have known Maria for over 20 years. Maria is an extremely intelligent lawyer who understands the nuances of criminal law. Maria is great with her clients and fellow attorney's and has a strong passion for the law which is apparent to anyone who meets her. I strongly endorse this lawyer.

Jenny Thomas, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 16, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Maria is a strong and dedicated advocate for her clients. She is brilliant in the courtroom and her passion for justice shines through.

Ali Shakoor, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 30, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I absolutely endorse this lawyer. Maria Pavlidis is an outstanding attorney. I had the pleasure of working with her early in my career, and I can't speak more highly about her competence and dedication. Maria Pavlidis is very well respected in the legal community, as well. She is extremely passionate and very hard working.

Melissa Wilson, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 2, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

I endorse this lawyer. Maria and I worked together for many years at the Public Defender's Office. Over the years, I've had ample opportunity to witness Ms. Pavlidis in action. She is always well prepared and a great advocate.

Marvin George, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 14, 2015
Relationship: Supervised lawyer

I strongly endorse Maria Pavlidis. She is extremely hard worker and possess the ability to think on her feet. I have dong several complicated jury trials with her. She has always been prepared and a force to be reckoned with.

James May, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 3, 2014
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I consider Ms. Pavlidis one of the hardest working and most tenacious attorneys, that I have had the privilege of working with in the past. She simply cannot be outworked or intimidated. I have personally seen her take on some of the most toughest cases in major crimes and single handily outshine the prosecution, stand her ground with the judges and handle the media as if it was second nature, all while giving her client the best chance at success. I look forward to working with her again. I highly endorse Maria Pavlidis.

James Amarosa, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 13, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known this lawyer for some time and she is a true professional. She will always go out of her way to help a client. I stongly endorse this professional. JRA

Anne Morris, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 8, 2014
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse this lawyer. Maria is an excellent attorney and truly cares about her clients. You will not regret hiring her to represent you.

Pamela Westfall, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 14, 2014
Relationship: Co-worker

I had the pleasure of working with Maria. She is a dedicated and passionate criminal defense attorney who does everything she can for her clients. She is not only driven and focused, but also extremely knowledgeable and experienced in criminal defense. I endorse this lawyer.

Lily McCarty, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 15, 2014
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I have worked and tried cases with Ms. Pavlidis for many years. Her trial skills are incredible and she has the ability to handle extremely difficult cases.

Lori Palmieri, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 3, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I had a very difficult physical child abuse case and I sought out the advice and counsel of Ms. Pavlidis because her reputation preceeded her in such matters. Although a young lawyer, she has more courtroom experience than practitioners twice her age. She is an intelligent, talented and gifted lawyer who fights to the end for her clients. I strongly endorse her for anyone facing criminal charges. It is a privilege to know her.

Patrick Leduc, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 29, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. Maria is an exceptionally talented criminal defense attorney, whose reputation for superior service is outstanding. Maria is considered one of the best criminal defense attorney’s in Tampa, with extensive trial experience. She can handle the most complicated and sensitive cases. Her knowledge of the courtroom, the judges and State attorney’s makes her particularly valuable to clients charged with criminal misconduct. She has my wholehearted endorsement and recommendation. Any client who retains Maria for her services will come away pleased with how she handles your case.