William Wooten Hanlon

PRO

William Wooten Hanlon

also known as Will Hanlon

4.9
91 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 9.9

Licensed for 31 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Tampa, FL
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Sex Crime, Domestic Violence

210 N Pierce St, Tampa, FL

About William

Biography

All my efforts are aimed at results in order to preserve my client's future.

The final result is all that matters.

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 70%

I have been practicing criminal law in tampa and the west coast of central Florida for over 20 years. I handle a wide array of criminal cases with a focus on sex crimes, violence, and drug charges. I also defend the accused on DUI, gun charges, and violations of probation.

33 years

70%
Sex Crime 20%

20%
Domestic Violence 10%

10%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2017 2016 2015
...
+ 2
Distinguished Peer Review Rating

Licenses

Licensed in Florida for 31 years

State: Florida

Acquired: 1994

Member in Good Standing

No misconduct found

Location

Hanlon Law

210 N Pierce St, Tampa, FL, 33602

criminalattorneytampa.net/

Hanlon Law

405 6th S, #2, Saint Petersburg, FL, 33701

criminalattorneytampa.net/

Hanlon Law

1605 Main St, Ste 1115, Sarasota, FL, 34236

criminalattorneytampa.net/

Hanlon Law

1111 3rd Ave W, Ste 310, Bradenton, FL, 34205

criminalattorneytampa.net/

Hanlon Law

600 Cleveland St, Ste 1100, Clearwater, FL, 33755

criminalattorneytampa.net/

Hanlon Law

300 S Orange Ave, Ste 1160, Orlando, FL, 32801

criminalattorneytampa.net/

Online Presence

Other places you can find William online.

William Wooten Hanlon's Reviews

Showing 6 - 10 of 11 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by Jerry | August 18, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Sex Crime

Job well done, Counselor

As a practicing attorney, I was shocked to hear that a family member of mine was alleged to have committed a sex crime. Knowing full well the consequences this type of allegation can have on anyone and their future, I immediately reached out to William Hanlon for help. I had every confidence that Mr.... Hanlon had the knowledge, expertise, and experience to handle this problem. Approximately 4 weeks from an initial conference with Mr. Hanlon, we received a call with the news that a letter of release was being issued and the case was being dropped. Now my family member can finally exhale, take a deep breath, and go on with his life. Thank you, William!

Posted by anonymous | May 03, 2015 | Sex Crime

Grateful Family!

Our teenage son was alleged to have committed a sex crime recently. No charges were filed thanks to the expertise of Mr Hanlon. As soon as we contacted Mr Hanlon we were assured that he was in this kids corner. Mr Hanlon knows the legal system and handled the situation in a professional and aggressiv...e manner. He offered us sound advice and assumed all communication with the investigating detective so that our frightened child was not put in a situation he was not able to handle. We felt as though we had a buffer from the system. We are extremely grateful to Mr Hanlon and would readily recommend him to anyone who needs help and guidance in the legal system. Because of Mr Hanlon's expertise and concern for our child he can move forward with his life and has a bright future.

Posted by Betrayed | April 13, 2015 | Sex Crime

The best Criminal Defense Attorney in Florida

There aren’t enough words to describe how thankful and grateful I am to attorney William Hanlon for representing me in a child sexual abuse case. He is truly the best criminal defense lawyer period in Florida if not in the US. I'm very HARD to impress, but Mr. Hanlon's skills, experience, knowledge ...of the law and calm demeanor are priceless. During the difficult and fearful period that I was going through, attorney Hanlon stayed calm and confident. Even when I was taking heat from my family members to call around to talk to other criminal defense lawyers. These same lawyers whom I contacted, some of them were former prosecutors, all told me they know Mr. Hanlon, highly respect him and that I was in very good hands. Hearing those words made me feel safe and very proud to have him as my attorney. Worst, I was accused by my wife and own daughter. Wife wanted to have full custody of my son and daughter wanted her freedom. They decided to use one another to completely destroy me, even though they never once liked one another before (daughter is wife's stepdaughter). One evening after I got home from work, wife, son and daughter were not present. I thought they were out running errands. Passed 10:00pm, which was unusual for them to be out around that time, I decided to call the cops to report that my family was missing. I was advised that my family was not missing, an officer would meet up with me. When the officer arrived, he told me my wife has decided to take the kids with her and left the place. I asked why, he replied he had no idea. After the officer left, I decided to drive to the police station to find out more information. At the station, an officer told me that there were some allegations made by my wife, that's all he could tell me. I asked him how am I going to see my kids, he replied if you know which school they go to, you can always go there to see them. I followed the officer's advise and went to the school the next day. Once I got to the school, I went to the principal's office asking if I could see my kids, she left me in her office waiting. The next thing I know two sheriff officers showed up asking me to leave the premise and told me that I had a court s appt in 4 hours that I need to be present. After leaving the school, I drove straight to the court as I was advised. There, I gave my name and was introduced to a court appointed attorney. This attorney told me that I have been accused of Child Sexual Abuse, however not to worry. The next day after the court hearing, I found myself getting arrested and put in solitary confinement for almost a week, even though I was granted bail by the judge, I wasn't allowed to contact any family members to come and post the bond on my behalf. Once I was allowed to join the general population, I called my family members, they came, posted the bond and got me released right away. This was a mental and physical torture, I had never been arrested nor in trouble with the law before. Right after my release, I went on google looking for the best criminal defense attorney in Tampa. The first name that popped up was William Hanlon. Within minutes after a brief chat, here I was in Mr. Hanlon's office talking to him. He told me "Don't worry, he would make sure that I'd get my life back". With solid prayers and few months later, attorney Hanlon got "No Filed", case dismissed. Lawyer Hanlon truly deserves to be praised. Had I known this was a serious matter and met Mr. Hanlon, I would have never been arrested and gone to jail. I will not advise anyone to find him or her self in trouble with the law. Jail is very humiliating, degrading and inhumane. I felt worthless and humiliated. If you ever find yourself falsely accused of any sex crimes or in trouble with the law, DO NOT HESITATE for a second to call Attorney William Hanlon. He truly cares. he will fight for your rights and freedom. Mr. Hanlon, from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you and may God bless you always!!!

Posted by anonymous | March 05, 2015 | Criminal Defense

You need a great attorney

You need Attorney Will Hanlon A few months back I was unfairly accused of kissing the breast of my 10 year old grandaughter while sitting for her while her parents were away. What a shock when I arrived home one day to have my family waiting for me to accuse me.To do such a thing is so unlike me, I... was in a state of shock when confronted. I lost my wife and kids in an instant. Just before Thanksgiving I was so upset and distressed that I emailed an apology to my family which sounded like a confession. I was desparate and would have said anything to get my family back. A few weeks later the police came to my door for an interview. Well I don’t have to tell you what a conviction would do to my life. I have professional licenses in 18 states and at 67 years old, I could lose everything. Where could I live? How would I survive on my Social Security alone? No one would give me a job! And the worst part…..I WAS INNOCENT! I gave this a lot of thought and decided I needed a laywer to protect me. So after a seardh I decided on Attorney Will Hanlon. From that minute on much of my stress was reduced.I could tell from our discussion that Mr. Hanlon knew the system inside and out. So. He thought it might be a good idea to take a polygraph test. I was so nervous, my heart was throbbing in my throat. Well after 2 hours of questioning by an interrogator, the results came back as NO DECEPTION on my part! Within a few days the prosecutor decided no charges were to be filed. Justice was served and now I can start to rebuild my life. So to get the best possible outcome, my advise to anyone in a similar situation, wether guilty or innocent, you need a lawyer who knows the system, and Will Hanlon of Hanlon Law should be your choice. DL

Posted by anonymous | April 21, 2014 | Criminal Defense

What is Freedom Worth to You?

Despite my incredibly delicate situation, not once did Will Hanlon exhibit anything but the upmost confidence in my position, as well as my case. My exwife, who initially became my wife through a court house union after lying about a pregnancy, confessed to having made false rape accusations against ...another member in the military. His investigation was current at the time of her confession. Already feeling trapped with the marriage by her threats to make false accusations against me if I ever attempted to leave her, I found the confession to be a perfect exit. I told her that not only would I not stay with her, but that I would report her for the false rape accusation against the other military member, if she did not come clean herself. She was prompt in going to the military to report false accusations against me. After a thorough investigation, the military not only dropped the investigation against me, but opened one against her. The day that this happened, my exwife went to the civilian police to file an official report, this time with a significantly more dramatic and violent false accusation, presenting self-inflicted cut marks, which she performed in front of me one night with a piece of glass she picked up after breaking a wine glass, blaming me for her behavior. "I shall finally be worth something to you in my death, since you certainly do not value me alive. Perhaps you will appreciate my life insurance," she exclaimed while while cutting herself. However, her claim to the police was that I was responsible for the wounds on her leg. I was arrested and charged with three felonies. Will never hesistated about the validity of my claim, nor did he ever seem concerned with the strength of our case, and to which outcome it would eventually lead. He did, however, acknowldege the severity of the claim and was incredible with keeping both my parents and I informed with the progression of the case. I found out a little over a week ago that his due deligience and thorough understanding of the law led to the DA choosing to throw out all three felony charges before ever taking the case to court. Hiring a good Criminal Defense attorney can be expensive, but at the end of the day, a life unmarred by a criminal record far outweighs any monetary expenses.

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William Wooten Hanlon's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse William
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Richard Canina

Unknown lawyer | Jul 08

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I worked for him while in law school. Excellent attorney! When people are accused of serious crimes, they call Will Hanlon simply because he is the BEST!"

Gus Michael Centrone headshot
Gus Centrone

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | May 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse William. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Stephen Andrew Spaid headshot
Stephen Spaid

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Hanlon is a well respected and hard-working attorney in the Tampa Bay community. Over the years as a criminal defense attorney, he has provided exceptional representation for his clients."

Kevin John Fitzsimmons headshot
Kevin Fitzsimmons

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Will is a hard working defense lawyer that does not shy away from the often needed battle."

Jonathan Stuart Gilbert headshot
Jonathan Gilbert

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Will Hanlon is an excellent attorney and brings a wealth of experience to his representation of his clients who have been accused of crimes. Will is not just a criminal defense attorney; he is a well-seasoned trial lawyer -- he has been defending criminal cases for more than 20 years -- and is known as a lawyer who is able to get the best results for his clients because he is willing and able to take his cases to trial."

Keith Adam Warshofsky headshot
Keith Warshofsky

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 09

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have know Mr. Hanlon for just about twenty years. I found him to always be up on the subject and very dependable. I endorse this lawyer."

Lisa Smith Bedwell headshot
Lisa Bedwell

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the pleasure to work with Wil Hanlon on a variety of legal matters and find him to not only be erudite in his chosen field, but a good and decent man. I very much endorse him and recommend him to anyone who seeks legal counsel in the area of criminal defense, as he is both a good man and an exemplary lawyer."

Steven David Parker headshot
Steven Parker

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Will Hanlon's hard work and zealous representation of clients has earned him a reputation as an excellent and highly skilled, as well as tough and tenacious, criminal defense trial lawyer. I trust him to provide the best criminal defense to the people I refer to him."

Vanessa Anne Nye headshot
Vanessa Nye

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Mr. Hanlon. For the 20 years I have known him he has never failed to impress on how good of an attorney he really is. Dedicated to his profession, he is extremely knowledgeable in the area of criminal law and goes above and beyond for his clients. Mr. Hanlon cares deeply about every client and goes the extra step to ensure the absolute best result for every individual he represents. He is empathetic, diligent and professional. Respected by prosecutors, judiciary and the defense bar, Mr. Hanlon provides astute representation to achieve amazing results. I have learned a lot from his guidance; he inspires me to be a better lawyer. I highly recommend Mr. Hanlon if you are charged with a crime. He will represent you from start to finish. Most importantly, you will be extremely satisfied at the amazing results."

Nancy Lee Browder headshot
Nancy Browder

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known William Hanlon for over 15 years. As a criminal defense attorney, William is deeply committed to every aspect of his clients' lives. His credentials, knowledge, skill and reputation are outstanding. He is a dedicated professional that puts his clients first. William has been fighting for his clients since he started his legal career as a Public Defender and his passion continues in his private practice. I would recommend William to anyone faced with a criminal charge."

Andrew Zachary Tapp headshot
Andrew Tapp

Criminal defense lawyer | May 31

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Will Hanlon is a dedicated and tenacious attorney with whom I've had the pleasure of working. As an attorney and an advocate, Mr. Hanlon is experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate about his work and the defense of his clients. I fully endorse Mr. Hanlon and would recommend his services to anyone seeking a good criminal defense attorney."

Theodore James Rechel headshot
Theodore Rechel

Criminal defense lawyer | May 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. As a family law attorney, I frequently have clients who face criminal charges and need a referral for a talented criminal defense attorney. Will is the only guy on the list. He has achieved excellent results for each of my clients I have sent to him, usually getting the charges dismissed before trial by aggressively undermining the State's case. He is passionate, intelligent, intense, creative and aggressive. I have found him to have a keen legal mind and he is extremely resourceful. If I were facing criminal prosecution, I'd hire Will in a heartbeat."

John Allen Schifino headshot
John Schifino

Criminal defense lawyer | May 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I enthusiastically endorse William. My firm often refers criminal matters to William and he always provides our clients and referrals with excellent service. He is passionate about his work and a zealous advocate."

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Jonathan Stuart Gilbert headshot
Jonathan Gilbert

Corporate and incorporation lawyer

Steven David Parker headshot
Steven Parker

Personal injury lawyer

Keith Adam Warshofsky headshot
Keith Warshofsky

DUI and DWI lawyer

Dennis A. Lopez headshot
Dennis Lopez

Personal injury lawyer

Lisa Smith Bedwell headshot
Lisa Bedwell

Family lawyer

Edward Charles McFadden Jr. headshot
Edward McFadden

Criminal defense lawyer

Nancy Lee Browder headshot
Nancy Browder

Family lawyer

Vanessa Anne Nye headshot
Vanessa Nye

Criminal defense lawyer

Andrew Zachary Tapp headshot
Andrew Tapp

Family lawyer

John Allen Schifino headshot
John Schifino

Commercial real estate lawyer

Theodore James Rechel headshot
Theodore Rechel

Divorce and separation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.9 (Superb)

Honors

2023

Best Business of 2023, ThreeBest Rated

2022

Best Criminal Defense Attorneys Tampa, Expertise

2014

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2013

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2012

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2011

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2010

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2009

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

N/A

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, The National

Work Experience

1993 - 1997

Assistant Public Defender, Hillsborough County Public Defender's Office

1992 - 1992

Intern, Elizabeth Kovachevich

Associations

1999 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys

Member

1998 - Present

Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

1994 - Present

Hillsborough County Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Domestic Battery Charges Dropped

Both charges were dismissed

See More Legal Cases

Education

1993

St. Thomas University School of Law

LL.B - Bachelor of Laws

Speaking Engagements

2007

Lectured

Fourth Amendment

Languages

English

Activity

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