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 1 - 5 of 11 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by Kris | April 04, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Four felony charges dismissed

Attorney Nick Chotos and William Hanlon are GOLDEN. Their legal expertise, finesse, and in depth knowledge of our legal system resulted in four felony convictions being dismissed. I am eternally grateful for their knowldge, compassion, understanding, and flexibility throughout my case. I previ...ously hired a DIFFERENT lawyer that was completely non-responsive and simply pocketed a retainer fee without returning my calls. Hanlon Law has a setller reputation and thus I was referred to them. How grateful am I to Nick & William? Eternally. God has a special place in heaven for them because of their honesty, integrity, dogged determination, patience, and most of all --- RESULTS!

Posted by anonymous | July 15, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Serious Criminal Charges

Mr. Hanlon was magnificent. Nearly a year ago a family member had some charges filed against them that could have resulted in over 20 years of prison time. This created a tremendous amount of mental stress for our family member as well as the rest of the family. We contacted Mr. Hanlon and he immedia...tely went to work on the case. His knowledge and skill in legal issues was amazing. His communication along the course of this case was second to none. He was able to have all the charges dropped through presenting the facts combined with his legal skills. I would recommend Mr. Hanlon to anyone that is dealing with a criminal case. His knowledge of the law is amazing. Thank you Mr Hanlon for helping our family through a very difficult time

Posted by anonymous | July 24, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

My New Life Starts Now.

I hired Mr. Hanlon at the beginning of this year because I was approaching the half-way point on probation for a sex offense and I was looking to appeal for an early termination of said probation. I wasn't hopeful. I know how sex cases are treated, especially in Florida, and I had severe doubts th...at I'd be given any leniency at all. Mr. Hanlon was immediate in his display of knowledge and compassion for my circumstance. He assured me that even if my motion to early terminate was not granted, that he'd work tirelessly to appeal again and again. This assurance provided a huge relief for me, which I needed at the time. Your see, sex offender probation is no cake walk. I had a 10pm curfew every night. I could not leave the county without permission. I could not attend many types of family events that I enjoyed doing, due to the presence of children. I missed countless shows and events during my 3 years on probation, including my aunt's funeral. My requirement to disclose my information to all prospective jobs and education outlets caused me to look many opportunities - opportunities I could have used to turn my life around. My family was affected by my probation requirements and I was on electronic monitoring, which prevented me from going in water or wearing anything that revealed my ankles. Although I do not desire or expect pity for the requirements I had to meet after committing a sex offense, I can say that the misery I felt on probation was overwhelming. I was only 22 when I made the mistake that changed my life. At 27, Mr. Hanlon has won the motion to release me from probation and give me a new chance at life. Will Hanlon, in many ways, has saved my life by winning my court case and allowing me my freedom once more. I would not have trusted any other lawyer with my future, and I am so happy I put my faith in Will Hanlon. He exceeded my every expectation in proving to the judge that I was a changed man that deserved a second chance. Thank you, Mr. Hanlon, for giving me my life back.

Posted by anonymous | May 22, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Ms.

Mr. Hamlon, made my case very stress free. He was always there to answer my questions as well as his assistant Kathy. I hired him because of the past reviews I read on him. Also, because he was very fast to call me back when I intially called his office. He gave me legal advise that I took and lead u...p to not having criminal charges against me. Which was the ultimate goal that was reach. I am very please with the end results and very happy with his firm.

Posted by Jerome | August 08, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Thank You Will!!!

I had multiple charges ranging from misdemeanor to felony drug charges, even a very sever battery charge. Will did everything he could to help maintain my innocence, my reputation, and most important my freedom. The past half a year or so I have been dealing with the pending charges over my head. Als...o the judge and most of the judicial and legal system I had in the Citrus County court cases were RELENTLESS! Unlike anything I have ever witnessed. The prosecutor found every possible way to use the words used to define my charges under the Florida state statute against me (which after reading them myself I can say is quite easy). Even Will was surprised that after my first 3 hearings they wouldn't budge. Will fought tooth and nail for me; he did everything that could have possibly have been done to prove my innocence. I am forever grateful to have met such an outstanding person. I now no longer have this hefty burden and great deal of anxiety from wondering if I'm going to be doing 15 years in prison. If you ever have ANY criminal case filed against you, I, without a doubt, whole-heartedly, suggest that you get in touch with Mr. Will Hanlon. Not only is he a great lawyer, he is also a great person. A true miracle worker I would say; I wouldn't be surprised if he could teach the deaf to speak (just kidding). But seriously, Will I just wanted to say thank you, from me and on behalf of my family. Hopefully we don't have to do this again, but I would definitely contact you if I did. So to anybody who needs a lawyer right now. I suggest you stop reading this and call Will.

See All Client Reviews

William Wooten Hanlon's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse William
Richard Allen Canina headshot
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."

View All Endorsements
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

Avvo Rating

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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution