Free Consultation
$0 first 60 minutes
also known as James M. Falls
James Falls graduated from Florida State University with a double major in Political Science & Sociology. In 2017, he graduated from the Florida State University College of Law with Honors. During law school, James was a certified legal intern with the Office of the Public Defender where he tried a range of cases from DUI to Attempted Murder – all before graduation. Immediately upon passing the Bar, James served as a Federal Judicial Clerk, for the Honorable Mary Scriven of the United States District Court of the Middle District of Florida. Eager for more trial experience, James later joined the Public Defender’s Office in Pinellas County, Florida. As an Assistant Public Defender, James represented clients at every level of the adult criminal system.
While managing a heavy case-load of charges ranging from DUI, Battery, Theft, Possession of Controlled Substances, Trafficking, and Murder, James successfully defended his clients in trial on serious felony charges, such as Burglary, Abuse of a Disabled Adult, Resisting an Officer with Violence, Robbery with a Firearm, and others. As a rising star in our criminal justice system, James was recruited by numerous private defense firms before joining with Attorney Brett Metcalf. James spent the last 6 years in private practice. During his time in private practice, he was able to meticulously and aggressively defend countless clients. Achieving countless dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable plea agreements. However, James’ most loved part of the job is Jury Trials.
Although not every private criminal defense attorney wishes to spend their time away from the office litigating their client’s cases at trial in front of a Jury, James embraces it. Over the course of the last 6 years, James was able to obtain countless not guilty verdicts at trial, successfully obtaining not guilty verdicts in cases such as solicitation of prostitution, sexual battery, DUI, and Murder.
Outside of work, James has a passion for all things food, whether it’s cooking for friends and family, exploring restaurants in the Tampa Bay area, or planning trips out of town based on restaurants featured on Diner’s Drive-In’s and Dives.
Free Consultation
$0 first 60 minutes
Always
Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.
Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.
Chat withState: Florida
Acquired: 2017
No misconduct found
1925 E 6th Ave #9, Tampa, FL, 33605
1834 Main St., Sarasota, FL, 34236
46 Client Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 46 reviews
Posted by anonymous | August 25, 2026
Great Free and Detailed Consultation Advice
He was direct but sympathetic and honest. He clearly explained the seriousness of the situation and gave helpful advice on how I should go about approaching it if I ever need to.
Posted by Natalie | August 21, 2026 | Hired Attorney
The absolute best!
I had an amazing experience with James! He was absolutely incredible. So easygoing, professional, and genuinely helpful throughout the entire process. He exceeded my expectations when it came to handling my case and made everything feel smooth and stress free. I truly appreciate his dedication to his...
Posted by Brendan | August 17, 2026 | Hired Attorney
Excellent attorney!
Hiring James was a great decision! He was very professional, knowledgeable, and communicated with me every step of the way. He saw my issue through to a favorable resolution and I wouldn’t hesitate to hire him again if I ever have the need.
Posted by Rad | April 17, 2026 | Hired Attorney
Excellent attorney
I cannot say enough great things about James Falls and the outstanding work he did for my son. Navigating the juvenile system as a parent can be overwhelming, but James made the entire process feel manageable and less stressful. He handled my son’s case with professionalism, care, and a deep understa...
Posted by Rich M | April 03, 2026 | Hired Attorney
Would recommend to friend or family
In 2025, I was arrested for a DUI and consulted several attorneys before ultimately choosing James Falls. During this time, I relocated from Florida to New Jersey, and James was extremely helpful in arranging things so I wouldn’t have to appear for several upcoming court dates. After months of negoti...
"James Falls is one of the most consistent and dedicated attorneys I've worked with. His communication with clients is second to none. He's a beast in trial. All-star in our line of work."
"I highly recommend James Falls. I’ve watched James practice law over nearly his entire career and can say, without a doubt, he is one of the most dedicated, hardworking, skilled, and affable attorneys you can find. If you are in need of a great criminal defense attorney, you cannot go wrong with James. Speak to him yourself and you’ll see what I mean."
"James Falls is a competent, personal, intelligent, and dedicated attorney. James is not just a phenomenal attorney but is also a phenomenal person. A constant professional, James knows the law, litigation, and how to provide an unparalleled service to his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer. James is a hard-working zealous defense attorney. In my experience, working with Mr. Falls he has exhibited nothing but excellence and professionalism in dealing with complex criminal defense matters. He is dedicated to his clients."
"To be a truly great Criminal Defense Attorney, you need 3 things: 1) to know the law inside and out; 2) to fight for your clients relentlessly; and 3) to be willing to go to trial at anytime. Mr. Falls not only has all three of these qualities, but has the added bonus of being a fantastic litigator once in trial. He honed his trial and negotiation skills for 3 years while working as an Assistant Public Defender and handling large Felony case loads. He has taken what he learned at the Public Defender's office and brought that same tenacity to the private sector. I fully endorse this lawyer on any and all criminal matters, as he is someone that will fight for your freedom, no matter what time of day, or what day of the week it is."
Criminal defense lawyer
Divorce and separation lawyer
Unknown lawyer
2025
Client's Choice, Avvo
2024
Client's Choice, Avvo
2023
Top 40 under 40, The National Trial Lawyers
2023
Client's Choice, Avvo
2022
Client's Choice, Avvo
2018
Best Advocate Award, Defender College
2026 - Present
Owner and Managing Partner, James Falls, Criminal Defense Lawyer P.A.
2023 - 2026
Partner, Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A.
2020 - 2023
Associate Attorney, Brett Metcalf, Criminal Defense Attorney P.A.
2017 - 2020
Assistant Public Defender, Office Of The Public Defender, 6th Judicial Circuit
2017 - 2017
Temporary Judicial Clerk, Middle District of Florida
2026 - Present
Bar of the United States District Court, Middle District of FloridaMember
2022 - 2024
Tampa NolesCo-Chair
Dismissed
Not Guilty Verdict after Jury Trial
case dismissed
case dismissed
case dismissed
case dismissed
2017
2013
Political Science and Sociology
2021
Race & the Law
2021
Jury Selection
2019
English
Legal Answers
Can I transfer my license suspension case to FL from MA?
05 Aug 2026
Caught driving stolen vehicle with drugs in the vehicle but was never arrested will they issue an arrest warrant
18 May 2022
I am in the state of Florida and I am on probation for misdemeanor DUI can I possess a firearm ?
17 May 2022