Christopher Thomas Hersem

PRO

Christopher Thomas Hersem

5.0
226 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 20 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Tampa, FL
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Criminal Defense, Speeding & Traffic Ticket, Personal Injury

1550 W. Cleveland St., Suite 9, Tampa, FL

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Christopher

Biography

Get a top rated lawyer on your side. See my reviews and call today for your free strategy session.

Get a top rated lawyer on your side. See my reviews and call today for your free strategy session.

Awarded back to back "Best DUI Attorney in Tampa Bay" honors by The Tampa Magazine. Call now!

Get a top rated lawyer on your side for the best results. Call now for your free strategy session.

Don't pay that ticket! Read my reviews and call today for your free strategy session.

Practice Areas

4

Practice Areas

DUI and DWI 34%

In Florida, DUI allegations are handled differently than any other charge. There are several potential consequences for being accused of this crime. To avoid or minimize the negative effects of a DUI accusation, it is imperative to hire an experienced DUI lawyer. Chris Hersem has the knowledge and reputation necessary to provide his clients with aggressive and effective DUI representation.

21 years

34%
Criminal Defense 33%

At Hersem Law, we represent clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges throughout the Tampa Bay and surrounding areas. From pre-charge investigations and bond proceedings to plea negotiations and jury trials, we are the premier criminal defense firm in this area.

21 years | 3,000 cases

33%
Speeding and Traffic Ticket 23%

21 years

23%
Personal Injury 10%

18 years

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 15 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2025 2024 2023
...
+ 11
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2012
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating

Licenses

Licensed in Florida for 20 years

State: Florida

Acquired: 2005

Member in Good Standing

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Christopher Thomas Hersem

1550 W. Cleveland St., Suite 9, Tampa, FL, 33606

hersemlaw.com

Law Offices of Christopher Thomas Hersem

1421 Court Street, Suite B, Clearwater, FL, 33756

hersemlaw.com

Christopher Thomas Hersem's Reviews

Showing 26 - 30 of 52 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Ashley | May 03, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

Chris Hersem is the Attorney I Always refer

Last month I was driving home from work, when I was pulled over for speeding. The Sheriff's deputy was not only rude, but belittling and ignorant. I produced my insurance in the form of a declarations page and told me it was not my insurance (I'm an insurance agent) and listed off multiple citations ...he could charge me with. He ended up giving me a speeding ticket and the first person I called was Chris. It wasn't the first time I had been cited for speeding. First thing Chris noticed on my citation was how the officer cited me and that it was done incorrectly, and he explained what could potentially happen -the sheriff's deputy had a grace period to correct the citation, but he was confident we could not only get the ticket adjudicated, but dismissed! He informed he would set a court date and attend on my behalf so I didn't need to miss work. The ticket was dismissed. As an insurance agent, I know what even one minor speeding ticket does to your auto premium. I put my faith in Chris before, and just as before, he delivered. I always refer friends to Chris, because he's the attorney I go to. Thanks again Chris!

Posted by Shane | March 23, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

Grade A service!

Working with Chris was a blessing. I received my first speeding ticket a few months ago going 98 in a 65. This was a bad situation to be and I wasn't sure how to go about it. Luckily I managed to get in contact with Chris. Initially reaching out to him he got back to me the same day. Over th...e phone we spoke and he clearly stated all the possible outcomes of the court hearing. He helped me understand the situation I got my self into and what we could do to resolve it. Our conversation gave me comfort and I trusted I was in good hands. Long story short, he got my carless driving charge and fine dismissed for a very reasonable price ($250) . If you're looking for quality , reasonable , and intelligent lawyer go with this guy, he will take care of you.

Posted by Matthew | March 20, 2019 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

DUI Case Dismissed

Mr. Hersem worked diligently with me on my DUI case and was able to get it completely dismissed. He was very professional and maintained great communication throughout the entire process. I was thoroughly pleased with Mr. Hersem and would highly recommend him to anyone in need.

Posted by Vanessa | November 20, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

My Vop Warrent

Christopher Hersem represented me on a Violation of probation warrant, he was able to get my Warrent lifted with no time served. I was able to come back home to my newborn which was the biggest BLESSING I could have gotten in my life so far other then my son himself. I made a lot of mistakes in life... but he took the chance in representing me and took the time to notice the change I have made in my life. I KNOW I wouldn't have walked out of court today if it wasn't for him representing me, He is a GREAT lawyer and I highly recommend him for any case that you may need to have handled !!

Posted by Christopher | July 19, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

Mr. Mitchell

Mr. Hersem represented me in an over 30 mph speeding ticket and knocked it out of the park for me. He was able to resolve the case in a timely manner, I was granted a "Withheld Adjudication" so no points were added to my driving record and I was also able to avoid paying any hefty fines or driving sc...hool! Anyone looking for an amazing attorney look no further, Mr. Hersem is your guy!

See All Client Reviews

Christopher Thomas Hersem's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Christopher
Brian Charles Palacios headshot
Brian Palacios

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Chris is very knowledgeable in the law and experienced in court. He puts the needs of his clients first."

Paul Edward Przepis headshot
Paul Przepis

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Chris is well known in the legal community for his zealous advocacy and the ability to meet his client's expectations. He is competent, dedicated, and ethical as exemplified in the way he represents his clients and reflected by the success he has had over the years. Chris is a trusted colleague and a lawyer that I am happy to endorse."

Christopher Michael Reynolds headshot
Christopher Reynolds

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the pleasure of knowing Chris for many years. He is a great attorney and I gladly endorse him without reservation."

Jeremy Robert Kriesel headshot
Jeremy Kriesel

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Hersem is a talented attorney that I have personally referred clients to in the past and will continue to do so in the future. He is extremely diligent and works hard for his clients. If you are in the Tampa/St. Pete area and need a Criminal Defense/DUI Attorney, I highly recommend contacting Mr. Hersem."

Ryan Benjamin Cappy headshot
Ryan Cappy

Criminal defense lawyer | May 20

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Chris is a asset to our legal community. He understands the law, has trial experience and is great communicating with his clients."

Adam J. Fernandez headshot
Adam Fernandez

Unknown lawyer | Apr 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Scott Fredrick Lemanski headshot
Scott Lemanski

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 06

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Daniel Scott Hartpence headshot
Daniel Hartpence

Unknown lawyer | Mar 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Drew McCulloch headshot
Drew McCulloch

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 11

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

E.J. Hubbs headshot
E.J. Hubbs

Personal injury lawyer | Jan 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Brett L. Berger headshot
Brett Berger

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Top notch attorney who goes above and beyond for his clients. He refuses to rest until he has explored every potential legal defense and has a strong reputation in the legal community. Extremely insightful and knowledgeable about the law."

Matthew Charles Erjavec headshot
Matthew Erjavec

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Chris is a very knowledgeable and dedicated legal advocate who consistently obtains outstanding results."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | May 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Tazewell Taylor Shepard IV headshot
Tazewell Shepard

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 27

Relationship: Other

"I am pleased to endorse this lawyer!"

Ryan Norman Singleton headshot
Ryan Singleton

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Hersem is an excellent criminal defense attorney."

Blair Hansen Clarke headshot
Blair Clarke

Unknown lawyer | Aug 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Chris Hersem and I were opposing counsel on a number of matters early on in our careers. He brings a high level of representation and professionalism in every case handles. I would not hesitate to recommend Chris Hersem to anyone seeking his services."

Yahima Suarez headshot
Yahima Suarez

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Bryan Cory Hannan headshot
Bryan Hannan

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Brett Nicholls Metcalf headshot
Brett Metcalf

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 10

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sarah Gloria Jonovich headshot
Sarah Jonovich

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 02

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Chris is always prepared and professional. He is a zealous advocate for his clients and is well respected by prosecutors, other defense lawyers, and the judges. Anyone who hires Chris will not be disappoined."

View All Endorsements
Brian Charles Palacios headshot
Brian Palacios

Criminal defense lawyer

Paul Edward Przepis headshot
Paul Przepis

Personal injury lawyer

David Patrick Mitchell headshot
David Mitchell

Consumer protection lawyer

Christopher Michael Reynolds headshot
Christopher Reynolds

Personal injury lawyer

Jeremy Robert Kriesel headshot
Jeremy Kriesel

Personal injury lawyer

Julan M Mustafa headshot
Julan Mustafa

Estate planning lawyer

Nicole M. Pearlman headshot
Nicole Pearlman

Family lawyer

Daniel Scott Hartpence headshot
Daniel Hartpence

Criminal defense lawyer

Drew McCulloch headshot
Drew McCulloch

Criminal defense lawyer

E.J. Hubbs headshot
E.J. Hubbs

Criminal defense lawyer

Brett L. Berger headshot
Brett Berger

Medical malpractice lawyer

Matthew Charles Erjavec headshot
Matthew Erjavec

Personal injury lawyer

Blair Hansen Clarke headshot
Blair Clarke

Criminal defense lawyer

Ryan Norman Singleton headshot
Ryan Singleton

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Yahima Suarez headshot
Yahima Suarez

Family lawyer

Bryan Cory Hannan headshot
Bryan Hannan

Personal injury lawyer

James Anthony May headshot
James May

Criminal defense lawyer

Brett Nicholls Metcalf headshot
Brett Metcalf

Criminal defense lawyer

Sarah Gloria Jonovich headshot
Sarah Jonovich

Criminal defense lawyer

Rohom Khonsari headshot
Rohom Khonsari

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2016

# 1 DUI/DWI Defense Lawyer, Tampa Bay Magazine

2014

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers

2013

Client's Choice - DUI Attorney, AVVO

2013

Top Contributor - DUI Attorney, AVVO

2013

Superior (Top 100) DUI Attorneys, NAFDD

2005

William F. Blews Pro Bono Award, Stetson University College of Law

Work Experience

2008 - Present

Owner / Managing Member, Christopher T. Hersem, P.L.

2005 - 2008

Assistant Public Defender, Public Defender's Office - 6th Judicial Circuit

Associations

2014 - Present

The National Trial Lawyers

Member

2013 - Present

NAFDD

Member

2008 - Present

Pinellas County Trial Lawyers Association

Member

2008 - Present

Hillsborough County Bar Association

Member

2008 - Present

Hillsborough County Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2006 - Present

Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2006 - Present

St. Petersburg Bar Association

Member

2006 - Present

Barney Masterson American Inn of Court

Member

2005 - Present

The American Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

State v. R.L.

Reduced to Reckless Driving

State v. G.W.

Diversion Program

State v. J.J.

One Count Dismissed / One Count Reduced

State v. M.L.

Reduced to Simple Assault and Adjudication Withheld

State v. J.C.

Counts One and Two Reduced to Simple Possession - Diversion Program for all Counts.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2005

Stetson University College of Law

Law

2001

University of Florida

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2014

Interoffice Law Day

DUI - Overview of a First Charge

2014

Interoffice Law Day

Criminal Defense - How to Handle Police Contact

Languages

English

Activity

Top Contributor

Christopher earned significant contribution points in 2012.

Avvo Rating

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What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
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