James Kevin Hayslett

PRO

James Kevin Hayslett

also known as Kevin Hayslett, J. Kevin Hayslett

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 37 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Tampa, FL
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence ... +2 more

2002 West Cleveland Street, Tampa, FL

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About James

Biography

For 30 years I've been helping people just like you. Call me now.

Arrested for DUI? For over 30 years I've been helping people just like you.

Arrested? Early attorney involvement can dramatically affect the outcome of you case. Call me now

Sometimes bad things happen to good people. I can help

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

DUI and DWI 70%

My practice is dedicated to those accused of criminal traffic issues from suspended drivers licenses issues to DUI's & DUI Manslaughter charges.

39 years

70%
Criminal Defense 20%

I have represented clients in all areas of the criminal justice arena from misdemeanors to felony offenses within the Tampa Bay area.

39 years

20%
Domestic Violence 4%

4%
Expungement 3%

3%
Speeding and Traffic Ticket 3%

3%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2020 2019 2018
...
+ 4
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2012
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating

Licenses

Licensed in Florida for 37 years

State: Florida

Acquired: 1988

Member in Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in Colorado for 26 years

State: Colorado

Acquired: 1999

Administrative - Not Authorized to Practice

No misconduct found

Location

Carlson Meissner Hart & Hayslett P.A

2002 West Cleveland Street, Tampa, FL, 33606

carlsonmeissner.com/our-attorneys/j-kevin-hayslett/

Carlson Meissner Hart & Hayslett PA

250 N. Belcher Rd., Suite 102, Clearwater, FL, 33765-2622

carlsonmeissner.com/our-attorneys/j-kevin-hayslett/

Carlson Meissner Hart & Hayslett

7614 Massachusetts Ave., New Port Richey, FL, 34653

carlsonmeissner.com/our-attorneys/j-kevin-hayslett/

Carlson Meissner Hart & Hayslett

1 Appointments upon request, Saint Petersburg, FL, 33710

carlsonmeissner.com/our-attorneys/j-kevin-hayslett/

Carlson Meissner Hart & Hayslett PA

5323 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill, FL, 34606

carlsonmeissner.com/our-attorneys/j-kevin-hayslett/

Carlson Meissner Hart & Hayslett

1103 14th Street W., Bradenton, FL, 34205

carlsonmeissner.com/our-attorneys/j-kevin-hayslett/

Online Presence

Other places you can find James online.

James Kevin Hayslett's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

277 Client Reviews

Posted by Kameron | December 21, 2024 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

THE BEST ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I cannot thank Attorney Kevin Hayslett enough for what he has done for me. I was facing multiple felony charges, and when I first met with my public defender, I was told the maximum sentence I could receive was life imprisonment. I knew I had a defense, but no one would listen to me—until I met Kevin.... Desperate and scared, I borrowed money from my grandparents in Kansas. It was a lot of money, but I knew I needed someone who could truly fight for me. Everywhere I turned, people kept giving me the same name: Kevin Hayslett. What struck me most was that many of these recommendations came from police officers. That alone spoke volumes about Kevin’s reputation and credibility. From the moment I hired Kevin, he made it clear that this would take time, but he asked me to trust him and to keep the faith. For 28 long months, he worked tirelessly on my case, giving me hope when I felt there was none. And then, the unthinkable happened: I walked out of court with a single misdemeanor charge and $500 in court costs. That was it. From facing life in prison to this—it was nothing short of a miracle. Kevin gave me my life back. I can’t adequately put into words how it feels to be pulled back from the abyss, but I can tell you this: I will never forget what he did for me. I’ll never be able to thank him enough for the way he fought for me when no one else would. If you are looking for a lawyer who truly cares, who listens, and who will fight for you with everything he has, look no further than Kevin Hayslett. He saved my life, and I will forever be grateful.

Posted by William | December 17, 2024 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

The BEST in Florida!!!! Saved me!!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I can’t say enough good things about Kevin Hayslett. He’s a miracle worker and the best criminal defense attorney out there. I was arrested for a DUI and two felony charges after the worst night of my life. I had been drinking way too much, and I ended up breaking into a store and taking ...things I don’t even remember. I passed out in the back of the store, and the police found me there. The State Attorney’s Office wanted to send me to prison for 18 months. My first lawyer told me I should just accept it, and I was ready to lose everything. That’s when I found Kevin Hayslett, and thank God I did. Kevin fought for me and believed in me when no one else did. He was able to get the two felony charges dismissed completely, and he even got my DUI reduced to reckless driving. The best part? There was withholding of adjudication, which means I didn’t get convicted and now I’m getting my record sealed. I honestly can’t believe how well it worked out. Run don’t walk to hire him!!!!!!!

Posted by Kristina | August 12, 2021 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Kristina Petrillo

I cannot express how greatful I am or how amazing Kevin and his team handled my case! I was unlawfully detained and they were able to show/prove that with their outstanding ability to obtain ALL the facts! This firm's willingness to help the community shines through. I would NOT recommend anyone othe...r than Kevin and his team. Thank you for q you do and all you did for me!

Posted by Corey Cofer | August 12, 2021 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Staying out of prison

I hired Kevin Hayslett as my Attourney. I was very scared of my charges and time I may spend in prison. He did a fenominal job of preventing this. He is my Attourney for life. This is not the first time I have used his firm. Both times came out on the good side of things. If you need an Attorney I... definitely recommend him. Definitely.....

Posted by Michele | December 1, 2020 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

A Sigh of Relief

Mr. Hayslett and his team provided our family with the utmost in professional representation. They were not only informative but always treated us as though we were a priority. In these trying times when the court rooms were continuously rescheduling dates, etc Kevin and his team flowed seamlessly t...hroughout the entire process which lasted over 9 months. Not only were our calls returned and questions answered in a reasonable amount of time, but when the actual court date arrived, Kevin was there in person and not via Zoom like many other attorneys that day. i truly appreciate everything this team did and I am also happy to report: Vindicated! Experience matters, as well as kindness. Thank you to the entire team for everything. M

See All Client Reviews

James Kevin Hayslett's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse James
Ronnie G. Crider headshot
Ronnie Crider

Criminal defense lawyer | May 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Kevin is an excellent Attorney. His attention to detail is unparalleled. Preparation is where Keven really shines. He is always extremely well prepared and he will be ready to confront anything that happens in the Courtroom. Kevin is also very enthusiastic and and genuinely concerned about his clients."

Erik Joseph Lombillo headshot
Erik Lombillo

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 16

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I had the pleasure of having Kevin Hayslett on the opposing side of many criminal cases while I was a prosecutor. I know first hand how he deals with prosecutors inside and outside the courtroom. Kevin has a reputation for being well prepared, well versed in the law, and articulate in his presentations before judges and juries. He is always professional and respectful when he zealously advocates his clients' position and defends their rights. I know he had the respect of the other prosecutors in my office as well. I recommend Kevin Hayslett with the first hand knowledge of seeing his efforts and results as my adversary. He has my highest respect."

Dax Monroe Pueschel headshot
Dax Pueschel

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I met Kevin at a training not too long ago & was sincerely impressed by his wisdom, advice, & character. Kevin is an inspiration to attorneys, sets a solid standard in the legal field, & strives to do the right thing. Kevin is knowledgeable, has been around the block, & compels respect. He is passionate about his work and has grit, which I think makes him a quality advocate for those needing a voice."

Joseph Patrick Rosier headshot
Joseph Rosier

DUI and DWI lawyer | Aug 24

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"As a prosecutor I would cringe when I came across a case where Mr. Hayslett was representing the accused. I knew he was going to skillfully argue motions and do whatever was needed to best represent his clients. I highly recommend Mr. Hayslett for any criminal law needs."

Andrew Davidson Spence II headshot
Andrew Spence

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 07

Relationship: Co-worker

"Kevin continues to be a great mentor to me. His knowledge of the law seems never ending, and his presence in a court room is second to none. He radiates confidence. He gets favorable results for clients, and you become his friend while he does so. I absolutely endorse and recommend Kevin, and it is truly a dream come true to continue to work with him at Carlson & Meissner."

Mark V. Clay headshot
Mark Clay

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Mr. Hayslett. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who gets great results in representing clients! I want all people with legal problems to contact him first."

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Unknown lawyer | Apr 06

Relationship: Other

"A top notch attorney who has great knowledge of the law. I endorse this lawyer."

Sidney Wallis Kilgore headshot
Sidney Kilgore

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Hovanes Margarian headshot
Hovanes Margarian

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 16

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 James. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Steven George Lavely headshot
Steven Lavely

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Attorney Kevin Haslett for many years. His repuation in the community as well as with the judiciary is second to none. He is recognized as the go to guy when you have been charged with a crime; especially but not limited to driving under the influence charges, whether they be misdemeanors or felonies. There a few areas of the law that change so rapidly; almost every year when the legislature meets. For this reason among many others that's why it's so important when accused of a crime you retain Kevin as his work ethic and knowledge of the law are second to none. Kevin receives my strongest endorsment."

Brian Heath Crockett headshot
Brian Crockett

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Hayslett knows the law and how to make it work for his clients. I endorse this lawyer."

David Joel Shrager headshot
David Shrager

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is an excellent and focused lawyer."

Michael D. Terani headshot
Michael Terani

Unknown lawyer | Nov 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Mark Steven Roman headshot
Mark Roman

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Frank R Sariol headshot
Frank Sariol

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christopher Daniel Leroi headshot
Christopher Leroi

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Hayslett is simply an exceptional attorney who I would recommend to everyone and anyone. I am a former judge, former magistrate, former prosecutor, and an attorney with 24 years of experience. I still learn from his answers on Avvo on a daily basis and I am constantly impressed."

Joseph Franklin Pippen Jr. headshot
Joseph Pippen

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jul 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Hayslett has a Superb rating on AVVO and has a great reputation in the community as a defense attorney."

Dean George Tsourakis headshot
Dean Tsourakis

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have kinown Kevin since he graduated law school. He is a superb lawyer."

Afram Malki headshot
Afram Malki

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 16

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"He is fantastic in the courtroom. I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Steven George Lavely headshot
Steven Lavely

Car accident lawyer

Ethan Patrick Meaney headshot
Ethan Meaney

DUI and DWI lawyer

Nadine L. Bertman headshot
Nadine Bertman

DUI and DWI lawyer

Macy Michelle Jaggers headshot
Macy Jaggers

DUI and DWI lawyer

Ashley Lee Albertsen headshot
Ashley Albertsen

DUI and DWI lawyer

Karina Jacobo headshot
Karina Jacobo

DUI and DWI lawyer

Michael Rutledge Norton headshot
Michael Norton

DUI and DWI lawyer

Howard M Lewis headshot
Howard Lewis

Divorce and separation lawyer

John Michael Phillips headshot
John Phillips

General practice lawyer

Susan K. Duke headshot
Susan Duke

Divorce and separation lawyer

Thomas Carroll Blauvelt headshot
Thomas Blauvelt

DUI and DWI lawyer

Joseph A Lo Piccolo headshot
Joseph Lo Piccolo

DUI and DWI lawyer

Jeffrey Charles Meadows headshot
Jeffrey Meadows

DUI and DWI lawyer

Forest Dean Morgan headshot
Forest Morgan

DUI and DWI lawyer

Rhidian D.W. Orr headshot
Rhidian Orr

DUI and DWI lawyer

James Lawrence Yeargan Jr. headshot
James Yeargan

DUI and DWI lawyer

Scott Weymouth Lawrence headshot
Scott Lawrence

DUI and DWI lawyer

Kelly W. Case headshot
Kelly Case

DUI and DWI lawyer

Donald John Ramsell headshot
Donald Ramsell

DUI and DWI lawyer

Victor Wallace Carmody Jr. headshot
Victor Carmody

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2010

Shark Award, Carlson Meissner Hart And Hayslett

2004

AV Peer Review Rating, Martindale-Hubbell

1998

AV Rating, Martindale-Hubbell

1987

National Trial Team Champion Washington DC, Association of Trial Lawyers of America

1987

South Eastern Mock Trial Champion, American Trial Lawyers Association

Work Experience

1987 - 1992

Assistant State Attorney, State Attorney''S Office

1986 - 1986

Assistant Tennis Professional, Calloway Gardens

1986 - 1987

Legal Intern, Shelby County District Attorney's Office

1985 - 1986

Law Clerk, Federal Court Judge

1982 - 1984

Assistant Tennis Professional, Countryside Country Club

Associations

1998 - Present

YMCA of the Suncoast

Board Member

1988 - Present

Florida Bar

Member

Colorado Bar Association

Member

Barney Masterson Inn of Court

Member

Pinellas County Trail Lawyers' Association

Member

Mote Marine Scientific Board

Board Member

Clearwater Bar Association

Board Member

Trinity Presbyterian Church

Session Member

2007 - 2009

Country Oaks Homeowners Association

Past President

Sample of Legal Cases

State v Demato

Reversed in favor of the Defendant

See More Legal Cases

Education

1987

Samford University, Cumberland School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1984

Furman University

BS - Bachelor of Science

1980

Clearwater High

Speaking Engagements

2017

DUI Case Update

DUI case update

2015

Diving into a DUI case DUI Motion Practice

2014

Television News Cast

Breaking News

2013

Hillsdale County Bar Association

DUI Law update

2013

2012

Hillsborough County Bar Association

DUI Legal Updates

2012

FM 102.5 Ask a Lawyer

2012

Ada Poza Radio Show | SiriusXM Legality of Life Sentec

2010

Criminal Law Section

DUI LAW CASE Update

2010

Criminal Law Section

DUI LAW UPDATE

2007

Pinellas County Police Academy

Shoot or don't Shoot- Police liability training

1997

Meeting

The Power of an Opening Statement

1994

Meeting

OJ Simpson Case

1993

Police Academy

Legal Concepts

Publications

2012

Carlson Meissner Hart and Hayslett Blog Kevin Hayslett named 5th most followed lawyer on Twitter

2012

Carlson Meissner Hart and Hayslett Taser is it Truly Non-Deadly Force

1994

Corrections Academy Legal Concepts

Languages

Spanish

English

Activity

Top Contributor

James earned significant contribution points in 2012.

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