I was very lucky to have found Richard for my family law case. Richard truly cares about his clients and he goes far above and beyond to make sure that he covers every aspect of your case and always makes sure that you're informed throughout the whole process. I don't think I could have made it through this situation without an amazing attorney like Richard.
With previous lawyers, I was given the typical "run-around" until I was referred by a friend to Richard. Richard was highly professional, personable and very knowledgeable about the case I was involved in. I did not have to deal with anyone else but him, which made the experience less stressful and more efficient.
Florida Trend Legal Elite (2019-2021) Recognized by Best Lawyers (2021) Rated AV 5.0 Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell Florida Super Lawyers (2013-2021) Super Lawyers Rising Stars (2008-2012) Florida Supreme Court Circuit Civil Mediator Florida Supreme Court Family Mediator
Richard is experienced in all phases of litigation, including discovery, motion practice, evidentiary hearings, trial, and appeal.
Richard started his legal career working in Miami, where he worked at two of the nation's most prestigious law firms. Richard has been involved in high-stakes litigation matters for many of America's most well-known companies, defending corporations and their officers and directors in numerous significant matters.
Mr. Mockler has worked on several matters that received national media coverage and cases with more than $100 million at stake.
Today, Richard focuses on civil litigation and marital and family law.
Law School
Richard attended the University of Florida College of Law, where he graduated with honors. Richard received the Chester Ferguson Scholarship. He was also a leader on campus, where he was elected Treasurer and President of the John Marshall Bar Association and served on the Executive Board of the University of Florida Law College Council. Richard also served as a Teaching Assistant for Legal Research and Writing and Appellate Advocacy.
In addition to working hard in the classroom, Richard was commited to serving the community. Richard worked as an Advocate at the Sexual and Physical Abuse Resource Center, as a Judge and Volunteer for the Alachua County Teen Court Program, and as a pro bono law clerk for the Eighth Judicial Circuit.
Prior to graduation, Richard was inducted into the Florida Blue Key leadership honorary, received the University of Florida Presidential Recognition Award, received the Levin College of Law Pro Bono Certificate, and was named the Levin College of Law Student of the Year.
Military Service
Prior to becoming an attorney, Richard served as a United States Marine with the 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion in Tampa, Florida. Richard was the Battalion Embarkation Specialist prior to the Unit’s mobilization to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a Marine, Richard was an Honor Graduate of the Naval Expeditionary Warfare College and received the Navy Achievement Medal, Outstanding Community Service Medal, National Defense Medal, Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal, and a Marine Corps Certificate of Commendation for exemplary community service.
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by anonymous | March 11, 2009
Exceptional lawyer!
I was very lucky to have found Richard for my family law case. Richard truly cares about his clients and he goes far above and beyond to make sure that he covers every aspect of your case and always makes sure that you're informed throughout the whole process. I don't think I could have made it through this situation without an amazing attorney like Richard.
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Posted by anonymous | January 17, 2009
Highly Recomended
With previous lawyers, I was given the typical "run-around" until I was referred by a friend to Richard. Richard was highly professional, personable and very knowledgeable about the case I was involved in. I did not have to deal with anyone else but him, which made the experience less stressful and more efficient.
Posted by Scott | September 27, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional Divorce Attorney - A Lifesaver During a Challenging Time!
I cannot speak highly enough of Richard. In the most challenging period of my life, he was an unwavering source of support and legal expertise. From the very beginning, Richard demonstrated exceptional professionalism and compassion, making an otherwise daunting divorce process feel manageable.
Richard provided me with clear, straightforward guidance, always taking the time to explain the legal jargon and intricacies of my case. He ensured that I fully understood the implications of each decision empowering me to make informed choices about my future.
Communication was seamless throughout the entire process. Richard’s team was prompt in responding to my inquiries, which helped alleviate much of the anxiety associated with divorce proceedings. He kept me updated at every step of the way, ensuring I was never left in the dark.
What truly sets Richard apart is his genuine care for his clients' well-being. He was not only concerned with the legal aspects of my case but also with my emotional and mental well-being. Richard provided emotional support when I needed it most, demonstrating empathy and understanding.
Thanks to Richard’s expertise and dedication, my divorce was finalized with a favorable outcome. I am now equipped to move forward with confidence, knowing that my interests were vigorously represented. Richard has been an absolute lifesaver during this challenging time.
If you're seeking a divorce attorney who combines legal prowess with compassion and unwavering support, look no further than Richard Mockler, He is a true professional who will stand by your side and fight for your rights. I am eternally grateful for his assistance and would recommend Richard Mockler and his team without hesitation to anyone facing divorce proceedings.
Thank you, Richard, for guiding me through this difficult journey and for helping me find light at the end of the tunnel. You are the best in the business!
Capt. P USN
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Posted by Chad | June 21, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best to have when you are in a hard fight
Richard was referred to me by another lawyer, saying he is the best at military retirees' divorce. I consider myself blessed to have Richard as my lawyer. After 29 years of military service, multiple combat tours, and being a wounded warrior, I experienced many difficult battles. Richard helped me navigate one of the most difficult battles of my life. His knowledge of military benefits, retirement benefits, and his experience with difficult divorce cases is above all others. Richard was in constant communication with me, answering my calls at all hours to help give me peace of mind, and many times, calming me down. He explained very difficult issues to me and ensured that I fully understood all possible outcomes. He helped me see sanity in insane situations. Richard is the best battle buddy you could ever hope to have in difficult fights. You want Richard on your team when you go into the hardest fight in your life.
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Posted by ElvinaNLee | June 13, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Representation
We were referred to Richard Mockler by a mutual friend who is also an attorney. There is a reason why Richard is a recipient of the Theodore Millison Professional award in recognition of exceptional professionalism in the practice of family law--he is most exceptional. He is quick in perception and understanding and possesses the ability to solve difficult issues in original, clever, and inventive ways. He will devote himself to the case and will spend the necessary time to research, prepare, and meet even if this means on weekends or late into the night. He vigorously represents the client and is tenacious, ethical, and fair. His knowledge of the law is respected by his peers and judges. He clearly loves helping his clients and loves the practice of law. He's very personable and it's very comfortable to be represented with an amiable attorney who is compassionate and understanding. We are very pleased with his representation and can't say enough good things about this man, his integrity, character and his work.
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Posted by John M | March 3, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Family Divorce
Mr. Mockler , was extremely knowledgeable. This was something I needed going thru a very tough divorce which lasted over 1yr. I'm glad I found someone(Mr. Mockler was recommended) with the necessary legal grasp because wow I tell you the request made by opposing attorney were ridiculous.
So I'm glad it is over I can look forward on my next chapter in my life get back to raising my kids helping giving them a routine . Putting a smile back on their faces as I pickup them up from school
Thank you Richard and to your team .
John M
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Posted by Rich | January 1, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
If you want to win, call Richard Mockler
I’m a retired Special Operations Army Officer. I was married 28 years and working as an ex-Pat overseas when my EX filed for divorce. I had a lame “collaborative” attorney who just drained my bank account. I searched for a Lawyer who was former military and knew how to win. Thankfully, I found Richard. He is the smartest, hardest working, professional I’ve ever met in the legal world. He took on 3 lawyers from my Ex-wife and we finalized a deal the night before our trial date in 2015. Then in 2020, my ex sued me for contempt of court involving a complicated military pay issue. We went to trial this time and Richard was like Joe Frazier in the boxing ring. We prevailed he saved me 10s of 1000s of dollars. I don’t usually write endorsements for anything but, this law firm deserves even more than I have shared here. Whoever left the 1 Star is obviously a fake or disgruntled. No way this guy is less than 5 stars.
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Posted by Greg | June 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney, Highly Recommend
Choosing Richard to represent me in a recent civil matter regarding a false Injunction for protection was truly the best decision. He is incredibly smart, strategic, knowledgeable and calm; a true advocate all around. He made my case a priority and was able to have both the temporary injunction dissolved/vacated so I could return to my normal life and the petitions dismissed early into the trial itself. Richard’s hard work and dedication to my case was amazing from our initial discussion all the way through the litigation/court proceedings. Richard is truly willing to go above and beyond for his clients, I HIGHLY recommend him to anyone needing a Civil/Family attorney.
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Posted by Paulina | May 29, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Tampa Bay Area’s BEST Family Law Attorney
I have been happily divorced for almost 10 years. In that time, I have been in and out of courtrooms averaging about every two years thanks to my ex and his wild imagination. Unfortunately, I did not know Richard during the first 4 years of my legal battles. Due to a combination of appearing pro se and two awful attorneys, those first 4 years did not render my way. I met Richard Mockler in 2013. After a superior recommendation from a friend, I obtained him as my counsel for my open family law case at that time. Richard successfully won that hearing and has continued representing me and winning every single one of my cases ever since. To say the least Richard Mockler is an outstanding, persistent, caring, legal guru and relentless attorney you could ever possibly ever ask for. Thank you Richard for your outstanding services over the past 6 years and still continuing to this day.
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Posted by Amanda | May 7, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Aggressive and knowledgeable
I came to Mockler Leiner after two really awful experiences with family law attorneys. Another attorney suggested Richard and was confident he could prepare for a trial in a short period of time which I needed. He and Angela were reasonable in their expectations and very knowledgeable. No guarantees were made other than realistic ones. I had to adjust my expectations when I hired this firm because in family law cases some of us tend to micromanage due to past negative experiences. Richard and Angela have both been great with my case. Is he perfect about returning phone calls? No, not if it’s frivolous or nit picky, do I get a response when it’s truly time sensitive YES! Did I get aggressive representation in court? Yes, I definitely did! We are headed to trial, and I finally feel confident With the representation I’ve hired. Richard and Angela know family law, handle themselves professionally, innovative in their settlements, and highly skilled under pressure. Your attorney isn’t your friend, they are here to get the job done in the most favorable outcome for their clients while being realistic. You won’t regret hiring this law firm!
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Posted by Linds | March 28, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent in the courtroom
Richard was amazing in the courtroom. He was articulate and expressed deep concern in my case. Richard was thorough and can thought on his toes even when presented with new evidence literally minutes before the hearing.
Posted by Custody client! | May 2, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Truly phenomenal!
Where to even begin..! This man changed my life, for the better. He went above and beyond any expectation I had of a lawyer and stood by my side through the whole custody process. I could never thank him enough for what he did!
Posted by Custody Client | December 3, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Tampa's finest!
Richard has been the most amazing attorney I could have ever asked for. So knowledgeable and caring. He has helped me by writing email's on my behalf even after the case was settled. My life has truly changed! Thank you!
Posted by Rich | July 28, 2015
Outstanding, Professional, and extremely Knowledgable
I am a retired military officer who was living in Dubai when my wife and I filed for divorce. We lived and filed in Gainesville. After drifting aimlessly with Gainesville lawyers for 8 months I was to return home and face a trial. I decided to find a stronger representative and searched the web. I found Richard Mockler and what a difference. He immediately took charge and ramped up the pace to where my ex fired her lawyer and took on not one but three more. They asked for a continuance which was denied. Richard then drove to my house in Gainesville three days before the trial and set up shop. He did this amidst some major personal upheavals, which Inam truly grateful. Bottom line is that Richard worked diligently to effect a settlement at 10 pm the night before the trial. This guy knows his stuff and has nerves of steel. Don't look any further. RWS retired Army LTC
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Posted by Ryan | March 20, 2015
Outstanding advice
I consulted with Mr. Mockler in a post divorce custody issue that I needed help with. His advice and direction changed the course of my case. Mr. Mockler is very good at what he does and he knows what he is doing.
Posted by anonymous | February 9, 2015
Good, honest lawyer! Highly recommend!
I came to Richard after searching for someone to replace a lawyer who did absolutely nothing in my case but bill me thousands of dollars for work that was never done. Richard took the time to discuss my situation and my options on the phone and we scheduled a meeting to discuss in more detail at his office. While there, he listened, reviewed my documents and discussed options without pressuring me to hire him. And for this, I hired him immediately to replace the subpar lawyer I had. He made the calls, scheduled the mediation and helped me get my divorce modification finalized. Honest and doesn't try to "nickel and dime" you for services not performed. If you are looking for a lawyer, call Richard Mockler.
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Posted by Tampa Resident | May 21, 2014
Highly recommend him
Richard helped me several times with my case with my crazy ex-wife. He drafter an arrangement that works well for me. Two instances, I had to have him write a email after our case and he is very helpful after the divorce is settled . I highly recommend him
Posted by Layla | March 25, 2014
Very happy with the result
After having two bitter experiences from two family attorneys in the past, I was very skeptical to hire a new one to represent me at a new hearing I needed to go to.
I was divorced four and a half years ago, and based on the Final Judgment, I had to go court after two years of my divorce to get some financial support from my former husband, based on Affidavit of Support he signed with the immigration, before bringing me to the United States.
I was constantly going to some legal sites seeking some helpful information, as I could not afford to loss the case this time, nor did I want to be misrepresented. I was looking for a responsible, aggressive and informative attorney to hire.
I contacted numerous attorneys to discuss the case with and get some information. Most of the attorneys I talked to did not have enough information about the case, and some, referred me to some attorneys working in other fields not related to my case. As I was looking for a good, decent attorney, I came across Mr. Mockler's name among top best attorneys in Tampa. I read his answers and advices on some of peoples' legal questions and concerns as the best answers chosen by Avvo.
I decided to contact him and talk to him about the case. Richard first wanted to send him a copy of the Final Judgment, then agreed to take the case.
A day before the hearing, he wanted to see me as he was preparing some of our requests and wanted to send them to the opposing lawyer and her client (my former husband.)
He explained to me in details, all the aspects of the case and gave me advices on what I need to do, and let me decide to choose the best option for myself without any pressure.
In the end, we reached an agreement that I am totally satisfied with, as I believe that I made a wise decision considering all the circumstances, with the help of Richard.
I am very delighted with the result, and I told Richard after the hearing that he totally changed my mind about lawyers and now I believe that they are still good lawyers out there who really care for their clients.
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Posted by Gaby | March 22, 2014
Best Lawyer!
I thank Richard for his excellent work and compassion but mostly for his encouragement and friendship. He became a friend to me during my divorce. The sense of security he gave me about my future and daughters and my well-being gave me the peace of mind I needed. I appreciate his loyalty, his strength and his genuine concern as well as his sense of humor!
Throughout the ordeal, he helped me remain confident with his professional, rational and knowledgeable manner both in law and finances. I could not have made it through that awful time without his help! They say the best advertisement is word of mouth. I will highly recommend him. He is an incredible person and one hell of a lawyer:-)!
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Posted by anonymous | March 16, 2014
Best Divorce Lawyer in Tampa
Highly recommended. Richard has represented me in a divorce, and I have found Richard to be an outstanding attorney--he is highly intelligent, has great command of family law and the divorce process, and is reasonable in his billing. You can expect Richard to provide great legal advice, and to achieve the best results possible in your case.
In addition, Richard and his staff are very personable and a pleasure to work with. If you need help in a divorce case, you need to hire Richard ASAP before your spouse does--I have no doubt he is the best in the Tampa area.
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Family Attorney | Sep 02
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Richard is an outstanding attorney who is respected throughout the community for his professionalism and advocacy. I recommend him to anyone seeking assistance in a family law matter."
Family Attorney | Sep 03
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Richard and I worked together on a divorce case with challenging custodial and financial issues. He was unfailingly professional. I endorse his work."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Richard is an extremely knowledgeable attorney and a strong advocate for his clients. He is professional, extremely intelligent and compassionate. His knowledge of the law is fascinating and he is always available to share legal insight with fellow attorneys. He always takes the time to answer questions, brainstorm or help out a client or fellow lawyer. I highly recommend his services and/or litigation skills to anyone who needs assistance in their legal matters. I endorse this lawyer.
I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Nov 13
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Mr. Mockler is a highly adept and passionate advocate for his clients, and a tremendous mediator. His knowledge of the law and litigation skills are second to none. I strongly endorse Mr. Mocker."
Family Attorney | Nov 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Mockler has an extraordinary ability to analyze cases, and advocate his client's position. He is often called on by his peers for his expertise and input. I highly endorse Mr. Mockler."
Family Attorney | Jan 05
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I worked with Richard when he was the opposing attorney on difficult dissolution matter, with complex child custody issues. Richard's skills in the courtroom are exceptional. Aside from his skills, Richard genuinely cares about his clients. I have also worked with Richard in his capacity as a mediator and hope to do so again in the future. I have no reservations endorsing Richard as both an attorney and as a mediator."
Mediation Attorney | Jun 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Richard is one of the best mediators I have had the pleasure of working with. Richard helped my client reach a settlement agreement and successfully was able to keep tensions low. He is well respected within the community and very knowledgeable in family law."
Mediation Attorney | Apr 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have seen attorney Richard James Mockler in and around several local courtrooms. He is always well prepared and very knowledgeable about mediation law matters."
Mediation Attorney | Nov 15
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I worked with Richard on a project for a group that we're both a part of, and he was an absolute pleasure to work with. He was professional, knowledgeable, and helpful, but most of all, INTELLIGENT. I endorse Richard without hesitation!"
Family Attorney | Sep 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have had cases against Richard and also know him as a fellow lawyer in the community. He is an exceptional lawyer, creative problem solver, and effective mediator. I endorse this lawyer."
Litigation Attorney | Aug 18
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Richard Mockler is one of the most intelligent, skilled and respected attorneys in the Tampa Bay area. He is a strong advocate for his clients, whether that means fiercely litigating a case or coming up with practical solutions to their problems. I highly endorse Richard."
Family Attorney | Oct 03
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I am pleased to endorse this lawyer. I have litigated against and with Mr. Mockler and have found him to be a consummate professional. His knowledge and skill as a family attorney are unparalleled and serve as an example to which other attorneys should aspire."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 04
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have had the pleasure of litigating with Richard on opposite sides, on behalf of our respective clients. Richard is kind, sensitive, funny, but very strong in his advocacy. He exhibits an almost encyclopaedic knowledge of Florida law and statutes, and uses that knowledge to his clients' clear benefit - withOUT ever bludgeoning his opposition or resorting to base gamesmanship. In short, he is experienced, dedicated, and a strong recommendation for divorce/family counsel in the Tampa area."
Litigation Attorney | Mar 20
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Richard Mockler is truly top notch legal talent. I know a lot of lawyers (numbering in the thousands) but Richard has a sense of legal acumen that is truly rare. He is in the very top tier of lawyers in America and I heartily endorse him."
Family Attorney | Mar 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I highly endorse this lawyer. Outstanding marital and family law attorney. Knowledgeable and well versed on the law and very capably represents his clients."