Skip to main content

Nick Jay Dorsten

Criminal defense Attorney at Clearwater, FL

4.7   14 reviews

also known as Nicholas J. Dorsten


Call and speak with several attorneys to find best fit for your specific legal issue.
Can't find what you are looking for?
Avvo has 97% of all lawyers in the US.
Find the best ones near you.
Find Nearby Lawyers

About Nick

Learn Nick’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    50%
    Over 70 criminal trials. Cases range from drug possession to white collar crime to murder. 100s of motions argued. Practice area in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco and Manatee.

    21 years, 3,000 cases

  2. DUI and DWI
    25%
    All DUI cases including felony, and vehicular homicide. Dozens of DUI trials to completion.

    21 years, 500 cases

  3. Personal injury
    25%
    Responsible for millions of dollars recovered and 9 jury trials to completion. Over 40 sucessful mediations. Cases range from auto accident to slip and fall to wrongful death.

    17 years, 100 cases

A proud member of the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 trial attorneys and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel Top one percent of lawyers, Nicholas Dorsten was born and raised in Ohio. He obtained his B.A. degree from Kent State University, majoring in History and even played a little football for the Kent State “Golden Flashes”. While at Kent, he was lucky enough to be part of an academic fraternity and receive the Kent State athletic/academic award banquet membership.

After college, he chose to follow in his father’s footsteps by becoming a lawyer. He enrolled in law school at the University Of Toledo School Of Law, where he received a full scholarship. At this school, he participated in a local law review and several moot court presentations.

During law school, Nicholas Dorsten utilized his summers gaining criminal law experience with the hope of becoming a prosecutor upon graduation. After the first year of law school, he was privileged to clerk for a local leading judge. After his second year of law school, he became a certified legal intern in Toledo, trying and resolving criminal cases. The experience gained in these positions allowed him to be chosen, and sworn in, as an Assistant State Attorney in the State of Florida.

Over the next five years, he quickly rose through the ranks at the Pinellas and Pasco State Attorney's Office. This progression allowed Nicholas to prosecute a wide variety of criminal cases. As an Assistant State Attorney, he held positions such as a Lead Trial Attorney, a Felony Domestic Violence attorney and a Child Abuse/Sex Crimes attorney.

During his five years there, Nicholas Dorsten prosecuted and obtained convictions in numerous high-profile cases in the Tampa Bay area including multiple charges of Murder, Conspiracy to Commit Murder, Attempted Murder in the First Degree, Sexual Battery, Armed Robbery, Armed Burglary, Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Trafficking in Illegal Drugs, DUI Manslaughter and a variety of other property, alcohol, and narcotics-related offenses.

After five years of public service at the State Attorney's Office, he elected to work with a leading Personal Injury Attorney in the Tampa area. He attended numerous personal injury seminars and workshops where he honed his trial skills. During his time at that office, Nicholas traveled throughout the state of Florida, trying numerous personal injury and car accident cases. During his time at the firm he won or settled millions of dollars’ for his numerous injury clients.

After that, it was time to utilize his vast array of training and experience to help protect the rights of everyday citizens that have been accused of wrongdoing. These rights, that he swore to uphold and abide by as an Assistant State Attorney, are the bedrock of our criminal justice system. They are the foundation upon which our system rests. Without an experienced criminal and personal injury trial attorney to protect your rights, the system will be stacked against you. Blake & Dorsten knows that from the inside out. Nicholas has since defended numerous high-profile cases throughout Pinellas and Hillsborough. He has been featured in The Tampa Bay Times, Bay News 9, and local NBC, ABC, CBS and Fox affiliates.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 20 years
State FL
Status Member in Good Standing
Acquired 2002
Updated 02/23/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Nick

Similar lawyers nearby

Blake and Dorsten, P.A.
4707 140th Ave N
Suite 104
Clearwater, FL, 33762-3830
Blake & Dorsten, PA
146 2nd Street N, Ste. 310
Saint Petersburg, FL, 33701
Hide locations

Reviews

4.7 / 5.0
  14 customer reviews
5 Star
 
93%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
7%
Posted by anonymous | May 15, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Superior Service & Miracle Worker
Nicholas Dorsten went the extra mile to give me a fair chance instead of just being thrown behind bars again. I feel he provided me with the best possible outcome, in face, he worked a pure miracle for me! Thank You!
Posted by anonymous | July 31, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THE VERY BEST!
Mr. Dorsten has had his hands full with me but my I put my trust and faith in him on a case that could have been easily taken care of but I made it messy, WHAT he did for me not only as a attorney but someone I am proud to know and call a friend. He is a tremendously skilled seasoned attorney with a extreme presence in the court room! By far a class act, wonderful person to have on your side!!!
Read less
Posted by Ann | October 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
I have worked with Nick Dorsten on a few cases cases concerning my son, for several years, If they gave a rating over 5, he would definitely be a 10 in my books. Nick stands by you all the way through, he worked with my son and myself, always very professional and kind and took personal time with my son to help him learn and grow, Nick and his Office administrator were always there to answer any question during regular hours and even after hours and weekends they would get back to me, he goes above and beyond the the call of duty, he is very well liked in the courtroom and I feel he works great with judges and state attorneys, which is a real plus they seem to trust him and trust what he is suggesting for remedies to his case, he follows things through to the end even when case is sentenced, if you have questions after about anything he is still there to help out, I just always felt that he had my son and myself in his best interest and I always felt like we were his number one concern, was never rushed and I never felt he lead me in the wrong direction, my son and myself always listen to Nick Dorsten, he seems very educated and his past resonates with many happy clients, I was blessed to have fund him as an attorney, and will always go to him in the future for any Lawyer needs I have. Thanks for being there for me and my son!!!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | February 12, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you Nick
Nick did everything he could to help us, he is very kind and thoughtful. He helped him with his case, he could have gotten jail time but didn't thank God, all he got was probation and fines. Now my daughters Dad will be able to see his daughter graduate Army Bootcamp. Thank you so much from the bottom of our heart's.
Posted by Daniel | October 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended
So basically I had felony Possession of fire arms and a domestic battery. I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer. Nicholas did exactly what he said he would. He helped me feel stress free throughout the case and i barely had to show up in court. His reputation proceeds him. His connections in the judicial system are very convenient and also helped about with getting my case taken care of with the outcome of just having to orat a fine basically, when in all reality i should been looking at some jail time. So overall money wel spent which by the east was reasonable for what was done! Thanks again so much Nicholas.
Read less
Response from Nick Dorsten October 31, 2018
Thank you Daniel, I really appreciate it.
Posted by Louise colebrook | January 19, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent atty
Nick had one charge dropped for my daughter very polite always available to talk to us rated 10 I see why thanks nick!!
Response from Nick Dorsten October 31, 2018
Thank you for the kind words
Posted by Timothy | January 9, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. Dorsten is a great attorney....
My DUI charge was definitely not an easy task for Nick to negotiate for reduction with the state of Florida. Nick went to work and after a never give up attitude combined with his knowledge of the law, the charge was reduced to a Reckless Driving charge. I am forever grateful for his dedication and hard work. Thank You.
Posted by Elizabeth | May 29, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
I met Nick Dorsten on this site. He contacted me, gave me basic advice and I hired him 30-45 days later. After 2.5 years of being on probation I wanted to apply for early termination . I am a business professional , in Finance and was going to handle it on my own because I believed it to be an easy task. Friends advised(nagged) me against it just in case. I hired Nick Dorsten for a reasonable amount and thank God I did. Their was a severe hiccup at the proceedings where someone tried to block the early termination and if not for him advocating on my behalf I believe it would have been denied. I guess I am not as smart as I think I am. Well worth the money. He is professional easy to work with but tough when it came down to it in court.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | July 9, 2014
Excellent!! Will put up a fight for you!
He put up the fight of his life for me. I was looking at very serious charges & time but he talked the judge into re-instating me and this took him several hours to do. Will never forget it! Thank you Mr. Dorsten for giving me a 2nd chance at life!!!
Posted by anonymous | April 12, 2014
Excellent Lawyer
I had an out of town warrant in Pinellas County for a VOP. Mr. Dorsten answered all of my questions and did exactly what he said he would do. He always either answered the phone right away or called me back that day. His pricing was very fair and I would highly recommend Mr. Dorsten to anyone.
Posted by anonymous | October 30, 2011
First Rate Attorney
This was the first time our family needed the representation of an attorney and we are so thankful that we hired Nick Dorsten. From the initial meeting he was kind, professional and explained the charges in a way that was easy to understand. Every time we called Blake and Dorsten he spoke directly to Nick and not a secretary. Mr. Dorsten was always available to answer any and all questions. The case was handled in a very timely manner and the outcome was favorable. Nick's rates are reasonable and payment plans make hiring a criminal defense attorney attainable in today's economy. We have already recommended Nick's services to a family friend and would not hesitate to do so again. Thank you Mr. Dorsten for your hard work and dedication to your clients. You are a first rate attorney!
Read less
Posted by Deva | March 10, 2011
Quality Attorney
I had some issues with my teenage son that caught me completely off guard. I felt like he needed to be represented by an attorney I could trust and who would treat us like every day people and not like a case number. After interviewing a couple other attorneys and feeling like I had just met with used car salesmen a friend of mine recommended Mr. Dorsten. My son and I met with him and I immediately was relieved. He handled my case in a most professional and timely manner. He was informative and gave us options instead of telling me what I should do.He called to check with me randomly to make sure I did not need anything and expressed genuine concern that I was properly satisfied and had no additional needs or questions. I would suggest Mr. Dorsten to anybody who needs a qualified, smart and honest attorney.
Read less
Posted by Debbie | September 21, 2010
I would highly recommend this office.
Nick was extremely knowledgeable in handling of my case. He was patient and answered all my questions regarding the charge. He walked me through every step of the way. He went above and beyond the call of duty which I am very thankful for since this was extremely upsetting to our family. Because of his knowledge the case was dismissed.
Read less
Posted by Chrystyne | March 29, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ineffective Attorney
I hired Nick Dorsten for a felony case, and I would say that he was very ineffective and inexperienced. He worked on my case for 8 months, I literally provided all the evidence he needed to win my case, and he didn’t do anything. He literally sat on exculpatory evidence for 5 months, than tried to force me to take a plea when I repeatedly advised him that I was not guilty and refused to plea out. I worked with him for over 8 months and he had no defense built for trial that was rapidly approaching in 3 days. Please be weary! I don't want to give too slander or details in fear of being sued, but just be careful when you choose your attorney. Thankful I found an exceptional attorney days before my trial that was able to get my case dismissed and they did more research in 48 hours than he was able to do in 8 months. If I went with him, I would have a record or worse, i could be in jail.
Read less
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 120 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Shareholder
  • Blake and Dorsten, P.A.
  • 2010 - Present
  • Associate
  • Mccue, Reams and Associates
  • 2008 - 2010
  • Assistant State Attorney
  • State Attorney, sixth Judicial Circuit
  • 2003 - 2008
  • Intern
  • Public Defender's Office, Lucas County
  • 2000 - 2002
  • Law Clerk
  • lucas County Judicial System
  • 2000 - 2000
View all work experience

Education

  • The University of Toledo College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2001
  • Kent State University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1997

Legal Cases

  • F.G. v Defendant
  • Found for Plaintiff,
  • A.S. v Defendant
  • Found for Defendant
  • W.H. v Defendant 1 and Defendant 2
  • Defendant mistrial-on appeal
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • Pinellas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Middle District Federal Court
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • St. Petersburg Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Florida Bar
  • Member
  • 2002 - Present
  • Association of Academic Fraternitys
  • Vice president
  • 1995 - 1997
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Top One Percent of Attorneys
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel
  • 2015
  • Outstanding Service as an Assistant State Attorney
  • State Attorney's Office
  • 2008
  • Academic Athletic Excellence Award
  • Kent State University
  • 1996
View all awards

Publications

  • LMC Newsletter
  • What Florida dog owners should know about their homeowner's insurance
  • 2010

Speaking Engagements

  • People's Law School
  • Criminal Law lecture-Defense perspective
  • 2011

Attorney endorsements

Received (86)
Given (58)
Endorse Nick
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Mr. Dorsten. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people to contact him for help."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 05
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 14
Relationship: Other
"I have been privileged to have observed Mr. Dorsten and observe the quality of his contributions to those of us who have a passion for criminal defense. He has a strong work ethic and puts the client's needs above anything else. A great attorney all around who has secured great results for his clients."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 26
Relationship: Other
"This lawyer is very professional at all times. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Top notch litigator with a skill for getting the best results in the toughest cases. Highly skilled and the consummate professional in every regard. My highest recommendation."
Personal injury Attorney | Nov 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Great responses on Avvo. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse attorney Nick Dorsten. He has a history of providing great answers on Avvo from people needing legal advice. He is also respected by his clients and colleagues within the legal industry."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse attorney Nick Dorsten. He donates his time to provide excellent legal answers to citizens seeking legal advise on Avvo. A respected member within the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Nick. 12 years of practice with experience at the public defenders office is substantial. Experience counts. He has excellent local endorsements and read his reviews. If you are in or near Clearwater do yourself a favor and call him for a consultation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Mr. Dorsten for at least five years and he is a gifted attorney, both in his criminal practice and personal injury. I highly recommend him."
Personal injury Attorney | Jul 22
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this talented and knowledgeable attorney, who is well-respected in the legal community."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A top-notch attorney, highly respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Nick. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Talented and well respected in legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community."
View more endorsements
Personal injury
Litigation
Personal injury
Military law
Immigration
Divorce and separation
Federal crime
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Personal injury
Car accident
Divorce and separation
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Clearwater Criminal defense Lawyer Nick Jay Dorsten
Nick Jay Dorsten
Criminal defense Attorney
Clearwater, FL
Licensed for 20 years
Free Consultation