Varinia Van Ness

Varinia Van Ness

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 34 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Sarasota, FL
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Domestic Violence ... +3 more

46 N. Washington Blvd., Suite 9, Sarasota, FL

About Varinia

Biography

Practice Areas

6

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 40%

Violations of Probation, Trafficking drugs, Search Warrant cases, Violent cases. We handles all criminal cases

35 years

40%
DUI and DWI 20%

35 years

20%
Juvenile Law 10%

35 years

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Florida for 34 years

State: Florida

Acquired: 1991

Member in Good Standing

No misconduct found

Location

Van Ness Law Group, P.A.

46 N. Washington Blvd., Suite 9, Sarasota, FL, 34236-5932

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Varinia Van Ness's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

68 Client Reviews

Showing 6 - 10 of 17 reviews | Communication Style

Posted by CL | July 06, 2014 | Criminal Defense

Simply THE Best Attorney In SW Florida

Cliff Notes: I retained Ms. Van Ness late on Monday afternoon. She sprung into action immediately. 2 days later, Thursday morning OF THE SAME WEEK, charges were dropped by the State Attorney's office!! All of the reviews and information regarding Ms. Van Ness actually do not even begin to accurat...ely describe her knowledge, skill, finesse, and compassion for her clients. In those few short days, she and her superior staff kept in close contact, and any email sent to Ms. Van Ness was responded to personally within a few short hours, at most, even when she was in court! The absolute devastating and nerve racking legal matter was put to rest quicker than I could ever imagine and Ms. Van Ness EXCEEDED what she claimed she would do with my case. Within 24 hours she was in contact with the State Attorney, providing detailed information, filed pleadings with the Court, and requested Discovery - while updating me on all she was doing. I honestly cannot put to words how much I would and do recommend Ms. Van Ness and her practice (her assistant Debbie is of the same caliber of professionalism - providing prompt friendly response and help). Anyone in need of legal counsel, and not consulting with Ms. Van Ness FIRST, is making a huge mistake and doing themselves a disservice.

Posted by anonymous | November 06, 2013 | Criminal Defense

Best lawyer in Sarasota !!!!!!

After being arrested and charge with multiple felonies being accused of multiple charges that I never committed the state was charging me with a possible of 15 years in jail!!!!!!!! I could not believe was happening in my life I decided to start looking for the right lawyer for my case interviewing ...all the criminal defense lawyers in the Sarasota-Bradenton area and iam so glad I came across Varinia . She is so knowledgeable and patient that took the time to explain me my case and what could the possible outcome be she also took the time to answer each one of my emails even on weekends. So I felt taking care of at all times . She took care of getting all the charges dismissed and fighting w the state every step of the way. I thank God for lawyers like Varinia that take her job to the next level. Thank you Varinia .

Posted by Thomas | October 28, 2013 | Criminal Defense

VARINIA VAN NESS...The Best Of The Best

Varinia Van Ness was recommended to me by another satisfied client of hers, and I am glad she was. Her knowledge of the law was extremely evident. She worked hard to to gather facts and review evidence. I was kept informed of the status of my case every step of the way. I was innocent and almos...t went to jail for a crime I did not commit. My public defender flat out said I was guilty! I am glad I was told about Van Ness. She never judged me that way. She spoke positive and made me believe there was hope when I doubted. If you feel like there is no hope call her. She will be the flicker of light in your world of darkness.

Posted by Lorraine | May 14, 2013 | Criminal Defense

simply the BEST!!

Varinia is the BEST at what she does. She will fight for you till the end!! I had an attorney before her that stated she could NOT resolve some of the issues I was facing. It seem like I was just another client to her. She was pretty much accepting what ever the prosecutor was asking for, Which I t...hought was pretty harsh considering this was my first offense and had never been in trouble with the law. I literally lost my job of 13yrs over this matter and she claimed there was nothing she could for me. As I was sitting in court one day, loosing my mind over this. I saw Varinia in action. I saw how much she cared for her client and was pleased with how she handled that situation. I immediately decided this is the woman i want on MY side. I called her and made an appointment She explained to me what she could or could NOT do for me. She NEVER made me feel like I was just another client. She always responded to all my emails and concerns immediately (even on weekends). She made me feel like she was one of my friends looking over my best interest! Not only did she do all she said she would do but I managed to get my job back! She simply is the BEST!! If you truly want someone on YOUR side, look no further!!

Posted by Paul Costello | March 13, 2013 | Criminal Defense

Varinia Van Ness.........The Best of The Best!

Varinia Van Ness is my hero! She has all the right attributes within her personality and is a smart woman. She saved an innocent mans life, mine! She fights against the cowards and bullies that sit within the state prosecutors office that abuse our system. A circumstance I will never forget. V...arinia sees through their disgusting lies and tactics and it makes her fight even harder. Never let bullies win. Truth above all else is Varinia's power and is revealed by her tremendous confidence in herself. When Varinia spoke to me I listened carefully as she spoke with kindness. She never expressed any doubts or negativity, only positive solutions the entire time. This was extremely important to me as I see life in only 1 way, positive. I admire her for the attributes she keeps close, such as her passion and above all else her positive outlook and confidence in herself. Every thought I may have had about my fate at the hands of these cowards in the state prosecutors office was placed calmly to rest by Varinia, yet another reason to say thank you. She is a hero and she is my hero. She fights for truth and if she were not a lawyer Varinia would still fight against bullies and cowards. A wonderful personality. Our personalities dictate who we are, not our occupation. I am proud that Varinia Van Ness exists in this world. She is my lawyer and I would not consider another. To be good at any one thing you must first be a good person. And I choose people for who they are inside and that is what makes Varinia a fantastic lawyer. She listens and listens well and misses nothing of importance and considers everything. Thank you very much Varinia for the person that you are...your children should be proud of you...as you are a beautiful person to have helped a stranger, such as myself! :) My hero! Saving innocent life is why you do what you do. Be proud.....of who you are....I am! Thank you!

See All Client Reviews

Varinia Van Ness's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Varinia
Erik J. Arroyo headshot
Erik Arroyo

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Virinia without reservation. Her reputation precedes her as one of the most passionate advocates for her clients. The results speak for themselves."

Adam Dunn headshot
Adam Dunn

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Varinia is a tenacious and intelligent attorney who takes great pride in representing her clients. One can find her daily in the courtrooms of Florida fighting for her clients' rights. She combines this with a spirit for contributing to the local community. Her dedication to client and community make her an advocate I would highly recommend."

Amiee Ruth Buckman headshot
Amiee Buckman

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've had the honor of knowing Varinia for quite some time and have always found her to be extremely knowlegeable and professional. I would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an experienced criminal defense lawyer."

Brandon M Daniels headshot
Brandon Daniels

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Varinia, I have witnessed her in court on multiple occasions and she have superior intellect and fights hard for her clients. She is a great attorney and is well respected by all on the defense bar."

James Roman Amarosa II headshot
James Amarosa

Criminal defense lawyer | May 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Van Ness is a great lawyer and is always willing to help. I would recomend this lawyer to anyone needing her services. JRA"

Todd Jerome Thurow headshot
Todd Thurow

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Thomas Klemens Almquist headshot
Thomas Almquist

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Herbert Ira Ellis headshot
Herbert Ellis

Unknown lawyer | Dec 08

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Dana M Moss headshot
Dana Moss

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Varinia Van Ness. This lady knows her stuff. She is a true advocate for her clients and does not back down from a fight. She works hard and get the results."

Steve Daniel Santiago headshot
Steve Santiago

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Cynthia Marie Veintemillas headshot
Cynthia Veintemillas

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Varinia Van Ness is the type of lawyer that other lawyers go to with questions. She is knowledgeable and treats people with respect. She is an excellent attorney."

Michael Lane Morgan headshot
Michael Morgan

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Varinia Van Ness for nearly ten years. She is very knowledgeable and deeply committed to her Clients. Varinia's courtroom presence is one of the best I have ever seen. She is confident, smart and understands the methods necessary for winning cases. If you are in need of an excellent attorney, you must contact Varinia Van Ness."

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Very experienced lawyer."

Jarrett David Blakeley headshot
Jarrett Blakeley

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work, she is an excellent attorney."

AnneMarie Rose Rizzo headshot
AnneMarie Rizzo

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Aggressive is the best word to describe Varinia. She can be relentless when defending her clients. She is a very strong attorney. Varinia is also involved in the community and takes her work seriously."

Craig A. Epifanio headshot
Craig Epifanio

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Ms. Van Ness is one of the premier attorneys in the Sarasota area. I have found her to be very knowledgeable and one of the most insightful attorneys in the State of Florida. I feel confident that if I am referring a case to her, that the client will be in extremely good hands."

Leslie Miller Sammis headshot
Leslie Sammis

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have been following the Delane Johnson case. Varinia Van Ness did a great job taking on the Bradenton Police Department and City Attorney for the way they handle forfeiture cases."

Darren Mark Finebloom headshot
Darren Finebloom

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Varinia is an attorney that is so dedicated to her clients and protecting their rights. She is fearless in the courtroom and a credit to our profession."

View All Endorsements
Adam Dunn headshot
Adam Dunn

Criminal defense lawyer

Gregory Scott Hagopian headshot
Gregory Hagopian

Personal injury lawyer

Brandon M Daniels headshot
Brandon Daniels

Criminal defense lawyer

Andrew Terence Hibbert headshot
Andrew Hibbert

Criminal defense lawyer

Cynthia Marie Veintemillas headshot
Cynthia Veintemillas

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael Lane Morgan headshot
Michael Morgan

Commercial real estate lawyer

AnneMarie Rose Rizzo headshot
AnneMarie Rizzo

Criminal defense lawyer

David Ashley Haenel headshot
David Haenel

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer

Darren Mark Finebloom headshot
Darren Finebloom

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2006

BV Rating,, Martindale-Hubbell

Work Experience

2002 - Present

President, Van Ness Law Group, P.A.

1998 - 2002

Program Attorney, Guardian Ad Litem Program

1991 - 1998

Assistant State Attorney, Office of the State Attorney (Sarasota) 6 1/2 years

Associations

2009 - Present

Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Board of Directors

2003 - Present

Junior League of Sarasota

Member

2008 - 2012

Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Sarasota Chapter

President

2007 - 2012

Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Florida Chapter

Member

2002 - 2004

Children's Guardian Fund

Board of Directors

Sample of Legal Cases

Delane Johnson

Victory

Simmons vs. State

Victory

See More Legal Cases

Education

1991

Stetson University College of Law

Juris Doctor

1988

University of Florida

Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2016

Breath Blood and Tears

DUI How do defend Refusals

2015

Breath Blood and Tears

DUI Jury Selection

2014

Blood Breath and Tears

Ethics Panel

2013

Masters of DUI

Ethics Panel

2012

The Practice

Solo Practice--The Women of FACDL

2008

Family Law Seminar

Criminal Law Issues that Impact Family Law Issues

2007

Girl's Inc., Girls' Rights Week

Panel discussion on the Super Girl Dilemma. Guest panelist in group of role models who have achieved a great deal.

Languages

French

Italian

Spanish

Activity

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