Annemarie and Her team were life savers. The expertise and attention to detail was second to none. She is very transparent and caring in her demeanor. Words can’t describe what she has done for my family and I in the worst of situations. I owe her my life!
AnneMarie Rizzo is a former Assistant State Attorney with extensive trial experience in the State of Florida. AnneMarie is the only female in the State of Florida with the Forensic Lawyer Scientist certification. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, Magna Cum Laude and from the University of Florida Levin College of Law with her Juris Doctorate. AnneMarie also holds a Masters Degree from the University of Florida in Pharmecutical Sciences and a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Toxicology. AnneMarie feels this advanced education helps her to have a formal background in using science to help build and argue her clients' cases. AnneMarie teaches on a national and statewide level helping lawyers to better litigate their cases in court. AnneMarie has tried many cases involving complex legal and scientific matters from accident reconstruction to toxicology to proper scentific testing methods. AnneMarie has handled and tried cases from minor misdemeanors to homicide cases such as Vehicular Homicide and DUI Manslaughter. AnneMarie presents throughout the country and State of Florida on various topics related to ways to defend her clients.
AnneMarie has been featured on multiple news media stations due to her advocacy for her clients discussing topics high profile cases, personal injury cases, and criminal cases on TV outlets such as the local ABC, CBS, and Fox News affiliates. She was also on CNN when she handled a bond hearing for a high profile case. The herald tribune has featured AnneMarie on multiple occasions about her cases because of her unique legal arguments and about cases she has handled. Check out this article about AnneMarie's Lawyer Scientist Certification:
AnneMarie is on the executive board for the DUI Defense Lawyers Association and is President Emeritus after serving the organization as President in 2022. She also has served as the President of the local chapter for the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and as a Director At Large for the statewide Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. She also is a member of the American Chemical Society. Moreover, AnneMarie has served in the community as Chair of the local Bar Association Young Lawyers Division Law Week Committee where she recruited attorneys to teach high school students about the legal system. She also has served as a Guardian ad Litem. In addition, she has spent time serving as a presiding judge over Teen Court proceedings. AnneMarie has been involved in other local organizations such as the Florida Association of Woman Lawyers, Inns of Court, and Junior League.
During her tenure as an Assistant State Attorney she specialized in prosecuting Domestic Violence and Criminal Traffic cases. She assisted hundreds of victims involved in violent relationships in criminal prosecution and assisted victims at hearings seeking protective injunctions. AnneMarie leaves a legacy of winning four separate, consecutive jury trials in the same trial week. She was appointed as a Special Prosecutor by the Governor of Florida to represent the State of Florida on a DUI case in Lee County in 2007 which resulted in another favorable jury verdict for her at trial. She quickly gained the reputation of being an aggressive and zealous advocate for her clients.
AnneMarie has trained law enforcement officers and prosecutors across the state specifically in the areas of evidence based prosecution and trial advocacy in Domestic Violence and Criminal Traffic. She also has trained medical doctors at SHANDS UF and Child Protective Investigators with the Department of Children and Families in the areas of domestic violence and family dynamics. AnneMarie has successfully completed the Advanced DUI School hosted by the Florida Prosecutor Attorney Association. She also has successfully completed the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Course sponsored by the Institute of Police Technology and Management, a course designed to train law enforcement to effectively identify impairment in individuals suspected to be driving under the influence. (A field sobriety exercise regularly used on the roads today) AnneMarie also attended and successfully completed the Trial Advocacy School at the National Advocacy Center held at the United States Department of Justice in South Carolina. AnneMarie also has attended and was awarded certificate of successful completion for intense studies at the National College of DUI Defense at Harvard University. Furthermore, AnneMarie was awarded multiple certificates of completion for her studies at Axion Labs as it relates to Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry as well as being awarded certificates of completion for Mastering Scientific Evidence Seminars.
In her free time AnneMarie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, doing yoga, traveling, and thoroughly enjoys scuba diving (especially with sharks).
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved My Life
Annemarie and Her team were life savers. The expertise and attention to detail was second to none. She is very transparent and caring in her demeanor. Words can’t describe what she has done for my family and I in the worst of situations. I owe her my life!
Posted by Reese | June 21, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Unbelievable Representation!
AnneMarie is the real deal. Do yourself a favor and hire her. She represented me on a BUI case and was phenomenal. Case was over in 2 weeks!
Posted by Hannah | April 29, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
So thankful for their help!!
AnneMarie was so great to work with. She was thorough with my case and answered all of my questions.
Posted by Jill | April 29, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Compassion with toughness!
AnnMarie handle many hurdles in my daughters DUI case. Thankfully, she kept her out of jail, and kept me from being a basket case! Most always available, and if she was not, she got back to me quickly. Also assisted with getting her into a great rehab facility and stayed in touch! Highly recommend both AnnMarie, and her practice!
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Posted by Whitney | March 20, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Law Place=the BEST!
I am a RN. I was wrongfully arrested, and couldn't work for almost 4 months until the case was closed. Would have been a lot longer without AnnMarie, Ret, and Beth's help. They always addressed all of my concerns, and always reassured me when I was freaking out. Professional, caring, genuine and WINNERS are a few words to describe them! Prosecutors all across the state know the team they are, and that they will fight for their client from many different angles. They SAVED my life and career, so I could go back to saving lives as a nurse. I trusted them with everything, and I'm SO thankful I hired them to represent me, and what was RIGHT. I would reccommed The Law Place any day to everyone! Amazing group, amazing people, and incredibly good attorneys!
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Posted by anonymous | February 2, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
PG
AnneMarie is remarkable and I could not be more grateful to have had her represent me. I was unfortunately involved in a car crash that resulted in a fatality, and AnneMarie truly showed her dedication when representing me in my case. She was able to get the citation dismissed, and I am so thankful for her hard work. I could not recommend AnneMarie enough for how knowledgeable and devoted she is. Thank you.
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Posted by Sam | January 30, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing outcome!
AnneMarie was superb. I could not have anticipated a better outcome to my DUI case! Through the entire process, AnneMarie put my mind at ease and addressed all my concerns. She was always readily available and answered my calls and emails promptly with complete and accurate information. She was efficient, well-informed and diligent in pursuing my case. There is no way that I can thank her enough. I highly recommend AnneMarie as she is a superb attorney.
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Posted by Logan | January 21, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wonder Woman
AnneMarie is simply put, a phenomenal attorney. And yet she’s also so much more than that. When I was looking for representation for my multiple cases the words bewildered, embarrassed, and ashamed didn’t even begin to describe what I was feeling. However, from the first time I reached out to AnneMarie on the phone, I could tell she was someone I could truly trust. She is ethical, beyond compare. She knows the legal system inside and out and knows the proper way to operate within the system. Her loyalty to her clients shows in everything she says and does. Look at all of these other glowing reviews; she’s without a doubt the best choice. My case in particular was exceptionally emotional and difficult but she was completely honest with me from the start. I could tell this was going to be a long detail oriented process, one not to be rushed through. I’m so glad I listed to her advice and words of wisdom. Due to extenuating circumstances, I did have to remain in custody until trial. That was a whole other monster I was dreading. Yet throughout the entire process I never felt alone. I always knew that AnneMarie had my best interests, as well as everyone else’s involved, at the center of everything she did. With her guidance through the darkest time in my life, I made it through to the other side. I can happily say almost a year later, that reaching out and being completely open and honest with her was the best decision I’ve ever made. If you are in any kind of messy or confusing legal situation like I was, then please take my review to heart. AnneMarie Rizzo will not lead you wrong.
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Posted by Chris | November 11, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Performed a magic act!
This lady is unbelievable. I went to court expecting the worst, and got the best. Not going into detail, but she worked above and beyond to get me the best results. Would recommend this attorney to anyone!
Posted by Paul | November 10, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Extraordinary Knowledge, Determination, Communication and Staff
I had the misfortune of being arrested for DUI. It is a humbling and frightening experience. I had the good fortune of retaining Ms. Rizzo and her Firm to defend and assist me through the process. The first thing that struck me about Ms. Rizzo was her absolute respect for the Law Enforcement Officers and the Prosecutors in my case. Because of that respect, channels of communication were always open to discuss my case. Second, Ms. Rizzo had a masterful understanding of the DUI process and demonstrated calm logical thinking that resulted in a favorable outcome for my case after 3 1/2 years. Third, Ms. Rizzo was awarded a Scientific Certification during her work on my case. It is an extraordinary individual that can manage what I'm guessing is a heavy caseload, attend school, and be awarded a Certification that fewer than 50 Attorneys in the United States have attained. Last, Ms. Rizzo's Firm and Staff were all extraordinarily polite and responsive to whatever concerns I had. Ms. Rizzo and her Firm are the highest examples of a Legal System that can still work for the good of all individuals with the right representation.
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Posted by anonymous | November 1, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
HELP IS ON THE WAY!
That's exactly how I felt once I hired Ms. Rizzo as my attorney for charges against me of almost 3 years ago. They were finally adjudicated Oct 2018. Ms. Rizzo examined every statute and regulation to form my defense and she did an amazing job. She applied forensic knowledge and her legal expertise to provide the best defense I could have had anywhere. The case was resolved with such a favorable results I can't express my gratitude enough for her efforts. It was quickly apparent to me she had the respect of the judges, the court, her colleagues, and her clients. Ms. Rizzo is a national treasure and I would recommend her without hesitation!
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Posted by Sierra | September 12, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Phenomenal Lawyer
Annemarie Rizzo was amazing right from the start. I came to her the day after my DUI in need of her assistance. She knew exactly what I needed to do right away to get through the process as smoothly as possible, and that is exactly how I would describe my experience through this case. Annemarie gave me simple instructions to follow, which I did, and I am very happy with the results of my case. She guided me through what I thought was going to be one of the worst experiences of my life, and left no question unanswered. I would recommend her 10/10, she is the best lawyer in town.
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Posted by Jane | September 10, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Consistent and delivers
AnneMaria, delivered exactly what she said she would AGAIN. This is the second time I have add to call on her services (argh!). She is so reassuring in her approach and is accurate on how the process is going to go and how it can be resolved. Thank you again for saving my ..........
Posted by Ryan | September 4, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Not only help w/pending charge(s), but will help to restore license!
i just retained Ms. Rizzo. She sounds wonderful! Not only will she defend me, for my alleged charge, but will help me, to finally obtain my license! Can't wait to see the progress.... I will update this review, after we see what an accomplishment, this becomes! Grazie, Ms. Rizzo! Ciao.
Posted by William | August 22, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Grateful beyond belief
The work that has been done by AnneMarie Rizzo has been nothing short of amazing for me and my piece of mind. Being new to this state I was petrified when trouble struck. I had no clue what I would do next. Being lead to AnneMarie has been a blessing to me and my family. I am certain that the outcome would have been disastrous without the guidance and representation that has been given to me by AnneMarie. I will be forever appreciative for the work that you have done for me. Thank you :)
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Posted by anonymous | August 21, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!!
Let me just say that AnneMarie is THE BEST ATTORNEY IN THE WORLD!! My juvenile son was jumped at school and made a stupid mistake in retaliation. He was facing two felonies and a misdemeanor. We were totally lost-as none of our children had ever been in trouble before. I spoke to a few attorneys that refused to take the case, and one that said “his case was pretty hopeless and he would more than likely just end up in jail”.
I was heart broken and unbelievably scared. My son was placed in a juvenile facility scared out of his mind, and we were unsure of what his future would hold.
After my first phone call to her firm I was on the phone with someone from her office instructing me to get a copy of the police report to the office so they could review it. For the first time since he got in trouble I finally felt like someone cared and could help! After meeting with AnneMarie I knew she was our attorney; and we retained her. She definitely is not cheap but you get what you pay for! Someone once told me cheap isn’t good and good isn’t cheap and that advise is SO true; especially when it comes to your freedom and future!
We followed AnneMarie’s every instruction and advise. She was able to reason with the state, explain my son’s situation- and the state ultimately agreed to drop the two felonies. She was also able to negiotiate the sentencing for the remaining misdemeanor down to probation, community service and a few other smaller requirements.
I cannot tell you how relieved we were!
My son has learned and matured so much through this; and I was able to finally breathe a little easier.
Anne Marie and Marla-her assistant- are absolutely the best! They explained everything and made us feel at ease during this whole experience. They were empathetic and understanding to his unique situation and made us feel like everything was going to be ok (& we’re right in the end!).
I am praying we never need an attorney in the future but God forbid we ever do or know anyone that does we will definitely recommend AnneMarie! THANK YOU ANNEMARIE for working so diligently and relentlessly for my son!
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Posted by Julie | August 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend!
We were extremely luck to find AnneMarie! We were visiting Florida when our daughter was arrested. Having no idea what to do, we began researching options. From the first call we felt we had found the right person. She helped calm our fears and walked us through a most difficult time. She guided us through the bonding process and was readily available throughout the entire legal matter. AnneMarie was (and is) kind, caring, personable and knowledgeable. She dedicated herself to finding the best outcome for the situation. She was worth every penny of her fee as now the charges have been dismissed. We couldn't have found a better attorney!
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Posted by Ryan | July 31, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Anne Marie goes above and beyond what is expected
Anne Marie was with me the entire way of my 3 year DUI case. I had a very unique case regarding many details that was unexpected and Anen Marie not only took care of them for me, but she called me endless times to make sure I knew exactly what was in front of me. My expectations were exceeded by her willingness, hard work ethic, caring and overall knowledge of what she does. I would suggest Anne Marie for anyone who needs the best DUI lawyer in the State who we have right here in Sarasota.
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Posted by Jane | July 14, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing professionalism
AnneMarie assisted with an outrageous claim against my son. She was extremely sympathetic and understanding to me while I was loosing my mind with worry. She spent time explaining everything, pros and cons. My son was treated with the upmost care and she delivered on exactly what she said she would do. And she kept us fully informed along the way. Hopefully, I will never need to call on her services again, but if I do, I know she is the only one I would consider to represent me.
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Posted by anonymous | June 27, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Quickly Resolved
Ms. Ann Marie Rizzo was able to resolve my 3 charges quickly and actually was able to put them all together instead of fighting them separately. Her knowledge, encouragement and support were immeasurable. I would recommend Ann-Marie Rizzo to anyone.
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Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Annemarie is a fighter and dedicated lawyer. She recently came to our community and immediately was noticed for those qualities. I am proud to have her join our criminal defense bar in Sarasota and troughout the 12th circuit!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"When Annemarie was a prosecutor, she quickly developed a reputation as a hardnosed competitor. As a defense lawyer, she has built that reputation, fighting hard for her clients with great results. Even though she is my competitor, I have to (grudgingly) say she is an excellent lawyer, and I wouldn't hesitate to send a loved one to her."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Rizzo is a highly skilled, professional and knowledgeable attorney. I have always admired her preparedness and passion. A true asset to the legal community."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Friend
"I have known Annemarie for way too many years. She is an exceptional human being. She is highly intelligent. She is an amazing attorney. She cares deeply for her clients, friends and family. I have begged her for years to return to Palm Beach to be a partner in my firm. I would trust her to help my friends and family without hesitation."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I opposed Annemarie a number of times on various motions and hearings while I served as an Assistant State Attorney. Suffice it to say, Annemarie is an absolute animal when it comes to defending her clients. She is tenacious, hardworking, extremely driven, and one of the smartest lawyers in town.
As with the rest of the lawyers at Finebloom, Haenel & Higgins, she is always prepared to go to war when she reaches the courtroom. The State doesn't get a "free lunch" or win an "easy" motion against Annemarie."
"I am an out of state attorney and I had a license question. Ms Rizzo took time out of her day to assist me in getting the required information so I can help my client. She was so knowledgeable."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Annemarie Rizzo. This attorney knows how to put up a good fight in the courtroom. She is well versed in the law, passionate about her job, and gets the results for her clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Annemarie Rizzo is a complete attorney. She practices in many different counties and achieves awesome results for her clients. It is without hesitation that i, a fellow attorney and Board Certified Attorney, endorse her in the area of Criminal Defense."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Annemarie for several years now and have come to know her as a excellent advocate for her clients. Her passion for the law and work ethic has made her one of Sarsota's finest criminal defense lawyers."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have worked opposite Ms. Rizzo when she was a prosecutor and have seen her work skillfully on her clients' behalf since going into private practice. She is a dedicated and zealous advocate for her clients."