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T. Charles Shafer

Criminal defense Attorney at Fort Pierce, FL

5.0   23 reviews

also known as T. Charles Shafer, Attorney at Law, PLLC

Virtual consultation available
Virtual consultation available
  • State Years
    Florida - FL 36 years
    North Carolina - NC 34 years
  • Licensed for 36 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1987
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 34 years
    State NC
    Acquired 1989
    Status
    Inactive No misconduct found

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

About T.

Learn T.’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    45%
    Representation in state and Federal court for felonies, misdemeanors, DUI, all traffic offenses.

  2. Family
    20%
    Divorce, child support, paternity, alimony, and all other matters relating to children and marriage, including equitable distribution of property and time-sharing,

  3. Child abuse
    10%

  4. DUI and DWI
    10%

  5. Divorce and separation
    10%

  6. Violent crime
    5%

ARRESTED? DUI? FAMILY ISSUE? T. CHARLES SHAFER. HELPING OTHERS FOR OVER 30 YEARS. LET ME HELP YOU.

I have always been drawn to the underdog, the disabled, the less fortunate.  I believe there is a duty to help others, especially those for whom life has been difficult.

In my spare time I like to read, exercise, watch sporting events, and be with family.  I am fanatic about USC Gamecock football and UNC Tar Heel basketball!

More about T. Charles Shafer

Since 1986, T. Charles Shafer has been defending those accused of crimes. He has extensive experience, having been involved in numerous criminal jury trials, and countless bench trials. Although born on Griffis Air Force Base in Rome, New York, where at the time his father was stationed in the Air Force, Mr. Shafer spent his formative years in Orangeburg, South Carolina.

Mr. Shafer was educated in the public school system, and is a proud graduate of Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School. He attended the University of South Carolina, where he received his undergraduate degree in political science. While there, he was selected Phi Beta Kappa for academic achievement, as well as being a member of the Carolina Leadership Program, where he worked as an intern at the South Carolina legislature.

After graduating with academic honors, Mr. Shafer attended law school at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Before he even had received his law degree, Mr. Shafer had gained criminal experience, representing federal inmates before parole boards while a member of the UNC Prisoner’s Rights Project.

After a three year stint as an assistant public defender, where Mr. Shafer gained much trial experience in misdemeanor and felony court, Mr. Shafer worked several more years in private practice. In 1991 Mr. Shafer opened his own law firm. Since then, he has taken a simple approach to the practice of law– working hard for every client, and letting them know that they do not stand alone.

Mr. Shafer currently sits on the board of directors for the Arc of St. Lucie County, an organization whose mission is to empower persons with disabilities obtain an improved quality of life. He also has been active in Special Olympics and the Exchange Club.

Attorney Shafer is AV® Preeminent™ rated by Martindale-Hubbell®, one of the most respectable attorney rating services in the nation. The AV® rating is the highest rating assigned to a lawyer and is a direct indication that an attorney is not only highly regarded by his or her peers, but that he or she has been given the highest rating possible based on their legal knowledge, analytical capabilities, judgment, communication skills, and legal experience.

Awards

Client's Choice 2020
Client's Choice
2020

Photos and videos

I have always championed the underdog, the disabled, the less fortunate.  

In my free time, I like to read, exercise, cook, and spend time with  family.  I am a fanatic fan of South Carolina Gamecock football and North Carolina Tar Heel basketball!

Contact T.

T. Charles Shafer, Attorney at Law

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  23 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2020
Client's Choice
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 Nicole | June 8, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exactly what I was looking for
Chuck is great! He is a pitbull per say defending his clients and questioning the opposing side. He represented me in both a criminal and a family law case. I promise you will not be disappointed!! Can’t go wrong w Mr. Shafer!!!
Posted by Lynn | January 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Quit Claim Deed
Needed a quit claim deed. Mr. Shafer had it for me in a couple of days. That’s what you are an efficient attorney.
Posted by Rose | November 24, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Rose Guerrero
Mr. Shafer has been extremely professional and diligent despite our rather complicated case. We highly recommend him no matter how complicated your matter may be!
Posted by Patrick | November 23, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
Mr. Shafer and Tara are the Real Deal. They are Caring & Friendly and helped me through my first divorce. I had no idea what to do or how to handle it and Mr. Shafer & Tara were always on top of everything. They are very Knowledgeable and were Supportive through the whole process and they were always available when you needed them. God Bless them both! I will use them again in the future if needed!
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Posted by Waled | November 19, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Waled mustafa
I hired Mr. Schafer to get me out of a huge mess I was in and thank God I did because I would have no idea where I would be right now without his assistance, I would definitely recommend him to friends and family which I already have and I also appreciate everything he has done for them as well
Posted by Michael | November 17, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding
I have never met Mr Shafer but the help I received was outstanding.The staff was helpful as well as all my communication was done online and phone. great job
Posted by Timothy | November 16, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Always a great outcome.
Attorney Shafer has worked for me on a number of cases over last 25 years, always received great results.
Posted by Tina | November 16, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional
Attorney Shafer and his office staff were always professional. I was never made to feel that I was a burden to them with my fairly numerous inquiries.
Posted by Juan moreno | November 16, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hired
Excellent job , recommended with eyes closed Number 1 . Did a good job with me can’t complain
Posted by Logan | April 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Truly outsatnding in his feild.
Mr. Shafer was not only knowledgeable and trustworthy, he was also forthright when it came to the details of my case. I felt informed every step of the way and Mr. Shafer was capable of explaining to me my options moving forward, as well as what to expect as the case was resolved. I was able to progress with confidence, and peace of mind knowing he was in my corner. I would highly recommend Mr. Shafer to anyone in need of legal services.
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Posted by anonymous | August 31, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highest praise!
If you find yourself in need of a criminal defense lawyer, as we did recently, Mr. Shafer is the man to call. We knew he was trustworthy immediately upon meeting him. Mr. Shafer is a solid professional of strong character and expert skills with a wide breadth of knowledge/experience. We were new to the area, frightened, and knew absolutely nothing about the legal system when we sought his help, which came highly recommended. Mr. Shafer and Barbara navigated us through a difficult process with candor, efficiency, thoroughness and kindness. The qualities they share as a team gave us hope. Mr. Shafer devoted the time and patience necessary to help us understand some of the specific legal nuances, including the potential impact of health issues, and to achieve reasonable resolution in the case. Finding Chuck Shafer was a blessing and we have a great deal of gratitude for this legal team who have our highest praise.
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Posted by Andrew | July 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer in Town
I have hired Chuck on multiple cases. He is my #1 goto-lawyer on the treasure coast. He is very knowledgeable and paid attention to smallest of details in my case. I would recommend him and would go back to him for legal advise and representation.
Posted by Dan | July 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch Professional, Experienced and Truly caring about your case
Mr T.Charles Schafer was hired for a family member after the difficult task of researching the internet to find the best criminal lawyer. The reasons why he was chosen were; his many years of experience in criminal law, good reviews by prior clients as well as excellent ratings from 2 lawyer rating organizations, good impression during initial consultation with him and a reasonable fee. His office kept us continually informed in a timely fashion of all proceedings as they occurred either by e-mail or phone. Throughout the case he was professional and seemed truly concerned about the outcome of the case. Finally, as the case came to an end, we were satisfied with the outcome from the court. The result was what we expected.
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Posted by Robert | June 23, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great lawyer, great team!
Mr. Shafer is a great lawyer and I am totally satisfied with my representation but he would be the first to admit he is backed by a great team and specifically I mean his legal assistant, Barbara. If you need legal help in the Ft Pierce, Vero Beach area you can be sure Mr. Shafer and Barbara will handle your case in a very professional and courteous manner.
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Posted by anonymous | September 21, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Superb Representation
I was facing a very serious charge and Mr. Shafter worked with the Assistant DA to work out a plea that was very favorable. His office kept me informed every step of the way and his secretary (Barbara) was always available to assist. Mr. Shafter's knowledge and professionalism was of the highest quality.
Posted by Paul | February 24, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Cannot say enough about Mr. Shafer
He did the impossible. I hire Mr. Shafer to represent my friend Mike who was up against some serious charges that would have meant life imprisonment. Hoping against hope, I asked Mr. Shafer to represent him and to convince the prosecuting attorney to have a heart and not send Mike away. It would have been devastating to both of us. Tenacious, relentless focused - Mr. Shafer convinced the PA to relent and the judge agreed to reinstate Mike's probation. Unprecedented. Mike & I cannot thank Mr. Shafer enough for bringing him home. A special mention regarding Barbara - Mr. Shafer's office manager. She, too, remained positive and compassionate in my dealings with her. She always returned phone calls and e-mails punctually. She and Mr. Shafer were both patient with me and Mike. I couldn't contain my emotions and they never lost sight of the goal to bring Mike home. Our thanks to Barbara, too.
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Posted by Barry | November 16, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Certainly Recommend
Charles Shafer recently represented me. I was very pleased with the competent service he provided. He certainly looked out for my best interests. He provided good advice with the available options presented in a very organized and understandable format. I also discovered, he extended efforts, not readily obvious to me, that were designed to assure my interests were protected. Both he and his assistant Barbara were polite, easy to talk with, and available for discussions and questions. I would certainly recommend Charles Shafer without reservation.
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Posted by anonymous | August 21, 2014
Excellent Attorney!
Mr. Shafer is an outstanding attorney. He recently represented me in Federal Court on a criminal charge. He was well prepared, knowledgeable, and professional. Mr. Shafer helped me handle the difficult situation and he treated me with respect. He worked with the prosecuting attorney and hammered out an acceptable and fair plea deal. In court Mr. Shafer showed his years of expertise and again he was very professional. He has a great reputation in our community and I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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Posted by jim | November 5, 2013
incredibly pleased
As a first timer involved in an arrest I was looking for someone with years of experience. My choice paid off as a result. Mr. Shafer took all the time I requested to explain in great detail all that would happen. As someone who was very frightened, he put me at great ease in knowing all would turn out well. All of his advise and explanations was spot on, and my case went as well as I could have hoped. Thank you very much for your efforts
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Posted by Hilary | September 24, 2013
T. Charles Shafer represented me.
Mr. Shafer represented me in a family law case. My whole family was being torn apart since we were sidetracked by someone that was supposed to be close to us. I didn't know what to do so I called around to a few lawyers and no one seemed to care or call me back. So I called Mr. Shafers office and spoke with Joanne. She was so kind and caring and quickly fit me in for a consultation with Mr. Shafer. He really listened to my story and took the time to understand my case, even though my court date was quickly approaching. At court Mr. Shafer fought for my family and I. The case was dismissed and now we can put this issue behind us and move on with our lives!
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney
  • T Charles Shafer, Attorney At Law, PLLC
  • 2017 - Present
  • Attorney
  • T. Charles Shafer, Attorney At Law
  • 1992 - 2016

Education

  • University of North Carolina School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1986
  • University of South Carolina
  • B.A.
  • 1983

Legal Cases

  • State v. Christopher Pupo
  • From Two Felonies & DUI to Reckless Driving

Associations

  • ARC of St. Lucie County
  • Director
  • 2013 - Present
  • Bluebird Educational Foundation
  • Director
  • 2013 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • N/A
  • NORML Legal Committee
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • N/A
  • St. Lucie County Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Chapter Representative
  • 2017 - 2018
  • St. Lucie County Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Vice President
  • 2013 - 2014
  • St. Lucie County Special Olympics Golf Tournanment Committee
  • Member
  • 2004 - 2008
  • Florida Bar, Nineteenth Judicial Circuit, Unlicensed Practice of Law Committee
  • Member
  • 1999 - 2002
  • Saint Lucie County Bar Association
  • President
  • 1997 - 1998
  • Florida Statewide Human Rights Advocacy Committee
  • Member
  • 1997 - 1997
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2017
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2016
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2014
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2013
  • Phi Beta Kappa
  • Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society
  • 1986
View all awards

Publications

  • Passages-A Journal of the St. Lucie County Library
  • Medical Marijuana--It Is Time
  • 2014

Speaking Engagements

  • Court Preparation and Testimony
  • Preparing to Testify
  • 2003
  • Law Week Luncheon
  • Due Process
  • 1998

Attorney endorsements

Received (13)
Given (10)
Endorse T.
Unknown Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Chuck is an excellent attorney with exceptional trial skills. He has worked for many years as a strong advocate and litigator on behalf of his clients. He is thorough in his review of all matters, and prepares extensively for depositions, hearings, trials, etc. I endorse this attorney."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Charles Shafer is a very knowledgeable attorney who works hard for his clients. He's always approachable and always keeps his clients informed of their case."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 20
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Sep 22
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I have known Mr. Shafer since before I even went to law school. I have interacted with Mr. Shafer in multiple arenas including dependency, family, and criminal law. Some as opposing counsel and some as a fellow attorney. Not once since I've known him has Mr. Shafer ever disappointed me in his knowledge of the law or his level of professionalism. I have personally referred cases to Mr. Shafer and consider him one of the best attorneys I have ever had the pleasure to know personally and professionally."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Chuck approximately 20 years and we have had several cases wherein we represented co-defendants. Chuck is intelligent, experienced and always prepared. He is an asset to the legal community."
Family Attorney | Sep 01
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have had cases with and against him. You will not find a better trial attorney on the Treasure Coast. He is committed to his clients and his cases. His credibility and professionalism are above reproach."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 01
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Chuck Shafer is a very intelligent, dedicated and professional attorney. Don't let his soft spoken nature fool you....he won't let anyone get one over on him!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 30
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. He is one of the most committed attorneys on the treasure coast. As a former prosecutor I have had cases against him; and as defense counsel, I've tried cases with him. Chuck's reputation as a trial lawyer is impeccable. He is a true believer and a true professional."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Chuck is an extremely experienced attorney, who is always well prepared and professional. Having been opposing counsel on many cases with Chuck, I have always found him to be highly skilled, knowledgeable and professional."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Supervised lawyer
"Chuck is one of the best lawyers I have ever had the pleasure of working with. His preparation for trial is second to none. He has won a number of difficult cases in his career due in no small part to his intelligence and his incredible work ethic."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse Chuck Shafer. Chuck is one of the hardest-working and most talented criminal defense lawyers I know. I have known Chuck for nearly 30 years, since we were in Law School together. We have defended accused murderers together, and defended our community's Public Enemy Number One together - and won. When I have the opportunity to put together a Defense Team, Chuck is the first lawyer I call."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Mr. Shafer is a trustworhty and compassionate lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Mr. Shafer is one of the finest criminal defense lawyers that I know."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Estate planning
Divorce and separation
Criminal defense
Criminal defense