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Introduce

For Floridians navigating the complexities of unexpected legal challenges – whether it’s the aftermath of a serious accident, facing criminal charges, dealing with a denied disability claim, or a workplace injury – having an experienced and compassionate legal team by your side is not just beneficial, it’s absolutely essential. The legal system can be a daunting maze, and trying to navigate it alone can lead to missed opportunities and unfavorable outcomes. In the Tampa Bay area and across West Florida, one firm has stood the test of time, earning a reputation for unwavering dedication and exceptional results: Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A., highlighting their extensive history, diverse practice areas, and the client-focused approach that has made them a trusted name for over five decades. We'll explore the advantages of their multiple convenient locations, share insights from real clients who have experienced their dedication firsthand, and explain why this firm is so well-suited to meet the legal needs of local Floridians. Our goal is to present factual information to help you understand how this established and highly respected law firm can provide the robust advocacy and peace of mind you deserve.

Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A. has a rich history rooted deeply in the Florida community, having served individuals and families for over 50 years. Founded in 1971 by original partners Paul Meissner and Ed Carlson, both graduates of Clearwater High School, the firm began with a strong commitment to local service. What started with just two lawyers has blossomed into a formidable team of almost twenty attorneys across multiple physical locations, reflecting their steady growth and increasing reach while maintaining their core values. They have developed a profound relationship with the local community, recognizing the importance of being an active part of the areas they serve.

The firm prides itself on providing a "personal approach" that leads to better results. Unlike larger, generic law firms, Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A. strives to offer a hands-on, boutique legal experience where clients feel truly valued and heard. Their lawyers, many of whom are originally from the Tampa Bay area or have deep roots there, are actively involved in their local communities, children's schools, and various philanthropic organizations. This deep local connection ensures that their attorneys are not just legal experts but also community members who genuinely understand the challenges and needs of Floridians. They operate with a creed of exceptional work ethics, morals, integrity, and empathy, a philosophy that has earned them recognition as the highest-rated law firm on the West Coast of Florida based on quantity of reviews and average star ratings across Tampa Bay.

Clients consistently praise the firm for their responsiveness, professionalism, and extensive knowledge. Whether it's a specific attorney like John Barnes, who is described as "exceptional," "efficient, knowledgeable, and an expert in his field," or the entire team, the feedback emphasizes a truly supportive and attentive legal journey. This commitment to superior care and a personalized experience is a cornerstone of Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A.'s legacy, ensuring that every client receives the time, attention, and focus their case deserves to pursue the best possible outcome.

Location and Accessibility

Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A. maintains a robust and accessible presence across West Florida, making it incredibly convenient for Floridians to seek their expert legal services. While the provided contact information lists their Tampa office at 601 N Ashley Dr #1100-1007, Tampa, FL 33602, USA, it's important for local users to know that this firm also has multiple strategically located offices, including:

  • Clearwater: 250 N Belcher Rd #102, Clearwater, FL 33765
  • Bradenton: 433 8th Ave W Suite 103, Palmetto, FL 34221
  • New Port Richey: 7614 Massachusetts Ave, New Port Richey, FL 34653
  • Spring Hill: 5323 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill, FL 34606
  • St. Petersburg: 3443 1st Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713

The Tampa office, situated in the bustling downtown area, offers excellent accessibility via major roadways and is typically close to key legal institutions like state and federal courthouses, simplifying logistics for clients. For Floridians across the western part of the state, this network of offices means that a highly rated and experienced legal team is always within reach. This widespread presence ensures that attorneys are familiar with regional nuances, local court procedures, and specific community needs, providing a distinct advantage. Furthermore, the firm emphasizes its availability 24/7 (via their main phone line), a crucial factor for individuals dealing with urgent legal matters, reinforcing their commitment to client accessibility throughout Florida.

Services Offered

Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A. offers a comprehensive range of legal services with a strong focus on representing individuals in critical areas of law. Their practice areas are designed to address common legal challenges faced by Floridians:

  • Personal Injury: Providing aggressive advocacy for individuals injured due to the negligence of others, seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering. This includes:
    • Car Accidents
    • Motorcycle Accidents
    • Truck Accidents
    • Premises Liability (e.g., slip and falls)
    • Wrongful Death
    • Boat, Jet Ski, Bus, Train, Pedestrian, Hit and Run, Cruise Ship, and Aviation Accidents
    • Medical Malpractice (including Dental Malpractice, Birth Injuries, Hospital Malpractice, Surgical Malpractice, Defective Medical Devices, Nursing Home Malpractice)
    • Product Liability
    • Burn Injuries, Brain Injuries, Spinal Cord Injuries
  • Criminal Defense: Defending individuals accused of various criminal offenses in state and federal courts, ensuring their rights are protected. This includes:
    • DUI/DWI Defense
    • Drug Offenses
    • Violent Crimes
    • Property Crimes
    • Expungement & Sealing of Records
    • Bond Hearings
  • Social Security Disability: Assisting individuals who are unable to work due to physical, emotional, or mental impairments in applying for and appealing denials of Social Security Disability benefits.
  • Workers' Compensation: Representing injured workers to help them secure the benefits they are entitled to for medical care and lost wages due to work-related injuries.

Features / Highlights

Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A. is set apart by several key features and highlights that underscore their dedication to client success and service excellence:

  • Over 50 Years of Service: With a legacy dating back to 1971, the firm brings decades of deep-rooted experience and knowledge of Florida's legal landscape.
  • Community-Focused: Attorneys are deeply ingrained in their local communities, ensuring a personalized approach and understanding of local nuances.
  • High Client Satisfaction: Clients consistently praise the firm's attorneys, such as John Barnes, for their "extensive knowledge," "responsiveness," "professionalism," and "respectful and attentive approach."
  • Personalized, Boutique Experience: Despite their growth, the firm maintains a commitment to a hands-on, individualized approach, ensuring clients never feel like just another case.
  • Aggressive & Ethical Advocacy: They are known for relentlessly pursuing the best possible outcomes for their clients while upholding the highest moral and ethical standards.
  • Team Approach: The firm operates with a collaborative team approach, working together for the benefit of their clients across their diverse practice areas.
  • Proven Results: Their long history is marked by a strong track record of success in obtaining favorable outcomes for clients.
  • Complimentary Case Evaluations: Offers free case evaluations to help prospective clients understand their options without financial commitment.
  • Available 24/7: Provides round-the-clock availability for urgent legal needs, demonstrating a strong commitment to client accessibility.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a highly reputable and long-standing law firm, Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A. adheres to professional ethical guidelines, meaning they do not offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the retail sense. However, they provide crucial client-centric policies that significantly benefit Floridians seeking legal assistance:

  • Free Case Evaluation: Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A. offers a free, no-obligation case evaluation. This allows potential clients to discuss their legal situation with an experienced attorney, understand their rights, and receive preliminary advice without any upfront cost. This is particularly valuable for those facing urgent personal injury claims or criminal charges, providing a critical first step without financial pressure.
  • Contingency Fees in Personal Injury and Workers' Compensation: For personal injury and workers' compensation cases, the firm typically operates on a contingency fee basis. This means clients do not pay any attorney fees unless and until a successful recovery is made, either through a settlement or a court award. This policy ensures that individuals who have been injured or are unable to work can access high-quality legal representation regardless of their current financial situation.

These practices highlight the firm's commitment to accessibility and client focus, ensuring that justice is within reach for Floridians in need.

Contact Information

If you or a loved one in Florida requires experienced and compassionate legal representation in personal injury, criminal defense, Social Security Disability, or workers' compensation matters, you can contact Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A. using the following details:

Address: 601 N Ashley Dr #1100-1007, Tampa, FL 33602, USA

Phone: (813) 473-6132

Mobile Phone: +1 813-473-6132 (This number appears to be their main contact line, emphasizing direct access).

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Floridians navigating the often-stressful and complex landscape of legal challenges, Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A. stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended legal partner. Their remarkable legacy of over 50 years of service in the West Florida area speaks volumes about their enduring commitment to the community and their deep understanding of local laws and court systems. For locals, this means working with a firm that isn't just familiar with Florida law, but truly understands the unique fabric of our communities.

The consistent client testimonials, particularly highlighting the "exceptional," "efficient," and "knowledgeable" attorneys like John Barnes, underscore the firm's dedication to personalized care and effective advocacy. In a time of need, knowing you have a legal team that is "truly on your team," offers "responsive" and "professional" guidance, and treats you with "respect and attentive approach" is invaluable. Their diverse range of practice areas, including personal injury, criminal defense, Social Security Disability, and workers' compensation, ensures that a wide array of local needs can be met under one trusted roof. With multiple convenient offices across West Florida, including their Tampa location, and client-friendly policies like free case evaluations and contingency fees, Carlson Meissner Hayslett, P.A. removes barriers to justice, making high-caliber legal representation accessible to all Floridians. They are not just lawyers; they are trusted community members committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for their neighbors.

Location & Map

601 N Ashley Dr #1100-1007, Tampa, FL 33602, USA

Customer Reviews

(257 reviews)

K
Kyle Wray
Jan 15, 2025

John Barnes is an exceptional lawyer, and I cannot recommend him enough. From our very first interaction, he made me feel like he was truly on my team. John answered all of my questions thoroughly, demonstrating his extensive knowledge and expertise. Although I didn’t end up needing his services this time, I was so impressed with his responsiveness and professionalism that I’ll be keeping his contact information for the future. His respectful and attentive approach made the entire process much more stress-free than I anticipated. I would recommend John’s guidance to any of my friends or family without hesitation!

R
Rob Weinstock
Apr 04, 2025

John Barnes did an amazing job helping me. He is efficient, knowledgeable and an expert in his field. I can't thank the entire team enough!

D
Diamond Williams
Jan 29, 2025

Kaitlyn Statile is the best attorney ever. She is very confident, professional, and the best to do it. I can’t thank her enough for getting time served on my little brother’s case today. now we can put this past us. Now he has a second chance to do it right. God is good. I highly recommend her. she is worth the price. Thank you again Kaitlyn.

K
Kasha Bopp
Feb 14, 2025

Kaitlyn Statile was amazing. I had never been in any situation where I needed a lawyer before. She was so helpful every step of the way. She kept me informed of everything that was happening, guided me through the process and prepared me so that I could get through my situation as quickly and easily as possible. I would 100% refer her time and time again to anyone that needs legal help. Thank you, Kaitlyn, for guiding me every step of the way!

D
Dalene Gillette
Mar 31, 2025

Rick Rivera is the excellent Criminal Defense lawyer you need. He was able to help my son when he really needed it. Thank you Rick!!

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