Introduce
When facing criminal charges, the stakes are incredibly high. The legal process can be complex, intimidating, and have profound impacts on an individual's life, liberty, and future. For residents across Florida, particularly in the Tampa Bay area, securing legal representation that is both experienced and deeply knowledgeable in criminal law is not just a preference, but a necessity. William A. Knight is an attorney based in Tampa, Florida, who has dedicated his career to criminal defense, bringing a significant background from the public sector into private practice.
This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of William A. Knight, helping locals in the Florida region understand the expertise and advocacy he offers in criminal trial law. His journey from a public defender to a Board Certified Criminal Trial Specialist speaks to a deep immersion in the intricacies of the criminal justice system. By exploring his location, the services he provides, and key aspects of his professional background, Floridians can gain valuable insight into whether he is the right legal advocate for their specific needs.
William A. Knight's office is strategically located in the vibrant downtown area of Tampa, Florida, ensuring convenient access for clients throughout the region. His office can be found at:
633 N Franklin St #725, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
This address places his practice within the bustling commercial and legal heart of Tampa. The location on North Franklin Street is easily reachable from various parts of the city and surrounding areas, benefiting from proximity to major roadways and public transportation hubs. For those traveling by car, downtown Tampa offers numerous parking options, including garages and metered street parking, making it feasible for clients to attend consultations and meetings. The professional environment of the office building at 633 N Franklin St provides a discreet and comfortable setting for discussing sensitive legal matters, reinforcing his commitment to serving the Florida community with both expertise and convenience.
William A. Knight's practice is primarily focused on criminal defense, a field in which he holds significant experience and certification. His background, particularly from his time as a Public Defender, suggests a comprehensive understanding of how criminal cases are prosecuted and defended in Florida. While a detailed, exhaustive list of all specific services may not be publicly available, his broad experience in criminal law allows him to handle a wide array of cases. Based on available information, his services include:
- Criminal Defense: This is the core of his practice, encompassing representation for individuals accused of various criminal offenses.
- DUI Defense: Given the prevalence of DUI charges in Florida and the severe consequences they carry, this is a likely and significant area of his criminal defense work. One client review specifically mentions a DUI case.
- Felony Defense: His role as a Felony Bureau Chief in the Public Defender's Office indicates extensive experience in handling serious criminal charges that carry significant penalties.
- Misdemeanor Defense: In addition to felonies, he would also handle less severe criminal offenses, which can still have considerable impacts, such as fines, probation, or jail time.
- Representation in State and Federal Courts: While not explicitly stated for his private practice, his background as a Florida Bar Board Certified Criminal Trial Specialist and his experience in the Public Defender's office suggest capability across both state and potentially federal criminal court systems.
- Civil Cases (General): Although his focus is criminal defense, public records indicate his practice areas also include "Civil Trial," suggesting he may handle a limited range of general civil cases in addition to his primary criminal defense work.
His deep understanding of the criminal justice system from both sides (prosecution and defense through his Public Defender role) provides a unique perspective that can benefit his clients.
William A. Knight's professional profile is distinguished by several key features and highlights that underscore his qualifications and approach to legal practice, particularly relevant for individuals in Florida facing criminal charges:
- Florida Bar Board Certified Criminal Trial Specialist: This is a highly significant credential. Since 2000, William A. Knight has been Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by The Florida Bar. This certification is a rigorous process, indicating exceptional knowledge, skill, and professionalism in a specific area of law, achieved by a small percentage of Florida attorneys. This designation is a strong testament to his expertise in handling criminal cases in court.
- Extensive Public Defender Experience: He began his legal career at the Office of the Public Defender for the 13th Judicial Circuit in Florida. Over approximately three years, he progressed from a county court line attorney to a felony division chief. This experience provides invaluable insight into the prosecution's strategies, courtroom procedures, and the intricacies of handling a large volume of diverse criminal cases.
- Transition to Private Practice: After leaving the Public Defender's Office, he entered private practice focusing on criminal defense. This transition means he brings a wealth of experience from the public sector directly to his private clients, combining an understanding of the system with personalized advocacy.
- Focus on Criminal Defense: While public records indicate he may have handled "almost every type of civil case" in his private sector time, his Board Certification and Public Defender background strongly emphasize his dedication and expertise in criminal trial law. This focused expertise is a major highlight for clients specifically needing criminal defense.
- Client Testimonial Highlighting Dedication: One very positive client review describes him as a "savant when it comes to his trade" and a "life long friend," expressing deep gratitude. This emotional endorsement suggests a level of personal commitment and effectiveness that resonates strongly with some clients.
As is customary for legal professionals, particularly those specializing in criminal defense, William A. Knight does not publicly advertise promotions or special offers in the typical commercial sense. The cost of legal representation for criminal cases can vary significantly based on the complexity of the charges, the duration of the case, the amount of discovery involved, and whether the case proceeds to trial. Fees are generally structured to reflect the extensive legal work required, which includes investigation, negotiation with prosecutors, court appearances, and potential trial preparation.
Individuals in Florida who are seeking legal representation for criminal matters are strongly encouraged to contact William A. Knight's office directly. During an initial consultation, it is standard practice for the attorney to discuss the specifics of your case, outline potential legal strategies, and provide clear information regarding his fee structure. While specific discounts are not common, understanding the billing process upfront is crucial for any potential client. Some criminal defense attorneys may offer flat fees for certain types of cases or payment plans, which can be discussed during this initial meeting.
For those in Florida seeking legal assistance, particularly in criminal defense matters, William A. Knight's office can be reached using the following contact details:
Address: 633 N Franklin St #725, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
Phone: (813) 221-6663
Mobile Phone: +1 813-221-6663
These contact points provide direct access to his practice. Whether you prefer to call for an immediate discussion of your needs or to inquire about setting up a consultation at his centrally located Tampa office, these details facilitate direct communication and allow for the first steps in addressing your legal concerns.
For locals in Florida, particularly those in the Tampa Bay area facing criminal charges, William A. Knight presents himself as a highly suitable legal advocate due to his specialized expertise and extensive experience within the criminal justice system. His status as a Florida Bar Board Certified Criminal Trial Specialist since 2000 is a paramount indicator of his profound knowledge and proven competence in handling criminal cases, distinguishing him as an expert in this challenging field. This certification offers a strong assurance to clients that they are engaging a lawyer who meets the highest standards of the profession in criminal trial law.
His significant background as a former Public Defender, including a rapid rise to Felony Division Chief, provides him with invaluable insights into how criminal cases are investigated, built, and prosecuted. This understanding from both sides of the courtroom can be a considerable advantage for his clients. While one client review indicates a highly negative experience concerning communication and case progression, another testimonial describes a deeply positive, transformative relationship, highlighting his dedication and perceived effectiveness. This disparity underscores that individual experiences can vary, but his professional credentials and deep roots in Florida's criminal legal system remain undisputed strengths. For Floridians seeking a dedicated, Board Certified attorney with extensive trial experience in criminal defense, William A. Knight offers a compelling option for navigating the complexities of the legal system.
Location & Map
633 N Franklin St # 725, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
Customer Reviews
(14 reviews)
William Knight does not know what he’s doing he had me sit on a DUI for over a year so we could do pretrials never requested anything productive to the court and didn’t even show up a couple times. Let me sit in jail for months on end i don’t recommend this lawyer he wasn’t even a pinellas county lawyer. And still took the case and had it open for about a year just so I ended up getting convicted anyway and he took my money and ran. I would not suggest this lawyer to anyone.
It is very rare to start out seeking a professional's advice and services and end up seeing that person as a life long friend that also happens to be a savant when it comes to his trade. Fortunately, that is exactly what happened when Will came into my life. From the bottom of my heart and from my entire family; thank you.
Will fights hard for his clients and has never given false hope! Very honest upfront and to the point!
The best! 5 stars aren’t enough! He’s on top of it and readily accessible when needed. He goes above and beyond, would highly recommend!
The best! 5 stars aren’t enough! He’s on top of it and readily accessible when needed. He goes above and beyond, would highly recommend!
Will did a good job for me am grateful thank you will
Will did a good job for me am grateful thank you will
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