Best Criminal Lawyer in Orlando
Andrew Darling
Criminal Lawyer
Our founder, attorney Andrew Darling, is passionate about serving his community and helping those facing criminal charges. His upbringing in poverty and experience in the Army taught him the values of hard work, dedication, and service to others. These values form the foundation of our firm’s ethos and guide us in everything we do.
Whether you are accused of a misdemeanor, felony, or violation of probation, we are here for you.
If you are facing criminal charges, we are standing by ready to help you in your time of need. Our experienced team of attorneys is dedicated to fighting for your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Ken Eulo
Criminal Lawyer
Ken Eulo grew up in Los Angeles, California. As a student, he was consistently in the top ten percent of his advanced program of classes. He was also a top athlete and served as a mentor and assistant coach on baseball teams for Mentally and Physically Challenged Children. He moved to Central Florida in 1996 and attended the University of Central Florida on a Bright Future’s Scholarship in 2000, where he studied Criminal Justice and Pre-Law. During this time, he participated in “ride-alongs” with police, where he got a close look at criminal procedures and gained an understanding of criminal law. After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree of Science from UCF in 2005 with cum laude honors, Ken Eulo helped plan and run the first branch of the International Coffee Chain Testa Rosa, where he was offered advanced management training in Europe. However, he decided to return to his first love: The Law.
Ken Eulo attended Florida State University College of Law, graduating in 2010. During his law school career, he performed two internships, one with the Attorney General’s Office, Criminal Appeals Bureau, and the other with the Public Defender’s Office for the Ninth Judicial Circuit in Orlando, Florida. During his internship with the Attorney General’s Office, Ken Eulo drafted several lengthy appeals that were heard before the U.S. District Court of Appeals. During his internship with the Public Defender’s Office in Orlando Florida, he assisted in defending several misdemeanor and felony criminal cases. In 2010, Ken graduated from Florida State University College of Law in the top 10% of his graduating class, receiving cum laude graduation honors, as well as the prestigious Order of the Coif Award.
Upon graduating from FSU Law in 2010, Ken Eulo was offered several jobs, including a position of writing appeals for the Florida State Attorney General’s Office, but he accepted the opportunity to work as a Criminal Defense Attorney for the Public Defender’s Office in Orlando, Florida. He was hired and placed on salary before he took the bar. Months later, Ken Eulo passed The Florida Bar Exam with a 169 MBE Score, placing him in the upper percentile of all Florida Bar Exam test takers.
Jay R. Rooth
Criminal Lawyer
Jay Rooth graduated from Stetson University in DeLand, Florida with a degree in Business and continued his education to obtain a Masters in Business Administration from Stetson University. While at Stetson University Jay was actively involved in community service sponsored through his fraternity Alpha Tau Omega. Jay obtained his Law degree from Barry University Law School. Jay is an active member of the Orlando Chamber of Commerce, the Federalist Society, the Florida Bar Association, the Orange County Bar Association, the Central Florida Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys.
Jay R. Rooth was nominated as a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” during the years of 2010-2011 and 2013-2015, and a Super Lawyer in 2016. Also in 2016, Jay joined the Florida Legal Elite roster of attorneys chosen for recognition by Florida Trend. Jay’s Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent peer review rating is a perfect 5.0 out of 5.0. Not only is Jay highly regarded by his peers, but he’s also strongly recommended by his clients. Jay was awarded the AVVO Clients Choice award in 2012, and currently holds the highest possible rating for Criminal Defense lawyers per Avvo – a Superb 10.0 rating. Distinctions like these put Moses & Rooth, Attorneys at Law above the average criminal defense focused law firm in Florida.
Joe Easton
Criminal Lawyer
Joseph “Joe” Easton isn’t just another DUI criminal defense attorney; he’s a lifeline when you need it the most. Joe brings an unrivaled dedication to protecting the rights of those facing criminal and DUI charges in Central Florida. But don’t let his current location fool you—before moving to Florida, he was a powerhouse DUI attorney in Wisconsin for over 13 years. In both states, he’s become known for his fearless advocacy and innovative strategies that turn the tables in even the toughest DUI cases.
What sets Joe apart is his track record at every phase of legal proceedings. Whether it’s a DMV hearing, securing a full acquittal at trial, or even getting a court to grant a new trial on appeal, Joe’s got a plan. His expertise hasn’t gone unnoticed either; he’s been dubbed a “Rising Star” by SuperLawyers, a prestigious rating service that recognizes lawyers for exceptional peer recognition and professional achievement.
Handling a wide range of DUI cases, from first-time offenses to DUI manslaughter, Joe is the go-to attorney for professionals like doctors, fellow lawyers, UCF college students, and everyday people.
ZAHRA UMANSKY
Criminal Lawyer
Zahra Umansky was a former Assistant Public Defender in the 18th judicial circuit in Brevard and Seminole Counties. As a former Public Defender, Zahra was involved in over a hundred criminal trials that included crimes such as theft, assault, prostitution, drug trafficking, DUI, and many other felony and misdemeanors offenses. She protected her client’s right to liberty and secured countless not guilty verdicts and judgments of acquittal. After Zahra left the Public Defender’s office, she was appointed by Mayor Glenda Hood as the prosecutor for the City of Orlando.
As City Prosecutor, Zahra was successful in the implementation and prosecution of many types of criminal matters and also served as the prosecutor before the City’s Nuisance Abatement Board. She was also a legal advisor to local law enforcement officials where she trained police officers in matters of search and seizure laws, Miranda laws, and other constitutional rights. She also reviewed search warrants, wiretap applications, and gave police last minute advice they needed before they made arrests. During her time as City Prosecutor, Zahra was appointed as Special Assistant State Attorney for the Ninth judicial circuit.
Zahra’s unique experience as a former prosecutor and legal advisor, gives Zahra the ability to evaluate your case from both sides of the law. As a former police legal advisor, she understands how the Police investigate and secure their evidence and as a former prosecutor, understands how the State of Florida will present their case in court against you. Zahra approaches each case with aggressive and diligent representation. She is dedicated to defending the rights of her clients and committed to treating every client with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Simon Wiseman
Criminal Lawyer
Simon Wiseman comes highly recommended by clients and peers alike, and is well known for his honest, friendly, aggressive, excellent trial skills and results, and professional service. From the start of his legal career 23 years ago, he has had a passion for trial work. As a state prosecutor in Orange County, Orlando, Simon was lead trial counsel in nearly 40 jury trials, including murder trials and the high profile prosecution of a police officer. Since then and for over 21 years, Mr. Wiseman has handled the defense of criminal cases, which range from low level misdemeanors like petit thefts, domestic violence, and DUIs to the most significant felonies such as murder, sexual battery, lewd and lascivious molestation, robbery, drug trafficking and RICO cases. Mr. Wiseman has tried many cases as a criminal defense attorney and has an amazing winning record which includes not guilty verdicts on numerous sex offense cases and first degree felonies punishable by life. That is why his clients trust him and why he is 5 star rated on Google. Attorney Wiseman’s diligence, aggressive tactics, knowledge, and skill have helped clients from all walks of life face some of the toughest moments in their lives and come out the other side with the results they deserve.
Mr. Wiseman is also an accomplished 21 year personal injury trial lawyer. Having started his personal injury career by working for the insurance companies, he then switched sides, opened his own law firm, and has been helping injured clients ever since. Having successfully tried many types of personal injury cases ranging from car accident cases to premises liability to negligent security to nursing home negligence – Mr. Wiseman has experience in all aspects of personal injury. His jury verdicts included several multi-million dollar verdicts, and just recently in June he obtained a $650,000 jury verdict in Volusia County against Progressive Insurance Company, which was 26 times what they offered before trial. He has also had two cases at the Florida Supreme Court, which very few lawyers will ever accomplish. He won both those cases and created new law in the State of Florida, which is followed today, and in the process made his clients millions of dollars. Attorney Wiseman has the experience required to take on anyone – he relishes taking on corporate America and fighting for the justice his clients deserve.
Kendell K. Ali
Criminal Lawyer
Attorney Kendell K. Ali began his career as a Prosecutor for the State Attorney’s Office in Orange County, Florida. As a prosecutor, Mr. Ali tried numerous cases in County, Circuit, and Juvenile courts.
Mr. Ali strongly believes that a person’s inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness can be called into question at any time by mere accusations. The State has the burden of proving its case with evidence at a trial beyond and to the exclusion of every reasonable doubt. For this reason, Mr. Ali ensures his client’s rights are protected and that each case is resolved in the way that is most satisfying. He pursues each case vigorously and aggressively.
Criminal Defense Attorney, Kendell Ali assisted in trial for criminal offenses ranging from home invasion robbery to first-degree murder and sexual battery. Mr. Ali had numerous criminal jury trials throughout his career, including:
- DUI
- Reckless driving
- Disorderly conduct
- Public intoxication
- Battery
- The battery on a law enforcement officer
- Resisting arrest by a law enforcement officer with violence
- Aggravated battery/assault
- Fleeing and attempting to elude a law enforcement officer
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
- Grand theft/grand theft auto
- Possession of cocaine/cannabis and paraphernalia
- Delivery of cocaine
- Robbery
- Burglary
- Scheme to defraud
- Dealing in stolen property
- Violation of probation
Rahul Parikh
Criminal Lawyer
Mr. Parikh’s career began practicing real estate and contract law, but he was always a litigator at heart. His love for trial began at South Texas College of Law and continued as a Prosecutor (Assistant State Attorney) in the Ninth Judicial District of Florida, where he tried over 15 jury and bench trials in his first year alone.
With a background in business and contracts, and trial skills gained while at the prosecutor’s office, Mr. Parikh founded Parikh Law, P.A. in 2019.
Parikh Law, P.A. has gained a reputation throughout Central Florida among clients, Judges, attorneys, law enforcement, mediators, and others involved in the justice system for high power representation of its clients while providing VIP service.
Attorney Parikh has tried over 35 jury and bench trials, won awards at arbitration of over 1.5 million for his clients, and successfully defended hundreds of individuals who were accused of crimes throughout Central Florida.
His refined trial skills, attention to detail, and relentless preparation of cases have earned his client’s favorable outcomes well before a trial was ever necessary.
Originally raised in Houston, Texas, Mr. Parikh is a strong believer in hard work, straightforward communication, and individual rights.
What Constitutes Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon in Orlando?
In Orlando, Florida, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon is a serious criminal offense. It involves the threat or attempt to cause harm to another person while using a deadly weapon, without the intent to kill. Under Florida law, aggravated assault is considered more severe than simple assault because it involves additional factors that elevate the level of danger.
Key Elements of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
To be charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in Orlando, the following elements must be present:
Assault: This involves an intentional and unlawful threat, either by word or act, to do violence to another person. The person making the threat must have the apparent ability to carry out the violence, creating a well-founded fear in the victim that the violence is imminent.
Use of a Deadly Weapon: The assault must involve the use or display of a deadly weapon. A deadly weapon is defined as any object that can cause great bodily harm or death. Common examples include firearms, knives, bats, or any object used in a way that could cause serious injury. The weapon does not have to be used to injure the victim—merely displaying it while making a threat can be sufficient.
No Intent to Kill: While a deadly weapon is used, for the crime to be considered aggravated assault, there must not be an intent to kill the victim. If there is intent to kill, the charge would likely escalate to attempted murder.
Penalties for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
In Orlando, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon is classified as a third-degree felony under Florida law. The penalties for this offense can be severe and may include:
- Prison Sentence: A conviction can result in up to 5 years in prison.
- Probation: In some cases, the court may impose probation for up to 5 years instead of or in addition to imprisonment.
- Fines: Fines can be as high as $5,000.
- Mandatory Minimum Sentences: If a firearm is involved, Florida’s 10-20-Life law may apply, which imposes mandatory minimum sentences of 10, 20, or 25 years to life in prison depending on how the firearm was used during the assault.
Defenses to Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
Several defenses may be raised against charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in Orlando, including:
- Self-defense: If the defendant was protecting themselves or others from an immediate threat of harm, self-defense may be used as a defense.
- Lack of Intent: If the threat was not intentional, or there was no genuine fear of imminent harm, this could weaken the prosecution’s case.
- False Accusation: In some cases, the accused may argue that the allegations are false or exaggerated.
Conclusion
Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon is a serious felony offense in Orlando, and a conviction can result in long-lasting consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and a permanent criminal record. It is critical to understand the legal implications of such a charge and to seek legal representation if facing accusations of this crime.