DeCarlis & Sawyer - Gainesville, FL
DeCarlis and Sawyer is one of North Central Florida's premier legal practices, established in 1972 by former NASA engineer William DeCarlis alongside senior partner James Michael Sawyer. Based in Gainesville, the firm delivers aggressive criminal defense advocacy and personal injury representation across Alachua and Marion counties with over 50 years of combined legal experience.
Over 50 Years of Legal Excellence in Gainesville, Florida
When your future, freedom, or physical well-being is at stake, having seasoned courtroom veterans on your side is indispensable. DeCarlis and Sawyer is among the most established and respected law firms in Gainesville, serving clients throughout Alachua, Marion, and surrounding North Central Florida counties since 1972. The practice has earned widespread acclaim for its aggressive defense of the accused and passionate representation of injured individuals. For those needing to hire a criminal defense lawyer or personal injury attorney in Gainesville, DeCarlis and Sawyer provides unmatched institutional knowledge, trial skill, and strategic courtroom advocacy.
Renowned Legal Heritage and AV Preeminent Distinction
The firm's longevity is built on exceptional preparation, legal intellect, and unwavering client loyalty. Senior of counsel William Nicholas DeCarlis began his professional journey as an aeronautical engineer with NASA, contributing to the historic Apollo rocket missions before graduating from the University of Florida College of Law and joining the Florida Bar in 1972. Senior partner James Michael Sawyer brings decades of high-stakes trial acumen, having earned a worldwide reputation as a sports martial arts authority, ISKA and NASKA co-founder, and ESPN legal analyst. The firm holds the prestigious Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating, signifying the highest standard of professional capability and ethical integrity recognized by fellow attorneys and judges.
Strategic Criminal Defense in State and Federal Courts
Rooted in the constitutional presumption of innocence, DeCarlis and Sawyer provides formidable criminal defense for clients facing misdemeanor or felony charges:
- DUI and traffic offenses: Challenging unlawful traffic stops, testing irregularities, breathalyzer equipment validity, and roadside field sobriety evaluations.
- Drug crime defense: Handling charges involving narcotics possession, intent to distribute, drug trafficking, prescription fraud, and manufacturing.
- Violent crimes: Formulating aggressive defenses against charges of assault, battery, domestic violence, manslaughter, and homicide.
- Theft and burglary charges: Defending individuals accused of grand theft, shoplifting, auto burglary, property damage, and white-collar fraud.
- Criminal appeals: Representing wrongfully convicted clients before Florida intermediate appellate courts to overturn improper verdicts and sentences.
- Hit and run accusations: Defending drivers charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage or injury.
Dedicated Advocacy for Accident and Injury Victims
In addition to criminal litigation, DeCarlis and Sawyer operates a prolific personal injury practice dedicated to securing full financial compensation for accident victims:
- Motor vehicle collisions: Fighting for drivers and passengers hurt in car crashes, commercial truck collisions, motorcycle wrecks, and pedestrian accidents.
- Boating and watercraft accidents: Litigating complex injury claims arising from speedboats, personal watercraft, jet skis, and recreational lake vessels.
- Premises liability and slip and fall: Holding commercial retailers, property management companies, and landlords liable for unsafe walking surfaces and poor maintenance.
- Medical malpractice: Investigating surgical errors, delayed diagnosis, and medical provider negligence causing permanent harm or death.
Transparent Legal Counsel and Complimentary Case Reviews
Navigating criminal accusations or severe physical injuries requires immediate, dependable legal guidance. For personal injury matters, DeCarlis and Sawyer operates on a contingency fee basis with no fees owed unless financial compensation is recovered. For criminal defense representation, the firm offers transparent fee agreements and manageable payment structures. Potential clients can contact the Gainesville office during business hours to schedule a complimentary initial consultation to review their case with an experienced attorney.
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Location & Access
Primary Address
Located in the historic Duckpond neighborhood, just north of Downtown Gainesville and near the historic Thomas Center.
Building Location
This is a historic, two-story Frame Vernacular building known as the Waldo House, which was built in 1909 and subsequently restored as a combination of residence and law offices. The property is located near the historic Thomas Center and a short walk from Downtown Gainesville.
Parking Details
Clients can use a free on-site surface parking lot designated for customers. Additionally, there are public surface parking lots and on-street parking options nearby.
Public Transit
Served by RTS Route 11 (Eastwood Meadows); nearest stop is at Northbound NE 9th Street @ NE 8th Avenue.
Accessibility / Suite Access
Walk up the main entrance path of the historic Waldo House and enter through the front door. DeCarlis & Sawyer is located in Suite B on the ground floor.