team-member

Derek Byrd

N/A

Licensed for 25 years

Law Degree

Awards

Primary Practice Area

DUI and DWI

Language

English

About

Derek Byrd is Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by the Florida Bar.  Less than 2% of attorneys in Florida are Board Certified.  Derek Byrd was born and raised in the Sarasota/Bradenton area. He grew up watching his father defend high profile criminal cases in the old Sarasota County Courthouse. Derek’s father’s legal skills and the excitement surrounding the legal system inspired Derek to become a criminal defense attorney. He graduated from Florida State University in 1990 with a B. A. in Criminology and went on to earn his Juris Doctorate Degree in 1995 from Quinnipiac College of Law in Hamden, Connecticut graduating cum laude (top 5% of his class). While in law school, Derek concentrated his studies on criminal and trial law and he served as Notes and Comments Editor for the Law Review Journal.SARASOTA’S CRIMINAL DEFENSE / DUI ATTORNEYAfter being admitted to the Florida Bar in early 1996, Derek went to work for the Public Defender’s Office in Sarasota, where he gained extensive and valuable trial experience. He opened The Byrd Law Firm in 1998. Derek is Board Certified in Criminal Defense and has been since 2004. He is a Past President of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Statewide Chapter which has close to 2,000 members. Derek also served as the President of the Sarasota Chapter of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers from 1999 – 2001. Additionally, he is a Past President of the Sarasota County Bar. Derek also served as Chairperson of the local Florida Bar Grievance Committee. In 2019, he was awarded the Jim Slater Professionalism Award for outstanding professionalism in the 12th Judicial Circuit of Florida. Notably, Derek is also on the Board of Directors of the Innocence Project of Florida, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping innocent prisoners in Florida gain their freedom and rebuild their lives. Additionally, he is the President-Elect of the Judge John M. Scheb American Inn of Court. He is licensed in all State Courts and the Federal Court, Middle District of Florida. Derek has written articles for the Defender magazine and spoken at FACDL seminars. He is a Life Member of FACDL, a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL), the American Bar Association, the Florida Bar-Criminal Law section, and the Sarasota County Bar Association. Derek’s wife, Heather, has not only been his partner in life for over 20 years, she is also his Partner at The Byrd Law Firm, and her practice is concentrated solely on family law. They have raised two wonderful young men together.

Practices Areas

Criminal Defense

DUI and DWI

Language

English

Contact

The Byrd Law Firm2151 Main St Ste 201Sarasota, FL, 342376023

Office: (941) 271-0604

Website: N/A

Reviews

Sierra
September 22, 2021

Derek goes above and beyond! He's fast and aggressive to get the best possible outcome! If you're in trouble, the person you want is Derek Byrd!

anonymous
March 4, 2021

Derek Byrd listened to my circumstances, explained the legal situation, and took care of the situation through strong action from thereon. Throughout the process Mr. Byrd and his associates kept me appraised of the situaion, ultimately resolving the issue to my satisfaction.

anonymous
February 23, 2021

Derek Byrd is the best criminal defense lawyer you will find in Sarasota. He welcomed me as a client and represented me better than I could have imagined. Additionally, The Byrd Law Firm was as professional as could be throughout the entire process. I could not be more grateful for everything Derek Byrd has done for me. If you ever run into trouble, I highly, highly recommend Mr. Byrd.

anonymous
February 23, 2021

I hired Derek to represent me in a misdemeanor case last year. He was extremely helpful and was 100% real with me throughout the entire process. At our first meeting, he laid out exactly what the best case scenario would be but also informed me what the more likely scenario would be based on his experience in similar cases. With the help of his many connections and unfaltering work ethic, my charges were reduced. It is worth mentioning that Derek is very easy to get a hold of and willing to answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the entire process. I would definitely recommend Derek to anyone looking for a reliable attorney.

Ali
April 24, 2020

I had heard about only one attorney in Sarasota and that was Derek Byrd. I heard from many different sources that he was the best, very well-respected, a former prosecutor friend of mine said he was reputed to be an excellent negotiator. I had seen how incredible he had been in getting a friend's brother-in-law the very best conditions instead of jail time for a DUI. He's talked about as if he's a local legend, because he is. He can do the impossible and make you're nightmare go away. He doesn't scare you by focusing on the very worst possible outcome to scare you into hiring him. When I got arrested, I was in shock. I called one of my best friends and told her I was in Manatee County Jail and needed to be released ASAP. Her ex-husband also a great friend, posted my bail /bond. Once I was out, I was told to call Mr Derek Byrd in the morning my friend had already called Mr Byrd and asked him for a favor to represent me. I called and met with Mr Byrd at his office that day. He was very straight forward. I had 5 charges against me with the worst being felony criminal mischief over $1,000. Derek made me see and feel so much better at our very first meeting (and every subsequent one as well). Having now met Derek Byrd, I was so impressed and confident in his skills that I immediately read the contract to hire him, completed it, signed it and paid his secretary. He didn't disappoint at all! Derek was able to get ALL my charges dropped and including the felony charge which would have ruined by life and career (I'm a doctor and my license to practice medicine in FL, my ability to work and do what I love would be instantly revoked with any felony conviction). I was thrilled that in 2- 3 weeks he made my nightmare come to an end. Subsequently, I hired Derek to be my legal representative once again on a different matter.. He continues to receive my highest accolades.

anonymous
August 28, 2012

I would describe my experience with Derek Byrd's office as first class! The staff was professional, office was beautiful, and I received excellent representation. My calls were always returned promptly, my questions always answered, and my desired outcome was achieved. If you have been arrested, I highly recommend you hire Derek Byrd. His representation is well deserved!

anonymous
August 23, 2012

I was told that Derek Byrd was the best criminal defense lawyer in Sarasota. They were right! I had a serious drug charge and was facing prison. Everyone, including several other lawyers I spoke with, told me I was going to jail. Derek fought for me and, as a result, all charges were dismissed. I owe that guy my life!

Sierra
September 22, 2021

Derek goes above and beyond! He's fast and aggressive to get the best possible outcome! If you're in trouble, the person you want is Derek Byrd!

anonymous
March 4, 2021

Derek Byrd listened to my circumstances, explained the legal situation, and took care of the situation through strong action from thereon. Throughout the process Mr. Byrd and his associates kept me appraised of the situaion, ultimately resolving the issue to my satisfaction.

anonymous
February 23, 2021

Derek Byrd is the best criminal defense lawyer you will find in Sarasota. He welcomed me as a client and represented me better than I could have imagined. Additionally, The Byrd Law Firm was as professional as could be throughout the entire process. I could not be more grateful for everything Derek Byrd has done for me. If you ever run into trouble, I highly, highly recommend Mr. Byrd.

anonymous
February 23, 2021

I hired Derek to represent me in a misdemeanor case last year. He was extremely helpful and was 100% real with me throughout the entire process. At our first meeting, he laid out exactly what the best case scenario would be but also informed me what the more likely scenario would be based on his experience in similar cases. With the help of his many connections and unfaltering work ethic, my charges were reduced. It is worth mentioning that Derek is very easy to get a hold of and willing to answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the entire process. I would definitely recommend Derek to anyone looking for a reliable attorney.

Ali
April 24, 2020

I had heard about only one attorney in Sarasota and that was Derek Byrd. I heard from many different sources that he was the best, very well-respected, a former prosecutor friend of mine said he was reputed to be an excellent negotiator. I had seen how incredible he had been in getting a friend's brother-in-law the very best conditions instead of jail time for a DUI. He's talked about as if he's a local legend, because he is. He can do the impossible and make you're nightmare go away. He doesn't scare you by focusing on the very worst possible outcome to scare you into hiring him. When I got arrested, I was in shock. I called one of my best friends and told her I was in Manatee County Jail and needed to be released ASAP. Her ex-husband also a great friend, posted my bail /bond. Once I was out, I was told to call Mr Derek Byrd in the morning my friend had already called Mr Byrd and asked him for a favor to represent me. I called and met with Mr Byrd at his office that day. He was very straight forward. I had 5 charges against me with the worst being felony criminal mischief over $1,000. Derek made me see and feel so much better at our very first meeting (and every subsequent one as well). Having now met Derek Byrd, I was so impressed and confident in his skills that I immediately read the contract to hire him, completed it, signed it and paid his secretary. He didn't disappoint at all! Derek was able to get ALL my charges dropped and including the felony charge which would have ruined by life and career (I'm a doctor and my license to practice medicine in FL, my ability to work and do what I love would be instantly revoked with any felony conviction). I was thrilled that in 2- 3 weeks he made my nightmare come to an end. Subsequently, I hired Derek to be my legal representative once again on a different matter.. He continues to receive my highest accolades.

anonymous
August 28, 2012

I would describe my experience with Derek Byrd's office as first class! The staff was professional, office was beautiful, and I received excellent representation. My calls were always returned promptly, my questions always answered, and my desired outcome was achieved. If you have been arrested, I highly recommend you hire Derek Byrd. His representation is well deserved!

anonymous
August 23, 2012

I was told that Derek Byrd was the best criminal defense lawyer in Sarasota. They were right! I had a serious drug charge and was facing prison. Everyone, including several other lawyers I spoke with, told me I was going to jail. Derek fought for me and, as a result, all charges were dismissed. I owe that guy my life!

Sierra
September 22, 2021

Derek goes above and beyond! He's fast and aggressive to get the best possible outcome! If you're in trouble, the person you want is Derek Byrd!

anonymous
March 4, 2021

Derek Byrd listened to my circumstances, explained the legal situation, and took care of the situation through strong action from thereon. Throughout the process Mr. Byrd and his associates kept me appraised of the situaion, ultimately resolving the issue to my satisfaction.

anonymous
February 23, 2021

Derek Byrd is the best criminal defense lawyer you will find in Sarasota. He welcomed me as a client and represented me better than I could have imagined. Additionally, The Byrd Law Firm was as professional as could be throughout the entire process. I could not be more grateful for everything Derek Byrd has done for me. If you ever run into trouble, I highly, highly recommend Mr. Byrd.

anonymous
February 23, 2021

I hired Derek to represent me in a misdemeanor case last year. He was extremely helpful and was 100% real with me throughout the entire process. At our first meeting, he laid out exactly what the best case scenario would be but also informed me what the more likely scenario would be based on his experience in similar cases. With the help of his many connections and unfaltering work ethic, my charges were reduced. It is worth mentioning that Derek is very easy to get a hold of and willing to answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the entire process. I would definitely recommend Derek to anyone looking for a reliable attorney.

Ali
April 24, 2020

I had heard about only one attorney in Sarasota and that was Derek Byrd. I heard from many different sources that he was the best, very well-respected, a former prosecutor friend of mine said he was reputed to be an excellent negotiator. I had seen how incredible he had been in getting a friend's brother-in-law the very best conditions instead of jail time for a DUI. He's talked about as if he's a local legend, because he is. He can do the impossible and make you're nightmare go away. He doesn't scare you by focusing on the very worst possible outcome to scare you into hiring him. When I got arrested, I was in shock. I called one of my best friends and told her I was in Manatee County Jail and needed to be released ASAP. Her ex-husband also a great friend, posted my bail /bond. Once I was out, I was told to call Mr Derek Byrd in the morning my friend had already called Mr Byrd and asked him for a favor to represent me. I called and met with Mr Byrd at his office that day. He was very straight forward. I had 5 charges against me with the worst being felony criminal mischief over $1,000. Derek made me see and feel so much better at our very first meeting (and every subsequent one as well). Having now met Derek Byrd, I was so impressed and confident in his skills that I immediately read the contract to hire him, completed it, signed it and paid his secretary. He didn't disappoint at all! Derek was able to get ALL my charges dropped and including the felony charge which would have ruined by life and career (I'm a doctor and my license to practice medicine in FL, my ability to work and do what I love would be instantly revoked with any felony conviction). I was thrilled that in 2- 3 weeks he made my nightmare come to an end. Subsequently, I hired Derek to be my legal representative once again on a different matter.. He continues to receive my highest accolades.

anonymous
August 28, 2012

I would describe my experience with Derek Byrd's office as first class! The staff was professional, office was beautiful, and I received excellent representation. My calls were always returned promptly, my questions always answered, and my desired outcome was achieved. If you have been arrested, I highly recommend you hire Derek Byrd. His representation is well deserved!

anonymous
August 23, 2012

I was told that Derek Byrd was the best criminal defense lawyer in Sarasota. They were right! I had a serious drug charge and was facing prison. Everyone, including several other lawyers I spoke with, told me I was going to jail. Derek fought for me and, as a result, all charges were dismissed. I owe that guy my life!

Sierra
September 22, 2021

Derek goes above and beyond! He's fast and aggressive to get the best possible outcome! If you're in trouble, the person you want is Derek Byrd!

anonymous
March 4, 2021

Derek Byrd listened to my circumstances, explained the legal situation, and took care of the situation through strong action from thereon. Throughout the process Mr. Byrd and his associates kept me appraised of the situaion, ultimately resolving the issue to my satisfaction.

anonymous
February 23, 2021

Derek Byrd is the best criminal defense lawyer you will find in Sarasota. He welcomed me as a client and represented me better than I could have imagined. Additionally, The Byrd Law Firm was as professional as could be throughout the entire process. I could not be more grateful for everything Derek Byrd has done for me. If you ever run into trouble, I highly, highly recommend Mr. Byrd.

anonymous
February 23, 2021

I hired Derek to represent me in a misdemeanor case last year. He was extremely helpful and was 100% real with me throughout the entire process. At our first meeting, he laid out exactly what the best case scenario would be but also informed me what the more likely scenario would be based on his experience in similar cases. With the help of his many connections and unfaltering work ethic, my charges were reduced. It is worth mentioning that Derek is very easy to get a hold of and willing to answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the entire process. I would definitely recommend Derek to anyone looking for a reliable attorney.

Ali
April 24, 2020

I had heard about only one attorney in Sarasota and that was Derek Byrd. I heard from many different sources that he was the best, very well-respected, a former prosecutor friend of mine said he was reputed to be an excellent negotiator. I had seen how incredible he had been in getting a friend's brother-in-law the very best conditions instead of jail time for a DUI. He's talked about as if he's a local legend, because he is. He can do the impossible and make you're nightmare go away. He doesn't scare you by focusing on the very worst possible outcome to scare you into hiring him. When I got arrested, I was in shock. I called one of my best friends and told her I was in Manatee County Jail and needed to be released ASAP. Her ex-husband also a great friend, posted my bail /bond. Once I was out, I was told to call Mr Derek Byrd in the morning my friend had already called Mr Byrd and asked him for a favor to represent me. I called and met with Mr Byrd at his office that day. He was very straight forward. I had 5 charges against me with the worst being felony criminal mischief over $1,000. Derek made me see and feel so much better at our very first meeting (and every subsequent one as well). Having now met Derek Byrd, I was so impressed and confident in his skills that I immediately read the contract to hire him, completed it, signed it and paid his secretary. He didn't disappoint at all! Derek was able to get ALL my charges dropped and including the felony charge which would have ruined by life and career (I'm a doctor and my license to practice medicine in FL, my ability to work and do what I love would be instantly revoked with any felony conviction). I was thrilled that in 2- 3 weeks he made my nightmare come to an end. Subsequently, I hired Derek to be my legal representative once again on a different matter.. He continues to receive my highest accolades.

anonymous
August 28, 2012

I would describe my experience with Derek Byrd's office as first class! The staff was professional, office was beautiful, and I received excellent representation. My calls were always returned promptly, my questions always answered, and my desired outcome was achieved. If you have been arrested, I highly recommend you hire Derek Byrd. His representation is well deserved!

anonymous
August 23, 2012

I was told that Derek Byrd was the best criminal defense lawyer in Sarasota. They were right! I had a serious drug charge and was facing prison. Everyone, including several other lawyers I spoke with, told me I was going to jail. Derek fought for me and, as a result, all charges were dismissed. I owe that guy my life!