Old Southeast, Florida Injury & Criminal Defense Law
Rooted in the community of Old Southeast, Florida, Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law is a dedicated law firm with a strong focus on personal injury cases and criminal defense. We stand resolutely in our commitment to deliver exceptional legal representation, assisting clients in their pursuit of justice and the fair compensation they rightly deserve.














Better Safir than sorry!
Have You Been Injured In Old Southeast?
Strategically located in St. Petersburg, Florida, Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law is a distinguished law firm with a reputation for delivering results in criminal defense and personal injury cases.
Charged With A Crime?
St Petersburg Criminal Defense
Charged With A DUI?
Fighting DUI Charges Throughout Pinellas County
When you're arrested for a DUI, your driving privileges could be in jeopardy, potentially leading to the loss of your driver's license - an action that can occur independently from your court proceedings.
Injured In An Accident?
A Personal Injury Lawyer Who Cares!
At Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law, we view each case as more than just a file - it's a person's life impacted by an unfortunate event. Every case we take on is handled with the utmost care, compassion, and meticulous attention to detail.
Free DUI Case Consulation

Old Southeast, Florida Criminal Defense Lawyer
Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law is an experienced law firm dedicated to protecting clients’ rights and ensuring a fair trial for those accused of criminal offenses in the St Petersburg area.
DUI
Being charged with a DUI in St Petersburg, FL is a serious offense. Contact our firm for a free strategy session..
Drug Charges
Even good people make mistakes and deserve legal counsel to help fight to defend their rights. Contact us today!
No Win, No Fee basis for all personal injury cases
Get In Touch!
Are you in need of legal assistance for a case involving personal injury or needing criminal defense? Look no further than Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law.
Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law
3530 1st Avenue North Suite 105, St. Petersburg
4.9 151 reviews
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Andrew Stagman ★★★★★ a week ago
I had a wonderful experience with this law firm. Their professionalism, clear communication, and personalized support truly set them apart from other firms.
Rory & Kristen’s exceptional work and attention to detail stood out throughout … More the entire process.
I felt supported and understood at every step and they worked tirelessly to ensure a favorable outcome.
I couldn't be happier with the result and would highly recommend this team to anyone seeking outstanding legal services.
Thank you for making a challenging time so much easier! -
s pusinelli ★★★★★ in the last week
Rory Safir and his staff, did a great job with my case . I put my trust in Rory They did not stop fighting until they got the best possible outcome!
He is a lawyer who will listen and get the details of your case! That was important … More to me.
THANK YOU RORY AND YOUR LAW FIRM!! -
Marcy Fassio ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago
Rory Safir is one of the most dedicated DUI defense attorneys in Florida. His commitment to his clients is unmatched—he truly goes above and beyond to ensure they receive the strongest defense possible.
What sets him apart is how cutting-edge … More he is when it comes to DUI law. He's constantly attending advanced DUI trainings and is a true "lawyer-scientist," always learning and applying the latest techniques and legal strategies to benefit his clients. He’s not just practicing law—he’s mastering the science behind DUI cases, and it shows in his results.
If you're looking for a DUI defense attorney who will fight tirelessly for you and stay on the forefront of this ever-evolving field, Rory is the one you want in your corner. Highly recommend! -
Nicklaus Frattallone ★★★★★ a week ago
Highly recommend using this firm for your legal needs. Kristen and Rory raise the bar with the exceptional support and dedication to your case. I am pleased with the result of the representation I received. Cannot express the gratitude … More I have for the outcome that I received! Thank you!! -
luce hoyen ★★★★★ 4 months ago
Rory and Kristen were great to work with, Kristen communicated with me so well about all of my appointments and was very personable and really made this process very smooth for me, being I have never had to go through this before. Rory … More was incredible. He listened to me, he put his all into helping me and fighting for me and he really just fought for the best possible outcome for me and accepted nothing less. This is a wonderful firm with an amazing team. I would recommend him to anyone. -
Jacquelyn Maki ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago
Attorney Rory Safir is a down to earth kind of man who connects well with people. He understands the difficult situations his clients face. He is a phenomenal attorney who has a deep passion for defending people who are at their most vulnerable … More time in their lives, and knows the law well. If looking for someone who will be there for you through the difficult times and will fight for you, Rory Safir is the attorney you want. I highly recommend him for criminal defense as well as personal injury law representation. -
Alexander Licznerski ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago
Rory is a top notch attorney. He is well versed in injury and criminal law. His experience allows him to get the best results for his clients. I highly recommend Rory! -
Jeanette Stacks ★★★★★ 2 weeks ago
Mr. Safir represented my son in two separate situations and was able to get the issues resolved right away. Mr.Safir was very professional and prepared for each case. I would recommend him and his staff to handle any cases. Thank you Mr. … More Safir and staff. -
Rachel Taggart ★★★★★ 6 months ago
Having observed Rory in action, I can confidently say he’s one of the most dedicated and responsive professionals I’ve come across in the field. His approach to injury and criminal defense cases is both strategic and compassionate, making … More him a standout. It’s clear he’s hardworking and genuinely cares about achieving the best outcomes for his clients. He’s quick to communicate, always ensuring everyone involved is kept up-to-date, which truly makes a difference. If you need someone who combines skill with integrity, Rory is an excellent choice. -
T T ★★★★★ 4 months ago
Rory Safir helped me out. No other way around it. He is very knowledgeable about all things Florida law. He was comforting in a time of distress. It was amazing having him in my corner and knowing that I was in good hands. I can’t recommend … More him enough. Rory, if you’re reading this, seriously, thank you. -
Rose Price ★★★★★ 6 months ago
Rory and his team are excellent. No other way to put it. They all cared immensely for My case. Rory definitely held My hand throughout the process as it has been a hard time for Me. Rory is incredibly knowledgeable about Florida law and … More I felt confident in our case. Rory proved Me right. I highly recommend them to anyone needing legal support. -
Sailender Kumar Singh ★★★★★ 5 months ago
I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding service and unwavering support provided by Attorney Safir and Paralegal Kristen. Your dedication to standing with your clients and fighting each case as if it … More were your own is truly remarkable.
Attorney Safir, your expertise, guidance, and relentless pursuit of justice have made a profound impact. Your ability to navigate complex legal challenges with such precision and care is both inspiring and reassuring. Your commitment to your clients' best interests is evident in every step you take.
Kristen, your efficiency, attention to detail, and compassionate approach have been invaluable throughout this process. Your willingness to go above and beyond to support and assist clients does not go unnoticed. Your dedication to ensuring that every detail is meticulously handled has provided immense comfort and confidence.
Together, you form an exceptional team that exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism and client care. Thank you for your hard work, perseverance, and the exceptional legal support you provide. Your efforts make a significant difference in the lives of those you represent. -
Esteban Trevino ★★★★★ a month ago
Mr Safir helped me in a difficult time of my life, he was very cordial with me and his assistant Kristen always replied to me in a timely manner. I felt very well informed about my case and was always kept in the loop. Would hire him again … More -
Ashley Stover ★★★★★ 6 months ago
I recently had the opportunity to work with Mr. Safir, an exceptional DUI lawyer, and I can’t recommend him highly enough. From our first consultation, he demonstrated a deep understanding of the law and a genuine commitment to my case. … More
His attention to detail and strategic approach were impressive and went above and beyond my expectations. He took the time to explain every step of the process, ensuring I felt informed and supported throughout. Thanks to his expertise and negotiation skills, I received a much more favorable outcome than I expected and was able to save myself a ton of headache in the process.
What truly set Rory apart as an attorney was his accessibility and true compassion. He was always available to answer my questions, making a stressful situation much easier to navigate. If you find yourself in need of a DUI lawyer, or for anything in his field of expertise, look no further—he is without a doubt, the person you want in your corner. -
Natasha Brodnax ★★★★★ 6 months ago
Choosing this law office was the best decision I could have made. Rory and his team were professional, communicative, and genuinely cared about my case. I always knew what was happening, and they were patient in answering all my questions. … More Thank you for the outstanding service! -
angel butler ★★★★★ 6 months ago
I had an excellent experience with this law firm while handling my case. From the moment I contacted them, their team was professional, compassionate, and dedicated to my situation. They took the time to explain the legal process clearly … More and answered all my questions promptly.
The attorney assigned to my case was knowledgeable and aggressive in pursuing the best outcome. Thanks to their expertise and support, I felt confident throughout the entire process. They worked tirelessly to minimize the impact of the charges, and I am incredibly grateful for their efforts.
I highly recommend them to anyone facing similar legal challenges. Their commitment to their clients and their impressive results truly set them apart. Thank you for everything! -
Zachary Thomas ★★★★★ 6 months ago
I’m incredibly pleased with the results from working with Attorney Rory. From day one, I felt like I was in capable hands. They kept me informed every step of the way, and no question I had was too small. I felt truly valued as a client. … More Highly recommended! -
Cody Kubik ★★★★★ 6 months ago
Attorney Rory and Kristin made me feel like a priority. I received frequent updates. They handled my case with care and efficiency, leaving me 100% satisfied with the outcome. Highly recommended! -
Theresa Ruiz ★★★★★ 6 months ago
Mr Safir helped Me so much with My case. He gave Me peace of mind as I was fighting an uphill battle. I’m so thankful for how calm and patient he was. I’m sure I wasn’t the most easy person to deal with. He continued to fight for Me and … More we won!! He’s truly the best. I pray I don’t need him in the future but if I find Myself in a similar situation, there is no one I’d rather have by My side. Thank you!!! -
N. Knight ★★★★★ 7 months ago
Rory is an exceptional lawyer. He is very knowledgeable and always goes above and beyond for his clients. Highly recommend Rory Safir if you have a personal injury or criminal case. -
J.J. Uliano ★★★★★ 7 months ago
Rory Safir is a fantastic resource of knowledge about Florida criminal law. He is someone you can turn to help solve problems. He and his staff are helpful and understanding. It is important to work with someone with integrity like Rory. … More -
Don Wilson ★★★★★ a year ago
Rory went far above and beyond and his results were remarkable.
I’m a disabled Vietnam veteran and not only did he get my service and handicap acknowledged, my charges were reduced and my required attendance in court was absolutely minimized. … More
I’m forever grateful for his kindness, skill and familiarity with the County system and personnel. -
Anthony Ciro ★★★★★ a year ago
I am 110% happy with the representation. Rory and Kristen went above and beyond to provide me with excellent client service. They even took my calls and responded to emails even after business hours. Very impressed with this firm. -
Davida McCoy ★★★★★ 7 months ago
Very helpful and answers any questions I had. I was very nervous but I just listened to him and did the steps to get where I needed to be. Highly recommend. -
JessicaErdain ★★★★★ a year ago
I reached out to this Law firm regarding Traffic charges I had against me. They were quick to respond, Attorney Safir Took his time to review the police Report and Hear my side of what had occurred. He was the first Attorney to actively … More Listen to me, he made me feel heard. Highly recommended. -
Meshell Munoz ★★★★★ 11 months ago
Attorney and staff are truly amazing . I called and got no answer he personally reached out me to ensure I was able to ask questions about the case . He doesn’t even deal with the specific cases I need help with and still have additional … More information. His assistant was beyond helpful. I highly recommend them! -
tony s. ★★★★★ a year ago
Rory is 1 of the best talented lawyers I’ve dealt
with, met him before he went on his own, he was 1 of the lawyers working on my statewide Rico case. Id call Rory late Friday or Saturday evenings stressing out and he would be at the office … More working on my motions or looking thru discovery. It was Rory’s masterful motions, breaking the case down, seeing Rory go at the state on a motion to compel state over missing discovery that he found was classic, Judge had no choice but to grant Rory’s motion backed by case law. After years of motions a majority written and argued by Rory statewide gave me a deal of a lifetime, thanks in part of Rory’s masterful work. I used him recently for a private matter once again Rory came thru for me. As always thank you Rory! -
Lexi Marie ★★★★★ a year ago
⭐️✨⭐️✨⭐️✨⭐️✨⭐️✨⭐️✨ Mr. Safir is hands down one of very best lawyers in the Tampa Bay area! He is extremely professional and knowledgeable in his practice areas. He really helped out one of my family members and even accepted a payment plan. … More -
Krissie Burwood ★★★★★ a year ago
I had a free consult with Rory and he was very knowledgeable and helpful giving me some advice about my situation. He said he didn't specialize in what I needed and referred me to a few other lawyers he thought could help me. I thought … More that was nice. I don't think I'll ever need a criminal defense attorney, but if anyone does you should give him a call -
Jason Melton ★★★★★ 10 months ago
He dug in on a complicated stop issue on a DUI - very impressed with his research, presentation and of course results. Rory is a great lawyer. -
Nick Congero ★★★★★ a year ago
Rory Safir is easily one of the top criminal defense and DUI attorneys in St. Pete. If you find yourself needing such an attorney, you are likely dealing with a lot of anxiety and worry as well. Rory does a great job of quelling those feelings … More by making you feel comfortable and at ease with the legal process. If you're in need of assistance with a criminal charge or a DUI, attorney Safir is your man. -
Daniel David Turczyn ★★★★★ a year ago
One of the best experiences in my life hands down was with safir injury and criminal defense law
Rory Safir rescued me
His professionalism and knowledge of criminal law came to my rescue and turned what could have been a terrible situation … More and outcome into freedom!
One of the best attorneys in the state in my opinion .I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs someone of value, compassion, and downright tenacity for the law and your representation.
Sincerely
Daniel Turner
St Pete Florida -
Ashley Ward ★★★★★ a year ago
I appreciate Rory’s hard work and dedication to my case. When so many others told me to give up, Rory encouraged me to fight for what I deserved. With his help and commitment to my case I know my outcome would not have been what it was … More without him. He literally blew the other side out of the water. We WON! It is truly all thanks to him! Rory went above and beyond for me and I will forever be thankful for him and all of his hard work. -
Matthus Fongeallaz ★★★★★ a year ago
I had a consultation for a DUI and I really liked how he took the time to explain everything to me and all my options. I spoke to a few criminal lawyers who quoted me a lot. I appreciated Rory's total honesty in recommending that since … More I had never been in trouble before I should stick with the public defender for free and try to get diversion first before calling him back or calling another criminal attorney -
Adam ★★★★★ a year ago
Attorney Rory Safir is a great lawyer and advocate. He works with compassion for his clients and integrity. I recommend anyone who needs help with criminal defense to him, knowing they are in good hands. -
Rhonda Smith ★★★★★ a year ago
Rory is the absolute best!! He knows the law and will go to bat for his clients. We were very satisfied with his representation, can’t thank him enough!! -
Matias Cordoba ★★★★★ a year ago
I have known Rory for a while and have personally seen his work ethic in and outside the courtroom. You are hiring someone who will fight hard for you and for your case. I would highly recommend him to anyone. -
Mike Margol ★★★★★ a year ago
Rory really knows his stuff and will do everything in his power to help his clients. He's a great attorney, but also a wonderful person. Highly recommended! -
Angela Ross ★★★★★ a year ago
I had a consultation with Rory today. He was very knowledgeable, professional and most importantly caring. He took the time to listen with no judgment and gave me good advice. I really appreciate his time and understanding. Would highly … More recommend! -
Cassandra Conner ★★★★★ a year ago
Rory helped me with my DUI case. I really think I received the best results in the case. He was great to work with and was always on top of all the paperwork and court filings. I felt like I was talking to a real person that cared and I … More truly believe he helped me achieve the best outcome. It is such a relief to know that I don't have a DUI on my record -
Stephen Trevathan ★★★★★ a year ago
Rory is excellent! I recently referred a friend to him who was facing a reckless driving charge. Even though he wasn’t in an area where Rory would be able to take on his case directly, he was willing to personally connect with him and provide … More pivotal advice that made a huge difference in his situation. I’d happily recommend Rory to anyone in St. Petersburg who is looking for a knowledgeable, effective and trustworthy criminal defense attorney! -
Queen Ivyyy ★★★★★ a year ago
Very professional and proficient in his work. He got all my paperwork done and entered with great results in a timely manner. He always answered the phone and kept great communication. -
Erin ★★★★★ a year ago
Rory is a skilled trial lawyer who is passionate about fighting for justice for his clients. I would absolutely recommend him for an injury or criminal defense case. It's inspiring to know there are attorneys like him out there, who … More are so dedicated and invested. -
A Google User
★★★★★
a year ago
Mr. Safir is an incredible lawyer. He went above and beyond for me. He took time explaining everything to me and I am so glad I hired him. If you get charged with DUI and don't know the first thing about what you should do this is … More the guy to talk to.
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Shimon Kanne ★★★★★ a year ago
Mr. Safir is an incredible lawyer. He went above and beyond for me. He took time explaining everything to me and I am so glad I hired him. If you get charged with DUI and don't know the first thing about what you should do this is … More the guy to talk to. -
Jeff Brunette ★★★★★ 2 years ago
I met with Rory this past winter. He is a passionate attorney who cares deeply about his clients and profession. He’s a great communicator, and is someone that any person should feel confident in hiring. -
Colleen O'Keefe ★★★★★ 2 years ago
Best firm ever! Rory took his time to explain the law to me and provided me with so much legal guidance. My situation is so much better now! He is super knowledgeable, helpful, and I highly recommend him as an attorney. -
Bobby Osborne ★★★★★ a year ago
If there is anyone out there in need of legal counsel in the Tampa Bay Area, Attorney Safir should definitely be considered. You will get exclusive one on one / client-counsel treatment. Honest, reliable, accountable, professional and well … More respected. Without a doubt he will give your case the upmost attention and care. Legal issues of all kind are troubling times and Mr. Safir will help you sleep easier at night knowing he’s giving it his all. -
Lightline Productions ★★★★★ a year ago
If you’re looking for a criminal defense attorney do not look further! Rory Safir will go above & beyond for you. He’s very caring and professional. Highly recommended!!
Old Southeast, Florida DUI Lawyer Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Under Florida’s administrative suspension rules, the very moment you are arrested for DUI and either score a breath or blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher or refuse the breath test altogether, the officer issues a notice that suspends your driver’s license on the spot. You do not have weeks to think this over—you have ten calendar days to decide your next move. During that brief window you may (1) request a formal review hearing before the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to challenge every detail of the stop, the test, and the paperwork or (2) apply for a hardship license (if it’s a first-time DUI) that lets you drive to work, school, church, medical appointments, and other qualifying activities. Choosing the right option depends on factors such as prior driving history, strength of the evidence, and how badly you need uninterrupted driving privileges. A seasoned Florida DUI lawyer can jump in immediately, file the correct paperwork, subpoena the arresting officers, and appear at the hearing to attack gaps in the State’s case. Waiting until day nine or ten often means rushing or missing your chance completely, so treat those ten days as a countdown and act fast to keep yourself on the road.
Almost always. In Florida a DUI is classified as a criminal offense rather than a simple traffic infraction, and convictions are recorded in the Clerk of Court’s criminal database. When an employer, landlord, or professional licensing board runs a background check that taps into statewide or national criminal repositories, your DUI conviction will typically surface. Some low-tier checks show only felonies, while more comprehensive searches list misdemeanors, case numbers, arrest dates, dispositions, and even court documents. In addition, insurance companies and certain rideshare or commercial driving platforms run specialty screens that flag DUI arrests regardless of outcome. Because a DUI on your record can limit job opportunities and raise insurance rates for years, many defendants fight hard to reduce the charge to reckless driving, enter diversion programs that lead to dismissal, or secure a not-guilty verdict. Each pathway has different eligibility rules and timeframes, so sitting down with a DUI defense attorney early in the process is the best way to map out a strategy that keeps your record as clean as possible.
The financial hit from a Florida DUI is rarely a single line item. Start with the court-imposed fines, which run from a few hundred dollars to several thousand depending on aggravating factors such as high BAC, minors in the vehicle, or property damage. Add mandatory DUI school, probation supervision fees, and substance abuse evaluations/treatment. Layer on the cost of ignition interlock devices or continuous alcohol monitors, which rental companies charge monthly plus installation. Insurance premiums (FR-44 insurance) often triple or quadruple for three to five years, easily adding thousands. Missed work for court dates and license suspensions can trigger lost wages, and professional drivers may face total job loss. Legal fees vary with the complexity of the case, expert witnesses, and trial preparation, but can be offset by the value of a well-executed defense that avoids jail, lengthy probation, or a permanent conviction. All told, many first-offense DUI defendants see total costs of eight to fifteen thousand dollars, while cases involving accidents or multiple counts can soar higher. An experienced DUI lawyer can often shrink that figure by challenging weak evidence, negotiating reduced charges, or guiding you into cost-effective diversion programs. You will most likely pay less in the long run if you hire a good DUI lawyer.
Step one: treat your situation as two separate battles unfolding on parallel tracks. The administrative track begins instantly with the suspension notice handed to you at booking. You have ten days to file for a formal review hearing or for a First-Time DUI enroll in DUI school and request an immediate hardship license. Missing that deadline locks the administrative suspension in place for seventy-five years (effectively your life-time), making daily life and court appearances much harder. The criminal track starts with an arraignment, usually scheduled a few weeks out. If you have not hired counsel yet, appear in court, plead Not Guilty, and ask for time to obtain representation. From there, a good DUI attorney will demand discovery, review video evidence, attack probable cause, and file motions to suppress faulty breath, urine, or blood results. Many Florida counties offer diversion programs for first-time offenders that trade classes, counseling, community service, and device installation for a dismissal or reduction. In Pinellas County, it is called the DROP Program. Throughout the process keep documentation organized, finish all court-ordered tasks early, and stay in consistent contact with your lawyer. Skipped deadlines and missed hearings are the fastest way to turn a defensible case into a guaranteed conviction. An experienced DUI lawyer will do most of this for you and walk you through everything else. They will carry the stress so that you don’t have to.
Jail is a real possibility, but most first-offense DUI defendants in the Greater Tampa Bay area avoid time behind bars when the case is handled correctly. Florida statutes allow up to six months in county jail for a standard first DUI, and up to nine months if the breath or blood alcohol level was 0.15 or higher or a minor was in the vehicle. That said, local practice matters. Many prosecutors and judges prefer alternatives such as probation, community service, DUI school, continuous alcohol monitors, and ignition interlock devices, especially when there was no crash or injury. Several counties run pretrial diversion programs that dismiss the DUI after the defendant completes education classes, installs an interlock device, and pays restitution or fines. In Pinellas County, it is called the DROP program. Even where diversion is not offered, an aggressive defense can expose weak probable cause, flawed field sobriety exercises, or mishandled breath samples, prompting the State to reduce the charge to reckless driving or careless driving. The bottom line is that experienced legal counsel makes a substantial difference in steering your case toward a non-jail resolution, keeping your record cleaner, and minimizing collateral damage to employment and insurance.

Your Personal Injury Lawyer In Old Southeast
If you’re navigating the tough terrain of personal injury law in Old Southeast, Florida, know that there’s an abundance of experienced and reputable attorneys in your corner. When choosing your legal advocate, it’s crucial to opt for a lawyer with a profound understanding of the law and a solid history of handling cases akin to yours. The right personal injury attorney will be your guide, providing lucid, actionable legal advice, and fighting tenaciously for the compensation you’re entitled to.
We urge you to reach out to our law firm: Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law for a free strategy session.. Our personal injury lawyers will fight hard to get you the medical care and compensation you or your loved one deserves. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions you may have!

Old Southeast, Florida Personal Injury Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Florida law lets you claim “pain and suffering,” the non-economic damages that cover day-to-day misery, lost enjoyment of life, and sleepless nights. Jurors often connect most with this human story, which is why a skilled personal injury trial lawyer can make the biggest impact here. Your attorney gathers medical records, journals, and witness testimony to explain exactly how the injury changed your life and why the insurance company’s lowball offer is unacceptable. Talk to an experienced trial lawyer early so every setback and hardship is documented and ready for trial or settlement negotiations.
Absolutely. To win a personal injury suit you must prove four things: (1) the defendant owed you a duty of care, (2) they breached that duty, (3) their actions directly caused your injuries, and (4) those injuries cost you money or well-being. Evidence comes from crash reports, surveillance video, expert opinions, and medical bills. An experienced Florida personal injury trial attorney can line up proof, deal with stubborn insurers, and push for full compensation that covers many things such as economic losses and non-economic harms like pain and suffering.
There is no fixed formula. Adjusters, juries, and judges weigh factors like the type of injury, length of recovery, permanent limitations, and emotional fallout. They study medical charts, therapy notes, and your own description of daily struggles. Insurance companies often ignore these non-economic losses and/or apply a low multiplier to past medical bills to save money (often arbitrarily 2 or 3x – for whatever reason), and many ham & egg personal injury lawyers accept that first number. A strong personal injury attorney ignores that arbitrary number presents vivid evidence—photos, videos, day-in-the-life reports—to drive home what the injury stole from you and to justify a higher valuation. Make sure your legal team has a detailed plan for proving pain and suffering, not just past medical bills. You deserve FULL justice, not half justice or three-quarters justice.
Under Florida’s no-fault statute §627.737, a permanent injury falls into one of four categories: (1) significant and lasting loss of an important bodily function; (2) an injury that will not fully heal within medical probability (other than minor scarring); (3) significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement; (4) or death. Proving permanence requires solid medical evidence—MRI results, specialist reports, and expert testimony—showing the injury will affect you for life. The sooner you consult a personal injury lawyer, the faster they can gather records, schedule evaluations, and build a case that meets the statutory threshold for full damages. Note: proving this is required in car crash cases but not in premises liability cases like slip or trip and falls.
Most Florida personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee, meaning they collect nothing unless they recover money for you. The standard range is 33 to 40 percent of the settlement or verdict, depending on whether suit is filed and how far the case advances. Firms advertising deep-discount fees often run on high volume, which can translate into rushed evaluations, limited communication, and lower settlements. When you interview an attorney, ask about the exact percentage, which case expenses come out of your share, and how often you will speak directly with the lawyer rather than a staff member. Top trial lawyers rarely bargain down their fee because their experience and negotiating power tend to grow the total recovery. In most cases, paying the full market rate for a proven advocate leaves more money in your pocket after costs are settled.