MUSCA LAW - Key Persons
It is a common belief among criminal defense attorneys that an attorney should not get too invested or sweat the outcome of a particular case. Adam Lewinson has never followed this advice. In his six years of practice, he has used trial advocacy, motion practice, and mitigation to get his clients the results they want and deserve.
Mr. Lewinson grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. When he was in high school, his mother died suddenly of a prescription drug overdose. The heartbreak he felt turned into a strong sense of empathy and compassion for individuals who have made mistakes. This empathy developed into a passion to practice criminal defense.
Mr. Lewinson would go on to graduate Cum Laude from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in Written and Oral Communications. He then obtained his Juris Doctor degree from Florida International School of Law where he finished in the top 10% of his class.
While in law school, Mr. Lewinson was awarded the Joseph A. Reyes Scholarship for his commitment to public service in criminal justice. This public service included his work in the Death Penalty Clinic where he assisted public defenders across Florida to fight for the lives of clients facing the death penalty. He also worked as a Certified Legal Intern at the Miami-Dade Public Defender's Office and an intern for the criminal defense firm Finnell, Mcguiness, Nezami & Andux in Jacksonville, Florida.
Upon graduating law school, Mr. Lewinson accepted a job in Orlando at the Office of the Public Defender for the Ninth Judicial Circuit. For more than five years he successfully represented thousands of indigent clients in County and Circuit Court, including juvenile and adult clients charged with traffic, misdemeanor and felony offenses. These offenses include clients charged with DUIs, drug possession, drug trafficking, theft, sexually motivated crimes, battery, traffic related cases, white collar crime, violations of probation and more.
Andrew McGann is originally from San Clemente, CA, not far from where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice at Chico State in 2012, and his Paralegal Certificate in 2013. He found his way to southwest Florida when he attended Ava Maria School of Law in Naples, from which he received his law degree in 2016. Mr. McGann demonstrated his desire to serve others while volunteering at Chico State with the Community Legal Information Center and later at the Collier County Public Defender's Office.
Mr. McGann accepted a full-time position at the 20 th Judicial Circuit for Collier County, FL in 2017, where he represented thousands of indigent defendants in misdemeanor and felony cases. He left the Public Defender's office to join the Ticket Clinic for a year but found he missed his calling to work in public service. At Musca Law, Mr. McGann will represent those requiring legal assistance with issues tied to DUI Administrative Suspensions and DUI Administrative Suspensions.
Attorney Brian Wolk was raised in Alaska, and graduated from the University of Alaska, Anchorage with a Bachelor's Degree in mathematics. Brian then went into the United States Marine Corps where he proudly served his country as an Intelligence officer, taking part in numerous operations across the globe for which he earned various meritorious commendations and medals.
After getting out the Marines, Brian attended the University of Akron School of Law in Ohio. While in law school he noticed many speed-traps throughout the state of Ohio, and so authored the book, Ohio Traffic Tickets are for the Birds: a Practical Defense Manual, which reached number 1 as the best-selling traffic-ticket defense book and helped many to fight for their rights.
Mr. Wolk brought this fighting spirit that he learned in the Marine Corps to his practice of law, where he prides himself on championing the rights of those accused of crimes. He has been practicing Criminal Defense Law in Florida now for 20 years, and has substantial experience in all phases, aspects and levels of criminal defense. Brian is fond of saying, "Whatever the best result is, no matter how well-hidden by the government it might be, we're going to find out what it is and we're going to get it. Period!"
Brian is a "people person," likes to talk with his clients about their cases and knows the importance of keeping his clients well-informed of their cases while working closely with them to achieve the results they want to achieve. Whether it's a traffic ticket hearing or felony trial, Mr. Wolk can be counted on to be there to fight for his client.
Attorney Brook O'Sullivan is an experienced trial attorney with more than 15 years of experience in criminal law. She graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2000, with a Bachelor of Arts in both Political Science, and Communications. Additionally, she attended the University of Barcelona, Spain for a year abroad. She attended Loyola University, College of Law and graduated in 2004.
Attorney O'Sullivan became an Assistant State Attorney Prosecutor, and served as such until 2009. After leaving the State Attorney's Office, she founded two private criminal defense law firms. In 2016, Attorney O'Sullivan relocated to Brevard County and from 2016 through the winter of 2019 she served as an Assistant Public Defender until 2019. Attorney O'Sullivan has experience and knowledge of criminal law and procedure, and has handled all types of criminal cases in many different counties throughout the State of Florida, including DUIs, burglaries, robberies, sexual battery, drug trafficking, homicide, domestic violence, theft, and racketeering.
Throughout her career, Attorney O'Sullivan has tried many criminal cases to verdict, often resulting in acquittals for her clients. Attorney O'Sullivan has been highly successful throughout her career in litigating pre-trial motions and obtaining dismissals and favorable results for her clients.
Attorney O'Sullivan aggressively fights for her clients both in and out of the courtroom through her knowledge, experience, dedication, and compassion. This is what makes her an excellent attorney and advocate for her clients.
Since becoming a licensed Florida attorney in 2005, Ms Gooden worked with the Public Defender's Office in the First Judicial Circuit. There, she gained extensive trial experience during her tenure in the public sector. At one point, she tried as many as 12 cases in 8 days. She then furthered her experience in private practice in both criminal and civil litigation. Her abilities are not only in trial, but also in thoroughly preparing the case, negotiating with the State Prosecutor, and working closely with both clients and their loved ones. Although no attorney can guarantee an outcome in a case, Ms Gooden promises to be the type of attorney you "can swear by, not at". She prides herself on maintaining active communication with her clients, and doing everything she can to secure favorable outcomes, both inside and out of court. Her motto is "Leave No Stone Unturned" in the preparation and eventual resolution of each and every client's case.
Darryl Mitchell is passionate about criminal defense. Attorney Mitchell believes in integrity and being passionately invested in his client's legal problems. He is caring and sees himself as a problem solver, dedicated to doing everything possible to help clients get a second chance.
After graduating from North Shore High School in West Palm Beach, Florida, in 1978, Darryl Mitchell attended the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on a basketball scholarship, earning a B.A degree in Political Science. He then attended William Mitchell College of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota earning a J.D degree in 1993. While in law school, Mr. Mitchell developed a passion for criminal and the victim's rights and as a result spent his first four years as a Broward County State Attorney, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
As an Assistant State Attorney, Darryl prosecuted all types of criminal conduct for the 17 th Judicial Circuit. As a result of Darryl's experience as a trial prosecutor, Darryl recognized the inequities on the defense and, after four years with the Broward County State Attorney's office, left the office to defend those accused of felonies, misdemeanors, DUIs, and juvenile cases. He also licensed to practice in the Southern District of Florida.
Mr. Mitchell joined the Musca Law team in December of 2020. Mr. Mitchell, with twenty years of experience in criminal law, looks forward to defending the wrongly accused, counseling and guiding those unfamiliar with the criminal justice process.
In his spare time, Darryl is a basketball coach and referee, as well as a baseball and softball umpire.
Attorney Ritter has made a life-long career of the practice of law. He has been practicing for over 36 years and has focused his career on protecting one's sense of community by handling the buying, selling, and securing of one's home or business.
Attorney Ritter has extensive experience representing homeowners, developers, and small businesses in the acquisition, sale, development, leasing, and financing of office, commercial, and residential properties.
As a real estate attorney in the current market, Gary also focuses heavily on foreclosure defense, short sale transactions, and loan modifications.
Gary is licensed to practice in Florida, Massachusetts, the Federal Court for the Middle District of Florida and the United States Supreme Court. He graduated from Suffolk University Law School in Boston in 1976 and Boston College in 1969.
Only an experienced Florida real estate attorney like Gary Ritter can provide you with a comprehensive legal and financial game plan customized to fit your unique situation.
Harley Brook received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida with high honors and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Florida's Levin College of Law in 2002. During his nearly 20 years of practicing law, Mr. Brook served as a prosecutor for the State Attorney's Office and later defended numerous family law and criminal defense cases while operating his own law firm.
In addition, Mr. Brook has previously served as a traffic hearing officer, having heard and ruled on thousands of traffic ticket cases. He is a member of the Florida Bar, the United States Middle District, Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Lee County Bar Association, and Collier County Bar Association.
A revered attorney, social activist, and community leader, Irvin Daphnis has carved an influential path in the realm of law and social justice. His journey, beginning as the President of the Miami-Dade NAACP Youth Council, and now manifesting as a distinguished attorney, reflects his unique vision for a world anchored in equality, compassion, and the pursuit of excellence.
Born in Queens, New York, to Haitian immigrants, Irvin was brought up alongside his three brothers in an environment where education's importance was heavily emphasized. This deeply instilled value guided him to Oakwood College in Huntsville, Alabama, where he graduated with a degree in Religion, reinforcing his empathetic spirit.
Driven by his conviction to serve, Irvin pursued a law degree at Hofstra University School of Law in Hempstead, New York. His academic journey saw him graduating with honors in Trial Advocacy, a testament to his dedication and prowess. He further demonstrated his leadership by serving two terms as the President of the Student Bar Association.
Fluent in both French and Creole, Irvin transitioned smoothly into the South Florida legal arena, starting his career at the West Palm Beach Public Defender's Office. Today, he holds a prominent role as a full time staff attorney of Musca Law. He focuses intensely and exclusively on criminal defense cases of all types, from traffic tickets to first-degree murder.
Beyond his professional commitments, Irvin contributes significantly to his community. As the current Vice President of the Haitian Lawyers Association, he has played a pivotal role in organizing Temporary Protected Status seminars at churches and other community locales.
Irvin Daphnis is a beacon of empowerment and guidance, often sought as a public speaker and attorney. His influential voice resonates not only in the United States but also across the globe, making him a distinguished figure among the gifted generation of legal practitioners.
Mr. Daphnis now resides in Jacksonville, and is passionately committed to representing clients accused of all misdemeanor and felony cases in the area, on behalf of Musca Law Firm.
Jared believes that the rights of the accused are precious, and must be protected at all cost. His passion in protecting those rights and defending his clients is matched only by the pleasure he takes in obtaining victory on their cases. Jared thrives practicing only criminal defense in Monroe County, where he is known and respected by local attorneys, prosecutors and court officials alike.
Mr. Wilson is born and raised in Panama City, Florida. He graduated from University of Central Florida with a bachelors in Legal Studies. Additionally, he graduated from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University School of Law with his Juris Doctorate.
Attorney Wilson early career was spent with the State Attorney Office in the 9th circuit where he developed a passion in Criminal Law. His assistance at the State Attorney Office provided the foundation to be a strong advocate for all clients in the firm. After passing the bar exam, Attorney Wilson expanded his legal experience working in contract law.
The preparation and foundation has provided Attorney Wilson with the ability to handle your case and achieve the best outcome possible.
Attorney Wilson looks forward to being a service to you. "Mr. Wilson is born and raised in Panama City, Florida. He graduated from University of Central Florida with a bachelors in Legal Studies. Additionally, he graduated from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University School of Law with his Juris Doctorate.
Attorney Wilson early career was spent with the State Attorney Office in the 9th circuit where he developed a passion in Criminal Law. His assistance at the State Attorney Office provided the foundation to be a strong advocate for all clients in the firm. After passing the bar exam, Attorney Wilson expanded his legal experience working in contract law.
The preparation and foundation has provided Attorney Wilson with the ability to handle your case and achieve the best outcome possible.
Jill Barger is an experienced attorney licensed in the State of Florida. As member of the Florida Bar since 1987, Ms. Barger provides legal counsel and effective representation to all her clients.
30 years' experience, extensive trial practice - she will take your case all the way to a jury if need be!
She has appeared in courtrooms all over Florida, including Clay County, St. Johns County, Duval County, and various other counties throughout the State of Florida.
Jill is proud of her great working relationships with court personnel, Judges, State Attorneys, Defense Counsel and law enforcement.
Prior to opening his criminal defense law firm in 2001, John Musca served as a Public Defender in the 20th Judicial Circuit of Florida. Since devoting his legal career to criminal defense, his practice has grown and now has nine operating office throughout Florida. Musca Law projects future growth and hopes to offer full-service criminal defense to all of Florida. John doesn't merely consider his criminal defense practice as a job, but he describes it as his passion. Attorney Musca and the other Florida criminal defense lawyers at Musca Law are committed to providing clients with outstanding legal service and have a track record of success and client satisfaction to prove the quality of their work.
Throughout his legal career, Musca has tried over 100 criminal cases from beginning to end. He offers an aggressive defense strategy that focuses on the strengths of his clients' cases and works to exploit any weaknesses in the case of the prosecution. Licensed to practice law in the United States Federal Court, Southern District of Florida and the state of Florida, Attorney Musca is prepared and equipped to assist you with your criminal defense matter anywhere in the state of Florida.
Graduating from Boston College in 1994, Musca finished his studies cum laude. In 1997, he went on to complete his Juris Doctor at the Case Western University School of Law. As a fluent Spanish speaker, he has also attended international language and legal studies overseas at the world-renowned "Instituto Internacional" in Madrid, Spain.
In addition to his criminal defense practice, Mr. Musca is also involved in local organizations, providing impoverished clients legal services. As a criminal defense attorney, Musca is in the business of protecting the rights and interests of his clients. He started Musca Law with the goal of offering quality legal representation. You have his word that we will fight hard on your behalf - and that he will fight to win.
After graduating from Choctawhatchee High School in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, in 1981, Jonathan Dingus attended the Florida State University, earning a B.S. degree in Psychology and Mathematics. He then attended the University of Florida College of Law, earning a J.D. degree in 1988. After working in the Public Defenders Office in Lake City in 1989-90, he worked for the State Attorneys Office in Panama City Florida from 1990 to 2000, serving as a supervisor in the County Court division, the Juvenile Division, and the Sex Crimes Divisions during his tenure there.
In January of 2000, he opened his private practice, which he still is the owner of presently. He has a wide scope of cases that he has represented people for, including divorce, child support, child custody, and all different types of criminal cases, in State and Federal Court.
He has been Board Certified by the Florida Bar in Criminal Trial Law since 1999 and has held a "BV" rating for the past 15 years with Martindale-Hubbell. In addition to his practice, he serves as a special magistrate judge for both the City of Panama City and Bay County, Florida.
In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Kellie, and their 4 children.
Joseph C. Warren has handled thousands of criminal cases and has over 25 years of experience in criminal trial practice. During his years of practice, Mr. Warren has represented many clients in criminal cases in both Circuit and County Courts. Before joining the Musca Law Firm, Mr. Warren worked both as a prosecutor and defense attorney. As a prosecutor, Mr. Warren handled all types of criminal cases including Governor assignment cases in Brevard, Sumter, and Marion counties. As a criminal defense attorney, Mr. Warren has defended the accused in every phase of the case, from intake through trial. Mr. Warren is an experienced trial attorney, having tried over 60 cases to jury verdict.
Mr. Warren received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida and his law degree from the Levin College of Law at the University of Florida.
Mr. Warren is committed to providing a personal and thorough advocacy for each of his clients. Mr. Warren strives to make sure that each client understands and is aware of the many aspects and defenses of their case. He understands that your liberty is your most valuable possession and is dedicated to doing his utmost to help you keep it.
Ms. Celine Cannon earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and practiced in that field for eight years before law school. Ms. Cannon earned her Juris Doctorate from Stetson University College of Law where she was a member of the Moot Court Board and held the position of Chief Justice, 1998-1999. She completed a Federal Judicial Internship and served as a Program Liaison-Federal Judicial Internship Program for the U.S. District for the Middle District of Florida.
Celine Cannon has joined Musca Law Firm after serving as a General Magistrate in Seminole County with the 18th Judicial Circuit. Before serving as a General Magistrate, Ms. Cannon served clients through her private practice October 2006 through August 2019. As a General Practitioner, Ms. Cannon was able to represent clients in various Criminal Law cases. Ms. Cannon has extensive experience with the Department of Children and Families and the Guardian ad Litem Program. Ms. Cannon believes in the judicial system and considers it an honor to be an advocate for those who need legal representation - always prepared to zealously defend.