Meet Daniell Barbato, our Featured Attorney of the Week.
Immediately prior to joining BM&M I focused on family law cases including divorce, paternity, and adoption. This practice area was challenging and allowed for me to strengthen my creative problem solving skills with each case. Before that I practiced exclusively criminal defense. My initial contact with clients frequently occurred after arrest and began at initial appearance. My representation continued to bond, evidentiary, and other pretrial motions through the conclusion of a jury trial or plea. Over the years I have worked on nearly every type of crime that exists in Florida. I have handled statewide matters involving complex RICO prosecutions that spanned many counties and had dozens of codefendants. I have years of experience taking high level felonies, including first degree murders and sex crimes, to trial. One of the trials most widely covered by local media I have conducted involved the direct filing of several juveniles into adult court after the beating death of another juvenile. In addition to my trial experience, the volume of cases I have worked on has given me a unique perspective on finding issues for motions prior to trial or plea.
I have spent the vast majority of my career practicing criminal defense. After nearly a decade, and several back-to-back murder cases, I decided to practice family law, doing primarily divorces and paternity cases. It did not take long for me to realize my true passion is with criminal defense and I find it to be the most rewarding area to practice in both personally and professionally.
I was inspired to become an attorney after my first speech class in high school. It was the first time I was asked to advocate for a position that did not also align with my personal beliefs. Turns out, the ability to objectively evaluate an issue then persuasively advocate for a specific solution came naturally to me.
A summer internship at the juvenile division of the local public defender’s office during my second year of law school inspired me to change my professional course towards defending the rights of those accused of crimes. I think the most common misconception about criminal defense is that a person can be reduced to a split-second decision. Every person I have had the pleasure of representing was so much more than the actions they were accused of, they were hard working employees, considerate neighbors, loyal friends and so much more.
To consult with an experienced family law lawyer today, call 855-780-9986
My greatest strength as an attorney is my ability to adjust course with each unexpected event. Any legal process can be intimidating and overwhelming, and it is important to know what the best strategy is to achieve your desired outcome. I am able to approach a situation that may seem to have gone off course without losing focus on the options available and crafting creative solutions. I also appreciate that one size does not fit all, and similarly, one approach does not fit every case. I like to think of myself as my clients’ aggressive cheerleader who can fight to get things done without a scorched earth approach.
My favorite thing about practicing law is making a difference in someone’s life. The realization from a client when they see just how much I am really fighting for them and truly trying to protect them is a truly rewarding thing. I do not believe in doing anything mediocre, I fight each case – no matter how small it may seem, with everything I have.
My absolute dream job would be as a marine biologist, I have always been fascinated by the underwater world, in particularly with sharks. Swimming alongside giant whale sharks in faraway oceans would be an amazing occupation.
I enjoy running, yoga, and spending time relaxing in the backyard with my children. I am married to my high school sweetheart. I am active on the Keep Winter Park Beautiful and Sustainable Advisory Board as well as the League of Women Voter’s Juvenile Justice Committee.
Call or text 855-780-9986 or submit our Consultation Request form today
