The author spotlight
John S.
Hager, Esq.
Founding Partner • Hager & Schwartz, P.A.
A South Florida perspective on criminal defense, shaped by hundreds of trials on both sides of the courtroom.
Explore the firm’s legal insights
Experience & areas of focus
DUI & domestic violence
Prosecution experience with DUI, domestic violence and battery cases, and the evidence they turn on.
Serious felony charges
A background spanning robbery, aggravated assault and battery, sexual battery, drug and theft offenses.
Trial experience
Hundreds of cases tried to verdict in County and Circuit Courts.
Behind the perspective
A career built in the courtroom.
John’s path to the courtroom began in law school, where he was heavily involved in trial advocacy. Immediately after graduating, he became a prosecutor and handled thousands of cases, from DUI and domestic violence to robbery, juvenile matters and probation violations, before moving into criminal defense.
Today, as a founding partner, he brings that understanding of how cases are built and prosecuted to every client he represents, along with a longstanding commitment to the South Florida criminal defense bar.
View John’s full attorney profile
EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
- Early career
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State Prosecutor
Handled thousands of misdemeanor and felony cases and tried hundreds of cases to verdict in County and Circuit Courts.
- Law school
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Nova Southeastern University
Earned his Juris Doctorate; heavily involved in trial advocacy.
- Undergraduate
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University of Florida
Earned his undergraduate degree before pursuing a career in law.
- Professional service
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Broward County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
Served as Vice President from 2000 to 2005 and as President in 2015; has also served on a Florida Bar grievance committee.
From the firm’s blog
Make sense of what comes next.
Recommended reading from Hager & Schwartz, P.A. Explore the questions that arise during an investigation, in court and after a criminal charge.
When is a DUI Considered a Felony?
November 23, 2020
Although most DUI charges are classified as misdemeanors, there are certain instances in which someone may be given a felony sentence.
Read MoreFlorida DUIs: What Not to Say to Police When Pulled Over
November 13, 2020
Ever wondered how you shouldn’t react to getting pulled over for DUI suspicion? Our Broward defense attorneys explain the top three worst things you can do.
Read MoreBroward County Diversion Programs
October 27, 2020
Read our blog or contact Hager & Schwartz, P.A. today to learn about the diversion programs available in Broward County for misdemeanor and felony offenders.
Read MoreThe Most Common Crimes Committed on Halloween
October 22, 2020
This candy-filled holiday can result in dozens of arrests around the country. Here is a quick guide on which crimes are committed at higher rates on October 31.
Read MoreThe Consequences of Juvenile Vandalism
October 19, 2020
What is considered property damage? Juvenile vandalism and graffiti are considered serious offenses in the state of Florida and may result in severe consequences.
Read MoreCarrying a Weapon While Committing a Crime Is a Felony
September 30, 2020
If you have a gun or other weapon on you while committing a felony, you’ll be charged with a second felony. Visit our blog to learn more.
Read MoreFree Speech vs. Disorderly Conduct: Know Your Rights
September 22, 2020
Understanding your free speech rights and what constitutes disorderly conduct can help you avoid an arrest. Hager & Schwartz, P.A. explain what you need to know.
Read MoreHow to Handle Your First Criminal Charge
September 4, 2020
Being arrested and facing criminal charges, especially for the first time, can be a harrowing experience. Hager & Schwartz, P.A. explains what you can expect.
Read MoreAdditional Penalties Imposed When a Gun Is Used or Possessed During a Drug Trafficking Crime
August 28, 2020
If a person has a gun on them or uses a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, they can be subject to additional penalties. Learn more on our blog.
Read MoreWhen reading isn’t enough
Let’s talk about your situation.
A criminal charge is personal. Speak with our team about the facts of your case in a free, confidential consultation.
