The author spotlight

Brett M.
Schwartz, Esq.

Founding Partner • Hager & Schwartz, P.A.

A Miami perspective on criminal defense, shaped by experience on both sides of the courtroom.

Explore the firm’s legal insights
Brett M. Schwartz, founding partner of Hager & Schwartz, P.A.
Born and raised in Miami, Florida Criminal defense

Experience & areas of focus

DUI & traffic offenses

Experience with DUI prosecutions and the evidence behind a traffic stop.

Misdemeanors & felonies

A background spanning drug, theft, battery and other criminal charges.

Courtroom procedure

Trial experience in Miami-Dade County and Circuit Courts.

Behind the perspective

A career rooted in Miami’s courts.

Watching his father defend clients in Miami’s criminal courts sparked Brett’s interest in the law. He went on to become a prosecutor before moving into criminal defense.

Today, his work as a founding partner is grounded in understanding each client’s circumstances, proactive preparation and direct communication.

View Brett’s full attorney profile

EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

Early career

Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office

Served as an Assistant State Attorney, handling misdemeanor and felony cases and developing his criminal trial practice.

Law school

South Texas College of Law

Earned his Juris Doctorate; participated in trial advocacy and national mock trial competitions.

Undergraduate

University of Miami • 1994

Earned his bachelor’s degree and co-founded the University’s Pre-Legal Society.

Professional service

The Florida Bar

Appointed to a grievance committee, where he served for three consecutive years.

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.

Browse all articles

What Are Federal Sentencing Guidelines in Fort Lauderdale?

December 17, 2025

Learn how federal sentencing guidelines are calculated in Florida, what affects your range, and how our former prosecutors fight for reduced penalties.

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Drug Possession: Actual vs. Constructive in Fort Lauderdale

December 17, 2025

Learn how Florida handles actual and constructive drug possession and what matters when you had no knowledge of the substances in Fort Lauderdale cases.

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Can You Go to Jail for Using Someone Else’s Credit Card in Florida?

December 8, 2025

Unauthorized use of a credit card in Florida can result in felony charges and jail time. Learn penalties, defenses, and when to call a lawyer.

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Can a Probation Violation Be Dismissed?

October 5, 2025

Facing a probation violation in Fort Lauderdale? Read our blog to learn when charges may be dismissed and why fast action with a skilled attorney is essential.

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How Investigators Detect False Documents in Bankruptcy Cases

August 17, 2025

Filing for bankruptcy is often a stressful and personal choice involving serious legal and financial effects. However, when documents submitted

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What Should I Do After a Gun-Related Charge in Florida?

July 13, 2025

Arrested for a gun charge in Florida? Learn what to do next and how a skilled defense lawyer can protect your rights and future. Free consultation.

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What’s the Difference Between Aggravated Assault and Battery in Florida?

June 8, 2025

If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for a violent offense in Florida, you may have heard the terms

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What are the Penalties for Manufacturing Controlled Substances in Florida?

May 12, 2025

Facing drug manufacturing charges in Florida? Learn how penalties are determined, what defenses may apply, and how a lawyer can help protect your rights.

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What Is the Legal Blood Alcohol Limit for Boating in Florida?

April 28, 2025

Florida’s warm weather and expansive waterways make it one of the most popular places in the country for boating. Boating

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When reading isn’t enough

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