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
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
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South Texas College of Law
Earned his Juris Doctorate; participated in trial advocacy and national mock trial competitions.
- Undergraduate
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University of Miami • 1994
Earned his bachelor’s degree and co-founded the University’s Pre-Legal Society.
- Professional service
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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.
Hager & Schwartz, P.A. Named a 2026 Best of Florida Winner
August 31, 2026
Guide to Florida has named Hager & Schwartz, P.A. a 2026 Best of Florida winner in the Criminal Defense Firms
Read MoreWhat Evidence Can Be Thrown Out in a Criminal Case?
May 3, 2026
Learn when evidence can be excluded in Florida criminal cases and how Hager & Schwartz, P.A., challenges unlawful police conduct.
Read MoreWhat Happens at a First Appearance Hearing in Florida?
May 3, 2026
Arrested in Florida? Hager & Schwartz, P.A. explains first appearance hearings, bond, and release. Read our blog for more.
Read MoreCan Charges Be Dropped Before Formal Charges Are Filed?
May 3, 2026
Can charges be dropped before filing in Florida? Learn when cases are rejected, what prosecutors review, and how early defense may help.
Read MoreWhat Happens After You’re Arrested for a Felony in Florida?
May 3, 2026
Learn what happens after a felony arrest in Florida, from booking to trial. Understand the process, timelines, and what to expect next.
Read MoreCan Mental Health Be Used as a Defense in a Criminal Case? What You Need to Know
May 3, 2026
Can mental health be used as a defense in a criminal case? Learn how Florida law treats insanity, competency, and sentencing mitigation.
Read MoreInsurance Fraud Investigations in Florida: SIU, Recorded Statements, and Common Traps
February 28, 2026
Learn how insurance fraud investigations in Florida work, including SIU reviews, recorded statements, and when charges may follow.
Read MoreDigital Search Warrants in Sex Crime Investigations: What Florida Defense Lawyers Challenge
February 16, 2026
Digital search warrants play a major role in sex crime cases. Learn how devices are searched, common warrant flaws, and how defense lawyers challenge digital evidence.
Read MoreWhat Happens If I Miss a Theft Court Date in Volusia County?
January 18, 2026
Failed to appear for a theft charge in Volusia County? Understand local court consequences, potential penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.
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.
