I was born and raised in a small town in rural Wisconsin where the majority of my family still lives. I received my Bachelors of Science Degree in Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in 1984. After I graduated, I moved to Florida and attended Florida State University of Law from 1985 to 1988. After graduation I worked at the Seminole and Brevard County Public Defender’s Office where I developed my litigation skills.
In 1990, I was approached by the leading criminal defense law firm in Brevard County and offered a job. I worked there from 1990 to 1995, handling murder, sexual battery, drug trafficking, and other serious felony cases in addition to misdemeanor offenses including DUI, Drug Possession and Domestic Violence.
In 1995 I opened my own practice, the Law Office of James Kontos, and have been a sole practitioner ever since. I have extensive trial experience and the majority of my new cases are the result of referrals from past clients; other attorneys; or people in the court system who are familiar with my work and reputation.
My philosophy is to represent clients as I would want to be represented if I were facing a criminal charge. I understand the police can jump to conclusions and that many of their investigations result in a violation of an individual’s constitutional rights.
I believe a criminal defense attorney must be aggressive in challenging the government’s witnesses and evidence and be willing to fight for causes and clients others may perceive to be unpopular. I pride myself on filing innovative motions that challenge the government’s case and being fully prepared for every possibility. I believe preparation is the key to success. What you see in court that may seem to be unplanned is more likely the result of hours of painstaking research to learn the facts of the case and the law inside and out.
