Tampa Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

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Olivia M. Goodman

Olivia M. Goodman

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Biography

Olivia M. Goodman, Esquire is a partner at O’Brien Hatfield, PA, and is a recognized criminal appellate attorney in the State of Florida. She files state and federal criminal appeals on behalf of individuals convicted of state and federal crimes in the State of Florida and throughout the country.

What is your educational background?

I completed my undergraduate coursework at University of Maryland, College Park, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Family Science. I served as a volunteer campus educator for the sexual assault response office, leading large-scale interactive discussions to ensure that all students understand their rights with respect to contact with the criminal justice system. In addition to my studies and volunteer efforts, I always worked as a server in local restaurants to support myself. More than ten years spent working in the hospitality industry taught me so much that I carry into to my legal practice today, including the value of hard work and humanity.

Where did you attend law school?

Following my undergraduate degree, I was awarded the merit-based Presidential Scholarship to attend the University of Florida Levin College of Law. I earned Dean's List honors each semester and the Book Award for academic excellence with the highest grade in my Social Science, Crime, and Law course. I achieved this all while continuing to work to support myself through law school. After law school, I passed the Florida bar exam on my first attempt. Though I have been privileged in many ways, I never stop pushing myself to work harder and accomplish more.

Why did you decide to become a lawyer?

From my educational background with a focus in human services, I knew I could never be fulfilled with a passive role in a broken system. I needed to use my gifts to fight for a better world, every single day. Law school was the clear choice. I knew immediately that I was exactly where I belong.

Why did you choose to practice criminal defense?

I find great joy and meaning in providing a voice to those who have been silenced. As a criminal attorney, I understand that my clients place enormous trust in my hands to fight for them in scary and difficult situations. This is an honor to be taken seriously. I always strive to be the lawyer I would want on my own team or assisting someone that I love. I am a compassionate, creative, and relentless advocate in my pursuit to achieve the best possible result.

Did you intern while in law school?

I served as a law clerk for the United States Attorney's Office in Baltimore, Maryland. I assisted with complex federal jury trials in all areas of criminal law, including RICO, homicide, and federal prison corruption and abuse. This was an invaluable learning experience which provided me with first-hand exposure as to how intimidating and callous the criminal justice system is with respect to those accused. I knew from the time that I was a law student that I would dedicate my life to helping people navigate these challenges.

Education

  • University of Florida Levin College of Law, Gainesville, Florida
    • Juris Doctor
    • Honors: cum laude
    • Honors: Book Award for academic excellence with the highest grade in my Social Science, Crime, and Law course
    • Honors: Dean's List honors each semester
    • Honors: Presidential Scholarship
  • University of Maryland
    • B.S.
    • Major: Family Science

Bar Admissions

  • Florida

Past Positions

  • Rissman, Barrett, Hurt, Donahue, McLain, & Mangan, P.A., Associate Attorney