Brian Penney
Criminal Defense Attorney

Meet Brian | Criminal Defense Lawyer

Brian is a dedicated criminal defense lawyer at OrlandoDefense, bringing intensive trial experience, a client-first communication philosophy, and a history of fierce courtroom advocacy to the firm. Admitted to the State Bar of Florida in 2021, Brian possesses deep regional insight into local judicial systems, having represented clients across multiple jurisdictions from Putnam County to Osceola County. He focuses on a broad range of criminal defense cases, successfully steering individuals through challenging legal scenarios from initial charges to trial verdicts.

Before joining OrlandoDefense, Brian developed rigorous courtroom experience as an Assistant Public Defender in Volusia County, Florida. This foundational background allowed him to master local court procedures, hone calculated negotiation strategies, and build a reputation as a dedicated advocate inside and outside the courtroom. Today, he leverages this background to build robust defense strategies for clients facing both misdemeanor and felony allegations.

Legal Credentials and Education

Brian’s academic and professional qualifications form the backbone of his legal practice, combining a strong business foundation with intensive legal training tailored to Florida's criminal justice system.

Bar Admissions

• State Bar of Florida, Admitted 2021

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) – FAMU College of Law, 2021

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) – Bentley University, 2014

Areas of Focus and Trial Experience

Brian’s trial practice is defined by its breadth and its results. Believing that no criminal case is too small or too challenging to merit a vigorous defense, he treats every client with equal dedication. His experience spans the entire spectrum of criminal law, securing numerous "Not Guilty" verdicts across a diverse array of charges.

Criminal Defense Focus Areas

• Felony Defense – Managing serious state charges, high-stakes evidence, and strict statutory penalties to protect long-term freedoms.

• Misdemeanor Representation – Defending individuals against standard offenses, making sure that minor charges do not permanently derail a client's future.

• Trial Practice and Litigation – Constructing compelling courtroom arguments, cross-examining witnesses, and delivering clear narratives before judges and juries.

• Strategic Negotiations – Assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the state's case to negotiate favorable reductions or alternative resolutions when trial is not the optimal path.

Brian has successfully managed cases throughout the Central Florida region. His extensive geographical footprint means that whether a case is filed in Volusia County, Osceola County, or Putnam County, clients benefit from a lawyer who knows the nuances of the local circuits.

A Client-First Philosophy Built on Communication

One of the foundational principles of Brian’s practice is rewriting the traditional lawyer-client dynamic through transparency, personal respect, and consistent accessibility. Recognizing that a lack of communication is a primary grievance for individuals seeking legal counsel, Brian makes it a priority to explain the legal system clearly for his clients and their families

From the moment he is retained, Brian invests the time necessary to make sure his clients completely comprehend their constitutional rights, the procedural steps of their specific case, and the long-term implications of their choices. By pairing a compassionate approach with realistic legal counsel, he empowers clients to make informed, confident decisions about their futures. He approaches every case as a partnership, making sure that no client ever feels ignored or left in the dark during a stressful legal crisis.