James Richard Barnes

James Richard Barnes

Google Rating

4.7(144 reviews)

  • 816 E. La Rua St. Pensacola, FL 32501
  • +1-850-444-7444
  • No email available
Family Law, Criminal Law

About:

James Barnes has been practicing law in Pensacola and surrounding areas for thirty-two years. His legal expertise is the result of having tried more than 150 jury trials. His defense method has procured proven results due to 9,000+ dismissals, favorable plea dispositions, not guilty verdicts and unmatched trial success rate. One of his cases achieved national attention and was featured on CNN and CourtTV. He has extensive experience resulting from many years, both, representing and defending many types of legal actions. Every county and courthouse has its own way of doing things. Based on James Barnes' experience and diverse involvement in the legal community, he has inside access which routinely provides face to face access to judges and prosecutors. Throughout his career, he has developed trusting relationships with judges, prosecutors and court staff. In fact, James Barnes has earned a reputation by many judges, prosecutors and attorneys as being one of the best criminal defense attorneys in the area. These connections have taught him the most effective ways to successfully defend your legal matter. All of these factors beneficially serve his clients and produce successful results. In the crowded world of criminal defense law, it is common for attorneys to make big, loud promises but not deliver. If you or someone you know has been accused or arrested for a crime, there is a great need for experienced legal advice from a dependable criminal defense attorney. Hiring the right attorney is the most important decision you will make. Who you choose can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Allow James Barnes the opportunity to guide you through the complexities of your legal situation. He provide his clients with personalized service, effective legal representation and positive results.

Jurisdiction:Florida

Practice Area

Family Law

Handles divorce, custody, parenting time, and support with DV-informed safety planning, temporary orders, safe exchanges, discovery protections, and long-term financial stability.

Criminal Law

Guides reporting, evidence, bail conditions, no-contact orders, prosecutions or defenses, and record sealing, centering survivor safety and informed participation across the criminal process.

Languages

English

Fees

Free Consultation

Education

J.D.
University of Mississippi
1990

Awards

BV
Martindale-Hubbell
2017
TOP ATTORNEY
Avvo
2019
Client Champion - Platinum
Martindale-Hubbell
2022
Client Champion - Platinum
Martindale-Hubbell
2019
TOP ATTORNEY
Avvo
2024
Client Champion - Platinum
Martindale-Hubble
2023
Million Dollar Advocate
Million Dollar Advocates Forum
2013
Client Champion - Platinum
Martindale-Hubbell
2025
TOP 5%
America's Most Honored Lawyers
2020
TOP 5%
America's Most Honored Professionals
2019
Client's Choice
Avvo
2020
Client Champion - Platinum
Martindale-Hubbell
2024
A+ Accredited Business
Better Business Bureau
Client's Choice
Avvo
2021
Client's Choice
Avvo
2017
TOP 100
The National Trial Lawyers
2020
TOP ATTORNEY
Avvo
2017
Client's Choice
Avvo
2022
TOP 5%
America's Most Honored Professionals
2017
TOP ATTORNEY
Avvo
2020
TOP ATTORNEY
Avvo
2021
Client's Choice
Avvo
2016
Pro Bono Award
Escambia / Santa Rosa Bar Association
1994
TOP 1%
America's Most Honored Professionals
2018
TOP ATTORNEY
Avvo
2023
Client Champion - Platinum
Martindale-Hubble
2020
Client's Choice
Avvo
2019
TOP ATTORNEY
Avvo
2022
Distinguished
Martindale-Hubbell
2018
Client Champion - Platinum
Martindale-Hubbell
2021
Client's Choice
Avvo
2024
TOP ATTORNEY
Avvo
2016

Associations

Florida State Bar
1990 - Present
Northwest Florida Distict of Federal Court
1992 - Present
Escambia / Santa Rosa Academy of Criminal Defense Lawyers
2009 - Present

Reviews


RATED 5.0

Aug 7, 2025Googlevia Google

Chris Cleary

"As someone from out of state Unfamiliar with Florida. Mr. Barnes has to be one of the best attorneys I’ve ever worked with in my life. I was charged with a felony (first offense) & the charges were truly misconstrued. I knew I was innocent, but was still Fearful And scared of what could happen. He walked me through the process and was able to settle the matter quickly. The result is charges are gone and will be expunged from my record eventually. I have nothing but positive things to say about Mr. Barnes and his staff."

RATED 1.0

Jul 27, 2025Googlevia Google

Bush Man

"As I look back on this case"

RATED 5.0

Jul 27, 2025Googlevia Google

jessica

RATED 5.0

Jul 10, 2025Googlevia Google

Yesica L

RATED 5.0

Jun 10, 2025Googlevia Google

Deb M

"James and Nathan are both very caring. They listen and make you feel safe and secure. I would recommend them to anyone who is looking for a criminal attorney."

James Richard Barnes - Domestic Violence Lawyer | DVLawyers | DV Lawyers