Criminal Defense — Ft. Lauderdale & Miami
When Everything
Is at Stake,
Experience
Matters.
Apellaniz Law provides seasoned, strategic criminal defense for individuals facing serious charges. Calm under pressure. Relentless in court.
Serving South Florida Since 2013 | Available 24/7 | Free Consultation
What We Defend
Practice Areas
Felony Defense
Comprehensive defense for serious felony charges, from first-degree offenses to complex multi-count indictments — including burglary, grand theft, and more.
Domestic Violence
Experienced defense against domestic violence charges, injunctions, and restraining orders — protecting your rights, record, and future.
DUI & Traffic Offenses
Strategic defense against DUI charges, license suspension, and serious traffic violations throughout South Florida.
Drug Offenses
Defense against possession, trafficking, and distribution charges — from misdemeanor to serious drug conspiracy.
Violent Crimes
Aggressive representation for murder, possession of a firearm by a felon, assault, battery, robbery, and other violent crime allegations.
Expungements & Sealings
Helping clients clear or seal their criminal records, removing barriers to employment, housing, and opportunity after a case is resolved.
Your Defense Counsel
Hugo Apellaniz
Attorney at Law
"Every client deserves a defense built on preparation, precision, and an unwavering commitment to their rights."
Hugo Apellaniz brings over 17 years of criminal defense experience to every case — beginning his career as an investigator and certified legal intern with the Office of the Public Defender before earning his law degree and building a practice dedicated entirely to defending the accused.
From the Public Defender's offices in Tallahassee to private practice in Ft. Lauderdale and Miami, Hugo has spent his entire legal career on one side of the courtroom: yours. That singular focus shapes every strategy, every argument, and every outcome he pursues.
Education
J.D., Florida State University College of Law
B.A., Florida State University
Double Major: Criminology & Psychology
Bar Admission
Florida Bar, 2009
Client Voices
What Clients Say
Take the First Step
Your Defense
Starts Today.
The moments after an arrest or charge are critical. Early, experienced legal counsel can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissal. Contact Apellaniz Law for a confidential consultation — available 24 hours a day.