Criminal Defense Lawyer in Panama City, FL
Bay County Defense Built on Prosecutorial Insight
When an arrest happens, the decisions made in the first hours matter. What you say, whether you cooperate, and who you call can shape everything that follows. At Shepard Law, we’re a criminal defense firm based in Panama City, and our founding attorney, Rusty Shepard, spent years as an Assistant State Attorney before switching to defense. He knows how prosecutors in Florida build their cases because he built them himself.
That background shapes how we approach every case. Our team includes paralegals and investigators alongside Rusty, and we’ve handled more than 5,000 criminal cases across Panama City and Bay County. Consultations are free, and our 24/7 emergency hotline means you can reach us at any hour.
Who We Represent
Criminal charges don’t just threaten freedom. They threaten careers, professional licenses, and reputations built over years. We represent clients who have too much at stake to accept a generic defense: professionals with occupational licenses at risk, law enforcement officers, students facing impacts to financial aid and future employment, and individuals in high-profile community positions. A conviction or even an unresolved charge on record can follow someone far beyond the courtroom.
Our focus is on achieving the best possible outcome while minimizing damage to your record and reputation. Every case is prepared as if it will go to trial, whether the likely resolution is a dismissal, a negotiated outcome, or a verdict. That level of preparation is central to how we work.
Our Services
Expertise in a wide range of criminal defense areas.
How We Challenge the State’s Case
An arrest doesn’t mean the State has an airtight case. After a thorough review of police reports, witness statements, public records including law enforcement radio logs, and close scrutiny of the evidence, it often becomes clear that prosecutors can’t prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. Florida law requires the State to establish every element of an offense to that standard. Identifying gaps in that proof is where a defense begins.
In some cases, the alleged victim has a motive to fabricate an accusation: a financial dispute, a child custody conflict, or personal animus. Rusty Shepard’s years as a prosecutor trained him to see how investigations are conducted and where they go wrong. Evidence collection errors, Fourth Amendment violations from an unlawful search or seizure, chain-of-custody problems, and credibility issues with witnesses are all avenues a thorough defense examines. Depending on the circumstances, our goal is either a dismissal based on weaknesses in the State’s case or a negotiated outcome that protects your record.
Don’t wait to get answers. Request your free consultation today. We’re available 24/7.
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“Rusty is very personable and accommodating. He made himself available on short notice and met with me after hours. He told me not to worry and got everything dismissed in court this morning! Thank you Rusty and Lisa!!!”- Lauren
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“Mr. Shepard and his staff are amazing! They went above and beyond to help me. I would not want anyone else on my team! I am young and despite that, he made sure that the judge saw me as a person and not just a young person. He and his office even spent extra time with me and attended to every single thousand question that I had. They could not get a better rating 10 stars!!”- Jessica
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“Shepard Law is truly one of a kind!!! Their team of attorneys and support staff knows criminal law inside and out. They will take a case to trial with no fear and are a force to be seen in the courtroom!!!! They are compassionate and make their clients feel supported every single step of the way. They are flexible with payment options, which allows everyone to be able to receive TOP QUALITY representation. I would absolutely recommend Shepherd Law to any of my friends or family members without hesitation.”- Vanessa M.
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“Shepard Law is truly one of a kind!!! Their team of attorneys and support staff knows criminal law inside and out. They will take a case to trial with no fear and are a force to be seen in the courtroom!!!! They are compassionate and make their clients feel supported every single step of the way. They are flexible with payment options, which allows everyone to be able to receive TOP QUALITY representation. I would absolutely recommend Shepherd Law to any of my friends or family members without hesitation.”- Vanessa M.
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“My wife and I found out on a Monday that we needed a Defense Attorney on Tuesday for a family situation. I called the office and Megan quickly contacted Rusty and he reassured us that he would be at court on Tuesday and he would take care of everything. Those words were the most comforting we've heard as this came up not long after Hurricane Michael. Rusty and his office has no idea how much he helped us and how much we appreciate their quick response. Thank you will never cover how much you guys mean to us.”- Craig E.
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“My son was accused of battery of a young lady simply for touching her elbow while he was simply asking her to explain why she decided to swap position with another employee. I can not understand why our DA wasted tax dollars on even bringing it to trial. The law firm did an excellent job simply pointing out that the jury should just use common sense! So professional and considerate!”- Debbie B.
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“Shepard Law has all you need!!! Great attorneys that put you first! The staff is awesome!! I had a chance to speak with Mikiyah in person and over the phone!! Outstanding customer service! I knew she was listening and understanding what I needed. I wish I could get that when I’m taking care of all my business! Would recommend this firm to anyone and everyone!! Great job!!!”- Nati E.
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“They are a Trusworthy Law Firm and care about their Clients as well as the Clients Family Members/ very precise and knowledgeable about the United States Law.”- Glen C.
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“I cannot recommend Shepard Law enough! Their expertise in criminal defense is truly impressive. Rusty and Elizabeth have a wealth of experience and are incredibly aggressive when it comes to fighting for their clients' rights. They take the time to thoroughly understand their cases and provided exceptional support throughout the entire process. Plus their support staff rocks! Thank you for your hard work Cheri and Livia! If you need a dedicated team that will go to bat for you, this is the place to go!”- Pedro U.
What Sets Shepard Law Apart?
Your case is our priority. We aim for the best outcome.
We understand the complexities of the legal system and the impact on your life. Our focus is on securing your future.
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Available 24/7
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Former Prosecutors
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Free Initial Consultation
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Over 25 Years of Experience
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Flexible Payment Plans
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Handled 10,000+ Cases