Zelman Law has been named Best Criminal Defense Firm of 2026 by Expert Law Attorneys as part of the 2026 ELA Awards. The recognition honors the Tallahassee, Florida firm for its strong defense of people facing criminal charges.
About the 2026 ELA Awards
The 2026 ELA Awards highlight law firms that deliver for the people they represent. The program recognizes firms across a wide range of practice areas for their experience, their reputation with clients, their professional conduct, and their service to their communities.
Why Zelman Law Earned the Recognition
Zelman Law is a Tallahassee criminal defense and family law firm serving Leon, Wakulla and Jefferson counties and clients across Florida. Founder and principal attorney Joshua D. Zelman has more than 20 years of experience and is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Criminal Trial law. He handles cases from misdemeanors in Leon County Court to felony prosecutions in Florida circuit courts and federal matters in the Northern District of Florida, including DUI, drug trafficking and possession, violent offenses, sex offenses, theft, juvenile crimes, probation violations, white collar and federal crimes, and sealing and expungement.
The firm’s family law practice covers divorce, including contested, uncontested, collaborative and high net worth cases, child custody and parenting plans, child support, alimony, relocation, paternity and property division. Joshua Zelman holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and Avvo Superb 10.0 ratings in criminal defense and DUI, and he is a member of the National College for DUI Defense. The firm offers free consultations and evening or weekend meetings by appointment.
What the Award Means for Clients
For anyone dealing with a criminal charge, the ELA Award is a helpful signal when comparing firms. It reflects the experience, client service, and professionalism Zelman Law brings to each matter. The best next step is always a conversation with the attorney about your specific situation.