Francis Jerome Shea, P.A.

Jacksonville, Florida Attorney With More Than 30 Years of Experience

For more than 30 years I have had the privilege to provide legal advice and professional services to the Jacksonville and national communities. During those 30 years my clients have entrusted me with finding solutions to some very complex legal issues. Whether negotiating a settlement, litigating in court or filing an appeal, my clients’ success is always my goal.

In 1977 when I was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar and later to the Florida Bar and numerous federal and appeals courts, on each occasion I raised my right hand and swore my oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and all the rights and protections to life, liberty and property provided to each of us by this sacred document. I remain steadfastly committed to standing by that pledge.

Criminal Defense Attorney

You have the right to remain silent; you have the right to an attorney. These statements are not just dialogue in a police television drama, but are your constitutional rights. After an arrest, you should hire an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately and decline to speak to law enforcement until your lawyer is present.

I zealously defend your rights if you face such serious criminal charges as homicide, weapons, offenses, drug crimes, white-collar crimes, DUIs and juvenile offenses. Because of my extensive training and experience in death penalty defense, I am regularly appointed by the court to represent defendants charged with capital murder.

Immigration Lawyer

Immigration laws are confusing and constantly changing. Yet, a minor mistake on your visa application can result in dire consequences, including processing delays, a denial or removal from the country.

I analyze your individual circumstances and devise a plan for reaching your immigration goals. Drawing on my criminal justice and business law experience, I am able to anticipate and troubleshoot complex issues that could affect your case. I can help you with such challenging immigration matters as treaty investments, employment immigration, family-sponsored immigration, naturalization, asylum and deportation.

I prepare you for and accompany you to interviews before the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and can protect your rights in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) investigations. I also handle appeals to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). The firm’s bilingual legal assistant translates for Spanish-speaking clients.

Appeals

The American justice system comprises multiple tiers of courts. A higher court has the authority to review the proceedings of the lower court and decide whether to reverse a judge’s erroneous decision or issue other orders as permitted by law. However, if you believe a mistake was made in your case, you should consider retaining an appellate attorney right away. The law imposes a strict deadline for filing an appeal.

Upon evaluating your transcripts and documents, I identify appealable issue. I then advise you about costs and the potential outcomes, so you can make an informed decision about whether to pursue an appeal. I handle criminal, immigration and civil appeals.

Business Counsel

I act as general counsel for entrepreneurs and small and mid-sized companies that need a knowledgeable business attorney who is familiar with their day-to-day operations. I also guide treaty investors and foreign national professionals through the process of securing a visa. I can advise your business on such important matters as contracts, employment issues, taxation, regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, mediation and litigation.

Consult with an experienced lawyer about your legal issues

If you have a legal situation, please feel comfortable to call and to speak personally with me. When we meet, I will provide a true and honest evaluation of the legal issue you face and develop a plan of action to reach a successful conclusion.

You can reach Jerry Shea at 904-399-1966 or contact our firm online for a personal consultation at no charge.