The author spotlight
Brett M.
Schwartz, Esq.
Founding Partner • Hager & Schwartz, P.A.
A Miami perspective on criminal defense, shaped by experience on both sides of the courtroom.
Explore the firm’s legal insights
Experience & areas of focus
DUI & traffic offenses
Experience with DUI prosecutions and the evidence behind a traffic stop.
Misdemeanors & felonies
A background spanning drug, theft, battery and other criminal charges.
Courtroom procedure
Trial experience in Miami-Dade County and Circuit Courts.
Behind the perspective
A career rooted in Miami’s courts.
Watching his father defend clients in Miami’s criminal courts sparked Brett’s interest in the law. He went on to become a prosecutor before moving into criminal defense.
Today, his work as a founding partner is grounded in understanding each client’s circumstances, proactive preparation and direct communication.
View Brett’s full attorney profile
EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
- Early career
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Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office
Served as an Assistant State Attorney, handling misdemeanor and felony cases and developing his criminal trial practice.
- Law school
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South Texas College of Law
Earned his Juris Doctorate; participated in trial advocacy and national mock trial competitions.
- Undergraduate
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University of Miami • 1994
Earned his bachelor’s degree and co-founded the University’s Pre-Legal Society.
- Professional service
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The Florida Bar
Appointed to a grievance committee, where he served for three consecutive years.
From the firm’s blog
Make sense of what comes next.
Recommended reading from Hager & Schwartz, P.A. Explore the questions that arise during an investigation, in court and after a criminal charge.
What Happens If You Miss a Court Date for a Theft Charge in Miami?
January 18, 2026
Missed a theft court date in Miami? Find out how judges respond, whether a warrant may be issued, and what steps can help limit the damage. Read on for more.
Read MoreWill a Petit Theft Charge Show Up on a Background Check in Florida?
January 18, 2026
Will a petit theft charge show up on a Florida background check? Learn how arrests, convictions, and sealing/expungement affect what shows.
Read MoreWhat Are the Penalties for Burglary in Florida?
December 7, 2025
Learn about burglary penalties in Florida, sentencing ranges, aggravating factors, and defenses. Understand your options when facing charges in Miami.
Read MoreHow Intent Impacts a Burglary Charge in Florida
December 7, 2025
Learn how prosecutors prove intent in Florida burglary cases and how strong defense strategies can challenge these claims. Contact Hager & Schwartz.
Read MoreWhat Is the Difference Between Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, and Sexual Battery in Florida?
December 7, 2025
Learn the difference between sexual abuse, assault, and sexual battery in Florida. Our Miami sex crimes lawyers explain charges, penalties, and defenses.
Read MoreHow Do Police Detect Drug Trafficking Operations in Florida?
October 5, 2025
Discover how Florida police detect drug trafficking using surveillance, wiretaps, undercover buys, and K‑9 units. Read our blog for more.
Read MoreAttorneys Hager & Schwartz Selected to 2025 Florida Super Lawyers List
July 23, 2025
We’re proud to share that Brett M. Schwartz and John S. Hager, founding partners at Hager & Schwartz, P.A., have been selected to the […]
Read MoreWhat Is a Target Letter?
July 13, 2025
Received a federal target letter? Learn what it means, what steps to take, and how a Miami federal defense lawyer can help protect your future.
Read MoreWhat’s the Difference Between Federal Felony and State Felony Charges?
March 24, 2025
Learn the differences between state and federal felonies, including jurisdiction, penalties, and legal processes.
Read MoreWhen reading isn’t enough
Let’s talk about your situation.
A criminal charge is personal. Speak with our team about the facts of your case in a free, confidential consultation.
