Rafael Joseph Echemendia

Rafael Echemendia is a Polk County native who was born and raised in Central Florida. He graduated from Auburndale High School in 1984, earned his B.A. from the University of Florida, and later received his J.D. from The Ohio State University College of Law in 1997. After being admitted to the Florida Bar in April 1998, Rafael began his career as an Assistant Public Defender, where he quickly moved from handling misdemeanors to serious felony matters, including major drug charges and homicide cases. In 1999, he entered private practice with a well-regarded criminal defense firm and, in 2000, co-founded The Law Offices of Allen and Echemendia with William Allen. In January 2009, he launched his own practice, Echemendia Law Firm. Rafael represents clients in criminal defense, family law, and personal injury, handling matters ranging from DUI and license offenses to trafficking and murder, as well as divorce, custody, and accident and wrongful death claims. Known for aggressive advocacy, he is active in multiple legal associations. Outside of work, he’s a devoted husband and father who married his high school sweetheart in 1989.