Attorney, Navy veteran, community volunteer, and scholar. Frantz “Jahra” McLawrence immigrated to New York City from Dominica, W.I, at the age of seven. He graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School, served in the U.S. Navy, and matriculated through Florida A&M University (undergrad), and the University of Florida (law school).
In 2003, McLawrence joined the Broward County Public Defender’s Office, and in 2006, opened, and currently operates, his own law firm in Fort Lauderdale, specializing in criminal (state and federal) and personal injury law, homeowner insurance claims, and criminal immigration matters. To date, McLawrence has represented thousands of individuals and taken over 50 cases to trial, with an eighty-five percent (85%) favorable rating in those trials.
McLawrence has taught as an adjunct criminal law professor at Florida International University, Keiser University, and Broward College. In 2006, he served as a guest lecturer for the Florida Bar.
In the South Florida community, McLawrence conducts legal seminars at churches and schools, and, mentors youngsters in the Public Defender’s summer justice program. He volunteers with the NAACP, Urban League, and Legal Aid.