About Craig Stella
With over 40 years of experience, Craig Stella is a highly respected Florida trial lawyer specializing in personal injury, criminal defense, and family law. He provides skilled representation in personal injury cases, including accidents and negligence claims, as well as criminal matters such as DUI and drug offenses, and family law issues like divorce and custody disputes. Known for his unwavering commitment to justice, Mr. Stella is a fearless advocate, unafraid to take cases to trial to protect his clients’ rights and achieve favorable outcomes.
Mr. Stella’s legal career began in public service. He served as an Assistant State Attorney in the 17th Judicial Circuit in Broward County and later as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of Florida. These roles gave him invaluable experience in both state and federal prosecution—perspectives he now uses to vigorously defend his clients in high-stakes cases.
He earned his Juris Doctorate from Nova Southeastern University – Shepard Broad Law Center. He is admitted to the Florida Bar, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.
Experienced Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, and Family Law Attorney Serving Florida for Over 40 Years
Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Stella has been an active member of several professional organizations, including the Broward County Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Trial Attorneys. His dedication to excellence is further demonstrated by his membership in the Federal Bar and the Federal Trial Bar for the Northern, Middle, and Southern Districts of Florida. Mr. Stella’s exceptional trial skills have earned him recognition as one of the top 100 attorneys by the National Trial Lawyers.
Federal Criminal Defense – A Rare Level of Experience
Mr. Stella has significant experience in Federal Criminal Defense, a field where few attorneys truly operate. Over the course of his career, he has appeared in federal courtrooms across the United States, including in multiple federal circuit courts of appeals. His depth of federal litigation experience sets him apart—very few criminal attorneys have ever even stepped into a federal courtroom.
This unique background gives Mr. Stella the strategic insight and courtroom confidence needed to navigate the complexities of federal prosecutions, and to deliver the strongest possible defense for his clients.
Fearless Trial-Ready Attorney for Tough Cases
With over 250 jury trials to his credit, Mr. Stella’s extensive trial experience spans both federal and state cases across numerous states. His courtroom prowess has been acknowledged by multiple judges; notably, three federal judges and two state judges have commended him as one of the best trial attorneys to have appeared before them.
Currently, Mr. Stella is a long-standing member of the American Bar Association, reflecting his commitment to professional development and ethical practice.
Craig Stella’s legal achievements are a testament to his exceptional skills, dedication, and commitment to justice. His extensive trial experience, recognition by peers and judges, and ongoing pursuit of board certification highlight his status as a leading figure in the legal community. As he continues to take on new challenges and expand his expertise in personal injury, family law, and criminal defense, Mr. Stella remains a trusted advocate for his clients—dedicated to delivering exceptional legal representation in every case he handles.
Recognition & Honors
Craig Stella’s dedication to legal excellence has earned him a place in Marquis Who’s Who, a prestigious distinction recognizing outstanding professionals across various industries. This honor is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, influence, and contributions in their field.
Being included in Marquis Who’s Who is a testament to Mr. Stella’s more than four decades of legal expertise, his commitment to justice and advocacy, and his unwavering pursuit of excellence in personal injury, criminal defense, and family law. This recognition further reinforces his reputation as a fearless trial attorney and a trusted advocate for his clients.
