Rachel Newman
Attorney At Law
Rachel graduated the University of Florida in 2001 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology. In 2005, she graduated from Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad Law Center with a Juris Doctor degree. During her time in law school, she earned the “Book Award” in her evidence class, meaning she got the highest grade in the class which consisted of approximately 100 students.
During law school, Rachel participated in a summer program in 2002 which focused on International Human Rights at the Inter-American Court of Human Rights in San Jose, Costa Rica. Also during law school, Rachel interned for the ACLU and also Coast to Coast Legal Aid, where she represented victims of domestic violence in family law matters and restraining order hearings. In 2006, after briefly working in the private sector, Rachel began her career as a criminal defense attorney at the Public Defender’s Office in Broward County.
In her 17 years as an assistant public defender, Rachel represented thousands of defendants in county, juvenile and felony courtrooms. In 2016, Rachel was promoted to division chief of the felony division, where she supervised and mentored approximately 30 felony lawyers. Rachel has handled some of the most difficult and high-profile cases in Broward County, having spent the last several years in the major crimes division.
She has been featured on CourtTV, ABC Local 10 and WSVN 7 News Miami, Law and Crime Network, and the Sun Sentinel. Rachel has also tried death penalty cases, earning her first-chair/lead counsel qualification.
Rachel is a member of Broward Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, for which she is Board Secretary.
Criminal Defense Expertise at Meltzer & Bell, P.A.
Rachel Newman has over 18 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role at Meltzer & Bell, P.A. With a steadfast commitment to her clients and a down-to-earth approach, she navigates the complexities of criminal law, ensuring clarity and support through critical moments. Rachel’s unique handling of each case, regardless of its magnitude, underscores her extensive experience and dedication to justice.
Early Intervention Success: Robbery with a Weapon, Aggravated Battery with a Weapon, and Felony Battery
Upon joining Meltzer & Bell, P.A., Rachel was immediately impactful, exemplified by her defense of Hugo, who faced severe charges including Robbery with a Weapon, Aggravated Battery with a Weapon, and Felony Battery. The incident arose from a dispute at Hugo’s Airbnb business, where an uninvited former guest initiated a confrontation. Rachel’s proactive evidence gathering and communication with the State Attorney’s Office highlighted Hugo’s self-defense and the provocations by the accuser. Her persuasive defense led to the dismissal of all charges against Hugo.
Pre-Filing Stage Victory: Burglary with a Battery
Another significant achievement in Rachel’s career came with the case of A.L., a former prosecutor and attorney from New York, who was arrested for Burglary with a Battery. Understanding the gravity of the charge, Rachel acted swiftly to secure A.L.’s release on bail. She provided compelling evidence and testimony to the State, proving the arrest was unwarranted and that the alleged victim was at fault. The case was favorably resolved with the dropping of all charges, preserving A.L.’s career and reputation.
Litigation Mastery: DUI and felony possession of cannabis
Rachel’s legal acumen is further demonstrated in court, as seen in the case of Felix, arrested for DUI and felony possession of cannabis. After reviewing the bodycam footage, Rachel identified a lack of reasonable suspicion for the DUI investigation. Her successful Motion to Suppress led to the suppression of all evidence and dismissal of the charges, avoiding severe penalties for Felix.
Rachel Newman’s approach is characterized by a serious commitment to her clients, thorough preparation, and a robust defense strategy, making her an invaluable asset to anyone facing criminal charges. Her record speaks to a deep understanding of both the stakes and the law, ensuring that justice is not only sought but served.