What practice areas does Bernhardt Riley specialize in?

We specialize in three core areas: real estate litigation (including landlord-tenant disputes, HOA/COA issues, and property disputes), criminal defense (including DUI, drug offenses, and felonies), and debt defense (protecting consumers from unfair debt collection practices).

Where is Bernhardt Riley located in Florida?

We have offices in Palm Harbor (main office), Clearwater, Tampa, Destin, Jacksonville, Naples, Fort Lauderdale, and St. Augustine, with consultation availability in 20+ cities throughout Florida.

Do you offer free consultations?

Yes, we offer free initial consultations for most practice areas. Contact us at 727-335-3575 to schedule your consultation and discuss your legal matter.

What makes Bernhardt Riley different from other Florida law firms?

Our firm is led by two former prosecutors with over 60 years of combined experience. Managing Partner Athena Pearl Riley is also a licensed realtor, giving us unique insight into real estate disputes. We have 289 five-star Google reviews and a 4.9/5 rating, demonstrating our commitment to client satisfaction.

How quickly can I get a consultation?

We typically can schedule consultations within 24-48 hours. For urgent criminal matters or time-sensitive real estate issues, we offer same-day or next-day appointments when available.

YOU WANT US ON YOUR SIDE

Florida Real Estate, Criminal Defense & Debt Defense Attorneys | Tampa Bay to the Emerald Coast

Serving Tampa Bay, Clearwater, Palm Harbor, Destin, and communities throughout Florida, Bernhardt Riley, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, focuses on three critical legal areas: resolving complex real estate disputes, defending your freedom in criminal cases, and protecting you from unfair debt collection practices. Our team—led by two former prosecutors with over 60 years of combined experience—provides accessible representation through offices in Palm Harbor, Clearwater, Tampa, and Destin, with consultations available in 20+ cities statewide. Trust us to respect your needs and fight tirelessly for your rights.

Proven Experience,
Skilled Advocacy

Whether you’re a landlord or tenant dealing with a lease or eviction issue, you’ve been injured in an accident or you’re facing criminal charges, having the right lawyer by your side is crucial to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment. At Bernhardt Riley, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, our dedicated attorneys anticipate and manage every detail of your case. Our years of experience and wide range of legal services ensure comprehensive representation for our clients.

With our commitment to legal support, you can be assured of personalized attention and timely communication. You want us on your side.

Integrity. Professionalism. Attention to Detail.

Practice Areas

Personal Injury

Contact us to discuss whether you are entitled to compensation for injuries suffered in a car accident or while on the property of a business.

Debt Collection Harassment

As the former lead litigator for a large collection firm, Stephen M. Bernhardt knows exactly how to attack a debt collectors case and protect your rights.

Business Litigation

Protecting yourself and your financial assets is an important part of your business, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

Tax Certificates & Tax Deeds

If your home has been sold in either a Florida Foreclosure Sale or a Florida Tax Deed Sale, it may have sold for more than what you owed, meaning you may be entitled to the extra money left over, called “Surplus Funds”!

Criminal Defense

Your rights deserve to be protected and your side of the story deserves to be heard. We go the extra mile to achieve justice for all of our clients.

Real Estate Litigation

Whether you’re a condominium owner or a Homeowner’s Associations our skills and attention to detail are devoted to your contested issues and real estate needs.

CUSTOMIZED LEGAL REPRESENTATION FROM
TWO FORMER PROSECUTORS

Stephen M. Bernhardt

Managing Partner

Athena Pearl Riley

Managing Partner

Our diverse practice areas and proven successes are your advantage. We are a team of professionals who provide quality representation for our clients charged with crimes, including DUIs, drug offenses, misdemeanors and felonies. We also handle personal injury claims and real estate disputes.

Our firm’s two founding partners, Stephen Bernhardt and Athena Pearl Riley, are both experienced former prosecutors who put their strong litigation skills to work for our clients. In addition, Mrs. Riley is a licensed realtor, which gives her valuable insight into issues facing landlords and property owners. By choosing our firm, you put a formidable force in your corner.

PARTNER WITH US FOR A POWERFUL LEGAL ALLY

Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to working hard to protect your rights regardless of the circumstances. Call Bernhardt Riley, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, at 727-275-9575 or contact us online. Our main office is in Palm Harbor; appointments are available upon request at our virtual locations throughout the state.