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.









Experience and 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.
What We Do
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.
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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.
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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.
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Tax Certificates & Tax Deeds
If your home has been sold in a Florida Foreclosure or Tax Deed Sale, it may have sold for more than what you owed — you may be entitled to the Surplus Funds left over.
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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.
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Real Estate Litigation
Whether you're a condominium owner or a Homeowner's Association, our skills and attention to detail are devoted to your contested issues and real estate needs.
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Two Former Prosecutors
Our diverse practice areas and depth of experience 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.
In Their Words
What Our Clients Say
“I had an excellent experience working with this law firm on a property encroachment issue involving a neighbor's fence. Attorney Alexander Cherna and his team — Courtney and Jennifer — were outstanding from start to finish. Professional, responsive, and persistent.”
“I retained Bernhardt Riley to defend me in a criminal case. My team consisted of Kris and Jill. Jill made sure that communication flowed in a timely manner and kept me on task. Kris was knowledgeable, direct, and exactly the advocate you want on your side.”
“My wife and I worked with Attorney Garcia and Paralegal Angelica Bledsoe for a small debt suit. Something we thought was covered by our health insurance wasn't, and the unpaid bill got sent to a collection agency. They were able to get the payment down to less than 30% of the original amount while getting it cleared from my wife's credit. Thank you for making this easy!”
Reviews shown are unedited excerpts from public Google reviews of Bernhardt Riley, Attorneys at Law. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Inside Our Offices
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.