About Ernest Leo
Ernest Leo Chang graduated from the University of Florida in 1986 and earned his J.D. from Shepard Broad Law Center at Nova Southeastern University in 1990. He moved from classroom to courtroom soon after completing law school. The timeline of his education set the stage for a practice rooted in criminal trial work.
He is admitted to practice in Florida and Pennsylvania and is also admitted to the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit. The Florida Bar has certified him in Criminal Trial, a credential that indicates a courtroom-heavy practice. He began practicing law after earning his degree in 1990 and has spent his career handling contested criminal matters in both state and federal forums.
Chang has been active in professional circles that shape criminal defense practice. He joined the Board of Directors of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers in 2003 and continues to serve on that board. His association work has run alongside a steady course of courtroom work, where he handles trials, pretrial motions, and appellate matters depending on the case.
On the trial table he represents clients facing serious criminal charges. He also appears in appellate proceedings in the Eleventh Circuit when cases require federal review. His certification in Criminal Trial signals regular trial work and competence in jury trials. Colleagues describe him as an attorney who prepares thoroughly for trial and for the hearings that often precede it.
Chang maintains offices at the Detrain One Building and the Imperial Plaza Building. He divides his time between courtroom appearances, motion practice, and client counseling. Papers, filings, and hearings occupy much of his schedule, but he still spends time preparing witnesses and strategy for trial.
He continues to practice criminal defense in Florida and Pennsylvania and handles matters that move between trial courts and the appellate level. His current practice focuses on criminal trial work and related appellate litigation.
