About Francis Wesley
Francis Wesley Blankner Jr. is a seasoned criminal defense attorney based in Orlando, Florida. With a legal career that began in 1977, he has dedicated himself to various aspects of criminal law, including DUI & DWI, domestic violence, and juvenile law. His experience has earned him recognition as one of the Top 100 Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers, evidence of his commitment and skill in the field. Mr. Blankner is a proud member of the Florida State Bar. He has actively contributed to the legal community. Mr.
Blankner earned his Juris Doctorate from South Texas College of Law in 1976 — Prior to this, he completed his Bachelor's Degree at the University of Florida in 1972. Upon graduating, he began his legal career as a prosecutor with the State Attorney’s Office in Orlando. From 1977 to 1984, he served in various capacities, including six years as Chief of the Felony Division. This role provided him with invaluable courtroom experience and insight into the prosecution side of criminal cases, laying a strong foundation for his future work in defense. In 1985, Mr. Blankner co-founded Jaeger & Blankner with Joerg F — Jaeger, focusing primarily on criminal defense. The firm, now known as Jaeger, Ali & Blankner, is located at 217 Northeast Ivanhoe Boulevard, Orlando, Florida 32804. Under his leadership, the firm has handled thousands of criminal cases, ranging from minor traffic offenses to serious charges such as first-degree murder.
Notably, Mr. Blankner has conducted over 50 first-degree murder trials, showcasing his depth of experience in high-stakes litigation. Despite his accomplishments, Mr. Blankner faced challenges in his career. In 2018, he was suspended for 90 days and placed on probation for nine months due to failures in providing competent and diligent representation in two post-conviction matters. This incident highlighted the importance of effective communication with clients, a lesson that has shaped his practice moving forward. He remains committed to improving his services and ensuring that his clients receive the attention they deserve. Fluent in English, Mr.
Blankner offers free consultations to prospective clients, making his services accessible to those in need. He is also an active member of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys and the Central Florida Criminal Defense Association. Through these affiliations, he stays updated on the latest legal trends and practices, further enhancing his ability to serve his clients effectively. With decades of experience and a dedication to justice, Francis Wesley Blankner Jr. continues to be a formidable presence in the field of criminal defense.
