About John Stephen
John Stephen Hager practices criminal law in Daytona Beach, Florida. As the founding partner of Hager & Schwartz, P.A., he focuses on various aspects of criminal defense, including DUI & DWI, domestic violence, juvenile law, and white-collar crime. Established in 2005, the firm has built a strong reputation for its commitment to defending clients' rights in serious legal matters. The firm’s dedication to providing robust legal representation has made it a trusted name in the Daytona Beach area. Hager earned his Juris Doctor from Nova Southeastern University in 1999, following a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Florida in 1994. His educational background laid a solid foundation for his legal career, which has now spanned over two decades.
During this time, he has developed a knowledge of Florida's criminal laws and procedures. Most of his work involves representing clients in high-stakes criminal cases—handling the requirements of the legal system from pre-trial motions to trial advocacy and appeals. His experience in the courtroom gave him the skills necessary to effectively advocate for his clients. In addition to his practice, Hager has been actively involved in shaping Florida's criminal justice system. He served on the Criminal Rules of Procedure Committee and was appointed Chairman in 2020. This influential role allowed him to impact the development of procedural rules that govern criminal cases in Florida.
His contributions to the committee reflect his commitment to improving the legal framework within which criminal defense attorneys operate. Hager also holds leadership positions in various legal associations. He currently serves as the Vice President of the Broward County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. Additionally, he is an active member of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. His involvement in these organizations helps him stay current with legal trends and represent the rights of the accused. Networking with other legal professionals enhances his ability to provide informed representation to his clients.
Beyond his legal practice, Hager is dedicated to educating others about criminal law. He frequently participates in seminars and workshops aimed at both legal professionals and the public. These outreach efforts help demystify the legal process for individuals facing criminal charges and emphasize the importance of having competent legal representation. John Stephen Hager continues to be a prominent figure in the criminal defense community in Florida—his experience, combined with his leadership roles in various legal associations, positions him as a knowledgeable advocate for his clients. He remains committed to ensuring that justice is served in every case he handles.
