About Michelle Rachel
Michelle Rachel Yard practices criminal law at Joshi Law Office, P.A., located in Orlando, Florida. She joined the Florida Bar in 2005 after earning her Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Florida the same year. Over nearly two decades, Yard has developed a robust practice that focuses on various aspects of criminal defense. The firm she works with handles cases involving DUI & DWI, appeals, juvenile law, and white-collar crime, serving clients throughout the region. This experience has positioned her as a knowledgeable advocate in high-stakes criminal cases, where outcomes can profoundly impact her clients' lives. Yard is a board-certified criminal trial lawyer, a designation that shows her expertise and commitment to the field.
Her practice involves navigating complex legal issues, advocating for clients at trial, and pursuing appeals when necessary. Cases typically progress from initial hearings through trial and, if needed, to appellate courts. This comprehensive approach allows her to provide effective representation at every stage of the legal process. Her experience as a trial lawyer gave her the necessary tools to represent clients in various legal scenarios, ensuring they receive the best possible defense. Before her current role at Joshi Law Office, Yard served as an appellate, post-conviction, and trial lawyer, gaining invaluable insights into the details of the criminal justice system. In 2015, she shifted her focus to appellate and post-conviction work, which further developed her skills in legal analysis and argumentation.
This specialization has enabled her to tackle complex legal challenges and advocate for her clients' rights. Her dedication to legal excellence is evident in her meticulous preparation and understanding of case law. Active involvement in the legal community is another hallmark of Yard's career. She has held multiple leadership positions within the Central Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, including serving as President for the 2022-2023 term. Her previous roles as President-Elect and Vice President highlight her commitment to advancing the interests of criminal defense attorneys in the region. Additionally, she serves on the board of the ACLU's Central Florida Chapter, where she advocates for civil liberties and justice—issues that are crucial to her practice and personal values.
Yard's practice covers several jurisdictions, including the 11th Circuit, the U.S. Supreme Court, and the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. This broad jurisdictional reach allows her to represent clients effectively in various legal matters, whether they are facing serious criminal charges or handling the requirements of the appellate process. Michelle Rachel Yard continues to be a dedicated advocate for her clients, striving to achieve the best possible outcomes in every case she handles. Her commitment to justice and her clients remains unwavering, making her a respected figure in the field of criminal defense.
