About Patrick
Patrick Trese is a seasoned criminal defense attorney based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with over 25 years of experience in the legal field. Admitted to practice law in Florida, Michigan, and the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, he has developed a knowledge of criminal law. His practice areas include criminal law, DUI & DWI, and domestic violence, reflecting his commitment to defending clients facing serious charges. Mr. Trese earned his Bachelor of Arts from Michigan State University in 1992 — He then pursued his Juris Doctor at the University of Detroit Mercy, graduating in 1995. His legal career began in Michigan, where he served as a law clerk for District Court of Appeals Judge Pat M. Donofrio in Mt — Clemens.
This early experience provided him with invaluable insights into the judicial process, shaping his approach to legal advocacy. Following his clerkship, Mr. Trese worked in the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, gaining experience in various legal matters. He then transitioned to the Wayne County and Oakland County Prosecutor’s Offices, where he developed his skills as a prosecutor. In 2001, he joined the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, where he served as the Chief of the County Court Division. In this significant role, he oversaw the prosecution of approximately 5,000 DUI cases annually and supervised hundreds of prosecutors. His responsibilities also included serving in the Traffic Homicide Unit and the Sexual Battery Unit/Child Abuse Unit, where he handled serious cases such as DUI Manslaughter and capital sexual battery.
After leaving the State Attorney’s Office in April 2010, Mr. Trese established his own practice, focusing on criminal defense. Since then, he has handled over 100 trials and numerous motions, building a reputation as a dedicated advocate for his clients. His firm, Patrick Trese, P.A., is located at 12 SE 7th Street, Suite 703, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. This strategic location allows him to serve clients throughout Broward County and beyond. An active member of several professional organizations, Mr. Trese is affiliated with the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, The League of Prosecutors, and the Broward and Miami-Dade Associations of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
He has lectured throughout Florida on various DUI topics, sharing his expertise with fellow attorneys. In recognition of his work, he received the Prosecution of Distinction Award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving in 2009. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Mr. Trese at (954) 761-9166 or visit his office at the address above.