Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, J. Ruffin Hunt is a seasoned criminal defense attorney dedicated to protecting the rights of the accused. He earned his degrees from the University of Florida and Stetson University College of Law, and has devoted his entire legal career to criminal defense.
He has successfully handled a wide range of criminal cases—from misdemeanor DUIs to serious felony charges punishable by up to life in prison. A skilled and strategic trial lawyer, he is known for achieving strong results in and out of the courtroom.
He began his career at the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, where he represented low-income clients and rose to the role of Division Chief in the intake, misdemeanor, and felony divisions. His time there solidified his commitment to equal justice under the law and gave him extensive courtroom experience early in his career.
He is a former board member of the Hillsborough County Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and remains deeply committed to defending constitutional rights. Today, he provides high-caliber legal representation to clients throughout the greater Tampa Bay area—bringing passion, tenacity, and proven expertise to every case he takes on.