Criminal Defense Attorney
Mark Zimmerman has dedicated more than three decades to the practice of criminal law, earning a reputation as one of Sarasota’s most skilled and respected defense attorneys. After graduating from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science in Developmental Psychology in 1988, he went on to earn his Juris Doctor from the University of Florida College of Law in 1991. He began his career as a prosecutor in Sarasota, where for nine years he handled misdemeanor, juvenile, and felony cases. This experience provided him with invaluable insight into the criminal justice system and trial strategy—perspective he now uses to the advantage of his clients.
Since entering private practice in 2000, Mr. Zimmerman has built his career on delivering aggressive, knowledgeable, and strategic representation for individuals facing criminal charges. For 20 years he was recognized by The Florida Bar as a Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer, a distinction held by only a small percentage of attorneys statewide. His peers have honored him with leadership positions throughout the legal community, including serving as President of the Sarasota Chapter of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Chairperson of the Solo/Small Practice Section, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Sarasota County Bar Association.
Mr. Zimmerman’s commitment to the profession extends beyond the courtroom. He has served on the Twelfth Circuit Judicial Nominating Committee, chaired a Florida Bar Twelfth Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee, and acted as a Master in the John M. Scheb American Inn of Court. He also gives back to the community as a Teen Court Judge and as a member of the Code of Conduct Review Committee for the Sarasota County School Board. His excellence in advocacy has been consistently recognized with an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, a 10.0 rating on AVVO, and repeated recognition as a Super Lawyer.
With 34 years of legal experience, Mr. Zimmerman combines deep knowledge, proven trial skill, and professional leadership to provide exceptional representation to every client he serves.
Education
- B.S. in Developmental Psychology, Cornell University (1988)
- J.D., University of Florida College of Law (1991)
Professional Experience
- 9 years as a prosecutor in Sarasota (misdemeanor, juvenile, and felony cases)
- 34 years of legal practice
- Private practice in criminal defense since 2000
Certifications & Recognitions
- AV-Rated by Martindale-Hubbell
- 10.0 rating on AVVO
- Super Lawyer
Professional Leadership & Service
- Former President, Sarasota Chapter of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Chairperson, Solo/Small Practice Section, Sarasota County Bar Association
- Member, Board of Directors, Sarasota County Bar Association
- Member, Twelfth Circuit Judicial Nominating Committee
- Chair, Florida Bar Twelfth Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee
- Master, John M. Scheb American Inn of Court
- Member, Code of Conduct Review Committee, Sarasota County School Board
- Teen Court Judge
- Member, Cornell Alumni Admissions Ambassador Network
