Serious charges
require serious work.

Advocates that fight for your freedom.

Overview

01

You’re
never alone

Your rights are our passion. You don’t have to face criminal charges alone. It is normal to feel as though the deck is stacked against you when you are accused of a crime. Not only are you worried about potential repercussions, but your job, your relationships and your reputation may be on the line. Fortunately, you do not have to face criminal charges on your own.

Process

02

Taking the
extra step

Your right to an attorney is fundamental. We work for you when you’re facing criminal charges to achieve the result that is in your best interest. We combine aggressiveness with compassion and strategic thinking. Throughout the process, we keep you first; working tirelessly to achieve the best results possible.

Getting in touch
We understand you have questions and need answers, now. Our team is available to meet with you or your family, quickly and efficiently, to understand your charges and how we can help. Contact us [here] any time to speak with our team and set up a meeting.

Consultations are free. Call (904) 337-0900 today to get started.
Our first meeting
When you first meet with us, bring copies of any documents pertaining to the case. This could include police reports, warrants, or any other paperwork related to your criminal charge. We will review the facts and consider any immediate defenses, such as unlawful search or self-defense, to begin our process.
Gathering and examining evidence
Evidence can be physical evidence, interviews with witnesses, interviews with expert witnesses and many other sources. Under the law, evidence the state has gathered must be shared with us. We dig further to get all the facts of the case and understand when and how evidence has been gathered to determine how that may impact your case.
Keeping you safe
Throughout the case, we work to protect you from further harm. We are present at every hearing, attempting to lessen your burden every step of the way. We guide you through every decision.
Negotiating
After an exhaustive review of the evidence, the law, and the facts relative to your particular case, we negotiate with the government in an effort to achieve a dismissal or a plea agreement. A key way we help you is through negotiation. With an exhaustive review of evidence, interpretation of law and understanding of your situation, we work with the prosecution to dismiss charges, minimize your charges, or secure a plea deal.
Representing you in trial
Should your case proceed to trial, we have the experience and skill to put forward your best defense.
Sentencing
Should you face the court for sentencing, we prepare your argument for the least punitive sentence possible.
Putting you first
Throughout the process, we keep you first; working tirelessly to achieve the best result possible.

Rights

03

Protecting
your rights

We ensure at every stage of the case that your constitutional and procedural rights are protected.

Need Emergency Support?

There is no time to waste. We’re here for you 24/7.

Contact Us

Criminal Defense

Darcy Galnor

Darcy Galnor is board certified in criminal trial law by the Florida Bar, meaning that she is an expert in the field of criminal law. She is one of a handful of female lawyers in Northeast Florida with the certification, having tried dozens of criminal cases. A former Prosecutor with the State Attorney’s Office, Darcy has prosecuted a range of cases from misdemeanors to homicides. After five years with the State Attorney’s Office, she served as a Division Chief in the Public Defender’s Office, 4th Judicial Circuit. Upon leaving the Public Defender’s Office, Darcy worked for Kopelousos, Bradley & Garrison, P.A., a boutique law firm in Orange Park, Florida. It was there that she built a strong criminal defense practice. And now she’s ready to defend you. Why? Because you’re first.

Education

Ohio State University, Bachelor’s Journalism

Florida Coastal School of Law
Florida Bar board certified in criminal trial law
AV-Rated (preeminent) by Martindale-Hubbell

Proud Member Of

Chester Bedell Inn of Court, Bencher
Jacksonville Bar Association
The Clay County Bar Association
The Jacksonville Federal Bar Association
The Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Criminal Defense
Professional Licensure Defense

Gary S. Shumard

Gary Shumard has dedicated his career to trial advocacy. His practice focuses on state and federal criminal defense, professional licensure defense, and administrative law. He’s tried over forty (40) criminal cases to verdict in the State of Florida, ranging from misdemeanors to capital crimes. He’s also represented numerous professionals — nurses, doctors, athletes, and others — facing disciplinary action before their state and national governing boards.

Education

Wake Forest University, J.D.
North Carolina Advocate for Justice Award
Book Award – Trial Practice
University of Florida, B.A. cum laude
Honors College, Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholar

Proud Member Of

Jacksonville Bar Association
Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Jacksonville Federal Bar Association
Chester Bedell Inn of Court (Alumnus)
Jacksonville Chamber Downtown Council

Legal Assistant

Courtney Brewer

A Jacksonville native, Courtney started her career early when she began working at the Duval County Clerk’s office at the age of sixteen. After five years at the Clerk’s office and another five years working for a private criminal defense practice, she joined Galnor Shumard, P.A. when the firm was launched in 2018. Courtney comes from a family of criminal justice system professionals, so she knows the legal system inside and out. Helping defend you is part of her DNA.