
Rocky Brancato
Tampa, FL Criminal Defense Attorney
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense, DUI / DWI, Sex Crime, Traffic Ticket, Violent Crimes, White Collar Crimes
Main Office
Brancato Law firm, P.A.
1600 E 8th Ave, Suite A200
Tampa, FL 33605
Phone: 813-727-7159
About Rocky Brancato
With more than 25 years of experience in criminal law, Rocky Brancato has been a dedicated advocate in Hillsborough County’s legal community. Before establishing Brancato Law Firm, P.A., in January 2025, he served as second-in-command at the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, where he handled complex cases involving serious offenses such as homicides and sex crimes.
Over the course of his career, Mr. Brancato has managed a wide range of high-stakes cases, ensuring strong legal representation for those facing criminal charges, DUI offenses, and traffic-related matters. He is recognized for his ability to effectively incorporate expert witnesses to clarify complex legal and factual issues in court.
Mr. Brancato is also well-versed in mental health and specialty court systems, using his knowledge to help clients find alternatives to traditional prosecution. For more than 20 years, he has mentored attorneys throughout the Tampa Bay area and has provided legal education at statewide seminars. His commitment to the field has earned him an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting his high standing among peers in criminal defense.
Education
University of North Dakota School of Law, JD-1998Utah State University, BS-1994
Bar Associations
Florida Bar AssociationsHillsborough County Bar Association
Honors & Awards
AV Preeminent Rating, Martindale-Hubbell-2025Julianne M. Holt Torchbearer Award, Hillsborough Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers-2024
Honor, Optimism, Leadership & Teamwork Award, Hillsborough County Public Defender's Office-2008
Major Crimes Bureau Professional Attorney of the Year, Hillsborough County Public Defender's Office-2005
Professional Associations
DUI Counterattack - Board of Directors, 2014Hillsborough County Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers - Board of Directors, 2010
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers - Member, 2000
Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers - Member, 2000
Juvenile Justice Advisory Board, 13th Judicial Circuit - Chair, 2022-2024
Safe & Sound Hillsborough - Vice Chair, Youth and Gun Violence Committee, 2015-2024
Board of Directors, Pace Center for Girls - Vice Chair, 2015-2021
Problem Solving Courts Oversight Committee, 13th Judicial Circuit - Member, 2012-2023
