Roy Black, a distinguished criminal defense lawyer based in Downtown Miami, has passed away, prompting deep sorrow among his colleagues and the legal community. Black, who taught law at the University of Miami for decades, was highly regarded for his legal expertise and his determination to win cases.
Starting his career at the Miami-Dade County Public Defender’s Office, Black later founded the Black Srebnick law firm, which operated out of an office overlooking Biscayne Bay. Over the years, he represented a number of high-profile clients, including Jeffrey Epstein, William Kennedy Smith, Rush Limbaugh, and Helio Castroneves, cementing his status as one of the top defense attorneys.
“He really was the GOAT of criminal defense lawyers,” noted fellow attorney David Oscar Markus on his blog, lauding Black’s relentless spirit and positive outlook. Black’s death on Monday in Coral Gables comes after a battle with illness, yet he continued to work at his firm until the end.
Born on February 17, 1945, in New York and raised in Connecticut, Jamaica, and the Bahamas, Black earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Miami, where he began teaching federal evidentiary rules in 1973. His literary contributions included the book “Black’s Law: A Criminal Lawyer Reveals His Defense Strategies in Four Cliffhanger Cases,” published in 1999, and he frequently shared insights through commentary for various renowned publications and networks.
Colleagues remember Black not only as a prominent legal figure but also as a genuinely warm person. Attorney Todd J. Michaels remarked on his admiration for Black, stating that he was a legend in the field who lived up to the elevated reputation he had garnered.
His influence extended beyond the courtroom. Black’s marriage to Lea Black, a juror in the Kennedy Smith trial, further highlighted his public persona, with Lea later gaining fame as a cast member of “The Real Housewives of Miami.”
Roy Black’s legacy is profound, as he has left an indelible mark on the legal landscape of Florida and beyond. His commitment to justice and mentorship will be remembered fondly by those who knew him.
This somber news also serves as a reminder of the vital role of lawyers in advocating for justice and the profound impact they can have on others’ lives. The legal community can take heart from Black’s story of dedication and resilience.