Elizabeth L. “Betsy” White | Criminal Defense Lawyer | Jacksonville, Florida

Elizabeth L. “Betsy” White | Criminal Defense Lawyer | Jacksonville, Florida
Elizabeth L. “Betsy” White is a criminal defense and appellate lawyer based in Jacksonville, Florida. She has practiced since 1980, handling trials and appeals in state and federal courts. Her work also includes complex white collar matters and civil rights litigation. Clients turn to her for thorough preparation, clear guidance, and steady courtroom advocacy.
Ms. White represents individuals at every stage of a case. She handles pre-indictment investigation, grand jury matters, and negotiations. In court, she argues motions, protects constitutional rights, and tries cases to verdict. On appeal, she prepares records and briefs, presents oral argument, and addresses standards of review and error preservation.
Her experience includes internet offenses, sexual assault allegations, and white collar investigations. She has appeared in the United States Supreme Court, federal courts of appeals, and trial courts across Florida. Representative highlights include obtaining certiorari review in Doggett v. United States and preventing a stay in Florida’s same-sex marriage case, which allowed an order to take effect.
Clients include professionals, students, and families who need help with federal or state charges. Typical needs include case evaluation, motion practice, plea advice, sentencing advocacy, and post-conviction relief. Education includes a J.D. from the University of Oregon. Admissions include Florida and Oregon, with court admissions to the U.S. Supreme Court, the Fifth and Eleventh Circuits, and the Middle District of Florida.
For a confidential consultation, call 904-356-9661. Office: 215 North Washington Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202.
Services:
Pre-indictment investigation and case evaluation
Defense of federal and state charges, including white collar and internet offenses
Grand jury and subpoena response
Motion practice and trial representation
Plea negotiations and sentencing advocacy
Appeals, writs, and post-conviction relief
Record on appeal and brief writing
Civil rights litigation related to criminal matters
Oral argument in state and federal appellate courts
Consultation on standards of review and issue preservation
FAQs:
Q: What happens during a pre-indictment investigation?
A: Counsel reviews the facts, communicates with authorities when appropriate, and works to resolve issues early or narrow the scope before any filing.
Q: How does an appeal differ from a new trial?
A: An appeal reviews alleged legal errors in the trial record. It does not re-try facts. The focus is on transcripts, briefs, and legal arguments.
Q: What should I bring to an initial consultation?
A: Bring charging documents, notices, prior orders, and any correspondence. A brief timeline of events and contact information for witnesses also helps.
Q: Can a federal subpoena be challenged?
A: Yes. Counsel can assess scope, timing, and privilege issues, and negotiate with the government or seek court relief when necessary.
About the Firm:
Sheppard, White, Kachergus, & DeMaggio PA is a Jacksonville law firm focused on criminal defense, appellate practice, and related civil rights matters. The team represents clients across Florida in trial and appellate courts, including federal forums. Services cover investigations, motion practice, trials, and appeals, with attention to clear communication and client readiness for each stage of the process. If you need guidance on a criminal charge or appeal, call 904-356-9661 or visit the office at 215 North Washington Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202.
