Ralph Vickers, Esq.
Attorney and owner of Suncoast Lawyer, PLLC — a Pinellas-based criminal and family law firm serving clients throughout Florida's Suncoast.
Background & Practice
Ralph Vickers is the founder of Suncoast Lawyer and a dedicated criminal defense and family law attorney serving Florida's Suncoast. He is originally from Philadelphia and has lived in Pinellas County for more than ten years. Ralph provides legal services to clients in Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Hernando Counties.
Before establishing Suncoast Lawyer, Ralph worked as an attorney with the Public Defender's Office in the Sixth Judicial Circuit. In that role, he served as the attorney of record for more than 1,000 clients in a wide range of criminal cases. This experience provided daily courtroom practice, consistent exposure to the local judges and prosecutors, and a practical understanding of how criminal cases move through the system. Ralph later practiced family law and appeared in courts throughout the region on matters involving divorce, child custody and timesharing, paternity, modifications, child support, and other domestic issues.
These experiences shaped the values that guide his approach to both criminal defense and family law cases:
- Be honest with clients about the realities of their case.
- Prepare thoroughly, as if every matter may go to trial.
- Pursue solutions that protect long-term goals, not just immediate wins.
Approach to Cases
Every case is unique, but the objectives remain consistent. Ralph provides clear guidance to clients who are facing criminal charges or navigating family law disputes. His goal is to offer a straightforward assessment of the case, an honest discussion about risks and potential outcomes, and a strategy that aligns with the client's priorities.
Ralph focuses on identifying leverage points early in the process. This may involve challenging the legal basis of a criminal charge, examining problems in the evidence, or preparing a strong record for a contested family law hearing. He encourages clients to stay engaged in decisions related to negotiation, hearings, and trial preparation.
Recognition, Organizations & Education
- » 2025 — President of the Pinellas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- » Member Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- » Member Pinellas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- » Member Pinellas County Trial Lawyers Association
- » Member St. Petersburg Bar Association
- » Member Clearwater Bar Association
- » Member Florida Bar
- » Degree of Law (J.D.), Stetson University College of Law; with Honors (Cum Laude); with Awards
- » B.S. Business Administration, West Chester University of Pennsylvania; with Honors
Serving Florida's Suncoast
Ralph lives and practices in Pinellas County and proudly serves individuals and families throughout the greater Suncoast region. Suncoast Lawyer provides legal services to clients in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Seminole, Palm Harbor, New Port Richey, Tampa, Bradenton, and surrounding communities.