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John P. Contini

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About Me


"We are not responsible for our kids' choices" (view more)
How Can a Christian Lawyer Defend the Guilty? (view more)
Even Jesus Needed an Angel (view more)
Attorney-client “privilege" (view more)
Who's hooking the wrong fish? (view more)
What an Honor! FBI National Academy Keynote Speaker (view more)
John P. Contini Interviews
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"As a trial lawyer and family man of faith, I'm in the business of helping people with their legal problems. Few things in life are more rewarding than reuniting a family or helping someone resolve their legal problems. There is no such thing anymore as a personal problem. When someone in the family has a problem, the whole family has a problem." - John Patrick Contini
John Patrick Contini is a former prosecutor and veteran criminal defense attorney since 1983. With over twenty years experience as a trial attorney, John appears in Federal Courts throughout the nation and Florida: Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Tampa and Orlando; Ft. Worth, TX; Charlotte, NC; Trenton, NJ; Pittsburgh, PA; Boston, MA; and Cleveland OH, to date. John received his B.A. in 1979 from the University of MA and his Juris Doctor in 1982 from the New England School of Law.
"Being a good lawyer is not just about winning and it's not just about caring for people - it's both. I personally believe that it's no fun being a lawyer unless you can genuinely help people, and allow them to get on with their lives. The question I am most often asked as a criminal defense attorney is: 'How can you defend someone when you know they are guilty?' For me, the answer is easy. I believe in condemning the act, not the person (John 8:11). This principle is consistent with my Faith. In Matt. 9:12, Jesus essentially answers the same question this way: 'It's not the healthy who need a physician, but the sick. I desire mercy, not sacrifice…' I unapologetically enjoy helping someone who is otherwise shunned and condemned by others, and society." -John Patrick Contini
He is a frequent speaker at area schools, drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities (i.e. Faith Farm), jails and prisons, juvenile boot camps, church youth groups, and radio/cable TV talk shows. He was privileged to speak at Faith Deliverance Cathedral, Dr. Rorie; of Hollywood, FL and New Hope Ministries, Apostle Frank Lloyd, of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, as well as dozens more. John is a member of: * The Massachusetts Bar * The Florida Bar * The U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth and Eleventh Circuit * The United States District Court for the Southern and Middle Districts of Florida * The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers * The Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers * The Broward Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers * The Association of Trial Lawyers of America Contact information:
John P. Contini & Associates, P.A.
1112 Southeast 3rd Ave
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
PHONE: 954.766.8810
FAX: 954.462.1243
By e-mail: [email protected]
www.jpcontini.com


www.dangerroadthebook.com
South Florida Criminal Defense Attorney , John Contini is author of the book Danger Road : A true crime story of murder and redemption. Contini recounts his 1991 defense of Gilbert Fernandez, a decorated Florida police officer and champion body builder accused of the 1983 execution murders of three drug dealers on a lonely stretch of highway in the Florida Everglades. But this is no ordinary crime thriller. It's the true story of lives changed for eternity and a bond of friendship and faith forged between two men from very different worlds.
What people are saying about Danger Road... ( view more )

My Interests

www.jpcontini.com

www.dangerroadthebook.com

www.feelingtheheat.net

www.libertypresspublishing.com

How would you feel if you knew in your spirit that your good friend was wired, targeting you with the feds for indictment? Betrayed? Sure, but what do you do when there's no time for hurt and anger, when you're scared to death and surrounded by undercover "patrons" pretending to blend in at the neighborhood coffee shop? Start bawling like a baby, or just get up and leave? Neither choice helps. No, you've got to go for door number three, the only choice that screws up their wire. Start running your mouth in desperation as fast and convincingly as possible. How many times can you get anything exculpatory or decent on the wire - forget that the feds would call them "false exculpatories," it only matters that it's on the wire. How fast can you muck up their recording with your spin of the real deal... before it's too late and you're writing to your kids from federal prison? South Florida trial lawyer John Contini, author of " Danger Road : A true crime story of murder and redemption," knows exactly how you'd feel, only because he's been there, done that. A client and friend was doing the unthinkable, betraying the very lawyer and friend who had helped him most.
FEELING THE HEAT:
An Interrogation of the Soul

" Feeling the Heat " is an inspirational true story that begins with betrayal and deception, moves to addiction and recovery and closes with faith, redemption, reuniting with family and love - another true crime and crossover faith story of second chances from the God of second chances! A federally-indicted client and former friend chose to 'wear a wire' for a couple of rogue federal agents, while targeting Contini for indictment to minimize his own prison exposure. “This painful time in my life was actually used of God to bring me closer to Him - a prodigal son experience that will not be forgotten. What they meant for bad, God meant for good."

"Feeling the Heat" buyers may now order on line @ www.feelingtheheat.net ... or by calling 800.957.6476 and allowing the operators to process the order.
* and don't forget: If you know the code word "luke," you receive the book for a third off the retail price - or only $10.00! (limited time offer)

John Contini is still an active Fort Lauderdale criminal lawyer very much involved in helping people in the areas of criminal defense and personal injury law.

Law Offices of John P. Contini & Associates, P.A.
1112 SE 3rd Ave Fort Lauderdale FL 33316
954.766.8810
www.jpcontini.com
wwwfeelingtheheat.net
800.957.6476


OLD FOES:
John Contini and former prosecuter,
now judge, Cynthia Imperato.

"I am absolutely encouraged and incredibly blessed by the selfless and uplifting comments I receive, and I therefore will reply to as many personal, and from the heart messages as time permits. At times my busy life with Elizabeth and our three children and their own schedules, and my law office and ministry opportunities, cause my replies to not be as timely as I would prefer. Please know I am touched and moved by the energy and encouragement of friends."
- John Contini

MORE COMMENTS:


"John, Thank you for being a good friend. You are a great person who I deeply admire and an angel of light who God greatly uses. Your friend always,"
- Tony Ewart
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Date: Sunday, March 30, 2008
Subject: THANK YOU !!!

John,

I just finished reading "Feeling the Heat." WOW, you not only captured my complete attention by not wanting to put the book down - due to the story line, but most importantly for me, to take an inward look at myself. I applaud your shared openness of your struggles and your conviction of Christ, our Lord and Savior. I have taken a serious look at my short comings toward people and my own struggles.

Though I try my best, my best is not always good enough, in order to set myself apart from acting like others who are not Christ centered. YOUR active "word" compelled me to redirect my actions and set an example as how Christ would want me to be, ( as I once had a lot more inner peace) not only for me, but for my son Jeff, who I love and need to set an example. (though I must admit he is the one usually setting the example, and I am proud to say he is 100 percent Christ centered.) He knows you by name/ conversation, you have to meet him one day.

Well John I am getting long winded, and a lot of run on sentences, I value your unconditional friendship and look forward to buying you a cup of coffee as well your upcoming book!!!!!!!!!!

In His Name,

Kurt K.
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Date: Saturday, March 29, 2008
"judging a book by it's cover?"

"Congratulations on your 2nd book - the 2nd of many more to come.

Our chance meeting at Starbucks has been something we won't forget - seeing that "homeless" man carrying his clothes in a shopping bag - but then walking out in a suit and stepping into a Mercedes - made us take notice of you. Watching your computer for you on another day while you had your "European bath" was another moment not to forget.

Reading your 2 books and knowing the area and the author was a real treat for us. Keep up the good work and keep on jogging. We'll always be looking out for you at our coffee house. Gary & Gayle
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Date: Mon, 17 Mar 2008 10:51:00 AM
Subject: "Feeling the Heat"

"What do Contini's book and boring Saturday have in common - nothing!"

It was wonderful seeing all of you so happy after the fishing trip. I had gone back to exercising on Thursday after 3 months of doing nothing and could not even walk on Saturday. Thought I would have a boring day - but then decided to pick up the best book I have ever read in my life - it happened to be your story! I could not put it down. I have told everyone to purchase a copy of your book. So another life lesson learned, things don't alway turn out the way you think they will - sometimes they turn out so much better!!!!!

Regards
Sara S.
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Date: March 12, 2008
Subject: "Feeling the Heat" review

John, in one afternoon I finished your book. First let me say it was dynamite.....way better than your first book. I loved all the verses you used and referred to and the quotes from the doctor. I will be writing them down in my journal for myself as well. As I was reading I was trying to remember, time frame wise, when we met you.....I figured out that Tony and I must have met you right after you got out of TRC. I can not wait till Tony reads it....This is a great book for lawyers to read. Especially criminal defense lawyers....maybe we can get them into law schools, so that law students can read it so they to will not lose perspective of their lives.....just a thought. Great job, loved it. I can just visualize you. I am fortunate enough to know you so I can see your body language, your smile or smirk and especially your whole attitude. I was taken by surprise that you had issues with anger, and some of the remarks you made, I cannot see that. May you continue in your new way of life. I know it has been six years since you were in TRC but let me say writing this book shows that you are still living what you learned. God Bless, Chris
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Date: Sun, 10 Feb 2008
Subject: "Danger Road" review

CONGRATULATIONS, John!!

The day that I bought your book, I stayed up reading it until 2:30 AM! I finally gave up finishing it in one sitting, and went to bed. However, I got up and got to the remarkable ending before noon the next day. Thanks for an excellent, insightful, and powerful tale!
Chuck Tiedje
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Feb 1, 2008 10:14 AM
This is TRUE - I enjoy reading your true crime stories John - I only began to understand once I was able to read your books "Danger Road" and "Feeling the Heat" - I know by reading these books all readers can relate to your true knowledge and most of all - the experience you have! You're a Winner!
Jennifer
______________________________________________________

Date: Thu, 31 Jan 2008

Dear Mr. Contini-

I enjoyed Danger Road very much. Jeff was kind enough to lend it to me because he knows of my long standing interest in criminal defense, public interest, death penalty matters and the like. Thank you for writing such meaningful and strength inspiring words. I think its a great read and a wonderful inside view to a trial that most people will never have the chance to experience. I think what you are doing is really important. People have a very misguided idea about those who choose to practice criminal defense law and what it says or doesn't say about anybody's moral compass as opposed to recognizing it as a charge to upholding the Constitution. I think the right to a defense is one of the greatest privileges we have, it's one of the things that makes this country so great. The unfortunate fact that there is no comparable civil right keeps me busy and employed :)
Very best wishes.
Jill Eden Strauzer, Esq.
Founder- Director
Angels in Waiting, Inc.
______________________________________________________

Date: Jan 15, 2008 5:45 PM
Subject: Danger Road review

Dearest John,

Anyone even remotely involved with the legal system in anyway needs to read this book. This story took me back to some of the darkest days of my life. I had to almost face the man who tried to kill me all over again in my head and ask myself "could he have really did this to me, and does he deserve a second chance?" I felt so connected to Gil, like I knew him personally. You really brought the human side out in a man that society would love to hate. I know I will see Gil in heaven and I welcome it whole heartedly.

Grace and peace to you and yours from this memory impaired, brain injured girl of God, Stacey Tupper
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Date: Sat, 12 Jan 2008 21:51:39
Subject: Feeling the Heat

John, I am just speechless. My head is just spinning and is so full of thoughts and I want to say so much to you. I started Feeling the Heat this morning and I just couldn't put it down (life kept on liven today, so I had to put it down a bit)and I just was not going to end my day until I finished it. With that being said, I finished it. I and everyone who reads it, for that matter, should be honored and humbled, that you would share that part of your life with us (the world).

I don't believe in luck and I don't believe in coincidences. Man, I'm telling you, this was all God. My path crossing with your path.....WOW...I just can't get the words out that describe what I am feeling.

One of my favorite scriptures ( I love em all) keeps popping in my head. Ephesians 1:11--In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will. His will and His purpose is perfect. I just can't not think that this is in His plan.

God loves you John and so do I. Servant of the most high God, Stacey Tupper
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Date: Fri, 11 Jan 2008 11:36:32
Subject: FEELING THE HEAT

John this book is great. It has allowed to me really find out who you are . I can still go great things with my life. I like how you said how GOD had you lay down in Atlanta that brought tears to my eyes. Your most trusted friend that was a former cop with over 24 felonies stole from you, you still forgave the guy and he tries to get your gun, man I got a migraine headache reading it which is good for that means its really impacting me and enabling me to reevaluate my life, I love my wife and kids but I can be kinda selfish wanting to SHINE and get the all the attention. The letters you wrote to your parents were awesome. The way you meet SCOTT was a surprise your description of him was right on target the COLUMBO statement made me laugh. I have about 20 more pages to read. I like how you wrote PORTER in that kept things interesting. You've giving me a gift that i will never forget. I want to get everything behind me do what I am told. I cant keep wanting praise from people all the time to fill a ego. I want to just be who god created me to be and enjoy the rest of my life as drama free as possible. Your book has also taught me that no matter how good a person I am and how nice I am to people without God in charge of my journey I am nothing. I will read the bible totally more closely. You are a good man John, someday I want to be able to help people and impact they lives the way you do. From my heart, Greg
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The Author Takes You To The Hidden Side of His Soul, January 6, 2008
By C. M. Manis (Sunrise, Florida)

This review is for Feeling the Heat: An Interrogation of the Soul

The author, an experienced and respected criminal defense attorney, recounts the events that lead to his stay at an addiction recovery center. While he tried to hide to avoid possible prosecution, he could not hide from himself. See what happens at a recovery center. While there is a criminal backdrop to this book, the story reveals the inside of a recovery treatment from the patient's perspective. Just like his first book, Danger Road: A True Crime Story of Murder and Redemption, John Contini is quite transparent and shares his thoughts about what he is thinking. This transparent honesty allows the reader to experience what it is like to be there. Anyone who is considering an addiction recovery treatment center will be encouraged and gain valuable insight. Everyone else will gain insight and wisdom from the author.
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Dec 28, 2007 5:08 PM
Subject: Danger Road

John,
I finished reading Danger Road on Christmas Day...I don't recall ever being so torn, before, between my convictions concerning murder & punishment and the way I came to see Gil Fernandez! You presented his story in such a way that it was almost like talking to him myself. You're a great writer!
Now I have to go & decide whether or not I still believe in capital punishment. Not only that, but the why's of my principles!
Your confounded friend,
Teresa
I can't decide if I believe he pulled one of the triggers or not. But somehow, I just don't think he did.
______________________________________________________

December 28, 2007

Dearest John,

I just finished your book, "Danger Road". It most definitely is one of the BEST books i have ever read in my life! I can't remember a book that has brought about both emotions from me, laughter and crying. The laughter from your hilarious sense of humor and the crying for each defendants and all victims involved.

I would like to thank you for sharing these books with me. "Danger Road" for me has been an education within the justice system and as well as learning about what it is like to be a Lawyer whether a "Defense" Lawyer as yourself or a "Prosecution" Lawyer. The characters in your book were written about so real i felt myself living in the court room during this trial with you. It also brought back memories of my husband's trial and had many, many small similarities i suppose that most "murder" trials would bring about?

On a more personal note. I would like to say that you are not just a "good" Lawyer you are truly a GREAT Lawyer! I think you fought like warrior would in a battle field accept it was not a battle field but a court room. You are truly ingenious in your profession and even though you had so may obstacles thrown your way you still fought to win until the end. If you ask me you did win! All of these events happened for a reason. The meeting of the Fernandez family, defending Gil Fernandez and writing a book about the entire events that occurred. This is the beauty of Gods will. Gods will and not your own prevails here. There were many souls to be redeemed in this story. Many you probably don't even know about? You were just one of the Characters in Gods plan for this. Gil Fernandez is another. Even your own life was so effected by all of this it brought your nearer to Christ Jesus.

About the victim family member who contacted you and left a message accusations thrown at you from her. She is was just taking her pain out on you John. Maybe if she read your book she would feel different, but maybe not. We all have our own way to God. This is part of your way to God. I don't think by sharing any of this is wrong. We all can learn important messages from each other if we all shared our testimonies. It's affirming and encouraging!

God bless you!

~~Toni Sevchuk

PS

Additionally, i think you are way too hard on yourself...you are a human being like the rest of us!
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This Book Will Absorb Your Mind, December 3, 2006
By C. M. Manis (Sunrise, Florida)

This review is for: Danger Road: A True Crime Story of Murder and Redemption

Once you start reading Danger Road, you won't be able to stop. This book chronicles a real life tragedy, the legal aftermath of the murder of three drug dealers. If you have ever wanted to know what the REAL legal justice system is all about, this book is for you. You don't need to be a legal expert to understand what is going on in the courtroom. The author was the defense attorney in this case who explains what is happening, why it is happening, and the real world impact these proceedings have on the people's lives who were affected in this case. What I found most intriguing was the way we get to know what the attorney was thinking as the trial evolved. This is a must read for anyone who wants to know the truth about the American criminal justice system. Turn off your cell phone; you won't be able to put this book down.
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My Blog

"HEADS UP!"

The following piece is basically a "heads up" (in case you or one of your loved ones is ever in an accident, God forbid!) ... but if I were brutally honest, I'd say this new blog could also dou...
Posted by John P. Contini on Mon, 21 Apr 2008 12:38:00 PST

"Addicted to More"

"Addicted to More"The following are dialogue excerpts (specifically dealing with red wine, unfortunately my favorite!) from a chapter in "Feeling the Heat" ... recounting my conversations with Pastor ...
Posted by John P. Contini on Fri, 18 Apr 2008 12:39:00 PST

"react with faith, not fear"

"react with faith, not fear"An encouragement letter   Dear Friend: Much of what is contained in this letter may not even apply to you, and it may speak more to the needs of someone you care ...
Posted by John P. Contini on Mon, 26 Nov 2007 05:43:00 PST

Criminal Defense Practice: A Mission Field?

Criminal Defense Practice: A Mission Field? By John Contini The beauty of being both a criminal defense attorney and a born again believer is that the arena is clearly a mission field, a real min...
Posted by John P. Contini on Mon, 31 Dec 2007 01:23:00 PST

"What we tell ourselves"

"What we tell ourselves"If you’re having troubles on the home front (assuming it’s the non-violent type), tell yourself that it’ll all work out (and tell yourself a few of the other...
Posted by John P. Contini on Mon, 07 Apr 2008 06:21:00 PST

"We are not responsible for our kids choices"

"We are not responsible for our kids' choices"Bonnie, You are not a failure, neither you nor your husband. You love your son and each of you has sacrificed tremendously over the last two decades, in o...
Posted by John P. Contini on Sat, 05 Apr 2008 06:31:00 PST

"Same Latitude, Different Attitude"

"Same Latitude, Different Attitude" Every year for 17 years now, we drive less than 2 hours across alligator alley from Ft Lauderdale to Naples on Florida’s gulf coast, for occasional family va...
Posted by John P. Contini on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 05:52:00 PST

Who's hooking the wrong fish?!

Who’s hooking the wrong fish - the feds or the fisherman?!Can you believe this? The Al Qaeda have GOT to be laughing their camel riding, tabouli eating a*ses off, even as they’re trying t...
Posted by John P. Contini on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 12:42:00 PST

"reporters unwittingly aiding and abetting the next killers"

"reporters unwittingly aiding and abetting the next killers"Unbelievable! Reporters Brian Haas and Andrew BA Tran (no doubt very nice people, however misguided) sounded very informed and even quite sm...
Posted by John P. Contini on Mon, 24 Mar 2008 05:41:00 PST

Attorney-client "privilege"

  Attorney-client "privilege"Jill S.Sun Mar 9, 2008Hi John-   Hope all is well.  The Starbucks gig sounds great.  I was reading the description of your other book today as well.&nb...
Posted by John P. Contini on Tue, 11 Mar 2008 07:52:00 PST