Roy Black, famed Miami defense attorney, dies at 80

July 23, 2025 – 5:10 PM

Roy Black, one of the most respected criminal defense lawyers in the U.S., has died at the age of 80. Known for representing high-profile clients like William Kennedy Smith, Justin Bieber, and Helio Castroneves, Black earned a reputation for winning difficult cases and mentoring a generation of attorneys. His death was confirmed Tuesday by longtime law partner Howard Srebnick.

A career built on courtroom victories

Roy Black first rose to national attention in 1991 when he successfully defended William Kennedy Smith, a nephew of the Kennedy political dynasty, in a highly publicized rape trial. The case, broadcast live on national television, marked a turning point in televised courtroom coverage and cemented Black’s status as a legal heavyweight.

The trial, held in Palm Beach, included graphic testimony and widespread media coverage. A blue dot was famously used on-screen to protect the identity of the accuser. Smith was ultimately acquitted. He later became a physician and co-founded an organization that works to ban landmines and support their victims.

High-profile clients and headline cases

Over the years, Roy Black defended a long list of celebrities, athletes, and public figures.

Justin Bieber

In 2014, Black represented pop singer Justin Bieber in a Miami case involving DUI allegations and drag racing. The singer eventually pleaded guilty to lesser charges — misdemeanor careless driving and resisting arrest — avoiding more serious penalties.

Helio Castroneves

The Indy 500-winning race car driver faced federal tax evasion charges. With Black’s legal defense, Castroneves was acquitted, clearing his name.

Rush Limbaugh and others

Black also represented conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh, Miami police officer William Lozano (acquitted in a controversial 1989 shooting that sparked riots), and Amid Khoury, a defendant in the “Varsity Blues” college admissions scandal who was found not guilty.

Colleagues pay tribute

Howard Srebnick, who worked alongside Black for more than 30 years, said in an email:

“For more than 30 years, Roy was my teacher, mentor and friend. The losses I feel personally and professionally are immeasurable.”

Fellow Miami defense lawyer David O. Markus compared Black to basketball legend Michael Jordan, calling him the “GOAT” — the greatest of all time — in the legal field.

“He worked harder than any lawyer I know. And he outlawyered every prosecutor he ever went up against. His impact on criminal defense is beyond measure.”

Jackie Perczek, another partner, said Black taught her that lawyers have a duty to “fiercely battle the oppressors and support the underdog.”

“This generation and many to come stand on his shoulders,” she said.

Beyond the courtroom

In addition to trying cases, Roy Black was a prolific writer and frequent guest on national television shows. He shared legal insights through articles and commentary that reached wide audiences across the country.

He also left a personal mark through mentorship and his dedication to justice. Many young lawyers credit their careers to his guidance and example.

A lasting legacy

Roy Black is survived by his wife, Lea Black, whom he met during the Kennedy Smith trial while she was serving as a juror. She later became a public figure on the reality show The Real Housewives of Miami. They have one son, RJ, and he is also survived by his daughter, Nora.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Roy Black’s name will continue to be remembered in legal circles across the country. His decades of courtroom work, celebrity cases, and strong belief in defending the underdog have shaped the practice of criminal defense in America.

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