About Us

Joshua W. Deckard began his career in the criminal justice field in 1978. He is a former law enforcement officer, serving over 25-years with distinction. As a police officer, he received frequent promotions and awards for his leadership and investigative skills. His comprehensive experiences as a police trainer, major crimes investigator and as a supervisor in a variety of police divisions provide Mr. Deckard with valuable insight of police practices. Consequently, his experience and knowledge has led to “not guilty” verdicts, favorable judicial rulings, and dismissal of cases.

Mr. Deckard is committed to ethics and fairness. As a police officer, it led to his invitation to lecture and teach police officers. During his time as a police officer, Mr. Deckard had the occasion to witness many injustices within the criminal justice system. The injustices Mr. Deckard observed inspired him as a lawyer to defend those accused of crimes and those in need of justice.

Mr. Deckard graduated Cum Laude from Palm Beach Atlantic University. He then studied law at Nova Southeastern University School of Law while continuing his career in law enforcement. In 2002, Mr. Deckard was admitted to practice in both the Florida Supreme Court and the U.S. Southern District Court. In March 2010, he was admitted to practice by the U.S. Supreme Court, an honor and distinction earned by only a few of his peers. With regularity Mr. Deckard collaborates with fellow criminal practitioners and together they share ideas, thoughts and case strategies. Mr. Deckard was also privileged to serve as the co-chair of the criminal section of the Martin County Bar Association for four consecutive years.

For relaxation and good health, Mr. Deckard enjoys a variety of endurance and fitness sports, including cycling and running. He also enjoys boating and revels in time spent with his family. Additionally he takes pleasure in a variety of charitable events including an annual event where he and his staff distribute Christmas gifts to local jail inmates.

Chantell Rodriguez Rivera is a Paralegal at the Law Office of Joshua Deckard. Mrs. Rodriguez born and raised in Wyoming, moved to the State of Florida in 2006 with her family where she has developed substantial ties to the community of both Martin and St. Lucie County. Mrs. Rodriguez is currently attending Indian River State College and has worked at the Law Office of Joshua Deckard since early 2020.

Mrs. Rodriguez has extensive experience in the legal field. She started her passion in the legal field in 2015 first as a Secretary at the Office of the State Attorney for the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit, where she quickly worked her way up to the lead secretary until late 2018. After her endeavors ended at the State Attorney’s Office, Mrs. Rodriguez then started at the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court in 2018 as a Deputy Clerk Professional. Mrs. Rodriguez additionally has as many years of experience as a paralegal. Mrs. Rodriguez works closely with Mr. Deckard and Ms. Deckard to coordinate day-to-day firm operations, working with the attorneys on criminal and injury cases. Our clients benefit from Mrs. Rodriguez’s passion for her job, her practical knowledge in the field, her noteworthy experience, and the strong relationships she has built over the years with attorneys, court personnel, and other legal professionals.

We have found that most clients experience stress and anxiety while awaiting the completion of their case. Mrs. Rodriguez will help alleviate your anxiety and fears and will be available to answer your questions throughout your pending case.

 In Mrs. Rodriguez’s free time, she genuinely enjoys spending time with her family, and traveling.