Coral Gables, Florida — Renowned defense attorney Roy Black, known for his high-profile cases, passed away at the age of 80 on Monday at his home. His law partner, Howard Srebnick, confirmed that Black had been struggling with an unspecified illness.
Srebnick, who joined Black’s legal practice three decades ago, praised his mentor as possibly the greatest criminal lawyer in American history. He reflected on their deep professional relationship, noting that the impact of Black’s death is immeasurable personally and professionally.
Despite his health struggles, Black continued to work, maintaining his commitments in a field that included his defense of financier Jeffrey Epstein in a controversial 2008 plea deal. Epstein pleaded guilty to state charges for procuring a minor for prostitution, resulting in an 18-month prison sentence, although he served only 13 months. The plea deal faced scrutiny, leading two women to file a lawsuit claiming their rights were neglected in the agreement process. Black, in legal responses, asserted that the plea agreement was not a “sweetheart deal,” countering the allegations of misconduct.
In 2015, Black sought to prevent the public release of emails sent by Epstein’s attorneys to federal prosecutors during plea negotiations, arguing that such disclosures would irreparably harm his client. This case exemplified his tenacity in high-stakes environments, further illustrated by his work on numerous significant cases throughout his career.
Notably, Black achieved an acquittal for William Kennedy Smith in 1991 during a rape trial that captivated national attention through live television coverage. His influence extended beyond the courtroom, as he became a familiar face on television programs like “Larry King Live” and “Today,” representing various notable figures, including Miami police officer William Lozano, who faced charges in a case that resulted in civil unrest.
Lozano was initially convicted for shooting and killing a motorcyclist in 1989. However, after a retrial in Orlando, he was acquitted. Black also represented celebrities like Rush Limbaugh, Kelsey Grammer, Justin Bieber, Joe Francis, and Peter Max, solidifying his reputation in celebrity defense.
Black leaves behind his wife, Lea, and their two children, Roy Black Jr. and Nora Black. His passing marks the end of an era in criminal defense, with his legacy likely to endure through the cases he fought and the legal principles he championed.
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