About Goldhagen Law

Proudly serving the Florida Panhandle, providing DUI defense, criminal defense, and general civil litigation in an effective and efficient manner. We endeavor to provide goal-oriented service that meets each client's needs. We believe that there is not a one-size fits all approach and work with our clients to meet their specific needs.  

No matter the situation where your family may be needing legal representation--from navigating civil litigation matters to guiding you through the complex criminal justice system--our family has yours covered.

Matthew Goldhagen received his Juris Doctorate from Florida State University.  While at FSU, Matthew volunteered as a Student Advocate in FSU’s Veterans Legal Clinic and was a member of the FSU Student Affairs Alliance.  Matthew held a number of legal positions while attending FSU full time including having worked at the Fifth District Court of Appeals, serving as a Law intern to Chief Judge Kerry I. Evander, as a Bankruptcy intern at Justin Clark & Associates, P.L.L.C., and as a law clerk at Hopping, Green & Sams, P.A.

Before law school, Matthew served as a medic in the U.S. Army for eleven years of active-duty service in a number of assignments including with the 3rd Ranger Battalion and Florida National Guard with the 3/20 Special Forces Group.   Matthew has been and continues to be involved in the veteran community and is a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and the National Society of Pershing Rifles.

Matthew’s legal interests are in emergency/disaster, contracts, construction, appellate, property and real estate law, commercial litigation, municipal law, and other general civil litigation matters. Matthew currently serves as County Attorney for Jackson County, Florida, and City Attorney for Chipley, Florida and Vernon, Florida. 

Jillian Goldhagen received her Juris Doctorate for Barry University School of Law. While at Barry University, Jillian interned at Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida, assisting with matters relating to bankruptcy, family law, and landlord/tenant matters. Upon graduation, Jillian began working as an Assistant State Attorney in the 14th Judicial Circuit. Since then, Jillian has centered her legal practice around providing criminal defense representation in the 14th Judicial Circuit.  

Jillian is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with a strong focus on DUI defense. Jillian has built a reputation for aggressive advocacy, strategic legal thinking, and an unwavering commitment to protecting clients' rights. 

 Recognized for a deep understanding of DUI laws, field sobriety testing procedures, and the science behind breath and blood alcohol analysis, Jillian has successfully defended hundreds of clients facing DUI charges—from first-time offenders to those with multiple prior convictions. Whether challenging unlawful traffic stops or negotiating reduced charges, Jillian consistently delivers results with integrity and professionalism. 

Professional Associations

- Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Bay County Chapter President

- National College for DUI Defense, Member