Bill Gunter

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

About

Bill Gunter is a dedicated criminal defense attorney with a proven track record of defending clients against a wide range of charges, from misdemeanors to life felonies. With a background in litigation, ethics investigations, and military service, he brings a unique and disciplined approach to protecting his clients' rights.

Military Service & Education

A Montgomery, Alabama, native, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps after high school, serving as an infantryman in TOW and Scout Platoons, 2nd Tank Battalion, from 2003 to 2007. He deployed twice to Fallujah, Iraq, in 2005 and 2006 before receiving an honorable discharge as a Sergeant.

Using the G.I. Bill, Bill attended Auburn University, graduating summa cum laude with a degree in economics and a minor in history. He then earned his law degree from the University of Alabama School of Law in 2012, launching his legal career in insurance defense litigation.

Legal Experience & Criminal Defense Practice

Bill’s legal experience extends beyond traditional litigation. As a Staff Attorney for the Alabama Judicial Inquiry Commission, he investigated and prosecuted judicial ethics violations, sharpening his skills in case investigation and legal strategy.

After passing the Florida Bar, Bill and his wife—also an attorney—relocated to Panama City Beach, where they established a law firm focused on Social Security and Veterans’ Disability appeals. However, Bill soon realized his true passion lay in the courtroom, leading him to transition into criminal defense law.

Since then, he has successfully defended hundreds of clients facing charges including DUI, drug offenses, violent crimes, white-collar offenses, and serious felonies. His experience, military background, and investigative skills make him a formidable advocate for those navigating the criminal justice system.

Madeline McClaran

Attorney at Law

About

Madeline McClaran is a skilled defense attorney with a unique perspective drawn from her experience as a former prosecutor for the 14th Judicial Circuit. In 2023, Madeline transitioned to criminal defense, leveraging her deep understanding of the prosecution’s strategies and her established relationships with judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement. This invaluable insight gives her clients a decisive edge in the courtroom.

Education

A proud native Texan, Madeline grew up on a farm where she developed a strong work ethic and competitive spirit through her passion for rodeo. As a student-athlete at Oklahoma State University, she was recruited to join the rodeo team as a barrel racer. Her dedication and skill earned her the honor of caring for and riding OSU’s beloved mascot, Bullet, at home football games. The commitment and discipline she cultivated in rodeo continue to shape her approach to practicing law, where she advocates with both passion and strategic precision.

Madeline graduated magna cum laude from OSU in 2019, earning a Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a minor in Religious Studies. She went on to attend Florida State University College of Law, where she graduated in 2022. During law school, Madeline was accepted into a competitive semester-in-practice program in Walton County, where she worked under the mentorship of a former judge and successfully tried her first case before graduating.

Madeline is licensed to practice law in Florida and is an active member of the Florida Bar and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys.