Carl G Hawkins
Law Office of Carl G. Hawkins, PLLC
As the founder of The Law Office of Carl G. Hawkins, PLLC, a boutique firm based in Fruit Cove, Florida, I serve clients across the nation. I earned my J.D. from Florida Coastal School of Law, where I was honored with the CALI Book Award for Intellectual Property, and I hold a B.A. in Criminology from the University of South Florida. My professional path reflects a dedication to principled leadership, strategic clarity, and long-term resilience.
My approach to legal work is shaped by a multidisciplinary perspective, informed by early experience at a New York law firm and direct interactions with FINRA and the SEC. I view legal strategy as more than a technical process—it’s a framework for ethical governance, operational structure, and reputational impact. My criminology background enhances my understanding of institutional behavior, while my legal training equips me to navigate complex regulatory landscapes.
In 2024, I expanded my practice to include Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) advisory, providing collegiate athletes and their families with guidance on brand development, contract review, and compliance strategy. This addition reflects my belief that legal counsel should empower both individuals and institutions—whether through fiduciary planning, intellectual property protection, or reputation management.
My work is characterized by precision, transparency, and a focus on the long term. I strive to build legal frameworks that endure, enabling clients to move forward with confidence, clarity, and purpose. My approach is rooted in ethical clarity and strategic foresight, always aimed at creating resilient systems that address current needs while supporting future growth.
Licensed in Florida and District of Columbia.
- Securities Law
- Business Law
- Business Contracts, Business Dissolution, Business Formation, Business Litigation, Franchising, Mergers & Acquisitions, Partnership & Shareholder Disputes
- Trademarks
- Trademark Litigation, Trademark Registration
- Entertainment & Sports Law
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Free Consultation
Free initial 15-minute consultation. - Credit Cards Accepted
- District of Columbia
- District of Columbia Bar
- ID Number: 1737629
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- Florida
- The Florida Bar
- ID Number: 1002428
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- Owner
- Law Office of Carl G. Hawkins, PLLC
- - Current
- Founded in October 2017, The Law Office of Carl G. Hawkins, PLLC began with a focus on corporate law, fiduciary governance, and securities compliance. Over time, the firm expanded into multi-entity structuring and intellectual property, supporting founders, institutions, and family offices with strategic legal counsel. In 2024, the practice added NIL advisory services for collegiate athletes, offering contract review, brand strategy, and compliance guidance. Carl G. Hawkins earned his J.D. from Florida Coastal School of Law, where he received the CALI Book Award for Intellectual Property, and holds a B.A. in Criminology from the University of South Florida. His multidisciplinary background informs a principled, future-oriented approach to law—blending operational clarity, ethical leadership, and long-term strategy. Based in Fruit Cove, Florida, Carl serves clients nationwide.
- Florida Coastal School of Law
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- University of South Florida
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- CALI Excellence of the Future Award
- The Center For Computer-Assisted Legal Instruction
- Intellectual Property - Professor Amanda Reid
- Jacksonville Bar Association
- Current
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- Business Certificate
- Florida Coastal School of Law
- Website
- Q. Do I need to pay to research a copyright where one is claimed but cannot be found in US Copyright Offices online search?
- A: It’s technically infringement because copyright protection begins when you put pen to paper. However, you must prove that you created the work in the first place. That might be tough to do in your predicament. Always a good idea to register your works with the copyright office, and always use an experienced IP attorney to do so.
Hope this helps,
Carl G. Hawkins
Jacksonville Legal Team®️
- Q. Is this still copyright infringement?
- A: If the time and labor is used for purposes of distributing the protected work, your best bet is to get permission. Getting permission is actually easier than you may think. With that being said, speak to a licensed IP attorney to get more intricate advice about your situation.
- Q. Have a question about cryptocurrency.
- A: Refer to the Howey Test, which is the most prominently used characteristics applied to analyze whether a debt or equity security exists. If you are still unsure, I would recommend obtaining counsel who is familiar with securities law. Remember, securities law is a federal issue for the most part, so you don’t necessarily need to obtain counsel in your state to assist you with this matter. Also, note that blue sky laws apply if your coin is considered a security.
Hope this helps,
Carl G. Hawkins
Jacksonville Legal Team®
