Partner • State & Federal Criminal Defense

Thomas (Tom) Fortner

Uncompromising Legal Acumen, Grounded In Decades of Sophisticated Defense Strategy

With over 40 years of premier trial experience, Tom Fortner has established a powerful reputation across Mississippi for sophisticated, unrelenting criminal defense and appellate mastery in state and federal court structures.

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Thomas (Tom) Fortner
Since 1980
Over 40 Years of Elite Trial Practice
MACDL President
Former President, MS Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
American College of Trial Lawyers
One of the most selective honors for trial lawyers in the U.S.

Areas of Core Legal Focus

Strategic legal solutions backed by decades of proven results across Mississippi.

Strategic Trial Defense

Aggressive and analytical defense representations covering complex felony indictments, violent offenses, and highly charged state trials across all South Mississippi courts.

Federal Court Representation

Extensive defense architecture covering major multi-defendant drug trade conspiracies, white collar fraud, firearm allegations, and complex corporate federal investigations.

Appellate & Post-Conviction

A national-profile practice reviewing trial transcripts, compiling master appellate briefs, and leading oral defenses before the Mississippi Supreme Court and Federal Circuits.

Credentials & Professional Background

  • Admitted to Practice: Mississippi (1980)
  • Federal Admissions: U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit; U.S. District Courts for Northern & Southern Districts of Mississippi
  • Experience Level: Over 40 Years of Elite State and Federal Criminal Litigation Practice
  • Institutional Standing: Charter Member & Former President, Mississippi Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (MACDL)
  • National Standout: Recognized Criminal Defense Legal Authority with extensive media attribution profiles (Reuters, Local Press)

Facing a Serious Legal Matter?

Early legal guidance is critical to protecting your freedom, family, or business. Contact our Hattiesburg office today.

Call (601) 582-5015