It’s been nearly three decades since Thomas L. Edwards, Esq. earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law. But he 
continues to support his alma mater by sponsoring the annual Book Award in Criminal Law, which recognizes the most exemplary student studying at the college each year.
Edwards’ sponsorship of the award is just one example of his and fellow attorneys’ dedication to the community and civic endeavors. A partner in Gainesville’s Law Offices of Edwards & Jones Criminal Defense, he also is an active member of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Eighth Judicial Circuit Bar Association, the Florida Bar Association, the Florida Bar Association Criminal Law Section, the Federal Bar Association, and of the James C. Adkins Jr. American Inn of Court, of which he is an Emeritus member – the organization’s highest degree.
A lifelong Floridian, Edwards moved from South Florida to Gainesville, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree with Honors from UF in 1983. Upon graduation, he was selected to become the first student participant in UF’s combined Criminology and Law program. In 1986, he became its first honors graduate. Today, his sponsorship of the Book Awards program helps provide unrestricted funds to support students and student organizations, faculty teaching, research and development, and student/alumni programs and services.
Edwards has been practicing law in North Florida for 25 years, focusing solely on criminal defense law. He helps to protect the rights of citizens accused of crimes in Gainesville, Ocala, Lake City, Palatka, and surrounding areas.