SYNERGY - Juneteenth 2022

AuBroncee Martin

Story By: Lanre-Peter Elufisan

Every lawyer knows that justice is the right of everyone, even the weakest. That explains why the legal aid provided by public defenders like Au- Broncee Martin gives many people, especially the poor, a second chance at life. Originally from Sanford, AuBroncee has lived most of his life in Gainesville.

After high school, he studied History at Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU) in Tallahassee. At FAMU, he was a member of the Marching 100 Band and the university’s symphonic band. After graduating in 1994, he got a Law Degree at the University of Florida in 1997. During his time at the law school, he interned at the Office of The Public Defender. He was hired as a public defender after earning his law degree and has worked there since.

AuBroncee has worked as an assistant public defender for over two decades. According to him, that has its hills and valleys like most jobs. “I find it fulfilling because it is an important work even though it could be a difficult one”, he said. “I enjoy making presentations and arguments in front of people, and I get gratification from the purpose I serve.” Martin believes everyone deserves a fair representation, regardless of their social status.

Since working at the Office of the Public Defender, he has led counsel in hundreds of trial cases ranging from first degree murder to capital sexual battery. In January 2012, he worked as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law. Where he taught the component of criminal clinics to third-year law students.

Currently, he’s in the middle of a judicial race, campaigning and aspiring to be a circuit judge. A circuit judge has jurisdiction over family law, criminal matters involved in imprisonment over a year, and civil matters. Martin hopes to continue to make a difference in the lives of others.

As he continues this race, Martin has the support of many family members, friends, and colleagues. But is especially grateful for the support and commitment of his wife Telisha, and their three sons Jared, Jason, and Elijah. He believes his best is yet to happen as his life is still an ongoing story.

I asked if he would like to give any advice, and he said, “Put yourself in the position for good things to happen to you because opportunities are often rare. Say yes more when excellent opportunities come your way because you have to keep growing.”