Gavel
Representation. A gavel. Photo: Pixabay

Prominent American criminal defence lawyer Roy Black has died at the age of 80. He passed away on 21 July 2025 at his home in Coral Gables, Florida, after battling an undisclosed illness, his family confirmed.

Known for representing high-profile figures such as William Kennedy Smith, Justin Bieber, and Jeffrey Epstein, Black leaves behind a legacy as one of the most recognisable courtroom figures in the United States.

Cause of Roy Black Death and Family Statement

Roy Black's death was confirmed by his wife, Real Housewives of Miami alum Lea Black, who shared a tribute on social media following his passing. While the exact cause of death has not been publicly detailed, reports state that the attorney had been ill in the months leading up to his death.

A private family service is expected, with a celebration of life to be announced at a later date.

A Legal Powerhouse with Decades of Courtroom Success

Roy Black built his reputation over more than five decades, primarily in Miami, Florida, as a fierce and meticulous criminal defence lawyer. He was known for his calm presence in court, deep understanding of legal procedure, and a string of high-profile acquittals that earned him the nickname 'The Professor' among peers.

He graduated from the University of Miami School of Law in 1970 and later returned as a lecturer in criminal evidence. He served as a partner at the firm Black, Srebnick, Kornspan & Stumpf.

Roy Black's Most Famous Cases

Throughout his career, Roy Black handled numerous high-profile legal cases that gained national attention in the United States:

  • William Kennedy Smith (1991): Achieved acquittal for the nephew of Senator Ted Kennedy in a high-profile rape trial that aired live on television.
  • Justin Bieber (2014): Represented the pop star in a Miami case involving DUI and drag racing charges.
  • Jeffrey Epstein: Acted as part of Epstein's legal team in earlier proceedings before the financier's later indictments.
  • Helio Castroneves (2009): Successfully defended the Brazilian racing driver in a federal tax evasion trial.
  • Rush Limbaugh (2006): Represented the conservative radio host in a prescription fraud case.
  • William Lozano (1993): Defended the Miami police officer in a retrial for a shooting that led to widespread riots.
  • Amin Khoury (2022): Secured a rare acquittal in the college admissions bribery scandal known as Varsity Blues.

These cases solidified his standing as a go-to lawyer for celebrities, politicians, and controversial figures facing serious charges.

Roy Black's Net Worth and Professional Earnings

Estimates of Roy Black's net worth at the time of his death vary, with multiple reports placing it between $65 million and $100 million. But according to Celebrity Net Worth, his estimated net worth is around $85 million.

Much of his wealth was accumulated through his representation of high-paying celebrity clients and involvement in multimillion-dollar federal cases. His earnings were also boosted through his partnership in one of Florida's most respected law firms, legal commentary appearances, and lectures at academic institutions.

Marriage to Lea Black and Pop Culture Influence

Roy Black married Lea Black in 1994. The couple met during the William Kennedy Smith trial, where Lea served as a juror. They later appeared together on The Real Housewives of Miami, where Lea became a prominent cast member. They have a son named RJ and a daughter, Nora.

Black's influence extended beyond the courtroom, with regular television commentary and public speaking engagements, solidifying his role not just as a legal expert but also as a public figure connected to both law and entertainment.

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