Tahirah R. Payne

Ms. Payne was born and raised in Bronx, New York. She earned her bachelor of science in Psychology from Mercy College and her Juris Doctorate Degree from Fordham University Law School. During her time at Fordham, Ms. Payne was privileged to represent clients in criminal matters through the Lincoln Square Legal Services criminal defense clinic. Ms. Payne was later honored with the Archibald Murray award for service to the citizens of New York. After law school Ms. Payne began her career at the Bronx District Attorney’s Office in the complaints and arraignments bureau. Ms.Payne relocated to the sunshine state in 2008 and spent the next five years litigating cases on behalf of numerous large corporations, non-profit organizations, small business owners, criminal defense and family law clients. It was also during these years that Ms. Payne became known among judicial officials as “the closer” for her ability to resolve cases through negotiation. In 2016 Ms. Payne entered private practice representing clients facing felony and misdemeanor DUI, drug, weapons, assault and battery, and RICO charges. Ms. Payne went on to serve as an assistant Public Defender for the 12th judicial circuit representing indigent clients in criminal matters including attempted murder, aggravated assault and battery, felony gun possession, and sex offenses. Ms. Payne believes the success of each case depends, in part, on building a successful attorney-client partnership. Ms. Payne's practice is guided by the philosophy that the best legal outcomes are achieved by operating with integrity and practicing in a manner that garners the respect of colleagues, confidence of clients and the trust of tribunal. Ms. Payne endeavors to provide advocacy that is active and accessible even after the retainer is signed. Ms. Payne now brings her 13 years of experience to the team of Corey Cohen & Associates to serve the citizens of Orlando and surrounding areas. "The best "award" I have ever won was hearing my client's say "I trust you". Awards and Honors Honors Archibald Murray Public Service Award Brendan Moore Trial Advocates-Best Overall Advocate

• Associate

• Office of the Public Defender 12th Judicial Circuit, Assistant Public Defender, 2019 - 2022
• Office of Regional Conflict Counsel 12th Judicial District, Assistant Regional Counsel, 2017 - 2019
• Languages
• English (Primary)

• Florida, 2010
• U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida, 2022
• U.S. District Court Southern District of Florida, 2022
• Fraternities and Sororities
• Psi Chi