Rattler, Lawyer, Leader: How Ronnie Graham Turned Tenacity into Justice
Tallahasssee, Fl.- For Ronnie Graham, the road to becoming a criminal defense attorney was anything but straightforward.
A Lake City, Florida native, Graham once dreamed of becoming a pediatrician, inspired by his childhood doctor. Later, he pursued military service and earned an appointment to West Point Prep. But after deciding that was not his path, Graham returned home searching for direction. That turning point led him to Florida A&M University (FAMU)—a decision that changed the course of his life.
Ronnie in uniform presenting with the color guard. (Photo courtesy of Ronnie Graham.)
At FAMU, Graham initially majored in criminal justice, but two pivotal events—one being the killing of Trayvon Martin—ignited his passion for law. As a freshman senator, he traveled with fellow Rattlers to Sanford to rally for Martin. Watching the trial unfold, Graham became captivated by the power of the courtroom.
“I thought to myself, I can do better than that,” he said. Soon after, he switched his major to political science and set his sights on becoming an attorney.
FAMU, Graham said, prepared him for every challenge that followed. “Every single situation I’ve ever been in after FAMU, I dominated. They didn’t know how to handle me,” he said, then laughed.
While classmates at other institutions came to class in swim shorts, Graham recalled that at FAMU, professionalism was the standard. “Most days on campus, I was business professional or business casual. That’s something FAMU taught me. It set me apart,” he said.
That polish landed him a federal judicial internship as a freshman and gave him the confidence to compete toe-to-toe with students from top-name schools.
Leadership and service were central to his college experience. Graham joined Alpha Phi Alpha, embracing the fraternity’s ethos of tenacity and community.
“Tenacity above all—that’s always been my mindset,” he said.
Ronnie pictured with his Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity brothers — a powerful bond of
brotherhood, leadership, and legacy. (Photo courtesy of Ronnie Graham.)
After graduating in 2015, Graham’s journey included moments of humility. While studying for the LSAT, he worked alongside his mother on the back of a Waste Management truck. “I was the best trash man I could be,” he said, reflecting on how that season sharpened his determination.
His persistence paid off when he received a full ride to the University of Miami School of Law, where he thrived as class governor, a judicial intern, and an emerging legal leader.
Ronnie, proudly representing the University of Miami, following his graduation ceremony.
(Photo courtesy of Ronnie Graham.)
Graham began his career in corporate law but soon followed his heart into public defense, taking a significant pay cut to serve his community. Today, he is the founder of Rev Ron Law, a firm rooted in service and second chances. Inspired by his great-grandfather, who nicknamed him “Rev,” Graham is passionate about clemency work—helping formerly incarcerated people restore their rights.
He also sponsors his high school quarterback club, founded the Rev Ron Law Ravens football team, and mentors youth navigating opportunities outside the courtroom. Additionally, Graham serves as the Pro Bono Director at the Florida Health Justice Project (FHJP), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing health equity and access to care in Florida.
Ravens football team. (Photo courtesy of Ronnie Graham.)
In this role, he leads initiatives that connect volunteer attorneys with underserved communities, ensuring that individuals facing health-related legal challenges receive the representation they deserve. His work at FHJP underscores his commitment to public service and the belief that legal advocacy can be a powerful tool in addressing systemic health disparities.
Graham said his success is anchored by family. He and his wife, Joslyn Graham, have two children, Ronnie Jr. and Nori. He often credits his family unit as the foundation that keeps him grounded through the demands of law and business. “Everything I do, I do for them,” he said.
Ronnie with his wife, Joslyn, and their son. (Photo courtesy of Ronnie Graham.)
Graham reconnected with Joslyn, a familiar face, during FAMU’s 2019 Homecoming. The two later married in St. Thomas in 2020. Joslyn, who earned a Master’s in Educational Leadership from St. Thomas University, has dedicated her career to guiding and mentoring young people through student success and leadership programs. Graham shared that her passion for education complements his mission in law—together, they form a partnership rooted in service, growth, and legacy-building for their children.
Ronnie smiles alongside his wife and kids, capturing a heartfelt family moment. (Photo
courtesy of Ronnie Graham.)
Beyond his practice, Graham is committed to mentoring the next generation. He recently welcomed his first intern and regularly advises aspiring law students. “I always tell people—just reach out. I’ll talk to you,” he said. He embraces the role of lifting others as he climbs, helping students and young professionals navigate their own paths.
Through it all, FAMU remains at the root of his success.
Media Contact:
Ashley Flete
Senior Communications Specialist
ashley1.flete@famu.edu
