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Today, William “Will” Scheiner was sworn in as the State Attorney for Florida’s 18th Judicial Circuit, serving Brevard and Seminole Counties. A lifelong resident of Brevard County, Scheiner’s deep roots in the community have significantly shaped his career and commitment to public service.
Scheiner’s journey into law was profoundly influenced by a personal tragedy. In the winter of 2001, while working to fund his college education, he was the victim of a violent gun crime in Brevard County. Held at gunpoint, kidnapped, robbed, and ultimately shot, Scheiner’s life was forever changed. This harrowing experience introduced him to the criminal justice system from a victim’s perspective, inspiring him to shift his career aspirations from teaching to law, with a determined focus on becoming a prosecutor dedicated to aiding victims and their families.
After earning his undergraduate degree in Legal Studies from the University of Central Florida in 2005 and his Juris Doctor from Florida Coastal School of Law in 2007, Scheiner returned to Brevard County. In October 2008, he began his prosecutorial career under then-State Attorney Norman Wolfinger. Over the years, Scheiner has held various positions within the State Attorney’s Office, including Misdemeanor Trial Attorney, Felony Early Resolution, Felony Trial Division, Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Unit, Career Criminal and Firearms Unit, Felony Division Chief, and Chief Trial Attorney. His peers have recognized his dedication and skill, awarding him the Norman R. Wolfinger Attorney of the Year in 2014.
Throughout his career, Scheiner has handled thousands of criminal cases, ranging from petit theft to first-degree murder. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the conviction of Mark Somerset for attempted first-degree premeditated murder in 2022.
His commitment to justice and the community is further evidenced by his active involvement in local organizations, including the Brevard County Bar Association, Brevard County Commission on Aging, and the Brevard County Association of Chiefs of Police.
“Being a prosecutor is an honor that comes with great responsibility,” Mr. Scheiner says. “It is a profession that comes with power and consequences from our decisions. Our work requires compassion, integrity, and a desire to always do the right thing. A prosecutor must always be prepared and diligent. To do otherwise would be a miscarriage of justice and a disservice to the community we serve.”
Scheiner’s unopposed election to the position of State Attorney in evidence of the confidence the community and his peers have in his leadership and vision for the 18th Judicial Circuit.
As he takes on this new role, Scheiner remains steadfast in his commitment to ensuring the fair and vigorous pursuit of justice, enhancing victim services, and maintaining strong collaborative relationships with law enforcement and community leaders.
Beyond his professional achievements, Scheiner is a devoted father to his two daughters, Lily and Isla, who serve as his inspiration and motivation.
His personal experiences, combined with his extensive legal background, position him as a compassionate and dedicated advocate for the residents of Brevard and Seminole Counties.