Raymond G. Ferrero III, Esq.
President and Founding Board Member
With over 25 years of experience in law and behavioral health, Raymond Ferrero is a dedicated advocate for systemic change. His career spans public defense, mental health policy, education and crisis intervention for families, bringing a deep understanding, proficiency and compassion to the heart of Merlin’s Mission.
Raymond G. Ferrero III, Esq., is a seasoned attorney, educator, and advocate whose career spans nearly three decades in law, public health, and behavioral health policy.
Known for his unwavering commitment to serving vulnerable populations, Mr. Ferrero brings both legal proficiency and compassionate leadership to every endeavor.
A proud graduate of Florida State University, Mr. Ferrero earned his B.A. in English and Communications in 1991. He went on to receive his Juris Doctor from Nova Southeastern University College of Law in 1995. He is licensed to practice law in both Florida and Washington State and is admitted to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Washington. His legal acumen has also earned him recognition as an expert witness in federal court, where he has provided testimony on involuntary commitment and law enforcement protective custody procedures.
Mr. Ferrero’s professional journey began in the courtroom as an Assistant Public Defender for Florida’s 17th Judicial Circuit. It was there that he discovered a calling to support individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorders—a cause that has guided his private practice for over 25 years. Focusing specifically on crisis intervention and involuntary care solutions, Mr. Ferrero has represented thousands of individuals and families navigating severe and complex behavioral health challenges.
In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Ferrero has served in numerous leadership and advisory roles. He was appointed by Governor Charlie Crist to Florida’s Statewide Drug Policy Advisory Council (2009–2011). He dedicated 13 years to the United Way of Broward County’s Commission on Behavioral Health and Drug Prevention as an active Board Member and lectured regularly on involuntary commitment law to hospitals, law enforcement, nationally recognized treatment centers, physicians, treatment providers, and behavioral health organizations. His public service reflects a deep-rooted commitment to community well-being and policy reform.
His academic contributions include five years as an Associate Professor at Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine and Public Health, where he educated future healthcare professionals on involuntary commitment issues and procedure. He also served six years as Executive Director of Intramural Health Affairs for the university’s Health Professions Division. Additionally, he provided outside legal counsel to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office across three administrations, defending disciplinary decisions in law enforcement and correction officer termination appeals, where an officer’s misconduct was determined by internal affairs and their findings upheld by an acting community leadership board.
Mr. Ferrero remains an active member in good standing of both The Florida Bar and the Washington State Bar Association. When he’s not advocating for clients, he enjoys hiking, camping, fishing, cooking, and gardening—activities that reflect his down-to-earth personality and love for the outdoors.
Compassionate, dedicated, and deeply committed to improving the lives of those affected by behavioral health conditions, Raymond G. Ferrero III, Esq., is a trusted leader whose work continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those he serves.