St. Petersburg Domestic Violence Lawyer

Being accused of domestic violence can turn your life upside down. One argument, one phone call, and suddenly you are facing criminal charges, a restraining order, and the possibility of losing your home, job, and children. In reality, these cases are complex and often not as clear-cut as they seem—but an attorney can help.

If you are facing a domestic violence charge, having the right St. Petersburg domestic violence lawyer can make all the difference. At Goldman Wetzel, we do not shy away from tough cases. We handle every case together, taking a strategic, proactive approach to defend your name, your rights, and your future.

Why You Were Arrested and What Happens Next

In Florida, law enforcement is required to make an arrest if they believe there is probable cause for domestic violence—even if the person who called 911 does not wish to press charges. That means you can be arrested due to a misunderstanding, an argument that escalated, or a false accusation. Once you are in custody, the case is in the hands of the State Attorney’s Office, and you cannot simply talk your way out of it. That is why having an experienced criminal defense team is so important.

In St. Petersburg, violence in the household is not just one charge but a complex legal category—and an attorney can help you understand exactly what you have been accused of. Charges can apply to several different offenses that involve people who live together, share a child, or are in a relationship, and include:

• Domestic battery: Hitting or touching someone against their will
• Aggravated battery or assault: Using a weapon or causing serious harm
• Stalking or harassment: Initiating repeated unwanted contact
• False imprisonment: Preventing someone from leaving a space
• Violation of injunction: Contacting someone despite a restraining order

Even if the alleged victim does not want to press charges, the prosecutor can still pursue the case, meaning you will need to defend yourself in court. That is where we come in. When you hire Goldman Wetzel, you do not get just one attorney; you get both of us, working together to build a strong, strategic defense.

We act quickly to get ahead of the charges, investigate the facts—not just what is written in the police report—and challenge restraining orders that limit your freedom. From the start, our goal is to have the charges reduced or dismissed entirely. We also understand how sensitive domestic violence cases can be. Whether this started with a bad breakup, a family dispute, or an exaggerated story, we are here to listen without judgment and fight without hesitation.

Common Defenses in Domestic Violence Cases

Domestic assault charges in St. Petersburg often come down to one person’s word against another’s, which creates opportunities a lawyer can use to help you defend yourself. We will determine the right legal strategy for your case. Some of the defenses we can use include:

• Self-defense: You were protecting yourself or someone else
• False allegations: The accusation was fabricated out of anger or to retaliate
• Lack of evidence: There are no injuries, witnesses, or proof of harm
• Mutual combat: Both parties were equally involved in the altercation

At Goldman Wetzel, we build your defense around facts—not assumptions—and we are not afraid to go to trial if that is what it takes to clear your name.

Call an Attorney in St. Petersburg for Help With Your Domestic Assault Case

We understand this is a difficult time. You are likely worried about what comes next—and whether anyone is on your side. We are here for you. If you need a St. Petersburg domestic violence lawyer who will fight for your rights, call us today.

At Goldman Wetzel, we handle every case together. We act quickly, think ahead, and never back down from a challenge. Whether this is your first arrest or you have faced charges before, we are here to help you regain control and move forward.