Maribeth Wetzel

Maribeth Wetzel is a criminal trial attorney who defends people charged with serious and complex offenses, including sex crimes, federal cases, drug trafficking, and violent felonies, throughout Tampa Bay and in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. Her practice is built around trial work: she prepares every case as if it will be tried, which is often what produces the best resolution short of trial.

Background & Experience

Beth majored in Criminal Justice at Michigan State University and earned her law degree at the University of Toledo. She began her career as an assistant public defender in Pinellas County, trying misdemeanor, felony, and juvenile cases, then practiced complex civil litigation at a Tampa defense firm before returning to criminal defense.

She co-founded Goldman Wetzel with Summer Goldman in 2009. Beth is admitted to the Florida Bar and the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

Criminal Defense Approach

Beth focuses her practice on serious and complex criminal offenses, with an emphasis on trial work. She prepares thoroughly, advocates strongly, and helps clients understand their options throughout the legal process.

She also has experience with departure hearings and cases involving clients who have been diagnosed with both mental health and substance abuse issues.

Community Involvement

Beth has served as a City Commissioner for the City of Treasure Island and volunteers with Dogs Inc. (formerly Southeastern Guide Dogs) in Palmetto. She has also served on the Board of Directors of Brookwood Florida, mentored children through Lawyers for Literacy, volunteered as a hearing officer for the Pinellas County Housing Authority, and served as an ex-officio member of the Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division Board of Governors.

Goldman Wetzel

Beth co-founded Goldman Wetzel with Summer Goldman to focus on serious criminal defense matters and provide clients with a team-based approach to legal representation.