Facing criminal charges in Pinellas County can put your freedom, record, career, and future at risk. Whether you were arrested for a misdemeanor, felony, DUI, drug offense, violent crime, or federal investigation, the decisions you make early can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
Goldman Wetzel represents clients throughout Pinellas County, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo, Pinellas Park, and the surrounding Tampa Bay area. Our criminal defense team works proactively to protect clients’ rights, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and build strong defense strategies tailored to the facts of each case.
If you have been arrested, contacted by law enforcement, or accused of a crime, speaking with a Pinellas County criminal defense lawyer as early as possible can make a major difference.
Arrested or Charged in Pinellas County?
Speak with a criminal defense attorney today.
Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in Pinellas County
Goldman Wetzel defends clients facing misdemeanor, felony, state, and federal criminal charges throughout Pinellas County.
Domestic Violence
Defense for domestic battery, stalking allegations, injunction violations, and related charges.
Drug Crimes
Representation for possession, trafficking, prescription drug offenses, and controlled substance allegations.
DUI
Defense for DUI arrests, license suspension issues, breath test allegations, and impaired driving charges.
Gun Charges
Representation for firearm possession, weapon use, concealed carry, and related offenses.
Sealing & Expungement
Help determining whether you may qualify to seal or expunge an eligible Florida criminal record.
Sex Crimes
Defense for sexual battery, lewd conduct, internet crimes, and serious sex offense allegations.
Violent Crimes
Representation for robbery, aggravated assault, homicide, firearm offenses, and violent felony allegations.
Restraining Orders
Representation for injunctions, no-contact orders, and allegations that may affect your rights and reputation.
Why Early Legal Intervention Matters
The earlier you involve a Pinellas County criminal defense attorney, the more opportunities may exist to protect your rights and influence the direction of your case.
Early legal intervention may help with:
- Bond and first appearance hearings
- Police questioning and investigations
- Communication with prosecutors
- Reviewing witness statements and evidence
- Negotiating reduced charges
- Challenging unlawful searches or seizures
In some cases, early defense work may lead to reduced penalties, improved negotiations, or dismissal before trial.
Strong Defense Starts Early
Criminal cases often depend on timing, evidence, witness credibility,
and police procedure. Goldman Wetzel works proactively to identify
weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and protect clients from avoidable mistakes.
What Happens After an Arrest in Pinellas County?
After an arrest, law enforcement may begin booking procedures, gather information, collect fingerprints and photographs, and prepare reports related to the allegations.
Depending on the circumstances, you may then:
- Attend a first appearance hearing
- Address bond or release conditions
- Enter a plea
- Move into the pretrial phase
- Prepare for trial if necessary
You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You should avoid answering questions or making statements without legal representation present.
Common Criminal Charges and Potential Penalties
Florida criminal offenses may be classified as infractions, misdemeanors, or felonies depending on the allegations and surrounding circumstances.
Potential penalties can include:
- Jail or prison time
- Probation
- Fines and court costs
- Driver’s license suspension
- Loss of firearm rights
- Sex offender registration in qualifying cases
- A permanent criminal record
The penalties a person faces often depend on the severity of the allegations, prior criminal history, aggravating factors, and whether the case is prosecuted in state or federal court.
How Goldman Wetzel Helps Criminal Defense Clients
Goldman Wetzel guides clients through every stage of the criminal process, from investigation through trial when necessary.
Our defense team helps clients by:
- Reviewing evidence and police reports
- Investigating the facts and speaking with witnesses
- Attending hearings and court appearances
- Negotiating with prosecutors
- Filing motions to challenge evidence or procedure
- Preparing strong defense strategies for trial
Every criminal case is different. Goldman Wetzel works closely with clients to explain their options, answer questions, and build a defense strategy tailored to the facts of the case.
Speak With a Pinellas County Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime in Pinellas County, do not wait to protect yourself. The earlier Goldman Wetzel gets involved, the more options may be available in your defense.
Call today to schedule a confidential consultation with a Pinellas County criminal defense attorney.