Assault Arrests in St. Petersburg

An assault arrest can be overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. The legal process can be complex, and having the right defense team on your side can and will make a difference. At Goldman Wetzel, we work together on every case, bringing years of courtroom experience to fight for you and protect your rights.

Let us help you or a loved one navigate the criminal justice system by advocating for your constitutional rights and a fair resolution of the case. Learn more about assault arrests in St. Petersburg and your legal options by scheduling a free case consultation with our trusted assault attorneys.

How the Florida Penal Code Defines Assault

Under Florida Statute 784.011, assault is an intentional threat of violence against another person, using words or actions, that creates a fear of imminent harm. Unlike the criminal charge of battery, assault does not require actual physical contact with another — only the fear of it. Assault is a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida, which carries a possible punishment of up to 60 days imprisonment.

However, additional factors can increase the severity of an arrest for assault in St. Petersburg and the charges that a state prosecutor may bring against a defendant. Assault can elevate to a first-degree misdemeanor if the assault occurred as part of a riot. The potential punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor in Florida is imprisonment of up to one year.

What Happens After an Assault Arrest?

If you or a loved one has been arrested for assault in St. Petersburg, understanding the process can help you make informed decisions. Here’s what to expect:

• Your Rights Matter – You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Before speaking to law enforcement, we strongly recommend exercising these rights.
• Processing & Holding – After an arrest, law enforcement will process you and place you in a holding cell.
• First Appearance & Arraignment – A person goes to first appearance for the Court to advise them of the charge for which they have been arrested, determine if they are going to hire an attorney or need a PD, and set a bond amount. Our team likes to try to get involved before the arraignment to see what we can do to avoid the State filing formal charges. If someone hires us before the arraignment, they do not have to appear.
• Building Your Defense – If your case proceeds, we will analyze every detail to build the strongest defense possible. This includes identifying self-defense claims, constitutional violations, or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. In some situations, negotiating a favorable resolution might be the best strategy.

Procedural flaws may also exist due to law enforcement’s violation of state and constitutional rights, which could create an argument for dismissal of the case. A lawyer can also provide guidance on the benefits or downsides to a possible plea deal with the state based on controversial facts or evidence.

Meet With a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense Lawyer After an Assault Arrest

At Goldman Wetzel, we do not back down from challenging cases. We take a proactive approach, working as a team to craft strong legal strategies. Whether that means intervening early on to point out reasons the state should drop your case,  taking your case to trial, or negotiating a fair outcome, we stand by you every step of the way.

If you are facing an assault charge in St. Petersburg, reach out today for a free consultation. We are ready to fight for you.