I defend people charged with crimes throughout Pinellas County, including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Pinellas Park, Seminole and the beach communities. I grew up in Seminole, and I started my career in 1998 at the Pinellas County Public Defender’s Office, where I handled misdemeanor, juvenile and felony cases. The consultation is free. Call me at 813-228-6001.
Where Pinellas criminal cases are heard
Pinellas County is part of the Sixth Judicial Circuit, which also covers Pasco County. Most Pinellas criminal cases are heard at the Pinellas County Criminal Justice Center, 14250 49th Street North in Clearwater.
What happens after an arrest in Pinellas
- First appearance. If you are held in jail, a judge sees you within 24 hours of the arrest. The judge reviews probable cause and sets bond and release conditions.
- Filing decision. The State Attorney’s Office for the Sixth Circuit decides what charges to file. It can file the charges from the arrest, file different charges, or decline to file.
- Arraignment. You are formally told the charges. I can often file a written plea of not guilty so you do not have to appear.
- Pretrial. I get the evidence, take depositions, file motions, and look at whether a diversion program or a reduced charge is available.
- Trial or resolution. I prepare every case as if it will go to trial. That is what gets the best offers.
Charges I defend in Pinellas County
- DUI, repeat DUI and refusing a breath test
- Drug possession and drug trafficking
- Theft, burglary and robbery
- Assault, battery and domestic violence
- Weapons charges and sex offenses
- Probation violations and record sealing
Why my Pinellas background matters
I spent four years as an assistant public defender in Pinellas County before opening my own practice in 2002. I know the courthouse, the process and how cases are resolved there. When I handle a Pinellas case, I am working in the county I grew up in.
Talk to me first
If you or someone in your family was arrested in Pinellas County, call me at 813-228-6001 before you talk to the police or the prosecutor. The consultation is free.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different. Past outcomes do not guarantee a similar result.