Violent Crimes Lawyer in St. Petersburg

A violent crime charge in Florida can be life-changing, even if it stems from a heated argument, self-defense, or mistaken identity. Law enforcement in St. Petersburg, as well as all of Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay area, takes these cases seriously, often pushing for harsh penalties, including jail time and permanent records.

At Bastos Defense, we know that every case is different. Whether you’re facing false accusations, acted to protect yourself, or made a mistake, you deserve a fair defense. No matter your situation, we are here to fight for your rights and guide you through the legal process.

Don’t face these charges alone. Call (727) 353-6842 or reach out online for a consultation and start building your defense.

What Qualifies as a Violent Crime Under Florida Law?

A violent crime charge in Florida does not always involve physical harm. Many people assume that causing injury is required to face criminal charges, but that is not always the case. A verbal threat, an argument that escalates, or the presence of a firearm during a dispute can result in an arrest. Law enforcement treats cases involving weapons with added scrutiny, even when no one is hurt. In some situations, an accusation alone without strong evidence can be enough for prosecutors to move forward with charges.

Here are some common ways people find themselves facing violent crime allegations:

• Defending yourself in a physical altercation – Even if you were protecting yourself, you could be charged with assault or battery.
• Arguments that get out of control – A heated disagreement can turn into a domestic violence charge, even without physical injury.
• Being accused of using a weapon in self-defense – Firearms or knives can escalate charges to aggravated assault or attempted homicide.
• Mistaken identity or false accusations – You may have been in the wrong place at the wrong time and are now fighting for your innocence.
• Acting under emotional distress – A momentary lapse in judgment can have lasting legal consequences.

At Bastos Defense, we take a deep look into your case to determine whether the charges are valid, exaggerated, or false. Our legal team uses strategic defense tactics and in-depth case analysis to fight for the best possible outcome.

Types of Violent Crimes & Their Legal Consequences

A violent crime charge can change your life in an instant. A tense situation can quickly spiral out of control, leading to an arrest that could result in years behind bars, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of fundamental rights. Many people do not realize how a misunderstanding or false accusation can escalate into a serious legal battle with lifelong consequences. Florida prosecutors aggressively pursue violent crime cases, and those involving firearms or other weapons often carry even harsher penalties.