The holiday season is a time when families come together. Unfortunately, it is also a time when tensions can run high, emotions can escalate, and in some cases, law enforcement may become involved. A domestic battery arrest in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, or anywhere in Pinellas County can have immediate and devastating consequences, especially this time of year. One of the most significant impacts is the very real possibility of spending the holidays apart from your loved ones.

The Immediate Impact: “No Contact” Orders

When someone is arrested for an alleged domestic violence offense, Florida law requires that they appear before a judge at an advisory (first appearance) hearing. In many domestic battery cases, judges routinely impose a strict condition of release: “No Contact with the Victim.”

While this may sound straightforward, the order is often far more disruptive than most people realize. A No Contact order typically means:

• You may not have any communication with the alleged victim, including phone calls, in person contact, text messages, emails, facebook, third-party contact, or any other means of communication.
• You may not return to the shared residence.
• You may not retrieve personal belongings without law enforcement oversight.

For many of our clients, this results in the immediate inability to return home, leaving them displaced, separated from their family, and unsure of how long the situation will last.

Our Bifurcated Strategy: Fighting to Get You Home

At the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, our top-rated Clearwater domestic violence defense team uses a bifurcated approach designed to get our clients home as quickly and safely as possible.

Step One: Filing a Motion to Modify Release Conditions

Our first priority is to ask the Court to modify the No Contact order so that our client may return home and resume contact with the alleged victim. We file a formal Motion to Modify Pretrial Release Conditions and request a hearing before the assigned judge.

If granted, the modification allows our client to return home, sometimes in time for the holidays.

However, the reality is that the Court controls its own calendar. It is not uncommon for hearing dates to be set several weeks out, especially during the busy holiday season. That is why simply filing the motion is not enough.

Step Two: Seeking a Dismissal by the State Attorney’s Office

While we wait for the Court to schedule the modification hearing, our office immediately pivots to the second prong of our strategy:

We prepare persuasive correspondence to the prosecutor requesting that the case be dropped through the filing of a “No Information.”

If the State Attorney’s Office agrees to drop the charges, the No Contact order is dissolved, and our client is free to return home, without waiting for a court date. The State Attorney’s Office considers a number of factors when determining whether to dismiss a “Domestic Battery” charge. These include:

• The conduct alleged (For example, a punch is generally more aggravated than a push)
• Any injuries
• Our client’s prior record, if any
• The alleged victim’s prior record
• Whether alcohol was a factor
• Whether children were present at the time of the incident
• The feelings of the alleged victim
• Whether there are any independent, objective witnesses

Why Choose Us? Experience Matters.

Domestic violence cases are handled differently from nearly any other type of criminal charge. Prosecutors receive specialized training, and the State often pursues charges even when the alleged victim does not wish to prosecute.

Our domestic violence defense team is uniquely equipped to navigate these challenges because:

We are former Pinellas County prosecutors.

We learned the system from the inside.
We know the tactics the State uses.
And we know how to effectively counter them.

Our experience allows us to identify weaknesses in the State’s case early, build compelling arguments for dismissal, and advocate forcefully for our clients’ rights, both in and out of court.

If You Are Facing a Domestic Battery Charge, Act Quickly

A domestic violence arrest does not have to define your future, and it does not have to separate you from your family longer than necessary. The sooner our team becomes involved, the sooner we can work toward:

• Modifying the No Contact order
• Getting you back home
• Seeking a dismissal of the charges

If you or a loved one is facing a domestic battery arrest in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, or anywhere in Pinellas County, call us immediately. The consultation is free, and time is often of the essence, especially during the holiday season.

Contact the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan Today

If you or a loved one has been arrested for Domestic Battery in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, or the surrounding areas of Pinellas County, our team of domestic battery defense attorneys stands ready to help. Our consultations are always free. Contact us today at 727-855-3847.

As of October 1, 2025, a quiet but significant change to Florida’s traffic laws has taken effect, one that gives law enforcement broad new authority to stop vehicles across the state. The amendment to Florida Statute §320.061, commonly referred to as the “Obstructed Tag” law, elevates what was once a civil traffic infraction into a criminal misdemeanor offense. The new law now exposes everyday drivers to arrest, criminal prosecution, and the lasting consequences that come with a misdemeanor conviction.

At The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, we have already begun educating our clients about these changes, because the reality is simple: a large percentage of Florida drivers are unknowingly committing a misdemeanor every time they get behind the wheel.

What the New Statute Says

Under the amended §320.061, a person may not “alter, obscure, conceal, or place any substance, material, coating, covering, or frame onto or around any license plate if such placement or covering interferes with the ability to record, identify, or discern any feature or detail of the license plate.”

In everyday language, this means:

• Any frame, cover, or material, no matter how common or decorative, that blocks, blurs, tints, or shadows any part of a Florida license plate is a crime.
  
• The statute applies even when the obstruction is minimal or caused by something routinely installed by car dealerships.
  
• The intent of the driver does not matter. The mere presence of the obstructing material completes the offense.
  

This includes:

• Dealership plate frames that cover part of the county name
  
• Clear or tinted plastic license-plate covers
  
• Aftermarket frames sold at auto parts stores
  
• Decorative borders
  
• Metal or plastic frames that obscure a single letter or number
  
• Any covering that affects surveillance or plate-reader visibility
  

If it interferes with “any feature or detail,” it now qualifies as a misdemeanor—punishable by up to 60 days in jail, six months of probation, and a $500 fine.

Why This Change Matters

Before October 1, 2025, obstructed tag violations were handled as minor civil infractions, often resolved by removing the cover and paying a small fine. Now, however, motorists face the threat of an arrest and criminal prosecution.

This change dramatically expands the ability of law enforcement to initiate traffic stops.

To get a sense of the law’s real-world impact, we conducted an informal review right here at our office. A walk through our parking lot revealed that more than 80% of the vehicles had license-plate frames or coverings that would now be considered criminal violations. Most came directly from dealerships. Many drivers had no idea that their vehicles were non-compliant, let alone that the non-compliance could lead to a criminal charge.

If 8 out of 10 cars in a typical office parking lot are technically in violation, that means law enforcement can now justify a stop on virtually any passing vehicle, at any time, almost anywhere in Florida.

For motorists, this raises serious concerns. For prosecutors and defense attorneys, it raises important constitutional questions that will likely be litigated in the years ahead.

How Law Enforcement Will Use the New Law

From a policing standpoint, the amended §320.061 functions similarly to long-standing window-tint statutes or tag-light requirements: it provides a readily available justification for stopping a vehicle.

However, the obstructed tag amendment may go even further. Because:

• Plate frames and covers are extremely common
  
• Many dealership-installed frames obscure some portion of the tag
  
• Even “clear” covers can interfere with automated plate-reading
  

The law essentially arms officers with a lawful basis to stop almost any car they choose, making it a powerful tool in DUI enforcement, drug interdiction, and investigative stops.

Drivers should anticipate an increase in:

• DUI investigations beginning from tag-obstruction stops
  
• Vehicle searches following such stops
  
• Pretextual stops justified by a tag frame or covering
  
• Challenges to these stops in court
  

Florida courts will ultimately have to determine how strictly “interfere” will be interpreted. But until appellate guidance is issued, the statute gives law enforcement broad discretion.

The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan’s Practical Tip for Drivers

Because this law is now in effect statewide, and because the overwhelming majority of drivers are currently in violation, we strongly recommend taking five minutes this weekend to inspect your vehicle.

If you have a dealership frame, decorative border, or any type of plate cover, remove it.

This simple step may prevent:

• A police stop
  
• A criminal charge
  
• A court appearance
  
• A permanent misdemeanor record
  
• Increased insurance rates
  
• Unnecessary legal expenses
  

If you have been stopped or charged under the amended §320.061, our office is already preparing legal strategies to challenge these cases. As with any new law, early cases will shape how strictly the statute is interpreted and enforced.

Need Legal Assistance?

If you or someone you know has been charged with Obstructed Tag, DUI, or any other criminal offense in the Tampa Bay area, the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan is here to help. Our team has extensive experience defending motorists in Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco Counties.

Call us at 727-855-3847 for a free consultation.

Theft charges in Florida are not always as simple as they seem. What can start as a minor misdemeanor can, under certain circumstances, quickly become a felony with far more serious consequences. Understanding how and when petit theft can escalate is crucial because a felony conviction can follow you for life. 

If you have been arrested for any theft charge, the best first step to take is to consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater with the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

Petit Theft Laws in Florida

According to Florida statutes, theft occurs when someone knowingly takes or uses another person’s property with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive them of it. Petit theft usually involves property valued at less than $750.

Florida divides petit theft into two levels. Second-degree misdemeanor petit theft involves property worth under $100 and carries up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. First-degree misdemeanor petit theft covers property valued between $100 and $750 and can lead to up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

When Does Petit Theft Become a Felony?

Several factors can lead to a petit theft charge being reclassified as a felony. The most common reason is the value of the property involved, because once it exceeds $750, the charge becomes grand theft, which is considered a felony in Florida. Prior convictions can also make a difference. If a person has previous theft offenses on their record, even a lower-value theft could have the potential to be charged as a felony.

The nature of the property stolen can also elevate the charge. Taking a firearm, motor vehicle, controlled substance, or certain public property, such as a stop sign, can automatically result in a felony. In addition, theft from specific victims, like law enforcement agencies or medical facilities, or committing theft during a declared state of emergency, can also increase the severity of the theft charge.

Penalties for Felony Theft in Florida

Ultimately, the penalties for felony theft depend on how the crime is classified. A third-degree felony can bring up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. A second-degree felony carries up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The most serious theft charges, first-degree felonies, can lead to as much as 30 years in prison.

And even beyond fines and prison time, courts can order restitution to compensate victims. A felony conviction can also potentially result in the loss of key civil rights, including the right to vote or own a firearm.

Defenses Against Escalated Theft Charges

Being charged with felony theft does not necessarily mean you will be convicted, especially when you work with a top Clearwater criminal defense attorney with the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan. 

Your attorney will research all the nuances and details of the case to determine the most effective defense strategy possible. An example of this can be mistaken identity or a lack of intent to steal. Disputes over ownership, or a genuine belief that the property was abandoned, may also be a valid defense that can lead to a reduction or dismissal of charges. 

Been Arrested for Theft? Contact The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan Today

If you have been charged with theft in Florida, it is important to act quickly. What might seem like a minor offense could carry serious consequences if not handled properly by a criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater with the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

If you’ve been arrested, it is not the end for you. To get your complimentary case consultation with a leading criminal defense attorney in Clearwater, call the office at The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan at (727) 291-9717.

If somebody causes a public disturbance and gets arrested by the police, chances are that they will likely be charged with either disorderly conduct or disorderly intoxication. 

Though they sound alike, knowing the difference significantly impacts how your case can be handled by your criminal defense attorney in Clearwater, and what penalties you could potentially be facing.

Disorderly Conduct

Disorderly conduct is defined as behavior that corrupts public morals, outrages public decency, or disturbs the peace and quiet of those nearby. Simply put, it covers disruptive behavior that interferes with public order. Disorderly conduct is a second-degree misdemeanor, and it is punishable by up to 60 days in jail, six months of probation, and a $500 fine. 

Common examples of conduct that sometimes results in an arrest for disorderly conduct include getting into a fight in public, interrupting an event, or using obscene language or gestures in a provoking manner. 

Disorderly Intoxication

Disorderly intoxication involves being intoxicated in public in a way that endangers others or creates a disturbance. Simply being drunk in public is not enough to be arrested. It must be proven by the prosecution that your level of intoxication directly caused a safety risk or significant disruption to the general public.

A typical case of disorderly intoxication might involve someone who becomes aggressive toward others while drinking, damages property, or behaves in a way that puts themselves or others in danger. Like disorderly conduct, disorderly intoxication is a second-degree misdemeanor and can potentially lead to 60 days in jail, six months of probation, and fines of up to $500.

Key Differences Between the Two Charges

While both charges carry the same potential penalties and must concern events that took place in public, the elements that prosecutors must prove differ. In a disorderly conduct case, prosecutors must show that the defendant’s actions offended public morals or disturbed the peace. Conversely, in a disorderly intoxication case, they must also prove the person was impaired and that their intoxicated condition created a risk to safety or property. 

Common Legal Defenses for Disorderly Conduct and Disorderly Intoxication Charges

Defenses often center on a lack of evidence. Prosecutors must prove that a genuine disturbance or danger occurred, not just that someone was loud or intoxicated in a public space. 

For example, your criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater with the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan can argue that your speech, even if it was offensive, may still be protected under the First Amendment. Other defenses may involve challenging whether the person was truly intoxicated or whether police overreacted to the situation. 

How You Can Protect Your Rights After Getting Arrested

Although both offenses are misdemeanors, the impact of a conviction can last far longer than the sentence itself. If you have been charged with either offense, contact the top Clearwater criminal defense attorney with the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan to best understand your charge while helping build the strongest defense strategy possible.

To schedule a complimentary case consultation with a leading criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater, call The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan at (727) 291-9717.

Black Friday has long been the busiest shopping day of the year. No matter how big or small they are, retailers everywhere know that crowds and fast-paced shopping can potentially lead to heightened cases of theft, so both store security teams and police departments often prepare for an uptick in these alleged cases. One of the most common cases that can occur during the holiday season is “skip scanning” at self-checkout kiosks.

For anyone facing allegations of theft during this time of year, contacting a criminal defense attorney in Clearwater as soon as possible can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

What is “Skip Scanning”?

Skip scanning occurs when an item is not scanned at all or when a shopper accidentally or intentionally scans a cheaper item in place of a more expensive one. Although this may sound simple, the scenarios can vary widely. 

In some cases, a shopper can be distracted by children, holiday commotion, or crowds and not even realize they hadn’t scanned their item. In other situations, a malfunctioning barcode reader or unclear self-checkout prompts cause an item to register incorrectly. When there is also intentional concealment or under-scanning, stores are more likely to prosecute with more severity. If you are facing any sort of skip scanning charge, working with an experienced Clearwater criminal defense lawyer will help set yourself up to create the strongest defense strategy possible. 

How Florida Law Defines Theft

In Florida, theft is defined as knowingly obtaining or using someone else’s property with the intent to deprive them of it. One of the most considered factors in the severity of the charge is the value of the property that has been allegedly stolen. Petit theft typically applies when the value is lower than $750, while grand theft involves higher-value items and usually leads to far more significant penalties. Even low-dollar allegations during Black Friday can lead to fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record if not properly addressed. 

How Retailers and Police Handle Skip-Scanning Cases

Major retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Publix have invested heavily in tools to identify skip-scanning activity. These stores monitor self-checkout lanes with high-resolution surveillance cameras, digital receipt verification systems, and loss prevention personnel who will watch transactions take place in real time. When store employees believe that merchandise was not scanned, they often stop shoppers before they exit, escort them to a security office, and review footage or receipt data. If staff members believe theft occurred, they may contact local law enforcement. 

During the Black Friday retail rush, these security systems are often used more aggressively as stores expect higher potential losses. When building your case, your criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater can help examine how evidence was collected and whether the interaction with store staff was handled lawfully and use that to determine the most effective defense strategy.

Common Defenses to Skip-Scanning Allegations

Many skip-scanning cases are the result of a misunderstanding or mistake, rather than intentional theft. Lack of intent is one of the most frequently raised defenses, especially when a shopper is overwhelmed by crowds or distracted by family. Faulty equipment, barcode reader errors, or confusing self-checkout screens can also lead to accidental missed scans. On another hand, some cases involve video surveillance footage that is either unclear or incomplete, which can make it extremely difficult to prove criminal intent. 

An experienced criminal defense attorney in Clearwater can help identify which defenses apply and work toward the best possible resolution before the case escalates.

If You Have Been Arrested, Take the Best Course of Action and Seek Legal Council

This Black Friday, if you are falsely accused of skip scanning, take the right step and contact the top-rated retail theft defense lawyers at The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan for experienced defense.

To schedule a complimentary case consultation with a leading criminal defense attorney in Clearwater, call our office at (727) 291-9717. 

The vibrant nightlife of downtown St. Petersburg has made it one of the most popular entertainment districts in all of Pinellas County. From bustling Central Avenue to Beach Drive’s upscale bars and restaurants, St. Pete’s after-hours energy brings people from across the Tampa Bay area. However, with alcohol often flowing freely, overconsumption can sometimes lead to poor decisions, and unfortunately, arrests.

A Common Charge: Disorderly Conduct

One of the most frequent criminal charges stemming from incidents in downtown St. Petersburg is Disorderly Conduct. Under Florida law, Disorderly Conduct (often referred to as “breach of the peace”) can include behavior such as:

• Getting into arguments or physical altercations in or outside of a bar,
• Yelling, fighting, or causing a scene in public,
• Refusing to leave a location after being asked, or
• Otherwise disturbing the peace in a way that draws public attention.

Even seemingly minor incidents, like a loud disagreement or an intoxicated outburst, can result in an arrest and a night in the Pinellas County Jail.

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys Who Know the System

At the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, our top-rated Pinellas County Criminal Defense Attorneys, CJ Bauer and Timothy Sullivan, are former Pinellas County prosecutors with more than two decades of combined experience handling criminal matters throughout St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and the surrounding areas.

As former prosecutors, Attorneys Sullivan and Bauer understand how these cases are investigated and prosecuted, and more importantly, how to defend them. That insider perspective often allows our team to identify weaknesses in the State’s case or opportunities for early resolution.

Early Intervention Can Make the Difference

In many cases, early intervention is key. When our office is retained promptly after an arrest, we can often engage directly with the prosecutor before formal charges are filed. This proactive approach has, in many cases, led to the State Attorney’s Office declining to file charges or agreeing to a dismissal.

Diversion Programs and Other Options for Dismissal

For first-time offenders or those with limited prior history, our attorneys can sometimes secure entry into a diversion program. These programs typically involve completing certain requirements—such as community service, counseling, or alcohol education—and upon successful completion, the charges are dismissed. This outcome not only prevents a criminal conviction but also allows the individual to expunge their record in the future.

Protecting Your Record and Your Future

While a “Disorderly Conduct” charge may seem minor, any criminal allegation—no matter how small—can have lasting consequences. A conviction could affect job opportunities, background checks, professional licensing, or even your reputation in the community. Having an experienced defense attorney by your side can make all the difference.

Call the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan for a Free Consultation

If you or someone you know has been arrested for Disorderly Conduct or Disorderly Intoxication in downtown St. Petersburg or anywhere in Pinellas County, contact our office today.

Call 727-855-3847 for a free consultation with our experienced defense team.

Let our former Pinellas County prosecutors put their experience to work protecting your record, your rights, and your future.

Halloween is always one of the most anticipated nights of the year, and this year, it falls on a Friday. That means extended parties, packed bars, and late-night festivities all across St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and the greater Pinellas County area. But while you’re planning your costume and social plans, law enforcement is planning something too, increased patrols and DUI enforcement operations.

Expect Heightened Law Enforcement Activity

Every year, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Highway Patrol, and local St. Petersburg and Clearwater Police Departments increase their presence on Halloween weekend. Officers will be on the lookout for DUI, Disorderly Conduct, Disorderly Intoxication, and even Domestic Violence arrests, especially as celebrations spill into late Friday night.

If you’re heading out for Halloween fun, remember: even “just a few drinks” can lead to a DUI arrest. And with extra patrols and DUI saturation operations likely throughout Tampa Bay, your odds of encountering law enforcement are higher than ever.

Designate a Sober Driver and Keep Our Kids Safe

This Friday evening, hundreds of children will be walking neighborhood streets in search of candy, often dressed in dark costumes and hard to see. Please, make a responsible plan before you start your night. Designate a sober driver, call a rideshare, or plan to stay overnight if needed. One bad decision can have devastating consequences.

When Costumes Become Mugshots

You’ve spent weeks perfecting your costume, don’t let it end up on the internet as a viral booking photo. Every year, local jails see a spike in Halloween-night arrests, and those images often find their way online. It’s one thing to be the life of the party, it’s another to have your “epic costume” shared for all the wrong reasons.

If You’re Arrested, Call the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan

If you or a loved one are arrested for DUI or any alcohol-related offense this Halloween weekend, don’t face it alone. As a former prosecutor and top-rated DUI defense lawyer, Timothy Sullivan knows how to challenge field sobriety exercises, breath tests, and police procedures to protect your rights and your future.

Call the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan at 727-855-3847 for a free consultation.
We defend clients in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and throughout Pinellas County — and we’re available when you need us most.

Domestic battery is one of the most common charges filed in Pinellas County, but also one of the most misunderstood. Allegations are often made in the heat of the moment, and once the police make an arrest, the State Attorney’s Office, not the alleged victim, decides whether charges will move forward. That’s why it’s critical to know what defenses may be available if you or a loved one is facing this charge.

At the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, we have successfully defended countless domestic battery cases in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and throughout Pinellas County. Below are five of the most common defenses:

1. Self-Defense

Florida law allows you to use reasonable force to defend yourself if you are attacked or reasonably believe you are in danger of being harmed. If evidence shows that you acted to protect yourself from the alleged victim, this can be a complete defense to domestic battery. In some cases, our highly experienced Clearwater Domestic Battery lawyers can use video evidence, text messages, social media posts, or reputation evidence to establish our client’s lawful use of self-defense.

2. No Battery Occurred – False Allegation

Unfortunately, alleged victims sometimes fabricate or exaggerate claims of battery. This can happen in the middle of a breakup, divorce, or child custody dispute. If the alleged victim has a motive to lie or their account is not supported by physical evidence or witnesses, the case may be dismissed. In such cases, our top-rated Pinellas County Domestic Violence attorneys often deep-dive into the alleged victim’s history including any history of arrests, evidence of intoxication at the time of the incident, or any history of being untruthful.

3. Permissive Touching

Not every “touch” qualifies as a domestic battery. If the physical contact was consensual or otherwise permitted. For example, if my wife were about to walk into traffic and I grabbed her arm to prevent her from doing so, that might look bad to a passerby, but would likely be characterized as “permissive touching” which is not prohibited by the domestic battery laws.

4. Unintentional Touching

Domestic battery requires intent. If the touching was accidental, such as bumping into someone or brushing past them during an argument, then it does not meet the legal definition of battery. For example, our attorneys have handled cases where a verbal dispute ensues in a crowded bar or club, and one of the parties is “bumped” into the other party. Although this is an “unwanted touching,” it was not an intentional unwanted touching.

5. Defense of Others or Property

Florida law also allows the use of reasonable force to protect another person or property. For example, if you intervened to shield a child from harm or to prevent the destruction of your belongings, that may serve as a valid defense.

Possible Solutions in Domestic Battery Cases

Just because an individual was arrested for Domestic Battery in Pinellas County, that does not necessarily mean that he or she will be convicted of Domestic Battery. Although every case and client is unique,, there are several avenues to pursue to resolve a domestic battery case in Pinellas County which are designed to avoid a conviction:

• Early Intervention – Your attorney can immediately contact the prosecutor to argue why charges should not be filed or should be dropped. Time is of the essence, as there is a limited window of time to engage the prosecutor in these sorts of discussions.
  
  
• Pretrial Intervention (Diversion Program) – First-time offenders may qualify for a program that, if successfully completed, results in dismissal of the charge. Participants in this program are often required to complete domestic violence or anger management classes and stay out of trouble.
  
  
• Plea Bargaining – In some cases, charges may be reduced to a lesser, non-criminal offense such as disorderly conduct. Securing an amendment to Disorderly Conduct may allow an individual to seal the record of his or her arrest, and otherwise avoid the stigma and collateral consequences of a domestic battery conviction.
  
  
• Withhold of Adjudication – This option allows you to avoid a formal conviction, which can be crucial for your record and future opportunities.

Speak with an Experienced Clearwater Domestic Battery Defense Attorney

Domestic battery charges carry serious consequences, including the possibility of jail, fines, and long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life. The best step you can take is to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney as early as possible.

At the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, we know how the Pinellas County State Attorney’s Office builds these cases, because I used to be a prosecutor myself. We use that knowledge to protect our clients’ rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

Call us today at 727-855-3847 for a free consultation.
Learn more at www.defendpinellas.com.

At the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, our highly rated Clearwater drug crimes defense team has earned a reputation for achieving exceptional results in serious state and federal narcotics cases. Founding attorney Timothy Sullivan is a former Pinellas County prosecutor who learned law enforcement’s tactics from the inside, and now uses that knowledge to protect the rights and futures of his clients.

Drug trafficking charges in Florida carry some of the harshest penalties in the nation, including mandatory minimum prison sentences and massive fines. But every case is unique, and with the right defense strategy, these charges may be reduced or even dismissed. Below are several common defenses that our firm has successfully used in drug trafficking cases throughout Pinellas County and the greater Tampa Bay area.

1. Early Intervention with the Prosecutor

One of the most effective defense strategies is early intervention, contacting the assigned prosecutor before formal charges are filed or before the case progresses too far. Through proactive communication, we often highlight weaknesses in the State’s evidence, mitigating circumstances, or alternative resolutions that may justify a dismissal or a reduction to simple possession. Early intervention can save clients from years of litigation and potential prison exposure.

2. Search and Seizure Violations

Florida’s Constitution and Fourth Amendment protections guard against unlawful searches and seizures. Many trafficking cases arise from illegal vehicle stops, home searches, or search warrants. Our legal team meticulously reviews police reports, warrant affidavits, and body camera footage to uncover any procedural violations. If law enforcement overstepped, we file motions to suppress the evidence, which may lead to the entire case being dismissed. In other cases, our top-rated attorneys can leverage legal issues to secure a favorable plea bargain.

3. Substantial Assistance

In certain situations, individuals accused of trafficking can provide what’s known as “substantial assistance.” This means cooperating with law enforcement by supplying credible information about other criminal activity. When handled carefully and with proper legal guidance, this cooperation can result in a significant sentence reduction or avoidance of mandatory minimum penalties. Our attorneys ensure that any cooperation agreements are negotiated securely and transparently, protecting our clients from unnecessary risks.

4. Mental Health and Addiction-Related Diversion

For clients struggling with mental health issues, trauma, or substance dependency, traditional punishment rarely serves justice. Our firm may advocate for placement in Pinellas County’s Mental Health Court or Veterans Treatment Court, where eligible defendants can seek treatment instead of incarceration. We have successfully represented military veterans and individuals with diagnosed mental illnesses, ensuring they receive the support, therapy, and structure necessary for long-term recovery and rehabilitation.

5. Forensic Re-Weighing of the Substance

Drug trafficking charges in Florida often hinge on the total weight of the seized substance, even trace differences can determine whether a defendant faces probation or a mandatory prison term. By requesting a forensic re-weighing of the evidence, it is possible to discover that the actual net weight was below the statutory trafficking threshold, resulting in dramatically reduced charges.

Building a Strong Defense

No two drug trafficking cases are alike. The key to success lies in early consultation, a comprehensive review of the discovery, and an experienced defense team that knows how prosecutors think. At the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, we combine insider knowledge, aggressive advocacy, and compassion for our clients to deliver results when everything is on the line.

Contact the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan

If you or a loved one is facing a drug trafficking or controlled substance charge in Clearwater or anywhere in Pinellas County, contact our office today for a free and confidential consultation.
727-855-3847

In Florida, domestic battery is defined as the intentional touching or striking of a family or household member against their will, or intentionally causing them bodily harm. This offense is taken extremely seriously, and even a first-time or misdemeanor domestic battery charge can lead to lasting, devastating consequences that extend far beyond the trial and courtroom.

If you have been charged with domestic battery, the most important step to take is to seek out a criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

Impact on Employment

A domestic battery arrest or conviction usually appears on background checks, which can affect both your current position, as well as any future job opportunities. Many employers view criminal charges, let alone those of domestic violence, as indicators of potential workplace violence or instability, regardless of whether there was a conviction. Because Florida is an at-will state, some employers have policies that allow for termination or suspension immediately after an arrest, even if the case is still pending and no conviction has occurred. Aside from needing to find employment, it means that you lose that stream of income, and will likely face financial repercussions because of it.

For licensed professionals such as nurses, teachers, healthcare workers, and real estate agents, a domestic battery charge may trigger mandatory reporting requirements and disciplinary action from licensing boards. In some cases, a license can be suspended or revoked, especially if you do not choose to work with a trusted criminal defense attorney in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

Impact on Child Custody

Domestic battery charges can also have a significant impact on child custody and visitation rights. In family court, judges often consider such charges when determining what arrangement is in the “best interests of the child.” Even without a conviction, the mere existence of a charge can negatively influence court decisions.

Temporary protective orders may be issued as part of a criminal case proceeding, which means that you would need to stay away from your children or the family home while the case is pending. If there is a finding of domestic violence, Florida law creates a presumption against shared custody, meaning you may face severe restrictions on parenting time or lose joint custody altogether.

Impact in Other Areas

The consequences of a domestic battery charge can also reach into other parts of your life. For non-citizens, violent charges, especially of domestic battery, can jeopardize immigration status, which can lead to your visa, green card, or naturalization being denied. In some cases, it can even lead to your removal from the United States of America. 

Work with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are facing a domestic battery charge in Pinellas County, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney in Clearwater who understands both the criminal and collateral consequences of these cases. We are prepared to work toward the most favorable outcome for your case, and our team has extensive experience in working with domestic cases, as well as violent cases, in Pinellas County.

Do not try and defend yourself if you have been charged with domestic battery. Receive a complimentary case consultation with a top Clearwater attorney by giving our office a call at (727) 291-9717.