Disorderly Conduct Arrests in Downtown St. Petersburg, Florida

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.