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.
What Sets Us Apart? Defense That Delivers
Get A Former Prosecutor On Your Side
-
Elite Experience
María Bastos is a former statewide prosecutor with a track record of handling complex, multi-county cases.
-
Client-First Advocacy
Our selective caseload ensures every client gets personalized attention and a strong legal strategy.
-
Fierce & Compassionate
We're tough in the courtroom, but deeply committed to guiding clients through criminal defense and family law matters with care.
-
Justice-Driven
We are passionate about defending the accused and advocating for victims when possible, always fighting for what’s right.
Bastos Defense Can Help Protect You Against the Consequence Attached to The Following Types of Violent Crime:
- Assault & Aggravated Assault – You don’t have to physically touch someone to be charged with assault. Just a threat or an attempt to cause harm can result in up to 5 years in prison.
- Battery & Aggravated Battery – If physical contact occurs, even in a heated moment, it could be classified as battery. Using a weapon or causing serious injury can increase penalties to felony charges with up to 15 years in prison.
- Domestic Violence – A fight between spouses, partners, or family members can lead to jail time, restraining orders, and the loss of firearm rights. Even if the accuser wants to drop the charges, prosecutors can still move forward with the case.
- Robbery & Armed Robbery – Taking someone’s belongings through force or intimidation—especially with a weapon—can lead to felony charges and up to 30 years in prison.
How We Can Help
If you or a loved one has been charged with a violent crime, this doesn’t have to be the end of your story. Bastos Defense fights to challenge the prosecution’s case, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome. We know that every case has two sides, and we work tirelessly to:
- Uncover false accusations and challenge weak evidence
- Prove self-defense when you were protecting yourself or others
- Negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing to keep you out of jail
- Fight for a full case dismissal if the evidence isn’t strong enough
For those who have been victims of violent crimes, we also provide legal support to file protective orders, assist with victim rights, and ensure you have a voice in the legal process.
You don’t have to face this alone. Call us at (727) 353-6842 for a confidential consultation or connect with us online.
-
"Dedication, Hard Work, and Professionalism"
I cannot recommend Maria Bastos highly enough. Her dedication, hard work, and professionalism set her apart in the legal field. Her attention to detail and methodical approach to her cases are evident from the beginning through till the end. Her courtroom presence is evident and shows her knowledge of the law and confidence in her abilities. If you are looking for an attorney to tirelessly advocate on your behalf, Maria is the best there is. I highly recommend Maria for any criminal defense needs.
- Ian F. -
"The Absolute Best!!"Maria is the absolute best. She’s super easy to work with. And definitely goes the extra mile or should I say miles for her clients. From long talks on the phone. To hunting down your prosecutor to set up times to delegate with them. My last case was picked up by her when my original lawyer had left the office, she in almost no time got me the result I was looking for. You would think that because it was just a case thrown at her already started by someone else it would not mean as much to her. But I never got those vibes from her once. She’s great at making everything taking place in your case translated into to plane English. She will be my lawyer for life.- Dylan A.
-
"Let Maria fight for you!"Maria's drive, dedication, and compassion, coupled with her extensive experience as a statewide prosecutor, make her an exceptional candidate for your legal needs. She is prepared to stand up for your rights. Let Maria fight for you!- Lelia A.
-
"Highly Impressed"Very impressed with the professional service, the legal firm is a problem solving , any questions and concerns have been answered and addressed promptly. Bastos firm showed a deep understanding of the situation and demonstrated empathy throughout the legal process. Recommended 💯- Y. P.
-
"Attorney Bastos Delivers the Attention You Deserve"Maria is an elite attorney. Her representation is distinct from others because she manages her caseload such that her clients are actually able to receive the attention they pay for and deserve.- Emily C.
-
"Highly Recommend"Bastos Defense Law Firm was outstanding in their professionalism and commitment. Maria, a bilingual attorney, was exceptional, seamlessly communicating in both English and Spanish, which made the process clear and accessible. The team’s expertise and care led to a great outcome, and I highly recommend them for top-tier legal support.- Henry M.
-
"Highly Recommend!"María is awesome! I highly recommend choosing her, very trustworthy and dependable!- Ellie C.
-
"Highly Recommend"I highly recommend Maria for anyone dealing with a VOP (Violation of Probation) case. She was always on time, consistently showed up when I needed her, and most importantly, she won my case. Her professionalism and dedication gave me peace of mind throughout the process. Truly grateful for her support.- Chris C.
At Bastos Defense, you get a fierce advocate on your side, with a compassionate and personalized approach to client care.
Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM
(5-7PM by appointment only)