Family Lawyer in St. Petersburg
Comprehensive Family Law Services in St. Petersburg
Family law cases are often emotional, complex, & life-changing. Custody disputes, restraining orders, & divorce conflicts can have long-term consequences for your future & your relationship with your children. If you're facing a difficult custody battle, need legal protection, or are facing challenges securing financial stability, we are here to advocate for your rights & ensure fair treatment. At Bastos Defense, we provide compassionate & strategic legal support to help you navigate these challenges & move forward with confidence.
Our firm understands that family conflicts can be messy, & we are committed to providing strong legal representation for cases involving domestic violence, parental alienation, financial disputes, or unfair custody rulings. Our approach goes beyond navigating legal intricacies; we focus on building a strong relationship with you, ensuring that every step of the process is transparent & informed by a deep understanding of your individual needs.
Call (727) 353-6842 now for a consultation or fill out our online form.
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Elite Experience
María Bastos is a former statewide prosecutor with a track record of handling complex, multi-county cases.
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Client-First Advocacy
Our selective caseload ensures every client gets personalized attention and a strong legal strategy.
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Fierce & Compassionate
We're tough in the courtroom, but deeply committed to guiding clients through criminal defense and family law matters with care.
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Justice-Driven
We are passionate about defending the accused and advocating for victims when possible, always fighting for what’s right.
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"I HIGHLY RECOMMEND"
Maria strives to provide exceptional service to her clients, and she is delighted that you found her assistance valuable in reaching your goals.- Marino D. -
"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. -
"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. -
"Excellent Defense Attorney"
Maria Bastos is an excellent defense attorney. She is professional, knowledgeable, and truly cares about her clients. She explained everything clearly and worked tirelessly to achieve the best possible results. I highly recommend her.- Alondra R.
Protecting Your Rights in Family Law Disputes in St. Petersburg
Family law cases can be emotionally & legally challenging, especially when parental rights, custody, restraining orders, or financial matters are at stake. Courts aim to rule in the best interests of the child, but biased decisions, false accusations, & unfair rulings can leave parents struggling to maintain a relationship with their children, let alone protect their financial stability. At Bastos Defense, we fight to ensure fair treatment, defend against false claims, & protect your future.
- Fighting for Fair Custody & Parenting Time: Courts sometimes favor one parent, even when shared custody is best for the child. We advocate for equal parenting time & fair agreements.
- Challenging Unfair Restraining Orders: Protective orders are sometimes misused in custody disputes. If a restraining order was issued without evidence or based on false claims, we work to have it lifted.
- Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence: We help victims secure protective orders, custody modifications, & other legal safeguards to ensure their safety. Our firm advocates for strong legal protections & works to enforce restraining orders when needed.
- Preventing Financial Exploitation in Divorce: Unfair spousal support, child support, & hidden assets can create serious financial strain. We fight for fair asset division & protect against exaggerated claims.
- Modifying Custody, Visitation & Support Orders: Life circumstances change. Whether due to job relocation, safety concerns, or financial hardships, we help request modifications to existing court orders.
We understand that every family law case and desired outcome is different. Quick action & strong legal representation are key to protecting your rights. We aim not only to represent you but also to empower you with information & resources, ensuring you understand each phase of your case & what it means for your family's future.
Understanding the Laws in St. Petersburg
Navigating family law in St. Petersburg requires an understanding of both local statutes and courtroom procedures. Florida's family law is governed by specific rules regarding child custody, alimony, & property division. The Pinellas County Family Court, located in St. Petersburg, handles these cases, ensuring fair rulings that reflect the state's legal standards. Our firm is deeply familiar with these local processes, which is crucial for preparing a solid defense or advocacy strategy that reflects grounding in regional legal practices.
Local considerations also play a role in case outcomes. For instance, the unique demographics & economic factors in St. Petersburg may influence the court's approach to alimony & property division, making it essential to work with a legal team that understands these variables. We bring our local insight to every case, ensuring that we factor in community-specific elements while crafting your legal strategy.
What Makes Our Firm Stand Out as a Family Law Attorney in St. Petersburg?
- Aggressive Legal Representation: Unfair rulings & biased decisions can devastate families. We challenge misleading claims & fight for fair outcomes.
- Experienced in High-Conflict Cases: From heated custody battles to restraining orders & financial disputes, we handle complex cases with care & determination.
- Focused on Protecting Your Rights: Whether seeking custody protections, enforcing restraining orders, or securing financial stability, we ensure your voice is heard & your rights are upheld.
- Customized Representation: Every family is different, & we tailor our strategies to fight for fair custody arrangements, financial security, & strong legal protections.
Family law disputes can impact your future, finances, & relationships. Take action today. Call (727) 353-6842 or reach out to us online to schedule a consultation with our St. Petersburg family law attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Process for Modifying a Custody or Child Support Order in St. Petersburg?
Modifying a custody or child support order in St. Petersburg involves demonstrating a significant change in circumstances since the original order was put in place. This might include changes in a parent's job, relocation, a child’s needs, or other factors that affect the child's well-being. To initiate a modification, you must file a petition with the Pinellas County Family Court & provide evidence supporting the change. An attorney at Bastos Defense can help you navigate the legal requirements & build a strong case for modification.
How Is Alimony Determined in Florida?
Alimony in Florida is determined based on several factors including the length of the marriage, each spouse's financial resources, & the standard of living established during the marriage. Florida law requires the court to consider each party’s contributions to the marriage, both financial & otherwise, before reaching a decision. Our firm can assist you in understanding how these factors apply to your situation & advocate for a fair alimony arrangement.
What Are the Grounds for Divorce in St. Petersburg?
In Florida, grounds for divorce include irreconcilable differences & mental incapacity. Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you do not need to prove wrongdoing by the other party to file for divorce. However, understanding all aspects of these grounds can affect divorce proceedings & outcomes. At Bastos Defense, we offer insight into the process & advise on how to proceed according to your circumstances, aiming to achieve a resolution that respects your rights & objectives.
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)