Cases We Handle
Dedicated to Criminal Defense
- Domestic Violence
- Drug Charges
- DUI Defense
- Extradition
- Federal Court Crimes
- Felonies
- Firearm Weapons Offenses
- First Offenders
- Florida Criminal Process
- Juvenile Defense
- Marijuana Defense
- Misdemeanors
- Out of State Offenders
- Probation Violation
- Seal Criminal Record
- Sex Crimes
- Theft Crimes
- Traffic Offenses
- Violent Crimes
- White Collar Crimes
Criminal Defense
Florida statutes provide for more than 300 different criminal charges, including both felony and misdemeanor offenses. All of these charges can carry a variety of penalties, such as jail time, prison time, steep fines, probation and even restrictions on a person’s driving privileges. Anytime you are charged with a criminal offense, it should be taken seriously.
A criminal conviction, even if it is a misdemeanor, can have a long-lasting effect on a person’s life. For instance, if a person is convicted of a violent offense, he or she may lose the right to possess a firearm. This is something that could last far longer than a court-issued punishment. This is why it is critical to defend yourself against the charges and fight to avoid a conviction.
St. Petersburg Criminal Defense
Whether you are accused of a misdemeanor or felony offense, Morris Law Firm, P.A. has the experience and the resources necessary to defend you against any criminal charge. Melinda Morris, managing partner of the Morris Law Firm, is an experienced former assistant state attorney who has more than 15 years of experience fighting for the rights of the accused.
Her experience as a criminal defense attorney in the Greater Tampa Bay area provides her with important insight into the criminal justice system. She works with her clients to ensure they understand their options and to make sure their needs are met. Melinda is adamant about getting a favorable outcome in each case.
Contact an experienced St. Petersburg criminal defense attorney to discuss the facts of your case and defenses that may apply. Morris Law Firm, P.A. represents clients in Pinellas County and the surrounding areas in Manatee County, Sarasota County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County and Polk County. Call (727) 592-5885 for a free consultation.
Client Testimonials
Hear From Real People We've Helped
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"Look no further than Morris Law"Seth Shapiro is the most professional, courteous, caring attorneys I’ve dealt with in all of my 70 years. He did a fabulous job representing me defending me and getting charges dropped. I couldn’t have dreamed of better counsel.- Stephen on AVVO
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"100% satisfied with Morris Law Group."100% satisfied with Morris law group. Melinda was able to resolve my legal issues with no additional expenses other than my original retainer. I highly recommend this firm for professional and competent representation.- Peter R. on Yelp
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"Best legal representation"If you want the best legal representation, look no further than Morris law firm. Melinda reassured me from the very first time we spoke over the phone. She is very professional and keeps you updated on the progress of your case. I really liked that I didn’t have to reach out to her Everything was smooth, straightforward and she put my mind at ease. You’ll be in good hands with her. Thank you Melinda- Hassan on Google
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"Thanks to The Morris Law Firm"Mr.Shapiro helped my case by looking at the police body cam diligently which supported my testimony . He presented evidence to the prosecutor .I hired Seth Shapiro to defend me after a domestic battery charge in which I was wrongfully accused and arrested. My case was dismissed thankfully. .Couldn't have asked for a better outcome. This was an extreme difficult time for me. Seth Shapiro was knowledgeable and compassionate in my case. He followed up with my concerns. I would highly recommend this firm.- Melody Z.
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"Goes above and beyond"Melinda has represented me on numerous cases and the outcome has always been great. Melinda goes above and beyond to defend your rights and get you the best possible outcome. I highly recommend hiring her.- Shasta on Google
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"They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful."Morris Law Firm is a very professional and responsive. They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful. Strongly recommend them especially Seth Shapiro. He decreased my case from felony to misdemeanor in short terms and during 6 months my case was totally closed.- Elina P. on Google
Why Choose Our Law Firm?
See the Difference Our Service Provides
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FORMER STATE PROSECUTORMelinda Morris is a former prosecutor and has handled thousands of criminal cases from investigation through sentencing enabling us to identify weaknesses in the State’s case against you.
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STRATEGICALLY AGGRESSIVEWe never settle for the easiest outcome or the typical result. We know how to negotiate with the State Attorney and we will work to get you the best possible outcome.
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TRUSTED & EXPERIENCEDMelinda Morris has practiced criminal law for over 20 years. Our clients trust advice that comes from experience in nearly every type of criminal case.
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PERSONAL ATTENTIONWe will know every client’s story because we will take the time to listen and understand. You will work with your attorney one-on-one at every stage of the process.
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PROMPT COMMUNICATIONYou will have the cell phone number of your attorney. Your attorney will directly return your call, email, or text to answer your pressing questions.
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SAME DAY REPRESENTATIONThe government is wasting no time in trying to prove your guilt, a proactive defense is imperative. Prompt and decisive action from your defense attorney is of critical importance.
Types of Criminal Charges in Florida
Law enforcement does not need a warrant to arrest someone in Pinellas County; all they need is plausible cause. This means there must be a probable reason to prosecute for a crime, along with evidence that is was actually you who committed the crime.
If you are arrested in Saint Petersburg or Clearwater, you are fully protected by your constitutional rights. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You are not required to provide information to police officers or investigators prior to hiring an attorney, nor you should not wait to obtain legal counsel. When it comes to fighting criminal charges, every second counts, and the sooner you have professional counsel on your side, the better.
Criminal defense attorneys at Morris Law Firm, P.A. are familiar with the tactics used by the St. Petersburg Police Department when conducting a criminal investigation or making an arrest. We know how to obtain evidence that might be helpful to your case, including dispatch records, CAD calls, use of force reports, surveillance videos, internal affairs records, and the officer’s training materials and standard operating procedures. We represent clients in both North and South County Traffic Court and at the Pinellas County Justice Center.
Morris Law Firm, P.A. represents cases involving:
- DUI or Driving Under the Influence: State law prohibits a person from being intoxicated by alcohol, drugs or a combination of substances while driving or in actual physical control of a vehicle. This could result in several other issues, including an administrative license suspension.
- BUI or Boating Under the Influence: It is illegal for a person to be under the influence of alcohol or a chemical substance while operating a vessel in Florida.
- Domestic Violence: Domestic violence charges include acts of violence against family members and those in a romantic relationship.
- Juvenile Crimes: Juveniles in Florida are faced with different procedures in the courtroom, often less harsh than those for adults. Juvenile offenses still can have severe consequences, which could carry over into adult life.
- Drug Charges: Drug charges can include a variety of offenses, ranging from possession of marijuana to trafficking large amounts of cocaine. Drug offenses can have harsh penalties.
- White Collar Crimes: White collar crimes, also known as economic crimes, are those concerning deception to illegally obtain money, goods or benefit. This includes various types of fraud.
- Traffic Offenses: Traffic offenses often seem minor, but some could be serious felonies, such as fleeing and eluding with serious injury or property damage.
- Assault and Battery: Assault and battery are two distinct offenses, and they can be charged as either felonies or misdemeanors. Penalties can increase if the charges are considered aggravated.
- Firearms and Weapon Offenses: In some circumstances, it could be illegal for a person to bear arms. In Florida, some weapons are prohibited and possession of them also could result in criminal charges.
- Theft Crimes: A person can commit a theft offense in Florida if he or she knowingly obtains or uses the property of another with the intent to deprive the other person of property.