St. Petersburg's Premier Criminal Defense Specialists

Experienced Defense for the Sunshine City's Diverse Community

If you need a criminal defense attorney in St. Petersburg, timing matters as much as talent. An arrest can disrupt your career, your family stability, and your standing in a community that values its vibrant cultural identity. As the largest city in Pinellas County, St. Petersburg has grown into one of Florida's most dynamic urban centers, with a population that reflects a wide range of professionals, artists, families, and retirees - all of whom deserve skilled legal representation when facing criminal allegations.
R. Curtis Murtha, PA has defended clients throughout St. Petersburg and the surrounding area for over two decades. We bring former prosecution experience and aggressive trial skills to every case, providing the kind of defense that challenges assumptions and holds law enforcement accountable for following proper procedures. Our years as an Assistant State Attorney and Lead Trial Attorney in Pinellas County gave us direct insight into how prosecutors evaluate evidence, build cases, and make strategic decisions - knowledge we now use exclusively to protect our clients.

Defending Charges Across St. Petersburg's Neighborhoods

Criminal cases in St. Petersburg can arise from a wide range of circumstances. A traffic stop along Interstate 275 or Central Avenue may lead to a DUI charge. A disagreement between family members may result in a domestic battery arrest. A misunderstanding during a night out in the downtown entertainment district can escalate into assault or disorderly conduct charges. Regardless of the situation, we approach each case by examining the evidence, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's argument, and developing a strategy designed to achieve the strongest possible outcome.
We handle all criminal matters for St. Petersburg clients, including felonies and misdemeanors, drug possession and trafficking, firearm offenses, sex offenses, burglary, theft, robbery, probation violations, and white collar crime. Our background as a former Assistant State Attorney means we recognize the strategies prosecutors are likely to employ, and we prepare accordingly. Every client works directly with their attorney from the initial consultation through case resolution, including bond hearings and potential record sealing or expungement.
Reach out today for a free criminal defense case evaluation if you are dealing with charges in St. Petersburg and want an attorney who will take your case personally.

Results St. Petersburg Clients Expect

Effective criminal defense requires more than legal knowledge - it demands courtroom confidence, a thorough understanding of local procedure, and the willingness to take a case to trial when necessary. We provide clients with a defense built on all three.

  • Former Lead Trial Attorney in the Pinellas County State Attorney's Office with experience prosecuting the same types of charges we now defend
  • Proven ability to challenge evidence obtained through improper traffic stops, unlawful searches, and procedural violations by law enforcement
  • Comprehensive defense coverage from initial arrest and bond hearings through trial and post-conviction relief options
  • Solo practice model ensuring clients receive direct attorney communication at every stage rather than being filtered through support staff
  • Record sealing and expungement guidance to help eligible clients restore their standing in a city where professional reputation carries significant weight

Your future should not be defined by an arrest. If you are looking for a criminal defense attorney who understands St. Petersburg's legal landscape and will fight for your rights, contact us now to begin building your defense.

Contact Us