PINELLAS COUNTY CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Aggressively Fighting for the Best Possible Outcome

Practice Areas

Client Reviews

"He has connections and relationships with the court systems, which are crucial in negotiations."

- Former Client

"His knowledge and experience exceeded my expectations."

- Damond

"Life saver!"

- Shannon

Experienced Pinellas County, Florida Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are facing criminal charges in Pinellas County, FL, it’s important to have the proper legal representation. Andrew Buda, a Pinellas County criminal defense attorney and former state prosecutor, uses his experience on both sides of the courtroom to defend clients in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Largo, and other nearby communities.

At Buda Law, our legal team understands the local court system and what it takes to protect your rights in criminal cases. Whether you are dealing with drug crimes, DUI charges, domestic violence, theft crimes, or other serious accusations, we are ready to provide aggressive legal representation and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Call (813) 322-2832 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Pinellas County today.

Defense From a Former State Prosecutor Who Knows the Local Courts

Having a Florida criminal defense attorney who has served as a state prosecutor can give you a significant advantage when facing criminal charges in Pinellas County. Attorney Andrew Buda’s background as a former Assistant State Attorney means he understands how local judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement agencies operate, along with the legal procedures that guide the criminal justice process. This insight allows our criminal defense law firm to anticipate strategies the State Attorney may use and build a strong defense to counter them.

Former prosecutors approach legal matters with a different perspective. They know how the other side prepares criminal cases and how to spot weaknesses in the evidence. Using this knowledge, combined with our legal experience in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, and throughout the Tampa Bay Area, our law firm provides aggressive legal representation focused on protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome.

Handling All Kinds of Criminal Charges in Pinellas County

We handle all levels of criminal charges in Pinellas County, from misdemeanor DUI offenses to serious felony crimes such as first-degree homicide. Regardless of the accusation, our law firm represents clients through every stage of the criminal justice process. Whether you are under investigation during the pre-filing stage, facing pretrial detention, preparing for arraignment, defending your case at trial, or pursuing an appeal, our legal team is ready to protect your rights.

PINELLAS COUNTY DUI DEFENSE

Being arrested for driving under the influence can lead to serious penalties, including large fines, jail time, and automatic driver’s license suspension. Pinellas County DUI defense attorney Andrew Buda provides strong legal representation for all DUI-related charges.

Even a first-offense DUI can leave you with a criminal record and no driver’s license, while more severe charges, such as repeat DUIs or DUI manslaughter, can have even greater consequences. If you are under 21 and charged with an underage DUI or accused of refusing a breathalyzer test, you could face automatic license suspension and other long-term effects.

At Buda Law, we focus on challenging the charges, protecting your driving privileges, and even helping you apply for a hardship license in Pinellas County when possible. Our priority is to protect your legal rights and limit the impact of a DUI conviction on your future.

PINELLAS COUNTY DRUG CHARGES

Our Florida drug crime lawyers represent clients facing a range of drug-related charges in Pinellas County, such as:

Drug crimes are treated seriously by Florida courts, and a conviction carries severe consequences. If you’ve been accused, our knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers will aggressively fight the charges against you and work to protect your best interests.

PINELLAS COUNTY VIOLENT CRIMES LAWYER

At Buda Law, our Florida violent crimes lawyers defend clients who are up against some of the most serious charges under Florida criminal law. We handle cases involving:

In certain situations, Florida’s Stand Your Ground Law may be used as part of your defense. This law allows you to use force, including deadly force, if you reasonably believe it is necessary to protect yourself or another person from significant bodily harm or death. We carefully review the facts to determine if this defense applies and work to protect your rights at every stage of the criminal justice process.

PINELLAS COUNTY SEX CRIME DEFENSE

Our sex crime defense attorneys handle severe and sensitive sex crime cases in Pinellas County, where the penalties can be life-changing. These offenses typically carry long prison sentences, mandatory Florida sex offender registration, and other lasting consequences. We represent clients charged with:

Even being accused of a sex crime can severely damage your career, reputation, and personal relationships. Our goal is to protect you from being punished for a crime you did not commit. We carefully examine the evidence, challenge false or exaggerated accusations, and fight to maintain your innocence.

PINELLAS COUNTY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Domestic violence is a type of violent crime that often includes allegations of child abuse, stalking and harassment, or violating a restraining order. Florida law treats these charges harshly, and a conviction can bring jail time, probation, fines, and a mark on your criminal record.

As a seasoned criminal defense attorney and former state prosecutor, Andrew Buda understands how law enforcement agencies investigate these cases and how the state builds charges. Our Florida domestic violence attorneys work to uncover the whole story, challenge unreliable or biased evidence, and protect your civil rights throughout the legal process.

PINELLAS COUNTY THEFT & PROPERTY CRIMES

As theft crime lawyers in Florida, we defend clients against a wide range of theft and property-related charges in Pinellas County. We handle cases involving:

A conviction for any of these crimes can follow you for years, affecting your job opportunities, housing options, and your reputation. That is why it is important to act quickly and seek legal representation if you have been accused.

PINELLAS COUNTY WHITE COLLAR OFFENSES

White-collar crimes are non-violent offenses that typically include allegations of financial wrongdoing. These are serious cases that can be prosecuted at the state or federal levels, depending on the circumstances. Our white collar crime attorneys provide aggressive defense for those accused of:

White-collar crimes can involve detailed investigations and unrelenting prosecutors, so it’s essential to have a criminal defense attorney with experience on both sides of the courtroom. A former prosecutor like Andrew Buda can build a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

PINELLAS COUNTY GUN CRIMES LAWYER

As a Florida weapons and firearms lawyer, Andrew Buda defends clients facing charges related to the possession, use, or sale of firearms in Pinellas County. Many gun crimes in Florida are prosecuted under Florida Statute 775.087, also known as the “10-20-Life” law, which can substantially increase prison sentences if a firearm is used during the commission of certain felonies. These cases require a deep understanding of state gun laws and how they are applied in the criminal justice system.

We review the evidence, explain your legal options, and work to protect your rights, whether you are accused of unlawful possession, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, or using a firearm during an alleged violent crime.

PINELLAS COUNTY JUVENILE CRIMINAL CHARGES

Our Florida juvenile criminal defense attorneys represent minors accused of crimes in Pinellas County, including St. Petersburg, Largo, and Clearwater, FL. Juvenile delinquency cases are handled differently from adult cases, but the consequences can still be severe, potentially affecting a young person’s education, future job opportunities, and personal record. Our goal is to protect the child’s rights, work toward rehabilitation instead of harsh punishment, and help families understand their legal options at every stage of the legal process.

PINELLAS COUNTY PROBATION VIOLATIONS

Pinellas County probation violation attorney Andrew Buda defends clients charged with breaking the terms of their probation. A probation violation can occur for various reasons, including missing a meeting with your probation officer, failing a drug test, being arrested for a new offense, or not completing required programs. Even a small mistake can result in serious consequences, including jail time, extended probation, or stricter term conditions. We will present your side of the story, challenge unfair accusations, and help you avoid the harsh penalties that can come with a probation violation.

PINELLAS COUNTY RECORD SEALING & EXPUNGEMENT

Sealing or expunging your criminal record can remove it from public access, giving you a chance to move forward without past charges affecting your future. In Florida, this option may be available if you meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having no prior convictions and the charges being dropped, dismissed, or resolved without a conviction. A Florida expungement lawyer will guide you through the application process, make sure all legal requirements are met, and help you take steps toward a fresh start.

Why Choose Andrew Buda as Your Pinellas County Criminal Attorney?

When you trust Andrew Buda as your Pinellas County criminal defense attorney, you get a trusted advocate in your corner who fights hard in the courtroom and keeps you informed along the way. Known for his aggressive courtroom strategy, Attorney Buda handles everything from misdemeanor offenses to serious felony charges. He uses his knowledge of the local courts and legal systems to protect your rights and pursue the best outcome. Clients consistently give 5-star reviews for Buda’s clear communication, dedication, and proven results in Pinellas County.

What to Expect When You Work With Our Pinellas County Criminal Defense Lawyers at Buda Law

At Buda Law, we provide clients with a free, confidential consultation to learn about their situation, answer questions, and evaluate their legal needs. From there, we gather evidence, review police reports, and identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Depending on your situation, we may work toward a plea deal or prepare to defend you in court hearings and a trial. From the initial investigation to the final court decision, we keep you updated, explain your legal options, and provide the support you need to make informed decisions about your case.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Pinellas County Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you are facing criminal charges in Pinellas County, the time to act is now. The sooner you speak with a criminal defense attorney, the more options you may have to protect your rights and your future. Attorney Andrew Buda treats every criminal defense case with urgency and confidentiality, giving you the focused attention you deserve. Don’t wait until charges escalate or court deadlines pass. Call Buda Law at (813) 322-2832 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with a skilled Pinellas County criminal defense attorney today.