Protect Your Rights From the Start

Affordable criminal defense in Clearwater for misdemeanor and felony charges.

Being charged with a crime is one of the most stressful experiences you can face, and the decisions you make in the days following an arrest can shape the outcome of your case. In Clearwater, criminal charges range from misdemeanors like theft and drug possession to felonies involving violence, fraud, or serious drug offenses. You need representation that understands the local court system, knows how prosecutors build cases, and can identify weaknesses in the evidence against you.

Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law provides affordable criminal defense for individuals charged with misdemeanors and felonies throughout the Tampa Bay area. Our firm focuses on protecting your rights, explaining your options clearly, and working toward the best possible resolution, whether that means dismissal, reduced charges, or minimized penalties. We understand the impact a criminal case can have on your freedom, record, and future, and we take a practical, defense-focused approach from day one.

If you have been charged with a crime in Clearwater, contact us for a free consultation to review your charges and discuss your next steps.

What Happens After You Hire a Defense Attorney

Once you retain us, we immediately review the arrest report, witness statements, and any evidence the prosecution plans to use against you. In Clearwater, this often includes police body camera footage, dispatch recordings, and forensic reports. We look for procedural errors, unlawful searches, inconsistent testimony, and violations of your constitutional rights that could lead to suppressed evidence or dismissed charges.

After we file a notice of appearance, you will notice that law enforcement and prosecutors can no longer contact you directly. All communication goes through our office, and we handle negotiations, court filings, and pre-trial motions on your behalf.

We represent clients at arraignment, pre-trial hearings, plea negotiations, and trial if necessary. Our goal is to resolve your case with the least impact on your life, whether that means diversion programs for first-time offenders, plea agreements that avoid jail time, or taking the case to trial when the evidence does not support a conviction. We do not handle federal criminal cases or appellate matters.

Criminal charges come with a lot of uncertainty, and most clients in Clearwater want to understand the process before making decisions. These are the questions we hear most often.

It helps to know what you are facing before your first court date

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses punishable by up to one year in county jail, while felonies carry potential sentences of more than one year in state prison. Felonies also result in a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and voting rights.
How can a defense attorney help if I was caught with evidence?
We examine how the evidence was obtained, whether the search was lawful, and if proper procedures were followed. If your rights were violated, we file motions to suppress evidence, which can lead to reduced charges or dismissal.
What happens at an arraignment?
At arraignment, you enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The judge also sets bail or release conditions. We represent you at this hearing and advise you on the best plea to enter based on the charges and evidence.
When should I accept a plea deal?
You should consider a plea deal when the evidence against you is strong, the offer significantly reduces potential penalties, or when going to trial carries a high risk of conviction with harsher sentencing. We review every offer with you and explain the trade-offs before you decide.
Will a criminal charge show up on background checks?
Yes, most criminal charges and convictions appear on background checks. However, some charges can be sealed or expunged after resolution, and diversion programs may allow you to avoid a conviction altogether if you meet certain conditions.

Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law represents clients throughout Clearwater who are facing criminal charges and need a defense strategy that protects their rights and their future. We offer free consultations to review your charges, explain what the prosecution must prove, and discuss realistic outcomes based on the facts of your case. If you are ready to start building your defense, reach out today.