St. Petersburg & Clearwater Criminal Defense Lawyer

When your future is on the line, you need more than just a defense attorney. You need a seasoned litigator who understands the criminal justice system from the inside out. At The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger, we offer precisely that—a strategic defense crafted from 15 years of experience as a former state prosecutor.

Attorney Tim Hessinger is not just a defense attorney, he’s a legal strategist who has previously been on the other side of the courtroom for a decade and a half. His tenure in the Major Crimes division, prosecuting some of the most complex cases in Pinellas County, provides him with a unique and powerful perspective. He knows how prosecutors think, how they build their cases, and, most importantly, how to dismantle them.

What His Experience Means for Your Defense:
  • An Insider’s Knowledge: With 15 years as a former state prosecutor, Tim Hessinger has an unparalleled understanding of prosecution tactics and strategies.
  • Proven Trial Experience: Having handled thousands of cases and over 130 jury trials, he is always prepared to fight for you in court.
  • Award-Winning Recognition: His commitment to legal excellence is recognized by our peers and clients, with distinctions such as:
    • AV Preeminent® Peer Rating from Martindale-Hubbell®
    • Client Distinction Award from Martindale.com and Lawyers.com
    • Member and Former President of the Pinellas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
    • Prosecutor of the Year award
  • A Proactive Approach: We focus on early intervention, aiming to challenge the state’s case before formal charges are even filed.
  • Unwavering Dedication: We are exclusively devoted to criminal defense, ensuring that your case receives the focused, specialized attention it deserves.

Why Clients Are Choosing Us

Backed by 15 years of experience as a former prosecutor focused on criminal defense, we bring a unique perspective and proven skill to every case. But don’t just take our word for it—hear directly from our clients and colleagues as they share their experiences working with us.

15 years experience in the State Attorney's Office

Accepting calls and cases 24 hours a day

Tried Over 140 Jury Trials

Confidential and complimentary initial consultations

Exclusively devoted to criminal defense

Impressive track record of charge reductions, acquittals & dismissals

Proven Record of Results

Award-Winning Experience On Your Side
Cases Dropped; DUI-Reduced to Reckless Driving
Possession of Marijuana More than 20 grams Obstruction DUI Refusal Dog Trainer
Injunction Dismissed
Stalking Injunction Owner Landscape Company
Case Dropped
Aggravated Child Abuse Paramedic / Firefighter
Dismissed
Obstructing or Resisting Officer Without Violence Urinating in Public College Student

Our Early Involvement Can Make a Big Difference

There is a window of opportunity between an arrest and the filing of formal charges. In most criminal cases, the best opportunity to have charges dropped or reduced is after the arrest and prior to the state attorney filing formal charges.

The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger consistently attacks criminal cases before the state attorney files formal charges. This pre-filing approach gives my clients the opportunity to impact the state attorney’s filing decision and, in many cases, avoids charges being filed.

I explore all your options for a successful solution to your case, with an emphasis on alternatives to prison and a criminal record.

Hear From Our Clients

He helped our entire family feel secure
“Mr Hessinger acted in a professional and competent manor. I felt very secure with him handling my case.”
— Former Client
He was professional, patient, knowledgeable, kind, helpful, and compassionate.
“His level of expertise in his field was was above anything I could have imagined.”
— Diane C.
Tim is well respected within the legal community.
“It is evident that Tim is well respected within the legal community by the prosecution and the judiciary.”
— Legal Professional

Awards & Accolades

peer rated for highest level of professional excellence 2016
America's most honored professionals
client distinction award
prosecutor of the year 2004
pinellas association of criminal defense lawyers
avvo rating 10- top rated criminal defense

Contact a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense Lawyer Today!

Contact our St. Petersburg criminal law attorney immediately for a free initial consultation about your DUI, drug crime, sex crime, murder, burglary, white-collar crime, juvenile crime, or other criminal charges. You can call 24 hours a day at (727) 896-1501, or you can reach us by e-mail. Contact a St. Petersburg criminal attorney from our firm as soon as possible and request your initial consultation!

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