Awarded Best Attorney for
Best of the Bay 2022
Best Attorney/Law Firm for 8 Consecutive Years
Awarded Best in
Defense Law 2024
“Excellent Attorney,
I’d hire him.”
“Hands down
the BEST”
“The Crème De La Crème Lawyer”
“A 10.0 Avvo rating
speaks for itself”
Best Attorney/Law Firm
for 6 Consecutive Years ~Tampa Bay Times
Awarded Best in Defense Law 2024 ~Tampa Bay Times
Awarded Best Attorney for Best of the Bay 2022 ~Creative Loafing
“Excellent Attorney, I’d hire him.” ~Sitting Pinellas County Judge
“Hands down the BEST” ~Dan T.
“The Crème De La Crème Lawyer” ~Lucy B.
“A 10.0 Avvo rating speaks for itself” ~Michael D.
St Petersburg Criminal Defense Attorney
Sean K McQuaid
Is a Division of Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A.
The Oldest Law Firm in St Petersburg, Founded in 1958
St Petersburg Criminal Defense Attorney
Sean McQuaid
A Division of Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A.
5858 Central Ave suite d
St. Petersburg, FL 33707
(727) 381-2300
My Goals for You
Thank you for considering me. I understand how difficult a criminal charge can be and how it affects people and their families. My job is to develop a strategy that will provide a path to either getting the charges dismissed or a lenient result. I know what types of situations require fighting, which require hand-holding, and which require minimizing the penalties. I am not afraid to challenge the judge or the prosecutor if I believe they are wrong, but usually, if you have made a mistake, the best approach is to attempt to fix the problem first and then ask for leniency.
First Time Criminal Charges
Many of my clients are first time offenders or have minimal prior records. Some are young adults who are struggling to find their way. In these circumstances, protecting their record and keeping them out of jail are my main goals. I understand how damaging a criminal conviction can be and I am routinely trusted to both be a positive influence and protector of my client’s future.
Drugs or Alcohol
Some of my clients find themselves in bad situations influenced by drugs, alcohol, or by associating with people who are negative influences. Getting clean and sober and doing counseling is a good idea because while it does not admit guilt, the effort gives assurance to the judge and the prosecutor that any problem is being addressed.
Our Team
We do not judge. We treat our clients with respect and compassion. We know that your charge could happen to anyone at any time and that you were just unlucky. You will be impressed by our lawyers and staff. Two of us are former prosecutors and one is a former probation officer. The connections and knowledge that we bring to the table are a huge advantage to our clients. What we can do for you is simply unlike what other lawyers can offer.
Sean McQuaid
I am the President of Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid. PA and my list of accomplishments and credentials is on this site. Please take a moment to read them and what my clients say about me in the reviews. I have developed a premier reputation by being honest with my clients and putting their interests first, which is rare. You will not find other attorneys with the reputation, experience, connections, and compassion that I bring to each case. I look forward to helping you and your family through this difficult time. Thank you in advance for trusting me with this important responsibility.
~ Sean K. McQuaid
St Petersburg Criminal Defense Attorney
Sean K McQuaid
Is a Division of Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A.
The Oldest Law Firm in St Petersburg, Founded in 1958
My Goals for You
Thank you for considering me. I understand how difficult a criminal charge can be and how it affects people and their families. My job is to develop a strategy that will provide a path to either getting the charges dismissed or a lenient result. I know what types of situations require fighting, which require hand-holding, and which require minimizing the penalties. I am not afraid to challenge the judge or the prosecutor if I believe they are wrong, but usually, if you have made a mistake, the best approach is to attempt to fix the problem first and then ask for leniency.
First Time Criminal Charges
Many of my clients are first time offenders or have minimal prior records. Some are young adults who are struggling to find their way. In these circumstances, protecting their record and keeping them out of jail are my main goals. I understand how damaging a criminal conviction can be and I am routinely trusted to both be a positive influence and protector of my client’s future.
Drugs or Alcohol
Some of my clients find themselves in bad situations influenced by drugs, alcohol, or by associating with people who are negative influences. Getting clean and sober and doing counseling is a good idea because while it does not admit guilt, the effort gives assurance to the judge and the prosecutor that any problem is being addressed.
Our Team
We do not judge. We treat our clients with respect and compassion. We know that your charge could happen to anyone at any time and that you were just unlucky. You will be impressed by our lawyers and staff. Two of us are former prosecutors and one is a former probation officer. The connections and knowledge that we bring to the table are a huge advantage to our clients. What we can do for you is simply unlike what other lawyers can offer.
Sean McQuaid
I am the President of Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid. PA and my list of accomplishments and credentials is on this site. Please take a moment to read them and what my clients say about me in the reviews. I have developed a premier reputation by being honest with my clients and putting their interests first, which is rare. You will not find other attorneys with the reputation, experience, connections, and compassion that I bring to each case. I look forward to helping you and your family through this difficult time. Thank you in advance for trusting me with this important responsibility.
~ Sean K. McQuaid
Success Stories
Ten Attorneys Listed in The Best Lawyers in America® 2027 Edition
Ten attorneys from Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. were honored in the 2027 edition of Best Lawyers in America for their excellence.
Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. Win Tampa Bay Times “Best of the Best” for 2026 in Defense Law
Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. is proud to announce our eighth consecutive Tampa Bay Times Best of the Best award.
Punishable by Life Felony Dismissed Within a Month
Alec Waid’s client called in before he was even arrested after he had to defend himself from another rage-filled driver. Specifically, when the client was driving to work in St Pete with his wife, another car came out of nowhere acting aggressively toward the client–honking his horn, pulling in front of him, and brake checking the client. When they reached a red light, the other driver–in front of the client–rolled his window down and began yelling at and threatening the client. Our client got out of the car afraid of what the other driver would do next. The other driver […]
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Practice Areas
Assault
& Battery
If you’re facing allegations of Assault and Battery, whether innocent or guilty, then you need an attorney who can fight for your defense. Sean McQuaid can fight to clear your name or minimize penalties, in a period of your life that is likely chaotic and impossible to deal with alone.
Boating Under
the Influence
If you’ve been arrested for Boating Under the Influence or BUI in Pinellas County, Florida, then you need the support of an experienced Boating Under the Influence Defense Attorney to help minimize the penalties and save your future.
Burglary
and Trespass
Burglary and Trespass cases are common in Florida. In 2017, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) documented that over 500,000 property crimes were reported. A burglary and trespassing criminal defense lawyer will fight to minimize penalties and potentially clear your name.
Child Neglect
and Abuse
Child neglect and abuse can be heartbreaking. However, false or exaggerated allegations are sometimes made and that’s when you need a child neglect and abuse attorney. A criminal defense attorney can defend people that have been accused regardless of the situation.
Domestic
Battery
Police in Florida can make arrests based on accusations alone. Often these allegations are exaggerated or unfounded. Fortunately, a domestic battery attorney will fight to reduce penalties and prevent the consequences of a criminal conviction.
Drug
Possession
If you are facing charges of drug possession or possession of a controlled substance in Pinellas County, the penalties can be particularly severe even for a trace amount. It is highly recommended to get support from an experienced drug possession attorney for a realistic shot at defending your future.
Drug Sales
& Manufacturing
Drugs sales and drug manufacturing in Florida are felonies that are vigorously prosecuted by the State Attorney’s Office and United States Attorney’s Office. A Drugs sales and drug manufacturing defense attorney can fight for your rights and prepare a defense strategy that can significantly reduce your penalties.
Drug
Trafficking
In Florida, drug trafficking crimes are treated with harsh penalties in an attempt to stop the source of our state’s drug problems. Minimize penalties for drug trafficking crimes by hiring an aggressive drug trafficking attorney.
Driving Under
the Influence
A Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrest is a complicated situation to be in and carries an unwanted stigma, but is much more common than one would expect. In Pinellas County alone, there are over 3,000 DUI arrests per year and the Office of the State Attorney has a zero-tolerance policy of prosecution.
Gun & Weapon
Charges
Gun and weapon offenses in Florida are typically felonies that carry severe penalties for those convicted. Florida is supportive of the Second Amendment with more concealed carry permits than any other state in the country, but prosecutors take gun crimes seriously.
Juvenile
Crimes
When a parent discovers that their child has been arrested for a juvenile crime, there is understandably a lot of stress and confusion for the entire family. We know that the number one priority will be protecting your child’s future.
Don’t leave your child’s future to chance. Get the help of a reputable juvenile defense attorney today.
Traffic
Offenses
Traffic offenses in Pinellas County tend to be underestimated and seen as only minor violations of the law. But it’s often overlooked that a traffic violation can significantly increase the penalties for future violations, balloon insurance premiums and add points to your driving record.
Violations
of Probation
Violations of Probation (VOP) carry severe consequences because the court considers defendants to have disregarded the second chance they were given. A probation violation attorney can reduce incarceration, assist in the completion of outstanding conditions, and minimize the consequences.
White Collar
Crimes
A White Collar Crime is a catch-all term for an offense that is considered more sophisticated, planned and done without violence. White Collar Crimes are normally serious felonies and most people accused have little to no prior record. Thus, the consequences of lengthy incarceration, steep fines and restitution can be daunting.
Free
Consultation
We’re aware of how difficult it can be for you and your family if you’re facing charges, but Sean McQuaid can protect your future through an aggressive, well-prepared defense. Contact us today for a free intial consultation.
Criminal Defense Attorney Near Me
We represent clients throughout Pinellas County Florida
Start Planning Your Defense
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Pinellas County Criminal Defense Resources
We have compiled a valuable list of helpful resources for you or your loved one’s Pinellas County Criminal Defense case. If you are an existing client, any information or conversations you have should take place with our office first. BE VERY CAREFUL if and when you contact any state or government agency as any conversations you have may be recorded and/or transcribed for law enforcement to use against you.