Free Consultation
$0 first 60 minutes
Timothy F. Sullivan
also known as Tim Sullivan
About Timothy
Biography
Attorney Timothy Sullivan has a wide-range of practical experience in the defense of criminal cases. His background includes a focus on the specialized and unique training law enforcement relies upon in making a DUI arrest.
Subsequent to graduating from law school, Tim was sworn in as a Pinellas County Assistant State Attorney. As a prosecutor, Tim learned street-level DUI enforcement tactics from the inside. He quickly rose through the ranks in the State Attorney’s office and was selected to run the North County Traffic court division. Tim was promoted to “Lead Trial Assistant” and supervised other Assistant State Attorneys in their prosecution of DUI cases.
Tim has invaluable insight into the strategies often employed by both police officers and prosecutors. He completed the same specialized DUI education and training that law enforcement officers attend. Tim became certified to operate the Intoxilyzer 8000. However, his training did not end there. He went on to achieve state inspector certification necessary to review the maintenance and calibration of breath testing machines before they can become legally employed by a police department to gather evidence in DUI cases.
Tim received a scholarship from the University of North Florida to attend the “DUI Drug Recognition Expert Program.” There, he studied alongside DUI Squad Officers in the complex area of Drug-Impaired Driver detection.
Tim’s focus and concentration in the area of DUI and criminal law did not go unnoticed in the legal community. Tim began training prosecutors at the Pinellas County Criminal Justice Center. Later, Tim was called upon to serve as an Adjunct Professor at Tallahassee Community College. In that capacity, he taught prosecutors from across the State on how to most effectively prosecute DUI cases.
As a DUI Defense attorney, Tim has handled hundreds of DUI offenses. In this regard, Tim has successfully litigated Motions to Suppress his clients' breath and blood tests. He has also successfully argued to have his client's field sobriety tests excluded from evidence. Tim has also successfully sought acquittals for his clients in jury trials.
Tim and his wife reside in Dunedin, Florida. They are active members of Bldg 28 Church and have two daughters.
Practice Areas
1
Practice Area
DUI and DWI
100%
18 years | 2,000 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.
Search our directory
Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.
Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.
Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.
Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Florida for 17 years
State: Florida
Acquired: 2008
No misconduct found
Location
Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, PLLC
2380 Drew Street, Unit 6, Clearwater, FL, 33765
Gallery
Ad
Transform legal challenges into solutions.
Connect now to review your situation.
Timothy F. Sullivan's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 68 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Don | May 16, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
DUI reduced to reckless driving
I would give Tim a 10 star rating he delivered on every thing he said he was going to do. From getting me hardship license in less than one week to having my DUI charged dropped to reckless driving . Every step of the way Tim and his Paralegal Christina kept me well informed of what was going to happ...
Posted by Thankful Client | November 27, 2023 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Don't give up hope CONTACT Timothy F Sullivan - they'll bring a breathe of fresh air back into your day
What a breathe of fresh air. Tim and Christina are beyond wonderful. They exceeded my expectations in aiding to resolve a detrimental situation. When all other lawfirms turned me away Christina and Tim took the time to listen. They even took extra time to help me to understand the laws and my rights,...
Posted by Catherine | May 11, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
ABSOLUTELY 5 STAR ATTORNEY!!! YOU NEED MR. SULLIVAN!!
Mr. Sullivan is the ONLY attorney to represent you. This was my 2nd DUI. This DUI also involved me hitting a car. Mr. Sullivan worked diligently and professionally representing me. He is an expert with laws! Mr. Sullivan was empathetic with my situation, but, does not sugar coat the facts and ...
Posted by anonymous | November 24, 2022 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
More Attitude than Efficiency
I worked with Mr. Sullivan years ago. I had a simple felony case that I was pretty much guaranteed to get PTI from since it was my first offense. Sullivan was not reassuring and I am writing this review because I was going over old emails and was shocked at how rude he was. In one email that my pare...
Posted by Dory | November 12, 2022 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Lights out !!! Awesome !!!!
In regards to Mr. Sullivan and his team, their work is fabulous. My family and I were deeply impressed. His expertise in a courtroom is much more than formidable. Tim told us not to worry about anything. From beginning to end, he never dropped the ball. His awareness and familiarity with the courtroo...
Timothy F. Sullivan's Lawyer Endorsements
"Mr. Sullivan is the single most knowledgeable DUI attorney I have ever met. If there is a problem with the Intoxilyzer, DUI investigation, vehicle stop or officer qualifications, Mr. Sullivan will find it. He is always up to date on the newest case law and will use it to his client's advantage. If you are arrested for a DUI, Mr. Sullivan would be a great choice to represent you."
"I endorse this lawyer without question. I have previously worked with Mr. Sullivan at the Pinellas County State Attorney's Office and can say unequivocally he is one of the best legal minds in the area. Mr. Sullivan is also one of the hardest working individuals I know and is the very definition of preparation and dedication. Mr. Sullivan does an outstanding job for his clients regardless of the situation."
"I have known Timothy Sullivan for over 15 years. He works ethically and is extremely knowledgeable on criminal law matters."
"Tim Sullivan is an incredible lawyer, mentor, and friend. Mr. Sullivan's dedication to his clients is second to none. The rigorous way in which he zealously advocates for his clients, leaving no stone unturned, is inspirational and the gold standard for how every lawyer should conduct themselves."
"As a prosecutor I have dealt with Tim on many DUI cases. He is a good trial attorney and extremely knowledgeable about DUI/DWI. I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse Attorney Sullivan without reservation. After reviewing his many thoughtful contributions to Avvo, it is apparent that he is very knowledgeable about the law and does a superlative job analyzing legal issues."
"I have known Mr. Sullivan since he was in law school. Mr. Sullivan is a highly skilled trial attorney with significant experience in criminal law and especially DUIs. I highly recommend Mr. Sullivan."
"Attorney Sullivan comes highly recommended. I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Tim Sullivan is one of the smartest lawyers in the field. He is a man of great integrity and character. Any person in need of legal help would do well to make Tim Sullivan their first call."
"I've known Tim for many years, both personally and as an attorney. Having watched him in trial numerous times, I can say with confidence that he is the most knowledgeable DUI attorney in the area, especially when it comes to technical issues. I recommend Tim to anyone with a DUI or other criminal case."
"I have had the opportunity to work with Tim as a prosecutor and now as a fellow lawyer in the community. Tim is extremely knowledgeable in the area of DUI litigation, and is always making sure he has the most up to date rules and laws regarding DUI defense."
"I have known Mr. Sullivan for several years. I worked against him when he was a prosecutor and I have watched him flourish as a criminal defense attorney. Mr. Sullivan is highly respected in the legal community and known for his dedication to his clients and their cases. Mr. Sullivan has an excellent grasp of the law and is highly motived when it comes to keeping up on changes to the law. I endorse this lawyer."
"I have known Tim Sullivan for several years. He was an exceptionally skilled prosecutor and always a pleasure to deal with. Tim is one of the most knowledgeable and capable criminal defense attorneys in the community. I endorse him without hesitation."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Tim is an exceptional litigator. Smooth, confident, and knowledgeable in the courtroom. It's truly a work of art watching him in court. I highly recommend Tim for DUI or any criminal matter you or your family may unfortunately encounter. You couldn't ask for anyone better and will be in the best of hands."
"I endorse this lawyer. Tim Sullivan is a fantastic Criminal Defense attorney. I have witnessed his trial skills first hand and I highly recommend him."
"I endorse Timothy. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. Sullivan as he rose through the ranks as a prosecutor and in private defense work as he has become one of the most knowledgeable DUI attorneys in the Tampa Bay area."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known this lawyer for many years and he is extremely professional and excellent in the court room."
Victoria Jones
Estate planning lawyer
Christopher Blaine
Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer
Justin Reep
Criminal defense lawyer
Kevin Schmitt
Criminal defense lawyer
Robert Scruggs
Criminal defense lawyer
Nicolas Robinson
Elder law lawyer
Michael Loberg
Criminal defense lawyer
Nicole Pearlman
Family lawyer
Robert Green
Personal injury lawyer
Rohom Khonsari
Criminal defense lawyer
Donald Kilfin
Criminal defense lawyer
Jonathan Benjamin
Foreclosure lawyer
Peter Tragos
Criminal defense lawyer
Adam Pylitt
Criminal defense lawyer
Jeremy Clark
Personal injury lawyer
James Jenkins
Criminal defense lawyer
Gary Schwartz
Criminal defense lawyer
Brett Szematowicz
Criminal defense lawyer
Jonathan Hackworth
Criminal defense lawyer
Lori Palmieri
Federal crime lawyer
Experience
Honors
2014
Rising Star in DUI Defense, Super Lawyers Magazine
2014
Top 40 Under 40, The National Trial Lawyers Association
2014
Top 10 Under 40, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2013
Rising Star, Super Lawyers Magazine
2012
"Up and Comer" nominee, Tampa Bay Business Journal
2011
Outstanding Service as an Assistant State Attorney, State of Florida
2009
Agency Inspector Permit, Florida Department of Law Enforcement
2009
Intoxilyzer 8000 Breath Test Operator Permit, Florida Department of Law Enforcement
N/A
Law Firm - AV rating, Martindale-Hubbell
Work Experience
2017 - Present
Criminal / DUI Defense Attorney, Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan, P.A.
2011 - Present
Criminal Defense Attorney, Law Offices of Russo and Russo
2012 - 2012
Treasurer, Campaign to Re-Elect Judge William Overton
2012 - 2014
Juvenile Arbitrator, Sixth Circuit of Florida
2011 - 2017
Criminal Defense Attorney, Russo & Russo, PA
2008 - 2011
Lead Trial Attorney, State Attorney's Office
2006 - 2007
Law Clerk, Russo & Russo, P.A.
2004 - 2005
Paralegal/Abstractor, Sayles & Evans, Attorneys at Law
2001 - 2004
Paralegal, McNerney, Page, Vanderlin & Hall
Associations
2020 - Present
Pinellas Association of Criminal Defense LawyersVice President
2020 - Present
Federalist Society (Tampa Bay Lawyers chapter)
2017 - Present
DUI Defense Lawyers AssociationAttorney Member
2016 - Present
Florida Association of Criminal Defense LawyersAttorney Member
2015 - Present
Pinellas County Trial Lawyers AssociationAttorney Member
2012 - Present
Florida Association of Drug Court ProfessionalsAttorney Member
2011 - Present
National College of DUI Defense
2008 - Present
Florida Bar AssociationAttorney member
2016 - 2018
GameChangers - Countryside Christian Center
2005 - 2006
Student Bar AssociationStudent member
2003 - 2004
Pre Law Society - Lycoming CollegePresident
Sample of Legal Cases
State v. W.C.
Motion to Suppress granted.
State v. H.M.
Case dismissed through the filing of a Nolle Prosequi
State v. R.S.
Not Guilty Verdict
State v. V.W.
Reduced to Careless Driving
State v. R.S.
Case dismissed.
State v. B.M.
DUI was reduced to Reckless Driving
State v. Z.H.
DUI was reduced to Reckless Driving
State v. S.E.
DUI was reduced to Reckless Driving
State v. N.S.
DUI was Reduced to Careless Driving
State v. M.M.
Case reduced to DUI below .15.
State v. K.C.
Reduced to Reckless Driving.
State v. V.L.
Not Guilty Verdict after Jury Trial
State v. R.B.
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. S.M.
Reduced to Reckless Driving.
State v. H.F.
Reduced to Reckless Driving, no probation
State v. B.S.
DUI was Reduced to Careless Driving
State v. K.W.
Felony DWLSR reduced to Misdemeanor DWLSR, no conviction, no probation
State v. N.L.
State reduced charge to reckless driving
State v. K.B.
Case dismissed.
State v. A.P.
State dismissed all charges through the filing of a "No Information."
State v. W.W.
Not Guilty Verdict after Jury Trial
State v. M.P.
State elected not to prosecute based upon information provided by Mr. Sullivan
State v. FH
Nolle Pros'd by State
State v. ZW
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. JAS
Case Dismissed by State
State v. Robinson
Affirmed; client's license reinstated; question certified to supreme court
State v. WR
After Mr. Sullivan set for trial, the State Attorney's Office filed a Nolle Pros dismissing the charge
State v. MS
State reduced charge to reckless driving
State v. KM
Nolle Pros'd by State.
DHSMV v. DR
Client's license reinstated
State v. BS
Early intervention resulted in no prison, no felony conviction, and probation.
State v. C.K.
Hung Jury--State REDUCES charge.
State v. J.J.
Motion to Suppress GRANTED.
State v. T.W.
NOT GUILTY
State v. CK
Negotiated plea-no adjudication of delinquency, nine months probation
State v. KM
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State; arrest EXPUNGED.
State v. MS
State reduced charge to non moving infraction
State v. KS
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. SS
Cases reduced to non moving infractions
State v. MC
Case dismissed through diversion. Client has been drug free for a year now.
State v. JP
Case dismissed after Russo and Russo convinced prosecutor client's actions were lawful corporal punishment.
State v. MP
Reduced to Reckless Driving, no probation
State v. TF
One count reduced to RD so client didnt lose license for life, sentenced to probation and ankle monitor
State v. RB
Reduced to DUI below .15 and no interlock requirement.
State v. JB
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. DC
Reduced to mm DUI
State v. SC
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. DC
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. DC
State elected not to prosecute based upon information provided by Mr. Sullivan
State v. RE
State filed Nolle Pros. after Mr. Sullivan obtained audio recordings and was able to prove client was entrapped.
State v. TF
Reduced to possession of paraphernalia - no felony conviction, no driver's license suspension
State v. RG
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. LH
Reduced to a non moving infraction, no jail, no points, low fine
State v. HH
Case proceeded to trial and client was found NOT GUILTY.
State v. MH
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State; arrest EXPUNGED.
State v. JH
Reduced to Misdemeanor battery, no jail sentence
State v. DK
Reduced to simple misdemeanor battery, no jail, no felony conviction
State v. NB
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. KM
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. BM
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. JS
Early intervention resulted in dismissal by State
State v. Tarver
Favorable.
State v. Gamma
Favorable
State v. Lopez
Favorable
State v. Jackson
Favorable
State v. Zaric
Favorable
Education
2007
Stetson University College of Law
Juris Doctor
2004
Lycoming College
Bachelor of Arts
N/A
St Petersburg College
Agency Inspector Course--Intoxilyzer 8000
N/A
Seminole Community College
Breath Test Operator--Intoxilyzer 8000
N/A
University of North Florida/Institute of Police Technology and Management
Drug Recognition Expert Recertification Class
Speaking Engagements
2012
Trial Skills Workshop
Cross Examination
2012
Great American Teach In
Being a Criminal Defense Attorney
2011
DUI Caselaw Update
DUI
2010
Prosecutor's Guide to Appellate Procedure
Appellate Procedure
2010
Prosecuting the Drugged Driver
Drug Recognition Expert Testimony
2010
Introduction to DUI Prosecution
DUI
2010
DUI Trial Advocacy School
Breat testing Instruments
2009
Cross Examination of Defense Experts
Trial Advocacy Techniques
Publications
2012
Russo & Russo
The DUI Double Standard
2012
Russo & Russo
DUI Checkpoints are not Always Legal
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
My case reduced to reckless driving from dui can i seal my case ? and i was plea guilty.
14 Apr 2025
Q&A
I blew 00.0 for local law enforcement & sheriffs..The Sheriffs released me from jail immediately after my arrest
26 Oct 2021
Q&A
2 DUI, 1st was a reckless, refused to breathalyzer both time. Is 2nd considerate a 1st?
21 Apr 2018
Legal Guides
Legal Guide
Are Juvenile Arrest Records Sealed / Expunged?
12 Jun 2014
Legal Guide
Five Things Florida DUI Officers Don't Want You to Know
15 May 2013
Video Legal Guide
They Didn't Read Me My Rights...Can My Florida Case Be Dismissed???
09 May 2012