Last updated January 2026
Criminal charges in Florida can threaten your freedom, your job, and your future. Whether it’s a misdemeanor shoplifting charge or a felony assault allegation, the right defense starts with understanding how the State builds its case — and how to dismantle it.
⚖️ How Florida’s Criminal System Works
Every criminal case begins with an arrest, notice to appear, or criminal summons. From there, the process moves through arraignment, discovery, motion hearings, and, if necessary, trial.
A skilled Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer can often resolve cases before trial by identifying weak points early. See how this works in practice in Best Criminal Defense Attorney in South Florida: Local Court Insight, which breaks down South Florida’s court culture and filing strategies.
🚨 Common Florida Criminal Charges
Michael White, P.A. represents clients across Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade in a full range of cases, including:
DUI offenses, under Florida Statute §316.193
Drug charges, under Fort Lauderdale Drug Charges Defense Attorney
Theft and fraud, explained in Theft Charges in Florida: How to Protect Your Record
Weapons charges, such as Firearm Possession After Conviction in Florida
Each offense type carries its own procedure, penalties, and defense opportunities.
🧠Defense Strategies That Work
Strong criminal defense is proactive. Michael White, P.A. uses discovery and motion practice to suppress illegally obtained evidence, challenge witness credibility, and expose investigative errors.
Common pre-trial defenses include:
Unlawful search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment;
Insufficient evidence to prove intent or control;
Violation of Miranda rights during questioning;
Procedural defects in warrants or filings.
Read how these principles apply in real time in DUI Attorney Pembroke Pines FL: How Local Defense Wins in Broward, where courtroom familiarity shapes every result.
đź”— Related Legal Remedies
Not all defenses end in trial. Diversion programs, pre-trial intervention, and record-sealing opportunities can minimize long-term consequences. Learn about second-chance relief in Fort Lauderdale Record Sealing & Expungement.
For official guidance, review the Florida Criminal Procedure Rules at the Florida Supreme Court’s website, which outlines timelines and filing requirements for all felony and misdemeanor cases.
âť“ FAQs
1. What’s the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Felonies carry prison exposure over one year; misdemeanors carry up to one year in county jail.
2. Can a lawyer help before charges are filed?
Yes. Pre-filing advocacy can prevent formal charges or reduce their severity.
3. Will I have to go to court for every hearing?
Not always. Your attorney can often appear on your behalf for procedural matters.
4. Can I seal my criminal record in Florida?
If the case was dismissed, dropped, or withheld adjudication for an eligible offense, yes.
5. How can I find my case online?
Use your county’s Clerk of Courts portal (e.g., Broward Clerk of Courts) to search by name or case number.
đź’¬ Contact a Florida Criminal Law Attorney Today
If you’ve been charged with a crime anywhere in Florida, time matters.
Contact Michael White, P.A. for a free consultation with a former prosecutor who knows how to protect your rights in Florida’s criminal courts.