The first 48 hours after an arrest in Broward County are critical. If you want the best chance at a strong outcome, you need experienced Broward County criminal defense from the very start.
Here’s what to expect if you or a loved one has just been arrested—and how an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Broward County can help before it’s too late.
🔹 Step 1: Booking and Processing
After arrest, you’ll be taken to a Broward County jail facility for:
Fingerprinting and mugshot
Background check
Initial paperwork
You’ll be held until first appearance, which usually occurs within 24 hours—often at the Broward County Central Intake Facility.
📌 Related: What to Expect from a Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Attorney
🔹 Step 2: First Appearance and Bond Hearing
At your first appearance, a judge will:
Review the arrest affidavit
Determine probable cause
Set bail or release conditions
💬 Having a defense lawyer present can help argue for:
📉 Lower bond
🏠 Pretrial release without cash bail
🔓 Avoiding “no bond” holds
🔹 Step 3: No-Contact Orders and Other Conditions
In domestic violence, stalking, or DUI cases, the judge may:
Issue no-contact orders
Require pretrial supervision
Suspend your driver’s license immediately
🚨 These conditions may feel like punishment—before you’re even convicted.
🔹 Step 4: Why Early Broward County Criminal Defense Matters
The first 48 hours are when your lawyer can:
Gather time-sensitive evidence (video, text logs, witnesses)
Challenge probable cause
Negotiate with the State Attorney’s Office before charges are even filed
✅ This is where we fight to avoid charges—or get a better offer down the road.
🔹 Step 5: Think Long-Term—Not Just Bond
It’s easy to focus only on getting out of jail. But how your case is handled now affects:
📁 Whether your record can be sealed
🤝 Whether diversion is an option
⚖️ Whether a trial is even necessary
✅ Why Early Broward Criminal Defense Matters
You only get one chance to shape how your case begins. And that can shape how it ends.
At Michael White, P.A., we appear at first appearances, file emergency bond motions, and work with families to protect our clients during those critical early hours.
📞 Arrested in Broward County? Act Now—Not Later.
📞 Call us 24/7 for immediate criminal defense help. The first 48 hours can define your entire case. Let’s make them count.
🙋♂️ What People Ask After an Arrest in Broward County
Q1: How soon after arrest will I see a judge in Broward County?
🕓 Usually within 24 hours, at first appearance court.
Q2: Can a lawyer attend the first appearance or bond hearing?
✅ Yes—and it’s one of the most important things a defense lawyer can do to help early.
Q3: What is a no-contact order in Broward criminal cases?
📵 It’s a court order banning contact with the alleged victim—violating it can lead to new charges.
Q4: Will I be offered bond right away?
⚖️ Sometimes, but not always. The judge decides at first appearance. A lawyer can argue for better terms.
Q5: Why is it important to hire a lawyer right after arrest?
🎯 A lawyer can fight for lower bond, preserve early evidence, and possibly stop charges before they’re filed.