If you’ve been arrested in Broward County, the first—and most important—step is hiring an experienced criminal lawyer who knows how the local courts operate. The stakes are high, and the wrong move early in your case could cost you your freedom, your career, or your future.
In Broward County, criminal lawyers deal with a wide range of offenses—from DUI and theft to serious felonies—under Florida’s criminal statutes. You can review the full list of criminal offenses in Chapter 775 of the Florida Statutes.
But what exactly does a criminal lawyer do? And what should you expect from the moment you make that call?
Let’s break it down.
🔹 Step 1: Immediate Protection After Arrest
The moment you hire a Broward County criminal lawyer, they step in to:
🚨 Protect your constitutional rights
📞 Communicate with police and prosecutors on your behalf
🛑 Prevent you from saying anything that could hurt your case
If you’ve already been arrested, your lawyer can request a bond hearing, challenge any procedural issues, and begin collecting evidence while it’s still fresh.
🔹 Step 2: Case Review & Defense Strategy
A great defense begins with information. Your attorney will:
Review the discovery (evidence the State must disclose)
Investigate any weaknesses in the arrest or witness statements
Examine video footage, 911 calls, and officer conduct
Explore any opportunity for charge reduction or dismissal
💡 In many cases—especially first-time offenses—there may be opportunities for Pretrial Intervention, diversion, or negotiation for a withhold of adjudication.
🔹 Step 3: Motion Practice & Suppression
Criminal lawyers often file key motions that can change the entire course of your case, such as:
Motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
Motions to dismiss based on insufficient evidence
Stand Your Ground immunity motions in applicable cases
🧠 These strategic filings often occur before trial, and they can lead to favorable plea offers—or complete dismissal.
🔹 Step 4: Preparing for Trial—If It Comes to That
If the State won’t back down and the facts are contested, your attorney will:
Select a jury with care
Challenge the credibility of State witnesses
Cross-examine officers and forensic experts
Raise reasonable doubt at every turn
Most criminal cases in Broward resolve without trial, but when trial is necessary, you need someone who’s confident, prepared, and willing to fight.
🔹 Step 5: After the Case—What Happens Next?
Your criminal lawyer can also:
Help seal or expunge your record (if eligible)
Defend you in probation hearings
Protect your rights during restitution or license suspension proceedings
Help you move on from the charge without it following you forever
✅ Why Hire a Broward Criminal Lawyer Early?
Early legal representation can:
Prevent self-incrimination
Strengthen your position with the State
Improve your chances of a favorable outcome
Keep your record clean
At Michael White, P.A., we’ve handled thousands of cases in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Deerfield Beach, and all of Broward County. As a former prosecutor, Michael White knows how to anticipate the State’s moves—and counter them aggressively.
📞 Arrested in Broward? Call Us Today.
Don’t face the system alone. Whether you’re charged with DUI, theft, domestic violence, or drug possession, our firm is ready to protect your future.
📞 Call now for a free case review. Let’s fight this together.
🙋♂️ What People Ask About Criminal Lawyers in Broward County
Q1: What does a criminal lawyer actually do in Broward County?
✅ A criminal defense attorney in Broward reviews the evidence, challenges police procedures, negotiates with prosecutors, and fights to protect your rights at every stage of the case—from first appearance to final resolution.
Q2: How quickly should I hire a criminal lawyer after an arrest?
🛑 Immediately. The sooner you hire a lawyer, the better your chances of avoiding costly mistakes—like talking to police, missing evidence, or losing negotiating power.
Q3: Can a criminal lawyer get my charges dropped or reduced?
🎯 Yes. Depending on the case, a lawyer can file motions to suppress evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and negotiate for reduced or dismissed charges.
Q4: What’s the difference between a public defender and a private lawyer?
💼 A public defender is assigned by the court and often handles a large caseload. A private criminal lawyer typically has more flexibility to build a personalized defense and dedicate time to your case.
Q5: Will I go to jail if I’m charged with a crime in Broward County?
⚖️ Not necessarily. With the right lawyer, you may be eligible for diversion programs, probation, or reduced charges that avoid jail time entirely—especially if this is your first offense.