Last updated November 2025
If you were arrested for DUI in Boca Raton, your case is technically in Palm Beach County, even though enforcement often overlaps with Broward County.
Understanding these jurisdictional differences is essential β because the courthouse, prosecutors, and even plea options can differ dramatically depending on where the arrest occurred.
Here’s how an experienced DUI attorney in Boca Raton builds a defense that accounts for both Palm Beach and Broward procedures.
βοΈ Which Law Applies
All Florida DUI prosecutions fall under Florida Statute §316.193, which makes it illegal to drive or be in actual physical control of a vehicle while impaired or with a BAC of .08 or higher.
The law is the same statewide β but the process and prosecutorial discretion differ by county.
Palm Beach County cases go through the South County Courthouse in Delray Beach (for Boca arrests).
Broward County cases go through the Broward County Central Courthouse in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Both counties apply the same statutory penalties, but local enforcement priorities and plea practices differ.
Learn more about Palm Beach County’s court process through the Palm Beach Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller.
π§ Palm Beach vs Broward: What Changes
| Aspect | Palm Beach County (Boca) | Broward County (Fort Lauderdale) |
|---|---|---|
| First Appearance | Typically held in Delray Beach | Always in downtown Fort Lauderdale |
| Prosecution | Palm Beach State Attorney’s Office | Broward State Attorney’s Office |
| Plea Offers | Often includes first-offender diversion or “wet reckless” | More case-by-case; stricter on refusals |
| Court Culture | Smaller, faster docket rotation | Larger divisions, more formal hearings |
An attorney familiar with both jurisdictions can use these differences strategically β negotiating in one court while preparing suppression motions in the other.
π§ͺ Shared Defense Issues
Whether your arrest occurred in Palm Beach or Broward, the key defense areas are the same:
Illegal stop or detention (no valid traffic cause).
Improper field sobriety testing (bad lighting, uneven surface).
Intoxilyzer 8000 reliability (calibration and maintenance gaps).
Procedural errors under Florida’s Implied Consent Law (Β§316.1932).
π Cross-Check With Related Practice Areas
Boca Raton DUI FAQs: Palm Beach vs Broward Differences
1) Where are Boca Raton DUI cases prosecuted?
In Palm Beach County, at the South County Courthouse in Delray Beach, under Florida Statute Β§316.193.
2) How are Palm Beach and Broward DUI cases different?
Yes. Attorneys licensed in Florida can appear in both Palm Beach and Broward, ensuring consistency across jurisdictions.
3) Can my lawyer appear in both counties?
Palm Beach tends to offer more diversion and plea flexibility, while Broward’s process is stricter and heavily procedural.
4) Will I lose my license after a Boca DUI?
Not automatically. You have 10 days to request a DHSMV hearing to challenge suspension under Florida Statute §322.2615.
5) Can a first-time DUI in Boca Raton be dismissed?
Yes. Through suppression motions, diversion programs, or lack of probable cause, first-offense DUIs can often be reduced or dismissed.
π£ Arrested for DUI in Boca Raton?
You need a defense lawyer who understands both Palm Beach and Broward County procedures.
π Call Michael White, P.A. at (954) 270-0769 or request your free consultationtoday.