🚓 Can You Be Extradited to Florida If Arrested in Another State?

If you have an outstanding warrant in Florida and you’re arrested in another state, yes—you can be extradited back to Florida. This process can be frustrating, time-consuming, and legally complicated.

Let’s break down how it works—and what you can do to avoid unnecessary jail time. Understanding your rights during any criminal investigation—especially when facing arrest in another state—is critical.

⚖️ How Extradition Works in Florida

As a Fort Lauderdale defense attorney, I see this often—especially with out-of-state visitors who have no idea they have a Florida warrant.

Florida law outlines the timeframe and legal process for extraditing individuals from out of state.

Common scenarios:

Arrested while boarding a cruise ship
Stopped in another state (e.g., New York or Georgia)
Picked up on a routine traffic stop with an outstanding Florida warrant

Once in custody:

You may be held in local jail for up to 30 days
Florida authorities then decide whether to initiate extradition
If Florida does not act within 30 days, you may be released—but the warrant remains active

If your warrant stems from a Florida drug case, here’s what you need to know about building a strong defense.

❗ What If Florida Doesn’t Extradite You?

If Florida declines or fails to extradite you within the required time, you’ll likely be released—but:

Your warrant does not go away
You can still be arrested again at any time
Your driver’s license and record may be affected

📌 Tip: Avoid assuming you’re in the clear. The next traffic stop could land you back in custody.

🛡️ How to Handle a Florida Warrant From Out of State

If you know or suspect there’s an active Florida warrant, don’t wait to get arrested in another state.

Instead, you may be able to:

✅ Resolve the matter remotely with a Florida criminal defense attorney
✅ Negotiate a voluntary surrender or plea
✅ Avoid unnecessary jail time and travel disruptions
✅ Protect your job, family, and record by getting ahead of the case

Learn more about how extradition works between states under the Uniform Criminal Extradition Act

📞 Call Michael White, P.A. for Help With Out-of-State Warrants

If you’re dealing with a Florida warrant while living in another state, we can help behind the scenes to resolve it discreetly and strategically.

📲 Call (954) 270-0769 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let’s protect your freedom and take control of the situation—before the system does it for you.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions: Florida Extradition Process

Q1: Can Florida extradite me if I’m arrested in another state?

A: Yes. If you have an active Florida warrant and are arrested elsewhere, Florida can request your extradition. You may be held for up to 30 days while the State decides whether to bring you back.

Q2: How long can I be held before Florida extradites me?

A: You can be detained for up to 30 days under the Uniform Criminal Extradition Act. If Florida doesn’t act within that window, you may be released—but the warrant still remains active.

Q3: What happens if Florida doesn’t extradite me?

A: If Florida chooses not to extradite, you may be released. However, the warrant doesn’t go away. You can be arrested again if stopped by law enforcement in the future.

Q4: Can I resolve a Florida warrant without returning to the state?

A: In many cases, yes. A Florida criminal defense attorney may be able to handle the case remotely, negotiate terms, or arrange for a voluntary surrender that minimizes disruption.

Q5: What should I do if I have a Florida warrant while living in another state?

A:Contact a defense attorney immediately. Proactive legal help can prevent arrest, reduce stress, and potentially resolve the issue without unnecessary travel or incarceration.