Yes — and in many cases, you can be let go even if you haven’t been convicted. Florida is an “at-will” employment state, meaning most employers can terminate you for almost any reason, including a pending arrest or open criminal case.
At Michael White, P.A., we’ve helped clients protect their jobs, records, and future while fighting serious criminal charges. If you’re under investigation, out on bond, or awaiting trial in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in South Florida, here’s what you need to know.
⚖️ Florida Is an At-Will Employment State
In Florida, private employers can legally fire you for:
Being arrested
Being charged with a crime
Having an active warrant
Missing work due to court or jail
Damaging the employer’s reputation
The key is that they don’t need a conviction — they only need a business reason or loss of trust.
🧾 Exceptions: When You May Be Protected
Some employees do have job protections, including:
Public employees (e.g., school board, law enforcement, state agencies) with union contracts or civil service rules
Workers protected under Title VII, ADA, or FCRA (e.g., if the termination is racially motivated or retaliatory)
Employees under written contracts that define allowable termination reasons
In those cases, the firing may lead to a grievance, lawsuit, or reinstatement action — but you still need fast legal help.
💡 Common Charges That Lead to Job Loss
Employers are more likely to fire employees for pending charges involving:
Theft, fraud, or embezzlement
Drug possession or DUI
Assault, battery, or domestic violence
Sex crimes or harassment
Violent felonies or gun charges
Even if the charges are unrelated to your job, reputation and risk management often drive employer decisions.
🧑⚖️ How a Lawyer Can Help Protect Your Job
At Michael White, P.A., we help minimize the career fallout from a criminal case by:
Contesting charges early to push for dismissal or non-filing
Negotiating resolution before arraignment to protect your record
Advising on employer communication (what to say and what not to)
Coordinating with employment lawyers when wrongful termination is suspected
Exploring sealing and expungement if charges are dropped
📍 Accused of a Crime in Florida? Don’t Let It Cost You Your Job.
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Florida — even if it hasn’t gone to trial — your employment could be at risk.
📘 Employment + Criminal Charges FAQs in Florida
❓ Can I be fired for being arrested in Florida?
Yes. Florida is an at-will state. Most employers can fire you for pending criminal charges even if you haven’t been convicted.
❓ Are there any protections if I work for the government?
Possibly. Public employees often have union contracts or due process protections that require formal disciplinary action.
❓ Do I have to tell my employer about my arrest?
Not always — but some jobs (like education, healthcare, or financial services) require disclosure. Your lawyer can advise on how to handle it.
❓ What if the charges get dropped later?
You may be able to seal or expunge your record, but Florida law doesn’t require your employer to rehire you.
❓ Should I hire a lawyer even if I haven’t been convicted?
Yes. Early legal help can prevent the charges from being filed — and protect both your freedom and your career.