Last updated December 2025
When a young person is arrested in Broward County, the impact can reach far beyond the courtroom. Florida’s juvenile justice system focuses on rehabilitation — but without skilled representation, a minor could still face harsh penalties and a permanent record.
An experienced Fort Lauderdale juvenile defense attorney ensures that one mistake doesnโt become a lifelong obstacle.
โ๏ธ How Florida’s Juvenile System Works
Juvenile cases in Florida are handled by the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) and heard in specialized divisions of the Broward County Courthouse. Instead of convictions, juveniles are โadjudicated delinquent,โ but the consequences can still include probation, detention, or even adult prosecution for serious offenses.
The process includes:
1๏ธโฃ Intake โ DJJ reviews the offense and recommends diversion or detention.
2๏ธโฃ Detention hearing โ usually within 24 hours of arrest.
3๏ธโฃ Arraignment and adjudication โ where defense strategy begins.
Read about parallel adult processes in Criminal Defense Lawyer Florida: Your Complete Guide to Charges & Courts.
๐จ Common Juvenile Charges in Broward County
Juvenile courts handle a wide range of cases, including:
Petit theft and shoplifting;
Drug possession;
Assault and battery;
Trespass and vandalism;
Weapons possession.
These cases often overlap with adult statutes, such as Assault in Florida: How the Law Defines and Punishes It and Theft Charges in Florida: How to Protect Your Record.
๐ง Why Early Intervention Matters
Juvenile court moves quickly. The earlier an attorney gets involved, the better the chances of securing diversion or non-judicial resolution. Michael White, P.A. works directly with DJJ officers, prosecutors, and families to steer cases toward rehabilitation instead of punishment.
Key defense goals include:
Avoiding formal adjudication;
Preventing transfer to adult court;
Keeping school and criminal records clean;
Negotiating diversion or community service outcomes.
These proactive measures protect education, employment, and scholarship opportunities down the line.
๐ After the Case: Record Sealing & Expungement
Even if a case ends favorably, juvenile records can follow a child into adulthood. Learn how to permanently clear eligible records through Fort Lauderdale Record Sealing & Expungement.
Juvenile Defense FAQs: Answers for Fort Lauderdale Families
1. Will my child’s case go on their permanent record?
Not always. Many juvenile cases qualify for sealing or expungement after resolution.
2. Can juveniles be charged as adults in Florida?
Yes, depending on the offense and age, prosecutors may file a “direct file” to adult court.
3. What penalties can juveniles face?
Probation, community service, counseling, or commitment to DJJ facilities — rarely jail.
4. Is a lawyer necessary for a juvenile case?
Yes. Juvenile proceedings are fast-moving, and legal advocacy prevents lasting damage.
5. How soon should I hire a juvenile defense attorney?
Immediately — early intervention often determines whether the case stays in juvenile court.
๐ฌ Contact a Fort Lauderdale Juvenile Defense Attorney Today
A juvenile charge doesn’t have to define your child’s future.
Contact Michael White, P.A. today for a free consultation with a former prosecutor who protects minorsโ rights and futures in Broward County.