Last updated November 2025
🚨 Has Your Child Been Arrested in Fort Lauderdale?
A juvenile arrest isn’t just a “slap on the wrist.” It can affect your child’s education, future employment, and record for years — even for so-called minor offenses. Florida’s juvenile justice system is tough, and the wrong move now can follow them for life. That’s why working with a skilled Fort Lauderdale juvenile defense attorney is critical from day one.
If your son or daughter has been arrested, you need a Fort Lauderdale juvenile defense attorney who knows how to keep their record clean and future intact.
At Michael White, P.A., we help families navigate Florida’s juvenile courts — with a focus on early resolution, record protection, and second chances. As a former prosecutor, I know how to fight for your child’s future.
⚖️ What Happens After a Juvenile Arrest in Florida?
Under Florida Statute § 985.03, children under 18 may be charged as juveniles — but in certain cases, the State can file adult charges.
Common juvenile offenses include:
Shoplifting and petty theft
Drug possession (including vape pens and THC oil)
Assault or battery at school
Criminal mischief or trespassing
Carrying weapons on school grounds
Depending on the charge, the State may seek detention, community service, probation, or even commitment to a juvenile program.
A knowledgeable Fort Lauderdale juvenile defense attorney can often prevent charges from being filed at all.
🛡️ How We Defend Juvenile Cases in Fort Lauderdale
Our approach is built on keeping kids out of custody and off a permanent record. We use:
🔹 Pre-filing advocacy to avoid charges
🔹 Diversion programs and civil citations
🔹 Mental health and substance abuse assessments
🔹 Suppression motions for illegal search and seizure
🔹 Strategic plea negotiations to avoid formal adjudication
âś… Why Parents Choose Michael White
âś… Former prosecutor with juvenile court experience
âś… Hands-on support for families through every step
âś… Emphasis on early intervention and rehabilitation
âś… Proven success avoiding adjudication and adult charges
đź“ž Your Child Deserves a Second Chance
Juvenile court moves fast — and so should your defense.
Let’s protect your child’s future, starting today.
📲 Call (954) 270-0769 or schedule your consultation
Many families don’t realize how much a Fort Lauderdale juvenile defense attorney can do before a single court date is scheduled.
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions
🧑‍⚖️ Will my child go to jail for a first-time offense?
It depends on the charge, but most first-time offenders are eligible for diversion or civil citation programs that avoid jail and court.
🧠Can my child be charged as an adult?
Yes — for serious felonies. The State can file adult charges based on age, record, and facts of the case. Early advocacy can prevent this.
⚖️ What’s the difference between adjudication and diversion?
Adjudication is a formal conviction. Diversion is an alternative program that avoids a court judgment and helps protect your child’s record.
🚨 Will this stay on my child’s record forever?
Not necessarily. Many juvenile charges can be sealed or expunged — especially if adjudication is withheld or charges are dropped.
đź“„ Should I let my child talk to the police without a lawyer?
No. Always speak to a juvenile defense attorney before your child makes any statement. What they say can be used against them in court.