Last updated November 2025
When a child is accused of a crime in Fort Lauderdale, the case doesn’t follow the same track as adult court. Florida’s juvenile justice system emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment — but that doesn’t mean the stakes are low. A juvenile adjudication can still impact education, employment, immigration, and long-term opportunities.
As a Fort Lauderdale juvenile defense lawyer, I’ve represented families across Broward County, guiding them through a system that can feel overwhelming during one of the most stressful moments in a child’s life.
π How Juvenile Cases Begin
Juvenile cases move quickly, and early intervention is critical:
Arrest or civil citation: Juveniles may be taken into custody or issued a citation depending on the offense and officer discretion.
Detention hearing: Must occur within 24 hours. The judge decides if the child remains in secure detention, home detention, or is released.
Intake with DJJ:The Department of Juvenile Justice evaluates the child and recommends outcomes.
Filing decision: The Broward State Attorney determines whether to prosecute the case, divert it, or decline filing.
π Related reading: Can Juvenile Records Be Expunged in Florida?
βοΈ Possible Outcomes in Broward Juvenile Court
Florida’s juvenile courts offer multiple paths, including:
Diversion programs (Teen Court, civil citation, community service)
Probation with terms like counseling, curfew, school attendance, or community service
Commitment to a residential juvenile facility for more serious offenses
Direct file to adult court β used for violent offenses or repeat serious conduct
Direct file is one of the most serious risks. A strong defense early in the case can prevent a transfer.
π‘οΈ Defense Strategies for Juvenile Cases
Juvenile defense requires both legal and developmental considerations:
β Challenging Probable Cause
Was the arrest lawful? Did officers act on reliable information? Juvenile arrests often involve schools, malls, and group settings where misidentification is common.
π£οΈ Suppression of Statements
Were Miranda rights properly explained to a minor?
Did the child understand?
Courts scrutinize juvenile interrogations closely.
π School-Based Arrests
Did school police comply with Florida law, including notifying parents? School investigations frequently violate rights.
π Family & Community Support
Demonstrating a stable home, counseling, and supportive adults can influence diversion and reduce sanctions.
β‘ Early Advocacy
Negotiating diversion before charges are filed can keep the child’s record clean and avoid formal prosecution.
π£ Protecting a Child’s Future
Even though juvenile court is labeled “rehabilitative,” outcomes can carry lifelong consequences. A strong defense focuses on protecting education, future opportunities, college admissions, and employment eligibility.
π Has your child been accused of a crime in Fort Lauderdale? Contact us today to protect their future.
π Learn more on our Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense page.
Juvenile Justice FAQs in Broward County
1) Are juvenile records public in Florida?
No, but they may still be visible to certain agencies and in background checks.
2) Can a juvenile be tried as an adult in Broward?
Yes. Prosecutors can “direct file” serious or repeat cases into adult court.
3) What is the role of DJJ?
The Department of Juvenile Justice evaluates cases and recommends outcomes like diversion, probation, or commitment.
4) Can juvenile records be expunged?
In many cases, yes — especially for first-time offenses or diversion completions.
5) Do parents need to attend hearings?
Yes. Parents or guardians are typically required to be present in court.