Each year, more than 13 million people visit Fort Lauderdale, enjoying the beaches, nightlife, and entertainment. But not every trip ends on a high note—tourists are arrested in Fort Lauderdale every year, especially during spring break and major holidays.
If you’ve been charged with a crime while on vacation in Fort Lauderdale, don’t panic. You still have legal options—and the steps you take now can make all the difference in protecting your record and future.
👨⚖️ Step 1: Hire a Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Lawyer ASAP
Fort Lauderdale’s crime rate is nearly double the national average, which means many defense lawyers here have significant experience handling arrests involving out-of-town visitors.
Your first step is to contact a local criminal defense attorney—preferably one who has experience defending tourists and out-of-state visitors.
🧠 A local lawyer understands the court system, judges, and prosecutors in Broward County and can help you resolve your case efficiently and discreetly.
📝 Step 2: Prepare for Your Arraignment Hearing
Soon after your arrest, you’ll be scheduled for an arraignment hearing. This is where the court will:
- Inform you of the criminal charges filed
- Explain your constitutional rights
- Ask how you want to plead (guilty, not guilty, or no contest)
- Set bail or release conditions
💡 Attending this hearing without legal representation can seriously harm your case.
🗑️ Step 3: Work to Get the Charges Dismissed
You may not know how strong—or weak—the case is against you. That’s why your attorney will immediately:
- Review the arrest details and police reports
- Investigate potential constitutional violations (e.g., illegal search)
- File motions to suppress or dismiss the charges if appropriate
⚖️ Dismissal is the best outcome—it avoids court, fines, and a criminal record.
🗓️ Step 4: Plan Ahead for Future Hearings
If your case isn’t dismissed, you’ll likely need to return to Florida for additional court hearings. A local defense lawyer can help:
Minimize your travel through legal waivers or remote appearances
Negotiate with the court on your behalf
Fight to reduce charges or pursue diversion programs
🛡️ Your lawyer is not just your advocate in the courtroom—they’re also your guide through unfamiliar legal territory.
📞 Arrested on Vacation in Fort Lauderdale? Call Michael White, P.A.
Don’t let a vacation arrest define your future. At Michael White, P.A., I’ve helped countless out-of-town visitors fight criminal charges in Fort Lauderdale and South Florida—from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
✅ Local legal experience
✅ Strategic defenses tailored to tourists
✅ Strong focus on minimizing court appearances and protecting your record
📞 Call 954-270-0769 today or schedule your consultation online
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do first if I’m arrested while visiting Fort Lauderdale?
You should immediately contact a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer with experience representing out-of-town clients. Acting quickly helps protect your rights and can influence how your case is handled from the start.
2. Can I leave Florida after being charged with a crime while on vacation?
In some cases, yes—but it depends on the severity of the charges and the terms of your release. Your attorney may be able to request permission for you to return home and handle court proceedings remotely or with limited travel.
3. Do I have to return to Fort Lauderdale for every court hearing?
Not always. A defense attorney can often attend procedural hearings on your behalf or request a waiver for your personal appearance. For serious cases or trial, you may need to return.]
4. Can my charges be dropped if I was just visiting and didn’t know the law?
Lack of knowledge of Florida law isn’t usually a defense—but your attorney can still fight to dismiss or reduce charges by challenging the evidence or proving your actions weren’t criminal under the law.
5. Will this affect my record back home?
Lack of knowledge of Florida law isn’t usually a defense—but your attorney can still fight to dismiss or reduce charges by challenging the evidence or proving your actions weren’t criminal under the law.