What Should I Do If I’m Charged With a Crime While on Vacation in Fort Lauderdale?
According to the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, more than 13 million Americans visit Fort Lauderdale, FL, annually. The majority of these people won’t have to worry about what to do if they’re charged with a crime while on vacation in Fort Lauderdale.
However, some out-of-town and out-of-state visitors are arrested in Fort Lauderdale on criminal charges each year. Spring break-related arrests, in particular, have become increasingly common in the popular destination.
Were you charged with a crime in Fort Lauderdale after allegedly breaking one of the many Florida criminal laws? See how you should respond to these unfortunate circumstances.
Track Down a Trusted Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Attorney
Fort Lauderdale’s crime rate is almost twice as high as the national average. For this reason, many criminal defense attorneys have set up shop throughout the city.
Take advantage of this if you’re ever charged with a crime while on vacation in Fort Lauderdale. Search for a reliable criminal defense lawyer who has enough experience to deliver the legal representation you need.
Some criminal defense lawyers in Fort Lauderdale make it a point to work specifically with those who have gone through a tourist arrest. They have a history of providing clients with superior vacation crime defense services.
Prepare To Attend an Arraignment Hearing With a Lawyer by Your Side
Hiring a criminal defense attorney quickly is of the utmost importance. Shortly after being arrested in Fort Lauderdale while on vacation, you’ll have to attend an arraignment hearing — and it will help to have a criminal defense lawyer in your corner for it.
During an arraignment hearing, you will:
- Find out which charges are being filed against you
- Hear which rights you have, including the right to legal counsel
- Decide whether to plead guilty, not guilty, or even no contest to criminal charges
- Discover what your bail is set at
An arraignment hearing might end up being significantly more stressful than it should be if you don’t enlist the legal services of a qualified criminal defense attorney.
Attempt To Have the Charges Filed Against You in Fort Lauderdale Dismissed
You might not know how strong the case filed against you is if you don’t have extensive legal experience. This will make it virtually impossible for you even to consider trying to have the charges you’re facing dismissed.
But a criminal defense attorney can evaluate these charges and look into possibly having them dismissed if a prosecutor’s case against you isn’t that strong. This is the ideal outcome since it will help you avoid facing any further legal consequences.
Arrange To Attend Future Hearings Related to Your Criminal Case
If a criminal defense attorney can’t convince a judge to dismiss your case after you’re charged with a crime while on vacation in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll probably need to show up for future court hearings. Pay close attention to the schedule a judge comes up with for your case.
Rely on a criminal defense lawyer to fight for your right to dictate your own schedule to some degree since attending future court hearings will require traveling on your part. They can also ensure you receive basic human rights protection as you push back against the charges filed against you.
Contact Us Immediately If You Were Charged With a Crime While on Vacation in Fort Lauderdale
Being charged with a crime while on vacation in Fort Lauderdale will likely ruin your trip. But you don’t need to let it derail every aspect of your life.
Reach out to Michael White, P.A., for help responding to criminal charges. Call us at 954-270-0769 to schedule a consultation.
