Facing the System? We are The Best Criminal Defense Fort Lauderdale

With over 30 years of experience, we offer a strong defense and proven results. Trust us to be your shield in court.
We provide dedicated and experienced legal representation and assistance for criminal defense cases in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County, Florida.

Criminal Defense Attorney in Broward County – Get The Help You Deserve

Do you know what to do if you’re arrested?

First, you should know that being arrested and charged with a criminal offense does not mean you are guilty, so it is essential to remain calm and act quickly.

The police and other authorities must respect several vital rights from the beginning. Do you know what they are?

The first thing you should do to protect your rights is:

a) Remain silent, as anything you say could be used against you in a court of law;
b) Only answer questions once you have an attorney present during questioning.

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Secondly, you must request a lawyer.

The law states that you are entitled to a public defender if you cannot afford an attorney, subject to verification of your income and assets.

But even if you are eligible, several factors must be considered before a public defender is assigned, such as jurisdiction, the seriousness and complexity of the crime, or the availability of personnel at the time of the arrest.

This delay can detract from the valuable time needed to achieve a vigorous, adequate, and, most likely, successful defense strategy.

Time is crucial in this situation, so you should ask yourself:

  • How long can you wait for justice?
  • What is the price of your freedom and reputation?
  • How do you face the future or make the right decisions?
  • Do you know what your legal options are at this delicate moment?
  • Who can quickly and effectively take on the defense of your rights?
Criminal Defense
Criminal defense is considered the most dangerous area of law because an individual’s freedom is on the line. Because of this, every decision must be carefully considered.

Broward County Criminal Defense Lawyer: Protect Your Rights

Depending on the severity of the charges against you, some potential consequences of facing criminal charges are penalties that may include:

  • Jail sentences
  • Fines
  • Probation
  • Loss of driver’s license
  • Criminal record

Fines can seriously affect your budget immediately, and if you are the provider for your family, spending time in prison will directly affect your freedom and ability to work.

In the long term, the consequences of having a criminal record or conviction can be devastating:

  • Loss of employment or career prospects
  • Loss of credit or public and private funding for school, work, or housing
  • Suspension of professional licenses
  • Problems with legal custody of children
  • Deportation or loss of U.S. citizenship if you are an immigrant
Criminal Defense

You can call us for an initial free consultation to answer all your questions, or if you cannot make it to our office, we can come to you.

Broward County Criminal Lawyers: Aggressive Defense Strategies

Why do you need a criminal lawyer?

There are differences between arrest, indictment, and conviction:

  • In an arrest, there is a suspicion of committing a criminal act.
  • An indictment is an accusation, not a declaration of guilt.
  • A conviction is a sentence handed down by a judge as a sanction for a proven crime.

The law states that a defendant has the right to a fair trial and is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

But to prove it, you need someone who knows the law, its procedures, and the judicial process’s ups and downs and knows precisely when and how to act regardless of the gravity of your situation.

Facing the potential consequences with a skilled criminal lawyer’s timely and effective support can make all the difference in asserting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome for your case.

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Criminal Attorney Broward County – Trusted Legal Representation

Depending on the severity of the charges against you, some potential consequences of facing criminal charges are penalties that may include:

  • Jail sentences
  • Fines
  • Probation
  • Loss of driver’s license
  • Criminal record

Fines can seriously affect your budget immediately, and if you are the provider for your family, spending time in prison will directly affect your freedom and ability to work.

In the long term, the consequences of having a criminal record or conviction can be devastating:

  • Loss of employment or career prospects
  • Loss of credit or public and private funding for school, work, or housing
  • Suspension of professional licenses
  • Problems with legal custody of children
  • Deportation or loss of U.S. citizenship if you are an immigrant

Extensive experience:

I have a proven track record of successfully handling various criminal cases in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County.

Strategic advantage:

I understand the intricacies of the legal system and have In-depth knowledge of local courts and procedures.

Resolve:

I believe in relentlessly fighting to protect your rights and reputation.

Strong defense strategy:

I meticulously analyze and examine charges against you, gathering evidence to build a solid case.

Open communication:

I will keep you informed of the progress of your case every step of the way and address all your questions and concerns.

Aggressive advocacy:

I’m confident and experienced enough to fight for you in court and negotiate on your behalf if necessary.

Compassionate and understanding:

Offering a helping hand to support you and your family throughout the process.

Criminal Defense

Fort Lauderdale Criminal Lawyer: Explore Your Defense Options

The criminal process in Florida consists of several stages, each with its procedures and objectives. The main aim is to determine the defendant’s guilt or innocence and, if convicted, to impose the appropriate punishment. Each stage is designed to ensure the defendant’s legal right to a fair trial and the opportunity to defend himself and challenge the evidence against him.

Main stages of the Fort Lauderdale criminal defense process

1

Initial Investigation

  • The police investigate the alleged crime to gather relevant information and evidence.
  • They will arrest the suspect if there is sufficient evidence to make a charge.

2

Arrest

  • The accused is physically detained when informed of the charges against him and advised of his rights.
  • At this stage, you may exercise your right to have your criminal defense Fort Lauderdale lawyer present during the interrogation.
  • The defendant may be released on bail or remain in custody until the initial hearing.

3

Initial Hearing

  • After the investigation and arrest, the defendant must appear before the judge, who will examine the evidence.
  • He will schedule a formal arraignment if he determines probable cause to believe the defendant committed the crime.

4

Formal arraignment

  • The evidence against him/her is presented at the defendant’s formal arraignment.
  • Based on this evidence, the judge determines if sufficient elements exist to proceed with a trial.
  • The defendant is asked to plead guilty or not guilty. If the defendant pleads not guilty, the case goes to trial.

5

Discovery

  • Parties exchange evidence and disclose information about their cases.
  • That may include reviewing documents, police reports, witness interviews, and forensic evidence.
  • Pre-trial motions may be presented to the judge to resolve legal issues before trial.

6

Jury selection

  • A panel of citizens is selected to hear evidence and render a verdict.
  • The jury selection process: Both the prosecution and the defense may question prospective jurors to ensure their impartiality.

7

Trial

  • Both sides present their arguments to the jury: evidence and testimony are presented; witnesses testify.
  • The jury hears evidence and arguments and deliberates to decide on the defendant’s guilt.

8

Sentencing

  • If the defendant is found guilty, the judge will sentence the defendant and determine the sentence to be served.
  • The sentence may include imprisonment, a fine, probation, and other sanctions.

9

Appeal

  • If there is disagreement with the verdict or sentence, the defendant may appeal to an appellate court.
  • The superior court will review your case to determine if any legal errors were made that may have affected the trial outcome.

10

Serving the sentence

If the conviction is upheld, the defendant will serve the sentence imposed by the court in prison.
The whole process is complicated. This is why you will need a lawyer who knows what he is doing and whom you trust. At the Arreaza Law Firm, we will walk you through the process to get the best possible outcome.
Let our experience and knowledge work for you!

Broward County Criminal Defense: Fight for Your Future Today

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

In the U.S. legal system, driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other substance that impairs judgment and the ability to drive safely is considered a felony.

The consequences of being convicted of DUI can include:

  • Fines
  • Jail time
  • Loss or suspension of driver’s license
  • Community service
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle
  • DUI history may affect other aspects of your life, such as higher insurance premiums, loss of employment, difficulty finding jobs that require driving, or problems entering a foreign country.
Criminal Defense

Typical Florida D.U.I. Charges case a Broward criminal lawyer assist at The Arreaza Law Firm:

Boating Under the Influence

Breath Test Errors
Ignition Interlock Requirements
DUI Laws in Florida
DUI Penalties in Florida
DUI Accidents in Florida
DUI Checkpoints in Florida
DUI Defense in Florida
DUI Manslaughter Charges
DUI Manslaughter Penalties
DUI with Injuries
DUI for Commercial Drivers
Felony DUIs in Florida
Multiple DUIs
Everyone facing charges has the right to know what happens at every process step. I have dedicated my life and career to this principle and have a simple philosophy: I believe a lawyer is his client’s shield. In trying a case, a lawyer can give you a million reasons why he lost, which may all be valid. Still, while the battle is going on, that person sitting next to you entrusting you with their freedom deserves the best possible effort the lawyer can give.

These are typical cases a Broward criminal defense attorney assists at The Arreaza Law Firm

Florida D.U.I. Charges
Florida Traffic Related Charges
Florida Sex Crimes
Florida Child Exploitation Crimes
Florida Drug Charges
Florida Prostitution Crimes
Florida Petit Theft Laws
Florida Weapon Crimes
Florida Lewd & Lascivious Crimes
Florida Solicitation Defense
Florida Stalking Charges
Florida Voyeurism Crimes
Florida Burglary Charges
Florida Bribery Charges
Florida Criminal Enterprise Charges
Florida Counterfeiting Charges
Florida Disorderly Crimes
Florida Domestic Violence Crimes
Florida Expungement
Florida Tax Evasion Charges
Florida Injunctions and Restraining
Florida Obstruction of Justice Charges
Florida Forgery Charges
Florida Fraud Charges
Florida Homicide Charges
Florida Human Trafficking Charges
Florida Insurance Fraud Crimes
Florida Juvenile Charges
Florida Kidnapping Charges
Florida Public Corruption Charges
Florida White-Collar Crimes
Florida Possession of Stolen Property
Florida Probation Violation
Personal Injury

Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Attorney – Protect Your Future

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Have You Been In An Accident, Hurt, Or Facing Charges?

From first meetings to gathering evidence, talking to insurance companies or prosecutors, and fighting for you in court, we provide expert legal services for car accidents, personal injuries caused by accidents, and criminal defense.
We help you get the best outcome, whether fair compensation or a strong defense.
Our office is conveniently located in Fort Lauderdale and serves all cities in Broward County, Florida.

Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Lawyers | Essential Services

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Krystal Romero profile pictureKrystal Romero
14:10 02 May 24
One of the best lawyers I’ve had, takes his time to understand the case. Does the best he can do to get you whatever it is you want..
Paul Peeples profile picturePaul Peeples
14:39 20 Sep 23
Alex is by far one of the most caring and ethical Atorneys out there, and I am proud to call him my friend. I find it comical that A M leaves a scathing review because Alex wouldn't take a case that was unethical, which this person neglects to mention. If you look at all of the reviews from this individual, who won't even leave their real name, they are mostly 1's and 2's and obviously this person can't be pleased since they mostly leave negative comments. Those who have left reviews should report this review as Bullying. I would say a 4.7 is pretty strong!
bleidis martinez profile picturebleidis martinez
07:08 23 May 23
Excellent Lawyer. Highly recommended. Poleo case.
Rodrigo Garzon Jamaica profile pictureRodrigo Garzon Jamaica
18:04 04 May 23
Thank you for the service provided, all professionals, we were very satisfied with the result of the process.
Johnny Y profile pictureJohnny Y
02:31 30 Sep 21
Best attorney in FL, took head on against DA, we won the case. Thank you Alex, job well done
Jenny Gutierrez profile pictureJenny Gutierrez
16:51 07 Mar 21
The lawyer Alex advised me in my case of domestic violence it was a long and exhausting case but I thank him they granted me the restraining order for five years I recommend him and I thank him sincerely for helping me.

Broward County Criminal Defense Attorney – FAQ

What should I do if I'm arrested?
Even in this delicate situation, you have rights that the police or any institution must respect. You have the right to remain silent, not answer any questions, or consent to searches until your lawyer is present.
Can I handle my case without a criminal lawyer in Broward County?
Though it’s possible to represent yourself, having an experienced lawyer ensures your case is handled correctly and efficiently, increasing your chances of a favorable outcome. Our criminal defense attorney can protect your rights and is experienced in solving cases specific to Fort Lauderdale and Broward County.
How much does a Broward Criminal Attorney cost? What if I can't afford a lawyer?
We offer flexible payment plans for criminal defense cases. In your initial consultation, I usually ask questions, discuss the details of your case, make sure you understand your legal options, and consider payment options based on your financial situation.
What types of criminal cases does a Broward criminal defense lawyer handle?
We have experience with a wide range of criminal offenses, including DUI, drug charges, theft, violent crimes, domestic violence, and traffic violations.
How long does a criminal defense process take?
The duration of the criminal defense process varies depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the complexity of the charges. Misdemeanor cases can be resolved in a few weeks or months, while felonies may take up to a year or more.
What is the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor involves non-violent crimes like shoplifting, vandalism, disorderly conduct, and some DUIs. It carries lighter penalties like fines or probation. Though it is a less serious offense compared to a felony, it can be punished by up to one year in jail or less. Felonies are more severe crimes, often involving violence or significant harm like murder, arson, assault, and grand theft. It carries higher penalties, including prison time, and is punishable by more than one year in prison or even the death penalty.