How Long Does a Criminal Case Take in Broward County?

By The Law Offices of Daniel Rosenberg P.A.
Updated · 3 min read

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The short answer

Most Broward County misdemeanor cases resolve within a few months, while felony cases often take several months to a year or more. Florida's speedy trial rule generally requires trial within 90 days of arrest for misdemeanors and 175 days for felonies, but defendants often waive that deadline so their attorney can investigate, take depositions and negotiate. Complex cases, such as homicide or federal investigations, can take much longer.

Key takeaways

  • Misdemeanors often resolve within a few months.
  • Felonies commonly take several months to a year or more.
  • Speedy trial deadlines are 90 days for misdemeanors and 175 for felonies.
  • Waiving speedy trial is common and often strategic.
  • Diversion programs add time but can end in dropped charges.
By the numbers
90 daysspeedy trial deadline for misdemeanors, unless waivedSource: Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.191
175 daysspeedy trial deadline for felonies, unless waivedSource: Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.191
1,944,375people lived in Broward County in the 2020 Census, making it one of Florida's busiest court systemsSource: U.S. Census Bureau

What are the stages of a criminal case?

  1. Arrest and first appearance within 24 hours.
  2. Filing decision by the State Attorney.
  3. Arraignment, where you enter a plea.
  4. Discovery and depositions, often the longest stage.
  5. Motions and negotiations.
  6. Trial, plea, diversion or dismissal.

Why do people waive speedy trial?

Speedy trial protects you from endless delay, but forcing a quick trial can mean going to trial before your lawyer has reviewed all the evidence, deposed witnesses or obtained experts. Many defendants waive the deadline so the defense can be thorough. In some cases, holding the State to the deadline is the right strategy, and your attorney can file a notice of expiration if the State runs out of time.

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What slows a case down?

Lab testing, missing video, witness scheduling, crowded court calendars, plea negotiations and diversion programs can all add time. Cases involving serious injury, multiple defendants or federal agencies tend to take the longest.

Can you speed up your case?

Sometimes. Applying for diversion early, gathering mitigation documents, completing classes or counseling before you are asked and staying in close contact with your lawyer can all help move a case toward resolution. Learn what to expect at arraignment and how charges get dismissed.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a DUI case take in Broward County?

Many DUI cases take a few months to resolve, longer if the defense challenges the stop, breath test or blood draw.

Does waiving speedy trial hurt my case?

Not usually. It often gives your attorney time to build a stronger defense.

How long does pretrial intervention take?

It varies by case, commonly several months to a year depending on conditions such as restitution.

Can my case be dismissed for taking too long?

If the State violates speedy trial rules and does not cure the violation in time, the court can discharge the case.

Related practice areas

Practice areaCriminal Defense Attorney Practice areaFirst-Time Offenders Defense Attorney Practice areaDrug Crimes Defense Attorney

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This article provides general information about Florida law and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Contact an attorney about your specific situation.