Arrested in Fort Lauderdale? What To Do Right Now

The short answer

If you are arrested in Fort Lauderdale, stay calm, do not resist, give your name and identifying information, and then clearly say you want a lawyer and will not answer questions. Do not discuss the case with anyone in jail or on jail phones. Within 24 hours you will see a judge at first appearance, where bond and release conditions are set, so contact a criminal defense attorney as early as possible.

Key takeaways

Say clearly that you want a lawyer and will not answer questions.
Never physically resist, even if you believe the arrest is wrong.
Jail phone calls are recorded and can be used against you.
First appearance happens within 24 hours of arrest.
A lawyer can argue for lower bond and fewer release restrictions.

What should you do at the moment of arrest?

Stay calm and keep your hands visible. Do not run, pull away or argue, because resisting can lead to a separate charge under § 843.02, Fla. Stat. even if the original arrest is later found to be unlawful. Give officers your name and basic identifying information.

Then use your rights. Say "I am going to remain silent and I want a lawyer." Once you ask for a lawyer, police should stop questioning you. Do not consent to searches of your car, phone or home. Politely say you do not consent and let a court sort out whether a search was legal.

What happens after you are booked into jail?

In Broward County, most arrests are booked through the Broward County Main Jail. You will be photographed, fingerprinted and screened. Your property is inventoried. Many people are held until first appearance, and some can post a scheduled bond before then depending on the charge.

While in custody, treat every conversation as if a prosecutor is listening, because they may be. Jail calls are recorded, and statements to cellmates often turn up as evidence.

Facing this situation in Broward County? Talk to a defense attorney today.

Call 954-892-1277 or request a call back

What happens at first appearance?

Within 24 hours of arrest, a judge reviews whether there was probable cause and sets release conditions. Those can include a monetary bond, release on your own recognizance, pretrial supervision, GPS monitoring or a no-contact order. Having a defense attorney at first appearance lets someone argue for reasonable conditions and point out problems with the arrest from day one.

What should you do after you are released?

Write down everything you remember while it is fresh, and share it only with your lawyer.
Collect paperwork such as the arrest affidavit, bond receipt and any court notices.
Follow every release condition exactly, including no-contact orders.
Stay off social media about the case.
Meet with a criminal defense attorney before your arraignment.

Frequently asked questions

Do police have to read me my rights when I am arrested?

Police must give Miranda warnings before custodial interrogation. If they do not question you, they do not have to read your rights. Either way, you can choose to stay silent.

Can I get out of jail before first appearance?

Sometimes. Many charges have a standard bond that can be posted before first appearance. Domestic violence arrests require you to wait for a judge.

Should I explain my side to the officer?

No. Your explanation will not stop the arrest and can become evidence. Tell your side to your lawyer.

How fast should I call a lawyer after an arrest?

Immediately. Early representation can affect bond, whether charges are filed and what evidence is preserved.

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Florida law referenced: § 843.02, Florida Statutes (2025).

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