Getting arrested for any criminal offense has critical consequences. You not only face stiff penalties but also the possibility of doing jail time—and you could lose your freedom, reputation, and livelihood. Whether it's a misdemeanor or felony charge, the penalties can be life-altering, and repeat offenses carry even stiffer consequences. You need to hire experienced Broward County Criminal Defense Attorney Robert Malove. With over 42 years of legal experience, he's handled tens of thousands of criminal cases across all areas of criminal law. Regardless of whether this is your first offense or you're facing repeat charges, Robert Malove and his team have over 120 years combined experience defending clients against the full spectrum of criminal charges.
ACT QUICKLY Once you're arrested for any criminal offense, time is critical. Important deadlines begin immediately—from bond hearings to discovery deadlines to plea negotiations. The earlier you have experienced legal representation, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Evidence can disappear, witnesses' memories fade, and constitutional violations may go undetected without prompt action. Before the prosecution builds its case against you, contact the criminal defense team at The Law Offices of Robert David Malove. We're ready to take on the criminal justice system and fight for your rights, your freedom, and your future.
What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do in Fort Lauderdale?
A criminal defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale protects your constitutional rights, investigates evidence, negotiates with prosecutors, files pretrial motions, and provides aggressive courtroom representation. Board-certified attorney Robert David Malove has successfully defended over 5,000 criminal cases in Broward County courts since 1985.
Immediate Steps When Facing Criminal Charges![criminal defense]()
- Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent - Do not answer questions without an attorney present
- Request an Attorney Immediately - Say "I want to speak to my lawyer" clearly
- Do Not Sign Any Documents - Wait for legal counsel before signing anything
- Contact Robert Malove Law - Available 24/7 for immediate consultation at (954) 861-0384
- Inform Someone You Trust - Let family/friends know about your situation
Criminal Charges We Defend in Fort Lauderdale
DUI Defense
DUI charges in Florida carry serious consequences that can impact every aspect of your life. Our Fort Lauderdale DUI attorney provides immediate protection and aggressive defense strategies.
Types of DUI Charges We Defend:
- First-Time DUI: Fines, license suspension, DUI school, potential jail time
- Multiple DUI Offenses: Enhanced penalties including mandatory jail time
- DUI with Property Damage: Elevated charges with civil liability
- DUI Manslaughter: Felony charges with lengthy prison sentences
- Reckless Driving: Alternative charges often negotiated from DUI
Related Traffic Offenses:
- Hit and Run charges requiring immediate attention
- Driving on Suspended License with additional penalties
- Traffic violations and moving violations
Critical 10-Day Deadline: After a DUI arrest, you have only 10 days to request a DMV hearing to challenge your license suspension. Missing this deadline results in automatic suspension.
Felony Criminal Defense
Felonies are the most serious criminal charges in Florida, carrying severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences. Our Fort Lauderdale felony defense attorney provides experienced representation for all felony charges.
Violent Crimes Defense
- Murder and Manslaughter: Life-altering charges requiring aggressive defense
- Aggravated Assault: Enhanced penalties for assault with deadly weapons
- Armed Robbery: Serious violent crimes with mandatory minimum sentences
- Battery: Simple battery to aggravated battery charges
- Kidnapping: Federal and state charges with life imprisonment potential
- Carjacking: Armed theft of motor vehicles
- Home Invasion: Burglary with assault or battery
Drug Crime Defense in Florida
Florida's drug laws are harsh, but charges don't equal convictions. Our drug crime defense strategies challenge evidence and protect your rights.
- Drug Possession: Simple possession to trafficking amounts
- Intent to Distribute: Enhanced penalties based on quantity
- Drug Trafficking: Serious felony charges with mandatory minimums
- Prescription Drug Crimes: Doctor shopping and illegal distribution
- Drug Manufacturing: Operating illegal drug production facilities
- Drug Conspiracy: Federal charges for organized drug operations
- Drug Paraphernalia: Possession of drug-related equipment
Property and Theft Crime Defense
Property crimes in Florida range from misdemeanors to serious felonies depending on value and circumstances:
- Grand Theft: Theft of property valued over $750
- Petit Theft: Theft of property under $750
- Burglary: Breaking and entering with intent to commit crime
- Auto Theft: Stealing motor vehicles
- Arson: Intentionally setting fires to property
- Criminal Mischief: Vandalism and property damage
- Trespassing: Unlawful presence on property
White Collar Crime Defense
Complex financial crimes requiring sophisticated defense strategies:
- Healthcare Fraud: Medicare/Medicaid billing fraud
- Wire Fraud: Electronic communication fraud schemes
- Money Laundering: Concealing illegal money sources
- Embezzlement: Theft by employees or fiduciaries
- Tax Evasion: Failing to pay required taxes
- Securities Fraud: Investment and stock fraud
- Identity Theft: Using another person's identifying information
- Credit Card Fraud: Unauthorized use of payment cards
Sex Crime Defense
Sex crime charges carry severe penalties and lifetime consequences requiring immediate, aggressive defense:
- Sexual Battery: Rape and sexual assault charges
- Lewd and Lascivious Acts: Sexual conduct with minors
- Child Pornography: Possession, distribution, or production
- Internet Sex Crimes: Online solicitation and exploitation
- Prostitution and Solicitation: Commercial sexual activity
- Sex Offender Violations: Failure to comply with registration requirements
- Indecent Exposure: Public lewdness charges
Domestic Violence Defense in Fort Lauderdale
Domestic violence charges carry both criminal and civil consequences that require immediate legal intervention:
Types of Domestic Violence Charges:
- Domestic Battery: Physical violence against family members
- Aggravated Domestic Battery: Enhanced charges with serious injury
- Domestic Assault: Threats of violence against household members
- Violation of Protective Orders: Breaching restraining orders
- Stalking: Repeated harassment and following
Additional Consequences:
- Immediate protective orders and no-contact restrictions
- Loss of firearm rights
- Potential loss of child custody
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Professional license implications
Federal Criminal Defense
Attorney Robert Malove provides experienced federal criminal defense representation for clients facing prosecution by federal agencies. Federal cases require specialized knowledge of complex sentencing guidelines and federal court procedures.
Federal Charges We Defend:
- RICO Charges: Racketeering and organized crime prosecutions
- Federal Drug Trafficking: Interstate and international drug operations
- Immigration Crimes: Illegal re-entry and human trafficking allegations
- Federal Firearms Charges: Weapons violations and trafficking
- Federal Tax Crimes: Complex tax evasion cases
- Terrorism Charges: National security prosecutions
- White Collar Federal Crimes: Healthcare fraud, wire fraud, money laundering
Criminal Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief
Experienced appellate representation for overturning convictions or reducing sentences:
- Direct Criminal Appeals: Challenging trial court errors and procedural violations
- Post-Conviction Motions: Attacking convictions based on ineffective assistance of counsel
- Sentence Reductions: Seeking modified sentences through legal challenges
- Habeas Corpus Petitions: Federal appeals for constitutional violations
- Record Expungement/Sealing: Clearing criminal records for eligible cases
- Clemency Applications: Seeking pardons and sentence commutations
The Criminal Defense Process in Fort Lauderdale Courts
Step-by-Step Criminal Defense Timeline
| Stage | Timeline | Attorney Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Arrest & Booking | Day 1 | Advise silence, arrange bail, begin investigation |
| First Appearance | 24-48 hours | Argue for reasonable bail, challenge probable cause |
| Arraignment | 14-21 days | Enter not guilty plea, request discovery |
| Discovery & Investigation | 30-90 days | Analyze evidence, interview witnesses, hire experts |
| Pretrial Motions | 45-60 days | File motions to dismiss, suppress evidence |
| Plea Negotiations | 60-120 days | Negotiate reduced charges, alternative sentences |
| Trial | 6-18 months | Present defense, cross-examine witnesses |
Florida Criminal Penalties and Sentencing Guidelines
Felony Classifications and Sentences
| Felony Degree | Maximum Prison | Maximum Fine | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capital Felony | Death or Life | N/A | First-degree murder |
| Life Felony | Life imprisonment | $15,000 | Drug trafficking, kidnapping |
| First Degree | 30 years | $10,000 | Armed robbery, sexual battery |
| Second Degree | 15 years | $10,000 | Aggravated assault, burglary |
| Third Degree | 5 years | $5,000 | Grand theft, drug possession |
Misdemeanor Classifications
- First Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year jail, $1,000 fine
- Second Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 60 days jail, $500 fine
Collateral Consequences
Criminal convictions create lasting impacts beyond prison time:
- Permanent criminal record affecting employment
- Loss of professional licenses
- Immigration consequences including deportation
- Loss of voting and firearm rights
- Housing discrimination
- Educational loan eligibility issues
Your Constitutional Rights in Criminal Cases
During Police Interactions
Know your rights when dealing with law enforcement:
- Right to remain silent: You are under no obligation to speak with investigators
- Right to refuse searches: Deny consent to search your person, car, or home without a warrant
- Right to an attorney: Request legal counsel before any questioning
- Right to leave: If not under arrest, you can walk away
After Arrest
- Miranda rights: Right to remain silent and have an attorney
- Speedy trial: Right to prompt resolution of charges
- Due process: Fair treatment throughout the legal process
- Bail/bond: Right to reasonable bail in most cases
Common Police Violations
Evidence may be suppressed if officers violated your rights:
- Unlawful traffic stops without reasonable suspicion
- Searches without warrants or consent
- Failure to read Miranda rights during custodial interrogation
- Coerced confessions
- Improper arrest procedures
Criminal Defense Strategies Used in Fort Lauderdale Cases
Common Defense Approaches
Constitutional Challenges
- Illegal search and seizure (4th Amendment violations)
- Miranda rights violations
- Due process violations
- Right to counsel violations
Evidence Challenges
- Suppression of illegally obtained evidence
- Chain of custody issues
- Forensic evidence challenges
- Witness credibility issues
Procedural Defenses
- Statute of limitations
- Double jeopardy
- Prosecutorial misconduct
- Speedy trial violations
Substantive Defenses
- Self-defense
- Alibi
- Lack of intent
- Entrapment
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Criminal Defense
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and felony in Florida?
Key differences between misdemeanors and felonies:
| Misdemeanor | Felony |
|---|---|
| Up to 1 year jail | 1+ years prison |
| County jail | State prison |
| Less severe consequences | Loss of civil rights |
| Eligible for expungement | Limited expungement options |
What should I do immediately after a DUI arrest in Florida?
After a DUI arrest, you have only 10 days to request a DMV hearing to challenge your license suspension. Contact an experienced DUI attorney immediately to protect your driving privileges and begin building your defense. Don't speak to police without an attorney present, and avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer.
Do I really need a criminal defense lawyer if I'm innocent?
Absolutely. Being innocent doesn't protect you from false accusations or prosecutorial errors. Even innocent people can make statements that sound incriminating or fail to present evidence effectively. An experienced criminal defense attorney will protect your rights and help protect you from doing anything that you might later regret.
How does Florida determine criminal sentences?
Florida uses the Criminal Punishment Code (CPC) for felonies, which assigns point values to different factors including primary offense severity, additional charges, prior criminal history, victim injury points, and other aggravating factors. If your total score exceeds 44 points, the guidelines generally recommend a prison sentence.
What are my rights during police interactions?
You have several fundamental rights: Right to remain silent - You are under no obligation to speak with investigators; Right to refuse searches - You can deny consent to search your vehicle, home, or person; Right to an attorney - You can request a lawyer be present during any questioning.
What crimes can result in felony charges in Florida?
Florida felony charges include drug trafficking, aggravated assault, burglary, robbery, sexual battery, murder, grand theft (over $750), aggravated DUI, domestic violence with injury, and white-collar crimes like fraud or embezzlement.
Can my criminal charges be dismissed or reduced?
Yes, through various methods including pre-trial motions challenging evidence or procedures, diversion programs for first-time offenders that can result in case dismissals, plea negotiations for reduced charges, and challenging the evidence through discovery and investigation.
What are the maximum penalties for felonies in Florida?
Third-degree felony: up to 5 years in prison; Second-degree felony: up to 15 years; First-degree felony: up to 30 years or life in prison. Certain life felonies and capital felonies can result in life imprisonment or the death penalty.
When should I hire a criminal defense lawyer?
Under almost any circumstances, it will be very beneficial to you to retain legal representation as soon as possible. If you have learned that you are being investigated for a crime, it is just as advisable that you consult with a criminal defense attorney as it would be following your arrest.
Fort Lauderdale Criminal Courts We Practice In
Broward County Courts
- Broward County Courthouse: 201 SE 6th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
- Criminal Justice Complex: 700 SE 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
- Central Judicial Complex: 201 NW 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
- North Regional Courthouse: 1600 W Hillsboro Blvd, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442
- South Regional Courthouse: 3245 College Ave, Davie, FL 33314
Federal Courts
- U.S. District Court - Southern District of Florida: 299 E Broward Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
- U.S. Magistrate Court: 299 E Broward Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Why Choose Robert Malove for Your Florida Criminal Defense
Getting arrested for any criminal charge has critical consequences—your freedom, family, and future hang in the balance. Whether it's a felony, misdemeanor, drug charge, or domestic violence allegation, you need Broward County Criminal Defense Attorney Robert Malove. With over 60 years of combined experience handling thousands of criminal cases, Robert Malove and his team have the expertise to fight for your rights.
- Phone: (954) 861-0384
- Available 24/7 for criminal arrests
- Free case evaluation
- Affordable payment plans available
- Over 60 years combined experience
Proven Experience
- Over 60 years of combined criminal defense experience
- Board-certified in criminal trial law by the Florida Bar
- Thousands of successful criminal cases defended
- Founding member of the National College for DUI Defense
- Author of "White Collar Crime: Healthcare Fraud"
Comprehensive Defense Strategy
- Thorough investigation of all evidence and witnesses
- Challenge improper police procedures and constitutional violations
- Aggressive motion practice to suppress evidence
- Experienced trial advocacy when necessary
- Skilled negotiation for reduced charges and alternative sentencing
Statewide Service Areas
Serving clients throughout South Florida from offices in:
- Broward County: Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Hollywood
- Palm Beach County: West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, Delray Beach, Jupiter
- Miami-Dade County: Miami Beach
- Lee County: Fort Myers, Cape Coral
- Monroe County: Key West
- Martin County: Stuart
- St. Lucie County: Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie
- Collier County: Naples, Marco Island
- Additional Counties: Hendry County, Sarasota County
With offices in Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Palm Beach County, St. Lucie County, and Key West, The Law Offices of Robert David Malove serves clients throughout Florida and in federal courts nationwide. We offer thorough case evaluation and will fight relentlessly for your rights and freedom.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
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