Award-Winning Defense
Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Lawyers
Have you been arrested or charged with a crime? If so, choosing the right lawyer could make all the difference in the outcome of your case. As former prosecutors with decades of legal experience, our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorneys at Hager & Schwartz, P.A. know the ins and outs of the criminal justice system. Whether you were arrested for domestic violence, a drug offense, theft, or any other crime in Broward County, we can help. Our firm is available to clients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so we'll be there for you when you need us most.
We guarantee prompt response times to ensure you are never alone during this challenging time. Our Fort Lauderdale defense lawyers understand the urgency of your concerns and promise to reply quickly whenever you reach out to us. Contacting us is straightforward and convenient—whether by phone or online form submission—allowing us to address your needs efficiently and build a strong defense without delay. Our commitment is to provide top-notch legal representation and the support and accessibility you need to feel confident and informed every step of the way.
When looking for a criminal defense lawyer in Fort Lauderdale, it is important to retain the services of someone who has courtroom experience, maintains open communication, is familiar with the local courts, and understands criminal law. At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., our team has been practicing law for decades. We have handled thousands of cases – both as former prosecutors and as defense attorneys – and are comfortable presenting arguments in front of judges and juries. While we seek to resolve matters before trial, we prepare for each case as if it will be litigated.
We are committed to keeping our clients updated and informed about their cases. Understanding how personal a criminal matter is, we ensure that our clients are involved in the decision-making concerning the progress of their cases. Recognizing the unpredictability and stress accompanying criminal charges, we offer round-the-clock availability, allowing you to reach us when a question or concern arises. Day or night, our criminal attorneys are ready and waiting to provide you with the timely, informed responses you need to navigate your case. When you hire us, you can trust that you will be working with a team that genuinely cares about protecting your best interests and will fight aggressively for you.
We bring a wealth of experience and skill to the table, providing potential clients with formidable defense crafted from years of legal practice and insights. We recognize that high-quality legal representation is essential but also acknowledge that it can be a significant financial commitment. That’s why we are dedicated to making our services accessible to everyone. To alleviate the financial burden, we offer free initial consultations and flexible payment plans, helping our clients manage the costs of their legal needs without compromising the quality of representation they receive. Whether you face minor charges or complex legal challenges, we aim to provide superior legal support tailored to your financial situation. If you’re ready to discuss your case, please get in touch with us by phone or through our online form, and let us help you secure the legal outcome you deserve.
Defense You Can Depend On
A Firm With a Winning Record
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys in Fort Lauderdale
When facing criminal charges, hiring a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney immediately is vital. Broward County is a tough jurisdiction when it comes to criminal prosecution. Our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorneys are ready to get started on your case right away. We will be by your side through every step of the legal process.
Our Fort Lauderdale criminal lawyers provide top-quality legal representation for a range of misdemeanor and felony charges, including:
- Assault and battery: Assault is the intentional threat by word or action to do violence upon another person. Battery involves actually and intentionally striking a person, or intentionally causing bodily harm to another person. These charges can often be based on witness testimonies that may be subjective and vary. Common defenses include self-defense, consent by the alleged victim, or lack of intent to cause harm.
- Disorderly conduct: Engaging in actions that corrupt public morals, outrage public decency, or disturb the peace and quiet of others. Disorderly conduct charges are often based on vague criteria that can be open to interpretation. Defenses may include First Amendment protections for speech, self-defense, or insufficient evidence of intent or action.
- Domestic violence: Any criminal act against a family or household member that could result in injury or death of that person. Cases often arise from complex personal relationships, with accusations potentially stemming from motives of revenge. Possible defenses include disproving allegations (false accusations), self-defense, or showing that the alleged victim was the primary aggressor.
- Elder abuse: Intentionally engaging in an act that could cause physical or psychological pain to an older individual or isolating the individual to the point it could cause harm. Elder abuse cases often involve vulnerable victims and may rely heavily on testimony from individuals with compromised faculties. Defenses can include false allegations, mistaken identity, or questioning the legality of the investigation or arrest process.
- Federal crimes: Offenses that violate federal law, often involving cross-state activities or federal officials. Examples include mail/wire fraud, immigration offenses, and money laundering. Federal cases involve the formidable resources of the federal government and often carry severe penalties. Specific defenses depend on the crime, such as arguing no actual fraud in mail fraud cases or proving legitimate sources of funds in money laundering allegations.
- Fraud: Involves a scheme to deceive, characterized by misrepresentations or
omissions to gain unlawfully, including identity, mail, and wire fraud. Fraud cases often hinge on complex evidence and require detailed document analysis. Defenses might include no intent to defraud, a lack of deceptive statements, or legitimate mistakes in representation.
- Juvenile crimes: Violations of the law or delinquent acts committed by individuals under 18 years of age. Juveniles face a different legal system, often focused more on rehabilitation but with its unique procedural complexities. Defenses vary widely but generally focus on the intent and awareness of the juvenile at the time of the act.
- Murder: The unlawful killing of another person with premeditation or during the commission of another felony. The severity of the accusation brings immense scrutiny and public interest. Defenses may include alibis, proving no involvement in a connected felony, or justification (self-defense).
- Manslaughter: The killing of another person without lawful justification or premeditation. Distinguishing manslaughter from other forms of homicide often involves subtle details about the defendant's intent and circumstances. Possible defenses include accidental actions or justifiable homicide under self-defense.
- Hit and run: Leaving the scene of an accident without providing contact information or aiding the injured. Proving knowledge of the accident and intent to evade responsibility can complicate these cases. Defenses may include not knowing an accident occurred, being physically unable to report, or no damage occurred.
- Sex crimes: Crimes involving any actions with a sexual connotation, including physical contact or explicit behavior or content. The sensitive nature of these accusations often carries significant social stigma and severe legal consequences. Common defenses include mistaken identity, proving consent, or disproving the allegations entirely (false accusations).
- White collar crimes: Non-violent crimes committed primarily for financial gain, often within business or government settings, including fraud and embezzlement. These cases usually involve extensive paperwork and complex evidence. Lack of intent to commit fraud or proving that no fraudulent statements were made are common defenses.
- Weapons charges: Violations of laws regulating firearm use, possession, and sale. Evidence regarding possession and intent can be complex, with significant legal consequences. Common defenses include proving the weapon was not in the accused’s possession or control or invoking self-defense statutes such as "Stand Your Ground" laws in Florida.
Additionally, our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyers help those who have a criminal conviction on their record seek expungement. This legal vehicle essentially clears the criminal information from public access. Expunging an offense can open opportunities that were once closed because of the conviction.
Florida Criminal Process
Navigating the criminal process in Florida can be daunting and complex. Each decision made along the way can impact the trajectory of a case. Understanding this process is crucial to making informed choices at each stage, which can influence the outcome. An experienced attorney is essential in this journey, providing the necessary guidance and advocacy to navigate the legal system effectively.
The stages in the criminal process include the following:
- Crime allegedly committed: The process begins when an alleged crime is reported to law enforcement or observed by an officer. At this initial stage, our defense attorneys can engage with law enforcement on our clients’ behalf to protect their rights and seek to prevent charges from being filed.
- Investigation: Law enforcement investigates the alleged offense and gathers evidence. Our lawyers can intervene early, preventing our clients’ rights from being infringed during interactions with police or evidence collection.
- Arrest: If there is probable cause, the suspect is arrested and booked. During this critical time, having legal representation can help manage the immediate impacts of the arrest and prepare for upcoming legal proceedings.
- First appearance: During this hearing, the defendant is informed of the charges and advised of their rights. Our criminal lawyers provide crucial advice and guidance, helping clients understand the charges and their rights.
- Arraignment: The defendant is formally advised of the charges. Similar to the first appearance, our lawyers continue to provide counsel, helping clients understand the process and preparing for potential plea decisions.
- Pre-trial proceedings: This phase may include conferences, hearings, and motions. We negotiate with the prosecution, seek settlements out of court when appropriate, and file motions to address any unlawful or unfair actions against our clients.
- Trial: The trial includes jury selection, opening statements, evidence presentation, and deliberations. Our seasoned defense attorneys build a solid defense and present a compelling case before a judge or jury, aiming for a favorable outcome.
- Sentencing: If the defendant is convicted, sentencing follows, where a judge determines the punishments based on statutory guidelines. We advocate for leniency by presenting mitigating factors and arguing for minimized penalties.
- Appeal: Legal errors in the trial can be challenged through an appeal.
In Broward County, the criminal process can unfold at one of four dedicated courthouses, each serving as a vital access point for justice throughout the region.
Here are the details for each location:
- North Regional Courthouse - Deerfield Beach
- Address: 1600 W Hillsboro Blvd, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442
- Operating Hours: 8:30am to 5:00pm
- West Regional Courthouse - Plantation
- Address: 100 N. Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL 33324
- Operating Hours: 8:30am to 5:00pm
- South Regional Courthouse - Hollywood
- Address: 3550 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, FL 33021
- Operating Hours: 8:30am to 5:00pm
- Central Judicial Complex - Fort Lauderdale
- Address: 201 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
- Operating Hours: 8:30am to 5:00pm
At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., we are committed to accessibility and support at all stages of the criminal process. We actively represent clients across all courthouses in Broward County, making strategic legal assistance available whenever and wherever needed. We aim to prevent missteps that could adversely affect a case, helping clients navigate these challenging times confidently.
The Sooner You Call, the Sooner We Can Get Started on Your Defense
Our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyers have dedicated their careers to advocating for those trying to navigate the criminal justice system. We know law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and judges, and we use our insight to challenge the other side. Our goal is to seek the best possible results for clients, whether that means a reduction in charges and penalties or a case dismissal.
When your life is being turned upside down, it may seem like things will never be the same. We’re here to tell you that all hope is not lost. The first step in protecting your rights and freedom is gaining the help of legal professionals you can trust. When you hire our firm, we will begin exploring every angle of your case, disputing the evidence, and preparing your defense.
Hager & Schwartz, P.A. serves clients throughout Broward County, FL. We are available days, nights, and weekends and respond promptly to inquiries. Contact us at (954) 840-8713 today to request your immediate consultation. Your initial case evaluation is free.
Types of Cases We Handle
The Team Who Will Fight for You
Protecting Your Rights, Defending Your Freedom
CONTACT US 24/7 FOR YOUR CASE EVALUATION
HOW A FORMER PROSECUTOR CAN HELP
John Hager was once a member of the prosecution team at the Broward County State Attorney's Office and is extremely familiar with both sides of criminal law. Brett M. Schwartz was the Assistant State Attorney in Broward County and honed his outstanding skills as a litigator during his tenure.
This knowledge and experience provides a significant advantage for our clients when it comes to negotiations, plea bargains, jury trials, and other legal maneuvers that are frequently necessary in criminal cases. Our track record in court is also a testament to our firm's dedication and skill.
WHY HIRE HAGER & SCHWARTZ, P.A.?
- Our criminal defense lawyers are former state prosecutors
- Our team is backed by over 50 years of combined experience
- We earned an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell®
- We have been named to the Super Lawyers® list
- We are available to our clients 24 hours a day
- We offer free, immediate & confidential case reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Facing criminal charges can lead to numerous questions about the process and your rights. Here, we address some of the most common inquiries to provide you with a clearer understanding of what to expect.
However, we recognize that every case is unique, and you may have additional questions, which is why our team is ready and available to provide the answers you need.
