Being arrested can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life—especially if it’s your first time facing the criminal justice system. In Florida, what happens after an arrest can impact everything from your freedom to your future job prospects.

If you or someone you care about has been arrested, knowing what to expect next can help you take the right steps to protect your rights.

Here’s a breakdown of the key stages that follow a criminal arrest in Florida, and how working with an experienced defense attorney can make all the difference.

1. The Arrest Itself

A criminal arrest can happen if law enforcement believes they have probable cause to believe you committed a crime. You may be taken into custody at the scene or later after a warrant is issued.

You have rights, even at the time of arrest:

The right to remain silent
The right to an attorney
Protection against unreasonable searches or seizures

📌 Tip: Stay calm, don’t resist, and avoid discussing your case with police. Politely ask for a lawyer immediately.

2. Booking and First Appearance

After the arrest, you’ll be taken to the county jail for booking, where your personal information, fingerprints, and photograph are taken.

Within 24 hours, you’ll appear before a judge for a First Appearance (also known as a bail hearing). At this hearing:

The judge informs you of the charges
Determines if there’s probable cause for the arrest
Sets bond or conditions of release

This is a critical point. Having a lawyer at or before your First Appearance can improve your chances of securing bond or even being released on your own recognizance.

3. Filing of Charges

The State Attorney’s Office (not the police) ultimately decides whether to file formal charges against you. This process, called “filing a formal information”, can take several weeks.

Depending on the type of crime, they may:

File misdemeanor or felony charges
Choose to reduce or drop charges
Offer a pre-trial diversion program (for eligible non-violent offenses)

Your attorney can engage with the prosecutor early on, potentially persuading them to drop or reduce charges before they’re filed.

4. Arraignment and Plea

If charges are filed, your next court appearance will be an arraignment, where you’ll enter a plea:

Not guilty (the case proceeds to pre-trial and trial)
Guilty (you may receive sentencing immediately or at a later date)
No contest (you don’t admit guilt but accept conviction)

Your lawyer will guide you through your options and whether to negotiate a plea deal or fight the case in court.

5. Pre-Trial and Trial

If you plead not guilty, your case moves into the pre-trial phase, which includes:

Discovery (sharing of evidence between both sides)
Motions (such as motions to suppress evidence)
Negotiations (potential plea bargains)

If a resolution isn’t reached, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge or jury will decide the outcome.

Your defense attorney will:

✅ Review all evidence

✅ Challenge unlawful searches or arrests

✅ Negotiate for dismissal or reduced charges

✅ Represent you in court if the case goes to trial

6. Possible Outcomes

Depending on the specifics of your case, outcomes may include:

Dismissal (if evidence is lacking or rights were violated)
Diversion (completing a program in exchange for dropped charges)
Plea agreement (lesser charges or sentencing in exchange for a guilty plea)
Trial verdict (acquittal or conviction)

If convicted, sentencing may include jail or prison time, probation, fines, community service, or other penalties. A skilled defense lawyer may be able to minimize or avoid these penalties altogether.

What Should You Do If You’ve Been Arrested?

Don’t wait to take action. Your future, your job, and even your freedom could be on the line.

✅ Do not speak to police without a lawyer

✅ Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately

✅ Avoid posting details of your case on social media

At The Law Office of Adolphus Thompson, we represent individuals charged with crimes throughout Florida—from misdemeanors to serious felonies. We understand how overwhelming this process can feel, and we’re here to guide you through every step with experience, discretion, and compassion.

Talk to a Florida Criminal Defense Attorney Today

We’re ready to fight for you. Contact The Law Office of Adolphus Thompson for a free and confidential consultation. You don’t have to face this alone.

📞 Call (407) 476-5272

📩 Or request a case evaluation online.

What to Expect After a Criminal Arrest in Florida