Arrested in Broward County, FL, During the Holidays? Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer

(Fort Lauderdale, FL – February 2026) As the confetti settles and the New Year begins, many residents and visitors in South Florida find themselves facing an unexpected and harrowing reality: the aftermath of a holiday arrest. The Law Office of Matthew Glassman, a leading criminal defense law firm for anyone seeking a Broward County criminal defense attorney, is ready to assist those charged during the holiday season. With law enforcement presence at an all-time high during the first week of January, the need for an aggressive Broward County criminal defense lawyer has never been more pressing.

The New Year is often a time for celebration, but in places like Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Pompano Beach, it is also a time of increased police surveillance. From sobriety checkpoints to heightened domestic patrols, the Broward Sheriff’s Office and local municipal police departments have been on high alert. For those who find themselves in handcuffs, the transition from celebration to a jail cell is a traumatic experience that requires immediate legal intervention with a skilled criminal defense attorney.

The High Stakes of a New Year’s Arrest in South Florida

The start of the year frequently sees a spike in specific types of criminal allegations. When individuals search for a “criminal defense lawyer near me” following an arrest after a holiday weekend, they are often facing charges that carry life-altering consequences. Broward County criminal defense attorney Matthew Glassman, a former public defender with almost 20 years of experience in the South Florida legal system, understands that an arrest is not a conviction. However, the period immediately following an arrest is a window where legal strategy can make the difference between a dismissed charge and a prison sentence.

DUI and Boating Under the Influence (BUI)

The most common arrest during the New Year’s period involves driving under the influence (DUI). Florida law is notoriously strict regarding intoxicated driving. A first-time DUI can result in license suspension, heavy fines, and even jail time. In Broward County, FL, prosecutors often push for the maximum penalties to set a standard for public safety.

Beyond the road, South Florida’s waterways are equally monitored. Boating under the Influence (BUI) is treated with the same severity as a DUI. Whether you were pulled over on I-95 or stopped by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in the Intracoastal, you need a criminal defense lawyer who knows how to challenge the validity of field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results.

Domestic Violence Accusations in Broward County, FL

Holiday stress, combined with increased alcohol consumption, often leads to domestic disputes. In Florida, domestic violence laws are designed to favor immediate arrest. Once the police are called to a residence for a domestic disturbance, someone is almost certainly going to jail.

These accusations are particularly damaging because they often result in immediate “no-contact” orders, preventing individuals from returning to their homes or seeing their children. Broward County criminal defense attorney Matthew Glassman works to modify these conditions and investigate the facts behind the domestic violence allegations, which are frequently exaggerated or based on misunderstandings.

Drug Possession and Drug Trafficking Charges in Broward County, FL

New Year’s Eve parties may involve the presence of controlled substances. Broward County law enforcement frequently conducts undercover operations or uses traffic stops as a pretext to search vehicles for drugs. Drug charges in Broward County, FL, can range from simple possession of cannabis or cocaine to more serious allegations of drug trafficking.

Florida’s drug laws carry mandatory minimum sentences that can lock a person away for years based solely on the weight of the substance involved. Navigating drug crime cases in Broward County, FL, requires a criminal defense attorney who can identify illegal searches and seizures that violate the Fourth Amendment. Criminal defense attorney Matthew Glassman has vast experience and expertise in providing skilled representation to those accused of a drug crime. 

DUI Manslaughter and Homicide Offenses

The most tragic outcomes of the holiday season involve accidents resulting in loss of life. DUI Manslaughter is one of the most serious charges a person can face in South Florida. Unlike a standard DUI, a conviction for DUI Manslaughter carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of four years under Florida statutes.

The Law Office of Matthew Glassman has extensive experience in handling high-stakes homicide cases. As a former member of the major crimes unit during his time as a public defender, criminal defense lawyer Matthew Glassman has defended individuals accused of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and manslaughter. He understands the technical evidence required to fight murder and manslaughter cases, from accident reconstruction reports to toxicology analysis.

Why You Need a Broward County Criminal Defense Lawyer Immediately after Being Arrested

After an arrest in Broward County, FL, the clock begins to tick. Many people mistakenly believe that they should wait until their first court date to hire a Broward County criminal defense lawyer. This is a dangerous misconception. The most critical work often happens in the days following the Broward County arrest, before the State Attorney’s Office has even filed formal charges.

Criminal Defense Attorney Challenging the Prosecution’s Filing Decision

In Florida, the police make the arrest, but the State Attorney’s Office decides what charges to officially file. This is known as the “filing period.” An effective criminal defense attorney will use this time to present mitigating evidence to the prosecutor. By intervening early, it is sometimes possible to have charges reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor, or to have the case dismissed entirely before it ever reaches a courtroom.

Broward County Criminal Defense Lawyer Protecting Your Professional Future

An arrest record can be a permanent stain on a person’s reputation. For professionals such as doctors, nurses, and teachers, or for college students looking to enter the workforce, a criminal charge can end a career before it begins. Broward County criminal defense lawyer Matthew Glassman focuses on the long-term implications of a case, working to ensure that a one-time mistake does not define a client’s entire life.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Matthew Glassman: Personalized Approach to Criminal Defense in South Florida

When searching for a “criminal defense lawyer near me,” many individuals feel like just another case number. The Law Office of Matthew Glassman prides itself on a different approach. Matthew Glassman provides his personal cell phone number to every client, ensuring that they can reach him during the most stressful moments of their lives.

Broward County Criminal Defense Lawyer Providing Zealous Advocacy in the Courtroom

Whether the case involves a misdemeanor traffic offense or a complex felony charge, Broward County criminal defense lawyer Matthew Glassman’s strategy remains the same: push back against the government’s narrative. This involves:

• Investigating Police Conduct: Were the defendant’s rights read? Was there probable cause for the stop? Was the search conducted legally?

• Questioning Witnesses: Are the accusers credible? Are there conflicting statements in the police report?

• Technical Evidence Review: Scrutinizing the calibration of breathalyzers, the chain of custody for drug evidence, and the accuracy of forensic reports.

Criminal Defense Attorney Offering Experience That Matters

Criminal defense attorney Matthew Glassman has spent almost two decades in the trenches of the Broward County courthouse. His background as an assistant public defender gave him the opportunity to handle thousands of cases, giving him an intimate knowledge of the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures. This experience is what allows him to navigate the system effectively for his clients.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Navigating the Broward County Legal System

The legal process in South Florida is complicated. From the initial bond hearing (first appearance) to discovery and trial, there are dozens of procedural hurdles.

The Bond Hearing

Within 24 hours of an arrest in Broward County, FL, an individual will appear before a judge who will determine the bond amount. Having a Broward County criminal defense attorney present at this stage is vital. Broward County criminal defense attorney Matthew Glassman can argue for a lower bond or ROR (release on own recognizance), allowing the individual to return to their family and job while the case is pending.

The Discovery Phase

Once charges are filed in Broward County, FL, a criminal defense attorney has the right to see all the evidence the state has. This includes body camera footage, witness statements, and physical evidence. Broward County criminal defense attorney Matthew Glassman meticulously reviews every piece of discovery to find the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Trial and Negotiation

While many cases are resolved through negotiations and plea deals, some must go to trial. Broward County criminal defense attorney Matthew Glassman is a trial-tested litigator who is not afraid to take a case in front of a jury. His vast experience as an adjunct professor teaching “Stand Your Ground” law in Florida and administrative procedure further enhances his ability to educate a jury and present a compelling defense.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Regarding Broward County Arrests

Following an arrest in Broward County, FL, many people are overwhelmed by the complexity of the Florida legal system. Below are answers to common questions that arise during this time.

What should I do if I am stopped for a DUI in Broward County?

If you are pulled over, you are required to provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. While you must remain polite, you have the right to remain silent and are not required to answer questions about where you have been or how much you have drunk. You also have the right to refuse field sobriety exercises. However, be aware that under Florida’s “implied consent” law, refusing a breathalyzer test at the station will result in an automatic suspension of your driving privilege.

Can a domestic violence charge be dropped if the victim refuses to testify?

In Florida, the decision to drop domestic violence charges rests solely with the State Attorney’s Office, not the person who made the accusation. Even if the victim signs a “Waiver of Prosecution,” the state may still move forward if it believes it has enough evidence, such as 911 recordings or photos of injuries. A Broward County criminal defense lawyer is necessary to negotiate with prosecutors in these situations.

How long does an arrest in Broward County, FL, stay on my record?

An arrest in Broward County, FL, remains on your record permanently unless you take action to have it sealed or expunged. Even if your charges were dismissed, the record of the arrest is public information. Depending on the outcome of your case and your prior criminal history, you may be eligible for a one-time sealing or expunction to remove the record from public view.

What is the difference between a “No Contact Order” and a “No Hostile Contact Order”?

During a first appearance for a domestic violence arrest, a judge often issues a “No Contact Order,” which means you cannot communicate with the alleged victim in any way or go near their home or workplace. A “No Hostile Contact Order” is less restrictive, allowing for communication as long as it is not threatening or harassing. A criminal defense attorney can petition the court to modify these orders so you can return home or arrange child visitation.

Why was I charged with drug trafficking for a small amount of pills?

In Florida, drug trafficking charges are determined by the weight of the substance, not necessarily the intent to sell. For many prescription medications or synthetic drugs, the threshold for a trafficking charge is surprisingly low. Because trafficking carries mandatory minimum prison sentences, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to discuss defense strategies.

Are You Searching for a “Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me?” Contact Criminal Defense Attorney Matthew Glassman for a Free Consultation!

If you or a loved one has been arrested in the wake of the New Year, do not wait for the situation to get worse. The legal system moves quickly, and the prosecution is already building its case. You need an advocate who will fight for your freedom with the same intensity you would use yourself.

Criminal defense lawyer Matthew Glassman offers a free consultation to discuss the facts of your case and provide an honest assessment of your legal options. By acting now, you can take the first step toward protecting your rights and securing your future.

In the aftermath of a South Florida arrest, the choice of a criminal defense lawyer is the most important decision you will make. Choose a criminal defense lawyer who combines Florida criminal defense knowledge with a relentless drive to get your charges reduced or dismissed altogether. Contact criminal defense lawyer Matthew Glassman today.

About the Law Office of Matthew Glassman

The Law Office of Matthew Glassman is located in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and serves clients throughout Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach Counties. Criminal defense attorney Matthew Glassman handles a wide array of criminal matters, including:

• DUI Defense

• Domestic Violence

• Drug Charges

• Sex Crimes

• Murder and Manslaughter

• Violations of Probation

• Theft and Robbery

• Assault and Battery

• Firearms and Weapons Charges

• White Collar Crimes

Criminal defense attorney Matthew Glassman has been recognized as a Top 100 Trial Attorney by the National Trial Lawyers and holds a 10.0 “Superb” rating on Avvo. He has over 270 5-star Google reviews from previous clients who have hired him to defend their South Florida criminal case. His commitment to client satisfaction and his aggressive approach to defense have made him a sought-after criminal defense lawyer in South Florida.

Media Contact:

Law Office of Matthew Glassman, P.A.
600 SW 4th Avenue
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Phone: (954) 908-3399
URL: Broward County criminal defense attorney | www.matthewglassmanlaw.com

Contact Information:

Law Offices of Matthew Glassman

600 SW 4th Avenue Suite 103
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
United States

Matthew Glassman
(954) 908-3399
https://matthewglassmanlaw.com/