The first 24 to 48 hours after a Florida arrest are the most critical window for legal intervention. An attorney present at first appearance (which must happen within 24 hours per Florida Rule 3.130) can argue for reduced bond, release on recognizance, or diversion eligibility. This page covers how to find a Florida criminal defense lawyer fast, what they typically charge, when a public defender is the right call, and what to ask before you hire.
Florida guarantees criminal defendants the right to counsel under the Sixth Amendment and Article I, Section 16 of the Florida Constitution. You have two paths: hire a private attorney, or apply for a court-appointed Public Defender if you qualify financially.
Each of Florida's 20 judicial circuits has a Public Defender's Office serving qualifying defendants. Application is typically made at first appearance. Qualification is based on income and assets; roughly speaking, if you qualify for most public benefits or earn below roughly 200% of the federal poverty line, you likely qualify.
Pros: Free (or $50 to $100 application fee). Experienced in local courts and with local judges/prosecutors. Often handle volume cases efficiently.
Cons: Heavy caseloads limit time per case. Limited ability to pursue extensive investigations, expert witnesses, or appeals without extra public funding approval.
Any Florida Bar member in good standing can represent criminal defendants. Board-certified criminal trial lawyers (the Florida Bar's specialization designation) are the top tier.
Pros: More time per case. Can invest in investigators, experts, and strategy. Available for consultation between court dates. Can advocate aggressively for bond reductions and diversion.
Cons: Cost. Typical Florida criminal defense fees range from $1,500 for simple misdemeanors to $25,000+ for complex felonies with trial. Very complex cases (federal, major trafficking, homicide) can run well into six figures.
Florida criminal defense attorneys generally charge flat fees rather than hourly rates for criminal cases. Below are typical ranges based on case type:
| Case Type | Typical Flat Fee Range |
|---|---|
| Simple misdemeanor (first offense) | $1,500 to $3,500 |
| DUI (first offense) | $2,500 to $5,000 |
| DUI (with prior or aggravating) | $4,000 to $10,000 |
| Domestic violence misdemeanor | $2,500 to $5,000 |
| Drug possession (misdemeanor) | $2,000 to $4,000 |
| Third-degree felony (non-trial) | $3,500 to $7,500 |
| Third-degree felony (with trial) | $7,500 to $15,000 |
| Second-degree felony | $7,500 to $20,000 |
| First-degree felony (non-capital) | $15,000 to $50,000+ |
| Capital murder (pre-trial) | $50,000 to $150,000+ |
| Federal criminal case (moderate complexity) | $15,000 to $50,000 |
| Federal criminal case (complex) | $50,000 to $250,000+ |
Beyond the flat fee, clients may also be responsible for "costs" such as filing fees, court reporter fees, expert witness fees, and investigator fees. A well-drafted engagement agreement clarifies what is included and what is billed separately.
Every practicing Florida criminal defense attorney must be a Florida Bar member in good standing. Verify at:
Most Florida criminal defense attorneys offer a free initial consultation. Come prepared with specific questions:
Be wary of attorneys who guarantee specific outcomes. Florida Bar ethics rules prohibit lawyers from guaranteeing results. Reasonable attorneys describe probable outcomes as ranges with acknowledged uncertainty.
If your loved one has just been arrested, prioritize hiring for the first appearance hearing (within 24 hours of arrest). A private attorney at first appearance can:
For after-hours arrests, most established criminal defense firms have 24/7 intake lines. Expect to pay a retainer before the attorney appears at first appearance, typically $1,000 to $3,000 for a simple case, more for complex.
Most Florida criminal defense attorneys will work with clients on payment plans, especially for larger fees. Common arrangements:
If cost is prohibitive, the Public Defender is the right path. Do not hire an under-qualified attorney to save money on a serious case; the long-term cost of a bad outcome far exceeds the fee difference.
If you need help finding a qualified Florida criminal defense attorney in the right county, call our free 24/7 line. We can point you to The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service or local criminal defense specialists.
Call (786) 600-3533 →This page is informational only and not legal advice. Calls may be answered by a licensed bail bond agent, not an attorney.