Frequently Asked Questions

A criminal defense lawyer acts as your shield and advocate. Their role involves investigating the facts of your case, reviewing police reports, videos, body camera footage, talking to witnesses, identifying constitutional violations (like illegal searches), advocating with prosecutors for dismissals or reduced charges, negotiating favorable resolutions and representing you in court or at trial to protect your freedom.

Yes. The “cost” of not hiring an attorney often far outweighs the legal fees. A skilled Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney can potentially prevent a permanent criminal record, save your job, protect your professional licenses, and—most importantly—keep you out of jail.

Fees vary based on the complexity of the case. In Florida, misdemeanors often range from $2,000 to $7,500, while felonies can range from $5,000 to well over $25,000 depending on the severity of the charges, facts and criminal history of the defendant. Most Broward County criminal defense lawyers use a “flat fee” structure so you know the total cost upfront.

While some public defenders are dedicated and very skilled advocates, often they are overburdened with hundreds of cases and required to spend hours daily in a courtroom. That leaves them stretched thin on how much personal attention and time they have to dedicate to your case.  A private Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer like Matthew Glassman provides personalized attention, faster communication, and the ability to act immediately to strengthen your defense and point out the weaknesses in the State’s case against you.

Immediately. The most critical stage of a case is often before formal charges are filed. You should reach out to a criminal defense attorney within 72 hours after your arrest if you are unable to do so immediately. If the attorney is hired right after your arrest, they can represent you at first appearance in Court to try and negotiate the best terms of release.  Engaging a criminal defense lawyer early on allows them to speak with a case filer at the State Attorney’s Office to try and get them to potentially “no-file” or “no info” (dismiss) the case before it ever hits the court docket.

Do not speak to anyone until you have a Broward County criminal defense attorney by your side. Exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say to “clear your name” can and will be used against you by law enforcement. Cops routinely twist and misconstrue a defendant’s statement to try and fit their own narrative.

Absolutely. DUI cases are highly technical. A Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer can challenge the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of breathalyzer results, and the administration of field sobriety tests to keep your license valid and your record clean.

Yes. Domestic violence allegations are very common and can lead to “no contact” orders that bar you from your own home loved ones. As a seasoned Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney, Matthew Glassman works to resolve these sensitive issues quickly, often by working with the alleged victim and the state to have charges dropped.

A misdemeanor is a crime punishable by up to one year in county jail. A felony is more serious, punishable by years in state prison. Both carry the risk of a permanent record, making it vital to consult a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer regardless of the charge level.

If your case was dismissed or you received a “withhold of adjudication,” you may be eligible to seal or expunge your record. A Broward County criminal defense attorney can handle the complex paperwork with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to try and obtain a certificate of eligibility to be able to petition the Court for a seal or expunge. 

A failure to read Miranda rights doesn’t mean your case is automatically dismissed, but it may mean that your statements cannot be used as evidence. Your Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney will file a “Motion to Suppress” to throw out evidence of an illegal statement.

In Florida, you have no duty to retreat if you are attacked in a place you have a right to be. A criminal defense lawyer can request a special immunity “Stand Your Ground” hearing to try and have your charges dismissed entirely if you acted in self-defense.

Contact a Broward County criminal defense lawyer immediately. They can often arrange a “Walk-Through,” allowing you to turn yourself in and be released on bond within hours, avoiding a standard arrest and overnight stay in jail.

Yes. From Driving While License Suspended to Reckless Driving, these are criminal traffic offenses that can lead to jail time. A Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer can help protect your driving record and your freedom.

This happens within 24 hours of arrest. A judge decides if there is enough evidence to hold you and sets a bond amount. Having a Broward County criminal defense attorney at this hearing is crucial to argue for a low bond or an “R.O.R.” (release on your own recognizance).

Simple cases may resolve in 3–6 months, while complex felonies can take over a year. Your criminal defense attorney will attend “Status Conferences” on your behalf to ensure the state is moving fairly and keep you updated every step of the way.

Penalties vary based on the substance and quantity, ranging from misdemeanors to first-degree felonies with mandatory minimum prison sentences. An experienced Broward County criminal defense attorney can often explore diversion programs or drug court to avoid incarceration.

Yes. Domestic violence charges carry significant “collateral consequences,” such as the loss of firearm rights and strict injunctions. As a seasoned Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney, Matthew Glassman works to uncover the truth and mitigate the long-term impact on your life.

Fees depend on the complexity of the charges and the expected duration of the case. Most Broward County criminal defense attorneys offer a free initial consultation to discuss fee structures, which may be flat-rate or based on a retainer.

Not necessarily. Many cases are resolved through plea negotiations, dismissions, or pre-trial intervention programs. However, you should hire a criminal defense lawyer who is an experienced trial advocate and is always prepared to fight in front of a jury if it serves your best interests.

Held within 24 hours of arrest, this hearing is where a judge determines probable cause and sets bond. Having a Broward County criminal defense attorney present can be the difference between going home or staying in jail.

VOPs are dangerous because you do not have the right to a jury trial and the burden of proof is lower. A Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer is essential to argue for your reinstatement or a reduced sentence.

PTI is a diversion program for mostly first-time, non-violent offenders. If you complete the program, your charges are dismissed. A Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney can negotiate with the state to see if you qualify.

Criminal convictions can lead to deportation or denial of naturalization. It is vital to hire a criminal defense lawyer who understands the immigration consequences of different pleas.

Yes. We defend clients against allegations of fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. These cases require a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney with a deep understanding of complex financial evidence.

Yes. Innocent people are charged with crimes every day. Without a Broward County criminal defense attorney to point out the flaws in the state’s case or find exculpatory evidence, you risk being caught in a system that is designed to prosecute, not protect.

Yes. If you feel your current attorney isn’t communicating or fighting for you, you have the right to hire new counsel. Matthew Glassman frequently takes over cases from other firms to provide the aggressive advocacy the client was missing.

Certain crimes, especially those involving firearms or large amounts of drugs, carry “mandatory minimums,” meaning a judge must sentence you to a specific amount of prison time. A criminal defense lawyer works to get your charges reduced to avoid these harsh penalties.

Yes. Florida has very strict laws regarding the possession of firearms by felons or carrying concealed weapons without a permit. We provide a rigorous defense to protect your 2nd Amendment rights and your freedom.

A “No Contest” plea has the same immediate effect as a guilty plea but cannot be used against you as an admission of guilt in a later civil lawsuit. Pleading “No Contest” preserves your right to potentially seal your case if you otherwise would qualify.  Your Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney will advise you if this is the right strategy for your case.

With almost two decades of experience and a background handling major crimes and homicide cases at the Broward County Public Defender’s Office, Matthew Glassman knows the local courts, procedures, and prosecutors. He offers the aggressive advocacy you need when your freedom is on the line.

Choosing the right legal representation is the most critical decision you will make after an arrest. At the Law Office of Matthew Glassman, we provide a level of advocacy that combines the aggressive strategies of a high-stakes litigator with the personalized care of a boutique firm.

Here are why clients across South Florida trust Matthew Glassman as their Broward County criminal defense lawyer:

1. Almost two decades of Local Courtroom Experience

Matthew Glassman isn’t just familiar with the law; he is intimately familiar with the Broward County legal landscape. Having spent years as an Assistant Public Defender in the 17th Judicial Circuit before he started his Law Firm, he has handled thousands of cases. He knows the specific tendencies of local judges and the negotiation styles of the State Attorneys, giving his clients a distinct “home-field” advantage.

2. Direct Access to Your Attorney

One of the biggest complaints in the legal industry is the inability to reach a lawyer. We do things differently. Every client is given Matthew Glassman’s personal cell phone number. You won’t be passed off to a paralegal or an associate; you will speak directly with Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney Matthew Glassman while handling your life-altering legal matter.

3. A Record of Proven Results

Whether it is a high-profile felony or a first-time DUI, our goal is always the same: getting you the best result possible based on the facts and circumstances in your case.  We have successfully navigated complex cases involving:

• Drug Trafficking and Possession
• Violent Crimes and Domestic Violence
• DUI and Criminal Traffic Offenses
• White Collar and Financial Crimes
• Violations of Probation (VOP)
• Weapon Charges
• Sex Crimes
• Homicide/Manslaughter Charges

4. Proactive “Pre-File” Intervention

The best way to win a case is to stop it before it starts. Matthew Glassman focuses in pre-file representations. By intervening immediately after an arrest in Broward County—often before the prosecutor has even looked at the file—he can frequently convince the State Attorney’s Office to “No Action” (drop) the charges entirely.

5. Trial-Ready Advocacy

Many lawyers are “plea attorneys” who avoid the courtroom at all costs. Prosecutors know who is afraid of trial and who isn’t. Because Matthew Glassman is a seasoned trial lawyer, he negotiates from a position of strength. If the state refuses to offer a fair resolution, we are prepared to take your case to a jury to fight for a “Not Guilty” verdict.

6. Compassionate & Non-Judgmental Support

An arrest is often the most stressful event in a person’s life. We provide a grounded, empathetic environment where you can speak freely. Our role is to defend you, not judge you. We handle the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on getting your life back on track.