About Broward County

Broward County is located on the southeastern coast of Florida, nestled between Miami-Dade County to the south and Palm Beach County to the north, with the Atlantic Ocean forming its eastern border and the Everglades stretching to the west. Spanning approximately 1,210 square miles, the county encompasses a diverse landscape that ranges from densely populated urban corridors along the coast to the vast, ecologically sensitive wetlands of the western frontier. This geographic variety gives Broward County a distinctive character — part sun-soaked beach destination, part suburban sprawl, and part untamed wilderness — making it one of the most visually and culturally dynamic counties in the state of Florida. With a population of approximately 1,944,375 residents, Broward County is the second most populous county in Florida and one of the most densely populated in the entire southeastern United States. Its residents reflect an extraordinarily diverse tapestry of cultures, languages, and backgrounds, with large communities of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American heritage enriching the region's social and cultural fabric. Fort Lauderdale, the county seat, serves as the urban and administrative heart of Broward, home to a bustling downtown, an internationally recognized waterway system that has earned the city the nickname 'the Venice of America,' and a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Broward County's economy is robust and multifaceted, driven by major industries including tourism, healthcare, marine and boating, aviation, and technology. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades — one of the busiest cruise ports in the world — serve as critical economic engines, connecting the region to global markets and millions of visitors each year. The county is also home to a growing professional services sector, a strong retail and hospitality industry, and several prominent healthcare systems and educational institutions, including Nova Southeastern University. This economic vitality attracts a constant influx of new residents and businesses, making Broward County one of the most dynamic and fast-growing regions in the Sun Belt.

Practice Areas in Broward County

Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Charges, arrests, bail and criminal trials.
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DUI
DUI
DUI charges, licence suspension and reinstatement.
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Family Law
Family Law
Divorce, custody, property and support.
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Immigration Law
Immigration
Visas, green cards, deportation and citizenship.
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Traffic Law
Traffic Law
Traffic violations, licence matters and offences.
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Employment Law
Employment Law
Wrongful termination, discrimination, disputes.
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Courts in Broward County

Broward County is served by several courts operating at both the state and local level. The Broward County Courthouse, located at 201 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, houses the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court, which is Florida's state trial court of general jurisdiction for Broward County and handles felony criminal cases, civil disputes involving amounts over $30,000, family law matters including divorce and child custody, probate, and juvenile cases. The Broward County Court, also operating within the same courthouse complex, handles misdemeanor criminal matters, civil claims up to $30,000, and traffic violations. Additionally, Broward County has several branch courthouses and divisions, including the North Satellite Courthouse in Deerfield Beach and the South Satellite Courthouse in Hallandale Beach, which handle overflow matters and certain local proceedings. Small claims cases involving amounts up to $8,000 are also heard within the County Court division, providing residents an accessible venue for resolving everyday civil disputes without the complexity of full circuit court litigation.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Broward County

In Broward County, the distinction between federal and state jurisdiction determines where a legal case will be heard and which body of law applies. State courts — including the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court and Broward County Court — handle the vast majority of legal matters arising under Florida law, such as state criminal offenses, family law disputes, personal injury claims, landlord-tenant issues, and contract disputes. Federal cases arising in Broward County are heard in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, which maintains a courthouse in Fort Lauderdale at 299 East Broward Boulevard, and has jurisdiction over matters involving federal law, constitutional questions, cases between citizens of different states where the amount in controversy exceeds $75,000, immigration matters, federal crimes, and bankruptcy proceedings. Understanding which court has jurisdiction over a particular matter is a critical first step in any legal dispute, as filing in the wrong court can result in delays, dismissals, or adverse outcomes — making the guidance of an experienced local attorney especially valuable for Broward County residents navigating this dual-court system.

Common Legal Situations in Broward County

Given Broward County's size, dense population, heavy traffic infrastructure, and vibrant nightlife and tourism economy, residents frequently encounter a wide range of legal situations. Traffic-related offenses — including speeding tickets, DUI charges, and reckless driving citations — are among the most common legal issues, particularly along heavily traveled corridors such as I-95, I-595, and US-1. The county's large and diverse population also generates significant demand for family law services, including divorce, child support, alimony, and custody disputes, particularly in communities with blended or internationally mobile families. Criminal defense matters, ranging from misdemeanor drug possession to serious felony charges, are a persistent legal need in both urban and suburban neighborhoods. Employment law disputes, including wage theft, wrongful termination, and workplace discrimination, arise frequently given the county's large hospitality, healthcare, and service industry workforce. Landlord-tenant disputes are also common due to Broward's highly active rental housing market, and personal injury claims stemming from vehicle accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, and boating accidents are a regular feature of the county's legal landscape.

Why Go To Court for Broward County Legal Matters

Go To Court is an excellent choice for Broward County residents who need reliable, accessible, and experienced legal representation across a wide range of matters. The firm offers a 24/7 free legal hotline, ensuring that residents can get answers to urgent legal questions at any hour — a critical advantage in a county where legal situations can arise unexpectedly at any time of the day or night. With fixed-fee legal services coming soon, Go To Court is committed to bringing greater transparency and predictability to legal costs, removing one of the most significant barriers that prevents Broward County residents from seeking the help they need. Backed by an experienced team with deep knowledge of Florida law and the local court system, Go To Court is well-positioned to guide clients through every stage of their legal matter with confidence and care.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I received a traffic ticket in Broward County — do I have to pay it or can I fight it?

In Broward County, you have the right to contest a traffic ticket rather than simply paying the fine, and doing so may help you avoid points on your license and increased insurance premiums. You can elect to attend a court hearing and present your case before a judge, or in some circumstances elect traffic school to have the points withheld. Consulting with a traffic attorney before making any decision is advisable, as the best strategy will depend on the specific violation and your driving history.

How does the divorce process work in Broward County, Florida?

Divorce in Broward County is handled by the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court's Family Division, and Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning either spouse can file for divorce by simply stating that the marriage is irretrievably broken. The process involves filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, serving the other spouse, and resolving all issues including asset division, spousal support, and if applicable, child custody and child support — either through negotiation, mediation, or trial. The timeline varies significantly depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, and legal representation can help ensure your rights and financial interests are fully protected throughout the process.

What should I do if I am arrested in Broward County?

If you are arrested in Broward County, the most important thing you can do is exercise your right to remain silent and immediately request an attorney before answering any questions from law enforcement. After an arrest, you will typically be taken to the Broward County Main Jail and brought before a judge for a first appearance hearing, usually within 24 hours, where bail may be set. Having an attorney present or engaged as early as possible in this process can significantly impact the outcome of your case, from bail conditions to the charges ultimately filed against you.

My landlord in Broward County is refusing to return my security deposit — what are my options?

Under Florida law, a landlord must return your security deposit within 15 days after you vacate if there are no deductions, or within 30 days if they intend to make a claim against the deposit, along with written notice of the reasons for any deductions. If your landlord fails to comply with these deadlines or makes improper deductions, you may have grounds to sue for the return of the deposit plus additional damages in Broward County Court's small claims division. Keeping documentation of the property's condition at move-in and move-out, as well as all written communications with your landlord, will strengthen your position significantly.

Can I file a personal injury claim in Broward County if I was injured in a car accident that wasn't my fault?

Yes, you may have a valid personal injury claim in Broward County if you were injured in a car accident caused by another driver's negligence, though Florida's no-fault insurance system means you must first seek compensation through your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage before pursuing a claim against the at-fault driver. You can step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the responsible party if your injuries meet Florida's serious injury threshold, which includes significant and permanent injuries, disfigurement, or death. Given Florida's statute of limitations and the complexities of insurance negotiations, speaking with a personal injury attorney promptly after an accident can help protect your rights and maximize your potential recovery.

Neighbouring Counties

Broward County is bordered by Palm Beach County to the north, Miami-Dade County to the south, and Collier and Hendry Counties to the west, with the Atlantic Ocean forming its eastern boundary.