The Law Offices of Paul D. Petruzzi, P.A. provide criminal defense representation in Miami, Miami-Dade County, and throughout South Florida. We handle matters in both federal and Florida state courts, including the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida and the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. If you are under investigation or facing charges, we offer a free consultation to discuss your situation and how we may be able to help.
We represent clients in drug trafficking, fraud, money laundering, DUI, assault, domestic violence, theft, probation violations, record sealing, and other criminal matters. Our criminal defense attorneys assist with bond hearings, arraignment, pretrial motions, trials, sentencing, appeals, and post-conviction relief. Contact our Miami office by phone or through our contact form for a confidential free consultation. See our case results and practice areas for more information.
Bond Hearing Representation in Miami-Dade
If you or a loved one has been arrested in Miami or Miami-Dade County, a Miami bond hearing lawyer can represent you at first appearance (bond court) and advocate for release or a reasonable bond. Bond court in Miami-Dade typically occurs within 24 hours of arrest at the Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building. Having counsel at the hearing can make a critical difference in whether bond is set, at what amount, and under what conditions.
Our firm represents clients at bond hearings and throughout the criminal process. We handle Miami bond hearings for all types of charges—from misdemeanors to serious felonies. If you need help getting someone out of jail or securing a bond reduction, contact a Miami criminal defense lawyer for a free consultation.
What Happens at a Bond Hearing in Miami
At first appearance, the judge will advise you of the charges, determine whether you need appointed counsel, and consider bond. The judge evaluates the nature and seriousness of the charges, your criminal history, ties to the community, employment, and risk of flight. Some charges have preset bond amounts under Florida law; others require the judge to set bond. For serious felonies, bond may be denied. An attorney can present favorable information and argue for lower bond or release on recognizance.
Bond Reduction and Getting Someone Out of Jail
Once bond is set, you can post it through the court or a licensed bail bondsman (typically 10% in Florida). If bond is set too high, your attorney can file a motion for bond reduction. The judge may hold a hearing and lower the amount based on additional information. Conditions of release—such as no contact with victims, travel restrictions, or electronic monitoring—may apply. Violating conditions can result in bond revocation.
For more on the process, see our first appearance hearing guide, can you bail out before first appearance, and bail and bond guide.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information and does not create an attorney–client relationship. The information presented is not legal advice and should not be relied upon without consulting with a qualified attorney about your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does bond court happen in Miami-Dade?
First appearance (bond court) in Miami-Dade typically occurs within 24 hours of arrest. Weekend and holiday arrests may mean the hearing happens the next business day. The hearing may be in person or by video from the jail.
Can I get a bond reduction in Miami?
Yes. If bond is set too high, your attorney can file a motion for bond reduction. The judge will hold a hearing and may lower the amount based on additional information about your ties to the community, employment, and lack of flight risk.
Do you represent clients at first appearance?
Yes. We represent clients at bond hearings and first appearance in Miami-Dade. Having counsel at the hearing can help present favorable information and argue for release or lower bond.
Is the consultation free?
Yes. We offer a free consultation to discuss your bond hearing and how we may be able to help.
Request a Free Consultation
If you need assistance with a criminal matter in Miami or South Florida, we are available to discuss your situation and explore how we may be able to help. Free consultations are confidential. We serve clients in Miami-Dade, Broward County, Fort Lauderdale, and throughout Florida. Call us or contact our office to schedule an in-person or secure video meeting.