How Long Does a Criminal Case Usually Take in Miami-Dade County?

By Jonathan Blecher on November 18, 2025

The Miami-Dade criminal case timeline can stretch or shrink depending on many things. The charges you are facing, how complicated the evidence is, whether there is a plea deal, or whether it goes to trial.

At Jonathan B. Blecher, P.A., we have been guiding people through this process for decades. Our work in DUI defense, felony, misdemeanor, and criminal traffic cases across Miami-Dade County gives us an inside view of how these cases unfold. We know that no two situations are exactly the same when it comes to a criminal case, and there are some patterns that can help you understand how long a criminal case usually takes in Miami-Dade County

The First Phase: Arrest and What Comes Right After

The process begins the moment an arrest is made. Once you are in the custody of the police, the clock starts ticking. If you are held, a bond hearing is typically scheduled within a day or two.  That hearing decides whether you can be released, and if so, under what conditions.

Keep in mind that from the moment of arrest, decisions are being made that can affect your entire case. At this stage, we step in to look at the arrest itself, see if your rights were respected, review the evidence, and begin building a defense. Whether the charge is DUI, possession, or something more serious, the foundation is laid here. Early moves can influence everything that comes after.

The Pre-Trial Stage: Hearings, Discovery, and Motions

This part is where the duration of a criminal case in Miami begins to stretch or compress. Some cases fly through this stage in a few months. Others drag on for a year or more. It depends on how complex the evidence is, how fast discovery moves, and how the court calendar looks.

There are a few key events during this stage. The arraignment comes first. That is where charges are formally read, and you enter a plea. Then comes discovery, where both sides exchange information. Police reports, video footage, witness lists, and lab results all get laid out. Depending on what is uncovered, attorneys may file motions to suppress evidence, request additional discovery, or challenge the way the investigation was conducted.

Sometimes, the State offers a plea deal. We will talk with you about what it means, what the risks are, and whether it is worth considering. Not every case needs to go to trial. Some are better resolved through negotiation, but that decision is never made lightly. We walk you through it every step of the way.

Trial Preparation and What to Expect in Court

If the case does not settle, then we prepare for trial. This is where strategy becomes vital. Attorneys begin selecting witnesses, outlining arguments, and anticipating what the prosecution will bring to court. Preparation can take time, and trial dates are often rescheduled. Judges’ calendars get crowded, and sometimes the lawyers are ready before the court is. Other times, it is the other way around.

When the trial finally begins, its length depends on the type of charge. A simple misdemeanor might wrap up in a day or two, but a complex felony case could last a week or longer. The number of witnesses, the volume of evidence, and the legal arguments being raised can all affect how long a Miami criminal court case takes once it reaches this point.

The courtroom can feel slow since there are pauses, objections, delays, and sidebars. For the person on trial, every minute feels heavy. We are there to make sure you are not alone in that room, that your voice is heard, and your rights are protected.

After Trial: Sentencing and Appeals

If there is a conviction, sentencing usually follows shortly after. In some cases, it happens the same day. Other times, it is scheduled a few weeks later to allow for pre-sentence reports and further argument. Sentencing can include anything from probation to jail time, depending on the charge and your history.

There is also the question of appeals. If you believe something went wrong during the trial, or that your rights were violated, there may be grounds to challenge the outcome. Appeals take time; they are handled by higher courts and require written arguments. They are not automatic, and they are not fast, but in some cases, they are necessary.

What Can Make a Case Move Faster or Slower?

Many things can change the Miami-Dade criminal case timeline. Sometimes, it is a simple matter of how many cases the court is handling. Other times, it is about how fast the prosecution turns over discovery. In some cases, the defense may need more time to investigate or find expert witnesses. Your attorney may need to file motions that pause the case while they are resolved.

The complexity of the charges plays a huge role. A DUI defense case might move faster than a fraud or weapons case. Some charges carry mandatory minimums or trigger special procedures that take longer. The more witnesses and the more evidence, the longer things can stretch.

Another big factor is how proactive you are. When clients cooperate, show up, respond quickly, and stay engaged, things tend to move more efficiently. That cooperation helps attorneys build a stronger case and stay ahead of deadlines.

What You Can Expect From Us

At Jonathan B. Blecher, P.A., we understand how overwhelming this process can be. You want to know where you stand and how long you will have to live with this weight on your shoulders. That is why our approach is personal. We do not just represent you. We walk with you, every step of the way. We tailor our Criminal Defense Services to your case and treat you with respect from day one.

Whether your case takes two months or twelve, you will not be left in the dark. We explain what is happening, what to expect, and what your options are at every stage. We bring over four decades of experience to your corner. You will be represented by someone who knows the system, the judges, and how to fight.

Visit the page About Jonathan B. Blecher, P.A. to learn more about our background, experience, and commitment to protecting your rights. Let us help you understand how long a Miami criminal court case lasts and take the next step.