First Appearance Lawyer in Miami
Legal representation for first appearance hearings, bond hearings, and release conditions in Miami-Dade criminal cases.
When someone is arrested in Miami-Dade, one of the first stages of the criminal court process is the first appearance hearing before a judge. At that hearing, the court may review probable cause, advise the accused of the charges, consider release conditions, and determine whether a bond, release on recognizance, or other conditions may be appropriate.
Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers is a law firm. We are not a bail bond agency, bail bondsman, surety company, bond company, or bail financing service. We do not post bonds, pay bonds, finance bonds, or act as surety for defendants. Our service is legal representation in criminal court. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Arrested in Miami?
Your First 24 Hours Matter Most!
Don't Stress!
Need Representation at a First Appearance Hearing in Miami?
The first court hearing can affect release conditions and the early direction of the case.
After an arrest in Miami-Dade, the first appearance before a judge may happen quickly. At that hearing, the court may review probable cause, advise the accused of the charges, and consider conditions of release.
Having a prepared criminal defense lawyer allows the court to hear relevant information about residence, employment, family responsibilities, health, prior record, community ties, and other factors that may matter at the hearing.
Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers represents people accused of crimes at first appearance hearings, bond hearings, bond review hearings, and other criminal defense matters in Miami-Dade.
Call us now at (305) 644-1800 for a FREE CRIMINAL DEFENSE STRATEGY SESSION
Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers is a law firm. We are not a bail bond agency, bail bondsman, surety company, bond company, or bail financing service. We do not post bonds, pay bonds, finance bonds, or act as surety for defendants. Our service is legal representation in criminal court. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
What Is a First Appearance Hearing in Miami?
A first appearance hearing is a court hearing before a judge after an arrest. In many cases, the judge may consider important issues related to the arrest and possible release conditions.
During this hearing, the court may consider:
- Whether probable cause exists for the arrest.
- The nature of the charges.
- The rights of the accused.
- Possible release conditions.
- Whether a reasonable bond may be appropriate.
- Whether release on recognizance may be appropriate.
- Whether there are holds, warrants, or special conditions.
- Whether the case requires an additional hearing.
A criminal defense lawyer can present legal arguments and personal circumstances so the court has relevant information before making a decision.
Why Choose Albert Quirantes for a First Appearance or Bond Hearing in Miami?
Albert Quirantes, Esq. has practiced law for more than 35 years and has defended people accused of crimes throughout Miami-Dade and South Florida.
Our team offers:
- Criminal defense focused on Miami-Dade and South Florida.
- Legal representation at first appearance hearings and bond hearings.
- Attention to time-sensitive criminal cases.
- Communication by phone, text, Zoom, or office consultation.
- Preparation of legal arguments and supporting documentation.
- Practical knowledge of local criminal courts.
- Honest, strategic, and prepared defense.
- Review of holds, warrants, and special release conditions.
- Preparation for the next steps in the criminal case.
Every client deserves a serious, prepared, and personalized defense.
We represent people accused of crimes in court. We are not a bail bond agency, bondsman, surety company, or bail financing service.
Situations That May Affect Release Conditions
Probation Hold
Arrest While Out on Another Case
Nebbia Hold
Immigration Hold or Immigration-Related Issues
If there is an immigration hold or an issue involving ICE, our criminal defense team now works hand-in-hand with our dedicated in house immigration lawyer. Together, they address ICE holds promptly, assist in securing an immigration bond—whether from ICE, the Immigration Court, or through filing a Writ of Habeas Corpus petition in federal court to pursue release.
Our immigration team also prepares petitions for political asylum, I-130 family-based petitions, and thoroughly explores every form of release available under the Immigration and Nationality Act, informed by the latest case law and legal precedents. We leave no stone unturned in working to secure our clients’ release from jail or prison
Out-of-County or Out-of-State Warrants
Serious Charges That May Require Additional Hearings
What Happens at the First Appearance Hearing?
During the first appearance hearing, the judge may:
- Review the arrest affidavit.
- Determine whether probable cause exists.
- Advise the accused of the initial charges.
- Consider conditions of release.
- Evaluate whether a bond, release on recognizance, or other conditions may be appropriate.
- Review whether there are holds or warrants.
- Enter no-contact orders when required by law or the facts.
- Set the next steps in the case.
The defense can present arguments and personal circumstances so the court has relevant information before deciding initial conditions.
Types of Court Decisions and Release Conditions the Judge May Consider
At a first appearance or bond review hearing, the judge may consider different conditions based on the facts of the case, the charges, prior record, and information presented by the parties.
Possible court decisions or conditions may include:
- Release on recognizance, when appropriate.
- A bond set by the court.
- Reduction of a previously set bond.
- Pretrial services supervision.
- No-contact orders.
- Travel restrictions.
- Electronic monitoring.
- Drug or alcohol testing.
- Curfew.
- House arrest.
- A hold based on another case, probation, immigration, or a pending warrant.
- An additional hearing when required by law.
Our law firm does not post bonds, pay bonds, finance bonds, or act as surety. Our work is to represent the accused in court, present legal arguments to the judge, and request reasonable release conditions when appropriate.
Our Strategy at a First Appearance or Bond Hearing
Our work may include:
- 1. Reviewing the arrest and available police report.
- Evaluating whether probable cause exists.
- Presenting information about employment, family, residence, and community ties.
- Requesting reasonable release conditions.
- Asking for a bond reduction when appropriate.
- Requesting release on recognizance when the facts allow.
- Coordinating supporting documentation with family members.
- Evaluating whether holds, warrants, or immigration issues may affect release.
- Preparing the next steps in the criminal case.
Every case depends on its own facts. Early legal guidance can help the family organize the information the court may need.
General Information About Miami-Dade Court Zoom Access
Some hearings may be available by Zoom or remote access, depending on the type of case, court division, judicial calendar, and current court rules. This information should be verified before each hearing because links, courtrooms, schedules, and Zoom IDs can change.
Important Notice:
Court Zoom access information is provided only as general orientation. Always verify the official court information before connecting.
Weekday Adult Criminal Felony Hearings
Verify the current courtroom, calendar, and Zoom access information with the court before the hearing.
Weekday (Monday – Friday) Zoom
Access to Felony Bond Hearings, Courtroom 1-5, Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building, 9:00am and 1:30pm:
Zoom ID: 932 0830 6120
Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/93208306120
Zoom Telephone Access: Dial (786) 635-1003 or (312) 626-6799, and enter Zoom ID when prompted: 932 0830 6120
Weekday Adult County Criminal Misdemeanor and Traffic Hearings
Verify the current courtroom, calendar, and Zoom access information with the court before the hearing.
(Weekday Misdemeanor and Traffic Jail Arraignments)
Zoom ID: 935 7140 8057
Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/93571408057
Zoom Telephone Access: Dial (786) 635-1003 or (312) 626-6799, and enter Zoom ID when prompted: 935 7140 8057
Domestic Violence Hearings
Verify the current courtroom, calendar, and Zoom access information with the court before the hearing.
At the Lawson Thomas Courthouse Center located at 175 NW 1st Avenue, Miami, FL 33128, BOND HEARING ACCESS:
Zoom ID: 940 6324 6771
Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/94063246771
Zoom Telephone Access: Dial (786) 635-1003 or (312) 626-6799, and enter Zoom ID when prompted: 940 6324 6771
Weekend and Holiday Hearings
Verify the current courtroom, calendar, and Zoom access information with the court before the hearing.
Juvenile Bond Hearings Courtroom 4-2 , Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building, on Weekends and Holidays, 9:00am and 1:30pm
Zoom ID: 996 0478 5521
Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/99604785521
Zoom Telephone Access: Dial (786) 635-1003 or (312) 626-6799, and enter Zoom ID when prompted: 996 0478 5521
Domestic Violence, Traffic, Misdemeanor and Felony Bond Hearings Courtroom 1-5, Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building, on Weekends and Holidays, 9:00am and 1:30pm
Zoom ID: 932 0830 6120
Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/93208306120
Zoom Telephone Access: Dial (786) 635-1003 or (312) 626-6799, and enter Zoom ID when prompted: 932 0830 6120
Next Steps After the First Appearance Hearing
The first hearing is only the beginning. After that stage, the case may continue with arraignment, negotiation with the prosecution, investigation, filing of motions, additional hearings, and trial if necessary.
Our team can assist with:
- Felony defense.
- Misdemeanor defense.
- Domestic violence cases.
- DUI cases.
- Drug cases.
- Theft and property cases.
- Firearm and weapon cases.
- Probation violations.
- Motions to reduce bond.
- Motions to suppress evidence.
- Negotiation with the prosecution.
- Trial preparation.
Our goal is to protect the client’s rights at every stage of the criminal process.
Case Discussions and Legal Information Videos
The videos below provide general information about criminal defense issues, court appearances, and examples of legal topics our firm handles. Every case is different, and prior results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Great day in Court for Lawyer and Client Miami Circuit Court Criminal Division Victory For Quirantes
Fought and Won Unfair Criminal case in Fort Lauderdale County Court with attorney Albert Quirantes
This video is for general informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Why Clients Choose Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers
Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers is a Miami criminal defense law firm with more than 35 years of experience representing people accused of crimes.
Clients choose our firm because we offer:
- More than 35 years of criminal defense experience.
- Reasonable fees.
- Thousands of cases handled in Miami-Dade.
- Practical knowledge of local criminal courts.
- Communication by text, phone, Zoom, or in-office consultation.
- Personalized service from start to finish.
- Careful preparation of legal arguments and documents.
- Serious, honest, and strategic defense.
No lawyer can guarantee a result. Every case depends on its own facts, the evidence, the law, and the decision of the court.
Speak With a Criminal Defense Lawyer Before the First Court Hearing
If someone close to you has been arrested in Miami-Dade, an early legal consultation can help you understand the process, gather important information, and prepare arguments that may be presented to the court.
The defense can review the type of charge, location of detention, prior record, possible holds, community ties, and possible release conditions.
Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers offers free strategy sessions in criminal cases.
“Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers” is an experienced Miami criminal defense law firm with over 35 years of experience, dedicated exclusively to defending the accused.
Satisfied Clients Directly From Google
Clients have shared their experiences working with Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers. Every case is different, and prior results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Raul De Armas
I contacted this office to discuss the possibility of changing my current attorney and hiring Mr Quirantes.
I was more than surprised that he took the time to pull up my case and discuss what my options were. This is in my opinion a straight forward honest professional who genuinely cares about his clients.
He didn’t have to provide the detailed information that he did and advised me of the best option which was to keep my current council.
He did not even push for me to switch my current attorney but advised me that I was in good hands and that says a lot about his integrity.
If ever I need a capable lawyer I will use him in the future. I would recommend for anyone to do the same
James Dawson
Mr. Quirantes and his team were great to work with! He was able to get my situation resolved with the bare minimum charges and knowing what I was originally looking at, I thought there was no way that could happen. There were times that I was overwhelmed with worry but he did a great job of letting me know to “stay calm and let his team do all the heaving lifting.” In the end, his team did as he promised and I couldn’t be more happier with the lawyer I hired to represent me.
If you ever get your self into a situation where you believe nothing can be done about it, give Albert Quirantes a call and give him a chance to help you like he helped me.
Shout out to Angela too. She was a pleasure to work with and was always prompt in her responses back to me and providing everything I needed to get my case closed.
A great lawyer with a great team! Highly recommended!
JM Sarmiento
Exceptional attorney!I want to extend my gratitude to Mr. Quirantes and his entire office for assisting me with my case. From my first consultation, Albert and his staff were professional, kind, and efficient. He took the time to answer all of my questions and thoroughly explain the next steps and the process. I never had to set foot in a courtroom and he got my case dismissed.His practice has very reasonable fees with outstanding results! Mr. Quirantes made sure to be in constant communication throughout the process and would keep me informed of what was happening at all times. I strongly recommend his services and I am grateful to have found him.Thank you, Albert! You rock!
Oliver Reyes
I was so scared. I was arrested almost 5 years ago. That’s how long this odyssey has taken. I was scared, on my last nerves, and with lots of anxiety about my future facing a felony DUI with bodily injury. I remember looking at reviews, and reading reddit about what will happen, and what to expect. Then I found Alberto Quirantes’ website on Google. I can say this out of the choices in these past 5 years, choosing Alberto Quirantes and his amazing team was the best I have ever made, perhaps even in my whole life. That’s because they saved my life. I was looking at 9 years based on the circumstances. From the beginning they gave me confidence and promised they would fight tooth and nail to get the best outcome. These guys are experts, and the team has amazing members that always cater to you and are always ready to help. I remember reading all those reviews and what ifs 5 years ago, and I am now one of them finally writing this review. With a large weight off of my shoulders and breathing way deeper breaths. The purgatory that has been my life these past 5 years was hard. But today I am a free man. No jail time and from multiple felonies and fees and punishments, down to 1 misdemeanor and only 6 months probation. 9 years to 6 months of no jail. These guys are the best definitely if you’re scared and reading this wondering, stop wondering and searching this is THE team!
AJ Moore
Awesome Service! I was so used to lawyers just taking my money and not caring about the outcome. I gave Mr. Quirantes an attitude from the start! He was so calm and reassuring. He totally made me put my guard down with his easy going demeanor and professional confidence. I was tense about having to deal with a situation out of state but he put me right at ease. I want to thank him being so patient and professional. I would recommend him to anyone that needs his service. He’s definitely one of a kind!
Ulises Almanza
Tô whom it may concern,
I have had a very pleasurable experience working with Mr Quirantes as my Lawyer. He has been really knowledgeable on my case and always available for me.
One of my most pleasurable experience is that he is always been available and ready to listen and always has a game plan when referring to my case. I feel very confident and comfortable recommending him as a lawyer to my friends and family.
Most importantly is that ever since I met him he’s always taken a personal responsibility in handling my case
I recommend Mr Quirantes to al your legal needs
Rick Amador
Just wanted to leave this review.
From the moment I walked into the office I was greeted with a warm response and understanding of a difficult situation and bad decision I had made. Every single person at this firm is amazing. Willing to listen, to reach back in a timely manner and always trying to make you feel like you are not a bad individual for making a mistake. We are all human and this firm makes you feel like one, not just a numbered case. I highly recommend them for whatever situation you are going through. I’m extremely happy with my outcome. Look to them first before anyone else.
Cindy G
Gracias al abogado Quirantes mi caso fue cerrado, el cual fue un caso dificil, fui encontrada
no culpable. El lucho por mi desde el principio hasta lograr su objetivo!!!
Creeme si necesitas un abogado que luche por ti hasta el final como si el caso fuera suyo Albert
quirantes es quien necesitas .5 estrellas no son suficientes para su calidad de trabajo y esfuerzo.
Gracias infinitas!!!
Alice Llaurado
I know of many people that have hired this firm and have come out favorable with this best possible outcome. This firm will absolutely do what they say and not steal your money. Everyone I know that has encountered this firm was grateful they did. They have in depth knowledge of the law and always find the most strategic techniques to fix everyone problem big or small that you might be facing. They treat you as family not another client. If anyone is ever in jam, should definitely contact them.
Alberto Quirantes and team are the most loyal and honest firm I have heard from everyone that has hired them. They are extremely loyal and will fight for your rights until the very end no matter how long it takes. They will listen to your needs and built the most strategic way to get you out of any and all problems. I am speaking on a personal level. This firm has changed many lives for only the better despite when things seemed so dark @ one point. If you hire this firm it will be the best decision you make in your most troubling times!!!
Ernesto Hernandez
Albert Quirantes has been my lawyer for over 35 years. There is no one else I would trust more to handle my cases as he always gets me the best results. The entire team in his law firm is very professional and dedicated. To Angela the office manager and the entire team I want to say thank you for treating me like family all these years, your care and professionalism has not gone unnoticed.
CN Lavish
Prior to me finding Mr. Quirantes office I reached out to several other lawyers in the Miami metropolitan area. I am not sure if the lawyers I connected with first were confused about my need for legal representation or thought my situation was something they did not feel like dealing with. Through a google search, I came across Mr. Quairantes office and after an informative conversation, I knew Mr. Quirantes office would be perfect to handle my situation. During the consultation, Mr. Quirantes was straightforward and ensured me that he can help by directly answering my questions without jargon. I know enough about the law to be able to hold a non-fast-talking conversation with a lawyer and Mr. Quirantes was not a fast talker and fully explained the potential outcomes of my situation in a way that I could understand. Mr. Quirantes team was professional, efficient, and timely with their services. Communication was consistent and impeccable and I have dealt with many lawyers with horrible communication. The cost was affordable and Mr. Quiarantes was flexible with his payment option because my situation required a little more expertise than most. If you are considering a legal team I highly recommend Mr. Quairantes and his team. The legal team started working on my case immediately and delivered results within 2 days. Now you talk about working magic…!!
William Blandon
I thought because this lawyer was so famous and we’ll known, he would be very expensive. Don’t judge a book by its cover. Despite Mr. Quirantes fame on network news and social media and the quality of his work, which I researched before going there, his fees were surprisingly affordable. That just goes to show, that quality does not have to be expensive when you get the right lawyer. I hired Mr. QUIRANTES for a complicated legal matter which he was able to win for me in short shrift. He is very personable and accesible. God led me to his office because I found out he is also a believer who prays over his clients and their files. His office staff is cheerful and accommodating and I was kept informed throughout my entire legal process. I am very appreciative of having met this lawyer who I now consider my friend. I highly recommend him and his team!
Jairo Reyes
I was facing serious criminal charges, I was very worried about everything considering I had 4 charges, three of them were dismissed through the hard work and detail towards my case, I’m more than happy with the outcome as I get to continue with my freedom and normal activities which may not have been possible if I would have gone with another firm. I am a repeat client of Mr. Quirantes. He has also successfully represented my friends. He’s been around for many years and is a trustworthy attorney. The attention at the firm was stupendous, great customer service. Here’s a shout out to Angie and Mr. Jorge Alonso, a great attorney in his own right. Keep up the good work. Hopefully I will never have to be back but if ever need a lawyer again you will be it. Thank you once again.
RICHARD RODRIGUEZ
I am to Mr. Quirantes and his team. They truly went above and beyond to ensure that I received the best possible outcome in my case. Their professionalism, expertise, and compassion made a difficult situation much more manageable for me.
If you are facing criminal charges and need legal representation, I highly recommend the Law Offices of Albert Quirantes. From start to finish, they provided top-notch service and support, and I could not have asked for a better outcome in my case.
Thank you, Mr. Quirantes, for all that you did for me ? you truly are an outstanding attorney who cares deeply about his clients? well-being.
Kevin Zhou
I am soooo happy to hire Mr. Quirantes to present me for a Reckless driving citation case. The reckless driving citation will post a crime record on me if guilty. Mr. Quirantes is very experienced and smart. He did a great job at the court and successfully get me away from the Reckless drivimg charge. Great job !! I would recommend Mr. Quirantes to anyone who is seeking a crime defendence.
Richard
Not only a Lawyer a Great Person by your Side.
Albert Quirantes is a great Criminal / DUI lawyer , has alot of knowledge, and understands the legal
system very well. What he tells you is what it is, Over 30 year practicing law. I strongly recommend
Mr.Quirantes not only will he Win but he will guide you, and make sure you understand your rights.
Miami’s Best Lawyer. After Representing me multiple times in different Traffic Ticket cases I can
recommend Mr.Quirantes, he is also kind and gentle.Mr.Quirantes is an aggressive Trail lawyer
that will 9/10 win don’t think twice if you’re looking for great results, if you are confuse in picking
the right Legal defense lawyer. This is not advertising these are facts Choose Albert Quirantes, his
representation is worth every dollar. Thank you Mr.Quirantes.
Do you have PAYMENT PLANS and OPTIONS at your office?
How Much Does It Cost To Hire a Bond Hearing Lawyer in Miami?
How much money does it cost to see a Bond Hearing Lawyer immediately?
Are you a bail bond agency?
No. We are a criminal defense law firm. We are not a bail bond agency, bail bondsman, surety company, or bail financing service. We provide legal representation in court for people accused of crimes.
Can you pay or post bond for my family member?
No. Our work is legal representation. We can request reasonable release conditions, a bond reduction, or release on recognizance when appropriate, but we do not pay bonds, post bonds, finance bonds, or act as surety.
What happens at a first appearance hearing?
The judge may review probable cause, advise the accused of the charges, consider release conditions, and determine whether a bond, release on recognizance, or other conditions may be appropriate.
Can a lawyer ask for a bond reduction?
Yes. Depending on the facts, a lawyer may ask the court to reduce a bond or consider alternative release conditions. The result depends on the judge, the charges, the evidence, prior record, and other legal factors.
Does first appearance always happen within 24 hours?
Generally, a person who has been arrested must be brought before a judge without unnecessary delay. The exact timing may depend on the arrest, jail processing, court schedule, and applicable rules.
What should the family gather before the hearing?
The family should gather useful information about residence, employment, education, health, family responsibilities, and community ties. This information may help the lawyer prepare arguments for the hearing.
Can you guarantee that someone will be released?
No. No lawyer can guarantee a result. The judge decides based on the law, the facts, the charges, prior record, and the information presented at the hearing.
Is the consultation free?
In criminal cases, we offer a free strategy session. For other types of matters, please contact the office to confirm consultation availability and terms.
Speak With a Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you need guidance about a first appearance hearing, bond hearing, or criminal case in Miami-Dade, contact Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers.
Call or text 305-644-1800 for a free criminal defense strategy session.
Legal representation for first appearance hearings, bond hearings, and release conditions. We are not a bail bond agency, bail bondsman, surety company, or bail financing service.
Don't Wait! Call Us Now!
The sooner you act, the greater your chance of success!
Albert Quirantes, Esq.
Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers
A Law Firm
1815 NW 7th Street
Miami, Florida 33125
305-644-1800
Florida Bar No. 750270
Legal Disclaimer:
The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Communication with the firm through this website does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different, and prior results do not guarantee future outcomes. Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers is a law firm providing criminal defense representation. We are not a bail bond agency, bail bondsman, surety company, bond company, or bail financing service. We do not post bonds, pay bonds, finance bonds, or act as surety for defendants.
© 2026 “Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers”, a law firm, 1815 N.W. 7th Street, Miami, FL 33125