How Broward County courts work (in plain English)

Broward County is Florida’s 17th Judicial Circuit. Most cases you’ll encounter fall into two trial-court levels:
County Court and Circuit Court.

• County Court often includes traffic matters, misdemeanors, evictions/landlord–tenant disputes,
  and many lower-dollar civil disputes.
• Circuit Court typically includes felony criminal cases, divorce/custody and other family matters,
  probate/guardianship, juvenile matters, and higher-dollar civil litigation.

The important part for Hallandale Beach residents: the “right courthouse” is usually determined by your
case type and the court’s assigned division—not simply what’s closest to your home.

Which courthouse do Hallandale Beach residents go to?

Hallandale Beach sits in South Broward, so many residents first think of the Hollywood courthouse.
That’s often a convenient location for certain calendars and clerk services. However, many significant hearings,
jury trials, and higher-level proceedings frequently route through the Central Judicial Complex in Fort Lauderdale.

Common case types (quick guide)

• Traffic / citations: Often tied to clerk services and assigned calendars (confirm location on your notice).
• Misdemeanor criminal: County Court level (location depends on assignment).
• Felony criminal: Commonly tied to the Central courthouse divisions.
• Family law (divorce, custody, support): Frequently heard in Fort Lauderdale (division-based).
• Civil disputes / small claims: Typically County Court level, with courthouse assignment noted on case paperwork.

Central Judicial Complex (Fort Lauderdale)

The Central Judicial Complex is Broward County’s main courthouse hub and the location most associated with
major court divisions, trials, and high-volume dockets.

Address: 201 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

What cases are commonly handled here?

• Felony criminal proceedings and many jury trials
• Family and juvenile divisions (depending on assignment)
• Major civil matters and complex litigation calendars
• Large multi-day hearings and high-volume court dockets

History & interesting facts

Broward County was created in 1915. As the county grew, so did the need for expanded court facilities.
The current downtown courthouse complex reflects that growth, including a modern courthouse tower that opened in 2017.

High-profile proceedings

The Fort Lauderdale courthouse is also where major, widely covered cases may be heard.
If you’ve followed regional news, it’s a reminder that Broward’s largest and most significant proceedings
often take place at the Central complex.

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South Regional Courthouse (Hollywood) – often closest for Hallandale Beach

The South Regional Courthouse in Hollywood is commonly the most convenient courthouse for Hallandale Beach residents.
Many people visit this location for certain assigned calendars and regional clerk services.

Address: 3550 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, FL 33021

What cases are commonly associated with this location?

• Some assigned hearings and calendars (varies by division)
• Regional clerk services that may be offered outside downtown
• Practical access point for South Broward residents

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West Regional Courthouse (Plantation)

The West Regional Courthouse serves residents and case calendars in central and western Broward.
You may see it listed for particular assigned matters, or if a case is routed to a west division.

Address: 100 N. Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL 33324

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North Regional Courthouse (Deerfield Beach)

The North Regional Courthouse is located in northern Broward and is most relevant for matters assigned in that region.
Hallandale Beach residents usually won’t go here unless the case is specifically routed north.

Address: 1600 W Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

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Planning your courthouse visit: parking, security, and timing

What to bring

• Photo ID
• Your notice/summons/citation (with courtroom and time)
• Case number (write it down)
• Printed copies of any key documents you may reference

Security screening

Expect airport-style screening. Avoid bringing items that could be restricted. If you’re unsure, arrive early
so you have time to handle logistics before your hearing time.

How early should you arrive?

For most hearings, plan to arrive 30–60 minutes early. Downtown Fort Lauderdale can take longer due to parking,
security lines, and navigating to the correct floor.

FAQ: Broward County courthouses for Hallandale Beach residents

Is the Hollywood courthouse usually closest to Hallandale Beach?

In many cases, yes. But “closest” isn’t always “correct.” Your paperwork should list the assigned location.

Where are felony cases typically heard in Broward County?

Many felony proceedings and jury trials are tied to divisions at the Central Judicial Complex in Fort Lauderdale.

What if I show up to the wrong courthouse?

It can cause delays or even missed appearances. If you’re uncertain, confirm the assigned courthouse and courtroom
before your date.

Do I need a lawyer to go to court?

Not every matter requires representation, but in higher-stakes situations—especially criminal allegations, serious injuries,
or complex disputes—speaking with an attorney can help you understand options, deadlines, and risks.

Helpful resources & practice areas

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Replace the URLs with your real page slugs if different.

• Personal Injury
• Car Accidents
• Slip & Fall
• Wrongful Death
• Product Liability

About Fenstersheib Law Group

Fenstersheib Law Group serves clients throughout Broward County, including Hallandale Beach and nearby communities.
If you have questions about a court notice, a pending claim, or how a local case typically proceeds, the firm can help you
understand your options and next steps.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship.