Criminal Defense

Invoke your right to remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not speak to law enforcement, answer questions, or make any statements without counsel present. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible—early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Misdemeanors are less serious criminal offenses carrying a maximum of 12 months in jail and fines up to $1,000. Felonies are more serious crimes with potential sentences ranging from one year to life in prison, or in some cases, the death penalty. The classification affects not only your sentence but your long-term record and civil rights.

Yes. Depending on the facts, the evidence, and the strength of the prosecution's case, charges can sometimes be reduced to a lesser offense or dismissed entirely. An experienced criminal defense attorney can identify weaknesses in the government's case, negotiate with prosecutors, and pursue all available defenses on your behalf.

A DUI conviction in Georgia carries serious consequences including fines, license suspension, mandatory DUI school, community service, probation, and potential jail time. Subsequent convictions carry increasingly severe penalties. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, professional licenses, and other aspects of your life.

Not necessarily. Many criminal cases are resolved through plea negotiations without a trial. However, the decision of whether to accept a plea or go to trial is yours to make in consultation with your attorney. We prepare every case as though it will go to trial, which puts us in the strongest possible position during negotiations.

Georgia's expungement process (called record restriction) is limited compared to many other states. Certain arrests that did not result in conviction may be eligible for restriction, but convictions generally cannot be expunged. An attorney can evaluate your specific record and advise you on what relief, if any, may be available.

Yes—ideally before speaking to law enforcement at all. If you know you are under investigation, have been contacted by investigators, or believe you may be a suspect, an attorney can advise you on your rights, help you avoid self-incrimination, and potentially shape how the investigation develops. Early involvement by defense counsel is often the most important step you can take.

Arraignment is typically your first formal court appearance after being charged. You will be informed of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere (no contest). In the vast majority of cases, defense attorneys advise pleading not guilty at arraignment to preserve all available options. Your attorney can appear with you and manage this process.