Decatur, GA Violent Crime Lawyer

Violent Crimes

Decatur, GA Violent Crime Attorney

Georgia’s penal code reserves harsh penalties for anyone convicted of committing a violent crime. Assault, battery, and various forms of homicide can lead to serious prison time. Defendants facing violent crime charges can hire a Decatur, GA violent crime lawyer to represent them in court. A criminal defense attorney can investigate a case to find evidence that supports reduced or dropped charges.

For years, Decatur residents have trusted The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman to represent them in criminal court. Our founding attorney has earned a strong reputation for being a tireless fighter for the interests and rights of defendants in Georgia.

Why Choose The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman

Facing criminal charges can be one of the most consequential moments in life. The impact of such allegations can affect not only your freedom but also your reputation, relationships, and future opportunities. Anyone facing criminal charges should carefully consider the quality of their legal representation.

Recognized for his professional excellence, Lawrence Zimmerman is committed to providing personalized attention to every client, regardless of the case’s profile. As a former president of the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, he’s also a leader in the field, dedicated to improving the justice system for all.

Types of Criminal Charges

Violent crimes typically involve physical harm or the threat of harm to another person. These crimes can lead to very harsh penalties if the defendant is convicted. Long-term imprisonment and heavy fines are common penalties levied by judges upon conviction.

• Murder: One of the most severe violent crimes is murder. This is the intentional killing of another person. Depending on the circumstances, this crime can result in life imprisonment or the death penalty. Aggravating factors for a murder charge could include murder for financial gain and murder of a law enforcement officer. If the murder was premeditated, that could also lead to harsher sentencing.
• Aggravated assault: Aggravated assault is another violent crime in Georgia. It involves an attack with the intent to cause serious bodily harm. This often includes the use of a deadly weapon such as a gun, knife, or other object. Aggravated battery is a crime where the perpetrator causes permanent disfigurement of the victim.
• Robbery: Robbery is different from petty theft. Although both involve stealing someone else’s property, robbery involves the use of force, intimidation, or threats to steal from another person. Armed robbery can result in serious penalties even if no one was harmed in the commission of the crime.
• Rape and kidnap: Rape is defined as non-consensual sexual intercourse. Kidnapping involves unlawfully taking someone against their will. Both of these offenses can result in lengthy prison sentences, especially if the victim is a minor.
• Domestic violence: Family violence, also known as domestic violence, occurs when acts of violence are committed against family members or those in the same household. Georgia law aggressively prosecutes these offenses.

Legal Defenses for Criminal Charges

There are many potential criminal defenses for violent crime charges. Mistaken identity is one defense that can be used when there is no reliable evidence that you committed the crime. Eyewitness testimony can be incredibly unreliable. A mistaken identity defense can be effective when there is a supporting alibi witness who can testify that the defendant was not at the scene of the crime when it took place.

Self-defense could also be used to argue the defendant’s innocence. Georgians have the right to defend themselves and others if there is an imminent threat. The response to the threat should be proportional. This means deadly force is often only allowable under the law if the person defending themselves had reason to believe their life was at risk.

A defense attorney can also question the criminal intent of their client. Many crimes require an element of criminal intent. If the defendant can prove their actions were not meant to cause bodily harm, it could reduce the criminality of their actions.

FAQs

How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in Georgia?

The cost of a criminal lawyer varies considerably. Criminal defense lawyers typically charge on a flat-fee basis or an hourly basis. If a lawyer charges by the hour, they typically require an up-front payment known as a retainer. Once the retainer is depleted, the defendant is required to pay another lump sum amount for continued legal representation.

Is the Cost of a Criminal Defense Attorney Worth It?

If you are facing possible jail or prison time in Decatur, GA, legal representation can be invaluable. While the cost of legal representation is often far from negligible, the benefits could greatly outweigh the cost of legal counsel. Consider hiring an attorney as an investment in your public credibility and future. With the right lawyer in your corner, the outcome of your criminal case can change considerably in your favor.

What Is the Most a Lawyer Can Charge in Georgia?

The cost of an attorney is not regulated in Georgia. This means lawyers are free to charge fees based on their experience and value of their services. Attorney fees vary considerably throughout Georgia. Newer, less experienced attorneys often charge lower rates as a means of appealing to newer clients. More experienced lawyers with a strong reputation for successfully defending clients often charge higher fees.

What Are Criminal Defendants Entitled to in Georgia?

Criminal defendants have many rights under both the Georgia and U.S. Constitution. Among these are the right to an attorney, the right to a fair trial, and the right to not say anything that could potentially be self-incriminating. It is the job of a criminal defense attorney to protect their clients’ rights even when law enforcement or prosecutors do not make protecting those rights a top priority.

Schedule Your Decatur Violent Crime Consultation Today

The prospect of being convicted of a violent crime can be incredibly stressful. The weight of the criminal justice system can appear daunting, but defendants have important rights that include the presumption of innocence. With the help of our esteemed criminal defense attorney, you can begin challenging the narrative being pushed by prosecutors.

The path to justice can take time. With the right attorney on your side, your case can be resolved in a way that helps you avoid the worst-case scenario. The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has helped many clients settle criminal cases on favorable grounds. We can do the same for you. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.