Decatur, GA Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense

Decatur, GA Criminal Defense Attorney

Being charged with a crime can be an upsetting and stressful experience. Georgia’s criminal laws include potential jail or prison penalties for many crimes. Having legal representation can greatly improve your chances of a favorable outcome to your criminal case. With the help of a Decatur, GA criminal defense lawyer, your charges may be reduced or even dropped.

The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has represented many clients who faced criminal charges in Decatur. Our founding attorney is highly respected and accomplished. He can develop a strategy that helps you resolve your case, allowing you to put the ordeal behind you.

Why Choose The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman.

If you are facing criminal charges, your livelihood and freedom could be at risk. Even a first-time criminal conviction could lead to detention in jail or prison. The resulting criminal record could make finding gainful employment difficult.

With over 25 years of experience, Lawrence Zimmerman is a trusted name in criminal defense, known for winning high-stakes cases in both state and federal courts. He’s built a reputation for delivering exceptional results, including acquittals in complex cases like murder and rape.

Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, you can trust our law firm to provide comprehensive and effective legal counsel with the aim of significantly reducing the penalties you are facing.

What to Expect While Facing Criminal Charges

When someone is charged with a crime, it is usually because a police officer had probable cause for an arrest or as a result of an investigation. Most defendants are arrested and processed in county jail. Soon after, they are notified about the charges they face.

During arraignment, the defendant is typically represented by a criminal defense attorney who enters a plea of guilty or not guilty depending on the wishes of their client. Criminal charges can take a substantial amount of time to resolve. During this time, the defendant’s attorney researches the case to uncover evidence that is favorable for their client.

Depending on the criminal charge, the defendant may have court-ordered restrictions like a prohibition from driving if they are facing DWI charges, or an order to not contact the alleged victim. During court hearings, the defendant is typically required to appear. Prosecutors may or may not make a plea bargain offer. If the case is not resolved through plea bargaining, the defendant has the right to request a trial.

How Can an Attorney Reduce the Penalties I’m Facing?

The optimal outcome for any defendant is to have their charges dropped. This can happen when evidence supporting the defendant’s innocence is uncovered. Additionally, key evidence being used by the prosecutor could be undermined or discovered to be inadmissible in court. This could happen if the evidence was obtained illegally. It could also be discovered that witness statements are inconsistent or unreliable.

Another favorable outcome for a criminal charge could be a reduction in the type of crime a defendant is charged with. A lowered criminal charge could result from the investigative work of a defense attorney who obtains proof that their client did not commit the crime. Additionally, prosecutors could reduce the charges if their case becomes weak.

Plea bargaining affords a defense attorney a unique opportunity to advocate for their clients, either by arguing their innocence or that their client deserves leniency. If needed, a criminal defense attorney may represent their client in court to argue on their behalf before a judge or jury.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Georgia?

A: A criminal defense attorney’s fees cover the time and resources they put into representing their clients. The fee often depends on the complexity of the case and the type of crime. For example, defending a felony is often more complicated than defending against a misdemeanor.

Under the billable hour system, the criminal defense attorney may require the client to pay a retainer, which is an up-front fee. You should also consider the attorney’s location and experience level.

Q: What Is the Difference Between a Lawyer and an Attorney in Georgia?

A: The terms “lawyer” and “attorney” are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference. A lawyer is someone who has completed law school, while an attorney is a lawyer who is also licensed to practice. To represent clients, an attorney must graduate from an accredited law school before passing the bar exam in the state where they plan to practice law. The bar exam is managed by the State Bar of Georgia.

Q: What Is the Highest Salary for Criminal Defense Attorneys?

A: There is no limit to what a criminal defense attorney can earn. No state places a cap on earnings for criminal defense lawyers. The highest-paid criminal defense attorneys in the state are some of the most successful. There are several factors to consider when determining an attorney’s salary. For example, you must consider their location, caseload, clientele, and experience level.

Q: What Is the Opposite of a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

A: The opposite role of a defense attorney is the prosecutor. While a defense attorney represents the individual client who is accused of committing a crime, a prosecutor represents the state and the people of the state. It is common for a criminal case to have the defendant listed as “versus” the State of Georgia. Under this framework, both sides argue before a court in the pursuit of justice.

Schedule Your Decatur Criminal Defense Consultation

Facing criminal charges can be an unsettling and stressful situation, especially for first-time defendants. It is highly advisable to seek legal representation if you are facing criminal charges. Having a criminal defense attorney can change the dynamics of a court case in your favor.

Many residents in Decatur have relied on the legal services of The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman for legal representation in criminal court. Our attorney can undertake any work needed to favorably resolve our client’s case. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today. Our legal team could be the legal resource you need.