Savannah Misdemeanors Attorneys

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What is Considered a Misdemeanor in Georgia?

In Georgia, a misdemeanor is classified as a less serious crime compared to a felony, typically resulting in lighter penalties.

Understanding the classification of misdemeanors is crucial for anyone facing charges, as it can impact potential outcomes and legal strategies. If you find yourself in a situation involving misdemeanors in Georgia, it's essential to consult with a qualified attorney to navigate the legal process effectively.

Penalties for Misdemeanors

Under Georgia law, misdemeanors are divided into two categories: misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and standard misdemeanors. High and aggravated misdemeanors carry more severe penalties, including a maximum of 12 months in jail and/or fines up to $5,000, while standard misdemeanors may result in shorter jail sentences and fines.

Some of the most common misdemeanor charges in Georgia include DUI, public drunkenness, trespassing, certain domestic violence situations, prostitution, and vandalism. A criminal conviction for these offenses has the potential to affect many areas of your life beyond the jail time, fines, and other criminal penalties.

A misdemeanor conviction may result in the loss of:

• Driving privileges
• Your right to possess a firearm
• Educational opportunities
• Financial aid
• Employment opportunities
• Housing

When you are convicted of a crime, even if the charges aren’t serious, you will have a permanent criminal record. This can affect your ability to gain employment, be promoted, or pursue higher education. If your license is suspended and you must drive for work, you could lose your job. Even if your job does not require driving, your employment can be jeopardized by a jail sentence.

Common Defenses for Misdemeanor Charges in Georgia

When facing a misdemeanor charge, various defenses may be available to the accused, depending on the specifics of the case. Some of the common defenses include:

• Mistake of Fact: This defense argues that the accused had a misunderstanding or ignorance about a fact that negates their criminal liability. For instance, if someone took an item they believed belonged to them, it may not constitute theft.
• Alibi: An alibi demonstrates that the accused was elsewhere when the crime occurred, providing evidence to support their claim of innocence.
• Self-Defense: This is applicable in cases where the accused was protecting themselves from imminent harm. It requires that the force used was reasonable and proportionate to the threat faced.
• Insufficient Evidence: If the prosecution cannot provide compelling evidence linking the accused to the crime, it may lead to a dismissal of the charges.
• Entrapment: This defense may apply if law enforcement induced the accused to commit a crime they would not have otherwise engaged in.

How Georgia Misdemeanor Lawyers Help Defendants

Georgia misdemeanor lawyers play a vital role in the legal process for those charged with crimes. They provide representation that helps defendants navigate the complexities of the legal system and work towards the best possible outcome. By employing their expertise, these attorneys can:

• Offer legal advice tailored to an individual’s case, explaining rights, potential penalties, and possible defenses.
• Assist in gathering evidence, including witness testimonies, to build a robust defense strategy.
• Manage all legal paperwork and filings related to the case, ensuring compliance with deadlines and legal requirements.
• Negotiate with prosecutors to explore plea deals that may reduce charges or penalties.
• Represent clients in court during hearings and trials, advocating vigorously on their behalf.

Services Provided by Our Savannah Misdemeanor Lawyers

Our attorneys are experienced with Georgia misdemeanor cases and offer a comprehensive range of services to our clients, including but not limited to:

• Free Case Evaluations: Initial consultations to assess the merits of the case and outline potential outcomes.
• Case Strategy Development: Crafting a tailored defense plan based on the specific circumstances of each case.
• Plea Bargaining: Negotiating with the prosecution to secure reduced charges or lesser penalties.
• Trial Representation: Defending clients in court, presenting evidence, and cross-examining witnesses.
• Post-Conviction Assistance: Providing support for expungement applications or appealing a conviction if necessary.
• Education on Legal Rights: Ensuring clients understand their rights during the legal process, empowering them with knowledge.
• Emotional Support and Guidance: Helping clients navigate the anxiety and stress often associated with facing misdemeanor charges.

By understanding the legal environment and leveraging their knowledge, our Georgia misdemeanor lawyers can significantly affect the outcome of a case. We help protect our clients’ rights and futures.

Start Building an Effective Defense Strategy

Due to the far-reaching consequences of any criminal conviction, the best thing you can do is to hire an experienced defense attorney. At Schneider Lerch, LLC, our seasoned misdemeanors lawyer in Savannah provides clients with honest, professional advice to alleviate their concerns. We evaluate each case and work to build the most effective courtroom strategy to fit the specifics of each situation to help you reach your legal goals.