If you are facing serious felony charges in Alpharetta, GA, you probably are considering the potential consequences and how they could shape your future. Felonies carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and a criminal record that follows you everywhere.
For these reasons and more, you may want to review your legal options with an Alpharetta serious defense felonies defense lawyer from Speights Law. Our experienced trial lawyers and former prosecutors can represent you and work for an outcome that shields you from harsh penalties.
Our Alpharetta criminal defense lawyers have represented numerous Georgians in a wide range of cases for over 20 years. We can represent you, even if you are being investigated but not formally charged. Call us today for a confidential consultation and learn how we can help.
How Georgia Defines and Handles Serious Felony Cases
Georgia handles serious felony cases with strict legal procedures and severe penalties. Under Georgia law, a felony is a crime punishable by more than one year in prison, significant fines, and other legal consequences
Common Serious Felony Crimes in Georgia
Serious felonies in Georgia include:
- Murder and manslaughter
- Armed robbery
- Drug trafficking
- Aggravated assault
- Kidnapping
- Human trafficking
- Sexual offenses (e.g., rape and child molestation)
- Burglary and arson
- Fraud and embezzlement
Sentencing Guidelines
Georgia uses a structured sentencing system to handle serious felonies, with penalties depending on the nature and severity of the crime. Ga. Code § 17-10-6.1 outlines the mandatory minimum sentencing for certain felony offenses that judges must follow.
Sentences for these felonies can include:
- Mandatory minimum sentences for crimes like murder or armed robbery.
- Life imprisonment or the death penalty for the most serious offenses, such as capital murder.
- Long-term prison sentences, ranging from one year to life, depending on the felony.
- Heavy fines, often in the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Probation or parole restrictions after release, which can last for many years or even a lifetime for certain felonies.
Additionally, Georgia’s three-strikes law can lead to harsher penalties, including life imprisonment without parole, for individuals convicted of multiple serious felonies.
What Are the Consequences of a Serious Felony Conviction in Georgia?
If you are convicted of a serious felony crime, you could face lengthy prison sentences, large fines, and a permanent criminal record, depending on the offense.
Additionally, you risk losing certain rights, such as the ability to vote or own firearms. In some cases, you may have to pay restitution to victims. Beyond the legal penalties, a felony conviction can affect your ability to find future employment, housing, and educational opportunities.
We Will Guide You Through Every Step of Your Case
We will explain the legal process in clear, straightforward terms so that you will understand what to expect at each stage.
No matter how complex your case is, our Alpharetta serious felonies defense attorneys will give you the information and guidance you need to make informed decisions about your defense. Call us for a confidential consultation today to have the Speights Law team review your case.
Our Serious Felonies Defense Lawyers Will Lead Your Case
When you secure legal representation for a criminal case, you should expect clear communication, a thorough review of your case, and a defense strategy that addresses all aspects of your case. You will find all of that here at Speights Law.
We will:
- Talk with you to understand your side of the story and gather all the important details.
- Review the charges against you and explain what they mean in simple terms.
- Investigate your case, including gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
- Determine if your rights were violated in any way, such as whether police performed an illegal search of your vehicle.
- Identify possible defense strategies and discuss the best options for your situation.
- Represent you in all court appearances and handle legal filings on your behalf.
- Communicate with the prosecution to negotiate plea bargains, reduce charges, or dismiss the case when possible.
- File a criminal defense appeal on your behalf if your trial results in an unfavorable ruling.
- Keep you updated on any developments in your case and guide you through each step.
Why Experience Matters in Alpharetta Serious Felony Cases
Because our team includes trial lawyers and former prosecutors, we can anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and counter them effectively, regardless of the charges.
When you choose to work with our Alpharetta serious felony criminal defense lawyers, you’re gaining the benefit of a legal team with decades of experience on both sides of the courtroom. This gives us an edge when it comes to protecting your future.
What to Look for in a Criminal Defense Lawyer
In addition to experience, here are a few other things to look for when choosing the right lawyer for your serious felony case:
- Knowledge of state and local laws: Find an attorney who knows the local court system and Georgia’s criminal laws, as they will better understand how to lead your case and the specific procedures in Alpharetta.
- Trial skills: Make sure the attorney has courtroom experience and is comfortable taking cases to trial if necessary. This is important because having a lawyer who can effectively argue your case in court can help your case’s outcome.
- Communications: You should feel comfortable with your lawyer and confident in their ability to explain legal matters in a way you understand.
- Track record: Look for a lawyer with a proven history of successfully defending clients in serious felony cases.
- Availability: Your lawyer should be accessible and responsive to your concerns, keeping you updated throughout the case. They should tell you who will be working on your case and promptly notify you of any changes in your legal team.
Our Alpharetta Serious Felonies Defense Lawyers Can Help You
If you’re facing serious felony charges in Alpharetta, Speights Law is ready to help. Our Alpharetta serious felonies defense lawyers understand the high stakes of your case and will work hard to protect your future.
Call us today for a private consultation. Evening and weekend appointments are available to accommodate your schedule. We will get the support you need when you need it most.