If you were charged with a criminal offense, you have the right to partner with an attorney. Without legal representation, you could have a hard time defending yourself against the prosecution. An Athens criminal defense lawyer from our team can review your case, form your defense, and fight to clear your name.
At Bader Law Injury Lawyers, we tirelessly advocate for defendants in situations like yours. Whether you’re combating a misdemeanor or felony charge, we want to advocate for you. You can learn about your options now in a no-obligation consultation.
How Can an Athens Criminal Defense Lawyer Help Me?
After being arrested, at the very least, you should consider securing a lawyer’s help. Prosecutors do everything possible to obtain convictions. They’re not interested in your plans for the future, moral character, or true intentions; they want to see you behind bars.
When you entrust us with your case, you entrust us with your life. You can expect us to:
Build Your Defense
No matter what crime you were charged with, the key to success is building a coherent defense. To do this, your attorney will gather information surrounding your arrest, the nature of the alleged crime, and the penalties that come with it.
Your attorney may intend to have your charges dropped, reduced, or dismissed. They can also fight for a “not guilty” verdict. You don’t have to fully understand the law or the nature of the alleged offense to work with a lawyer. Our trial-certified attorneys have what it takes to protect your rights.
Gather Evidence
In the criminal justice system, everyone is innocent until proven guilty. However, in the prosecutor’s mind, you’re already guilty. Our job is to build a compelling case outlining the facts of what happened and why you don’t deserve the charges you face. Evidence that could bolster your defense include:
- The arresting officer’s testimony
- Dash cam or body cam footage
- Witness testimony
- Forensic evidence
- The result of a Breathalyzer test (if applicable)
- Photos of any alleged victims’ injuries
- Statements from those who can corroborate your alibi
Work with Your Best Interest in Mind
It is vital that you work with an attorney who will keep you apprised of your case and constantly work with your best interests in mind. You want someone on your behalf who puts your legal goals first.
Look no further for legal advocacy than Bader Law Injury Lawyers. We’re no strangers to protecting the rights of our friends and neighbors in Athens. When you partner with our team, you can breathe a sigh of relief. We’ll take care of the rest.
For a free legal consultation with a criminal defense lawyer serving Athens, call (404) 888-8888
We Protect Athens Defendants From These Criminal Charges
Crimes are divided into misdemeanors and felonies. In general, misdemeanors carry fewer penalties than felonies. Still, even a first-time criminal case (or one that seems minor) is a serious matter. We encourage you to consult Bader Law Injury Lawyers if you were charged with a:
Misdemeanor
Per O.C.G.A. § 17-10-3, after being convicted of a misdemeanor, you could face a fine of up to $1,000 and a year in jail. Georgia considers these crimes to be misdemeanors:
- First-time drinking and driving convictions
- Weapons charges
- Disorderly conduct
- Reckless driving
- Drug possession (depending on the drug and amount)
- Theft and shoplifting
- Trespassing
Felony
Felony charges range in severity depending on the type of alleged crime. Georgia is one of the U.S. states that still has the death penalty, and you don’t want to risk that.
More broadly, felony punishments could include:
- Significant jail time from one year to life in prison
- Inability for parole
- Lost assets
- Loss of a driver’s license
- Registration as a sex offender
- Settlement payments to victims of your crime
Examples of felony crimes in Georgia include rape, murder, kidnapping, and manslaughter.
Athens Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me (404) 888-8888
Being Convicted of a Crime Can Change Your Life in Athens
If you are convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor, your life could change forever–– even if the punishment is not severe. A criminal record could prevent you from finding a job, renting an apartment, purchasing a home, or getting into college.
Losing the ability to participate in society as a completely free person can be very damaging. That is why it is vital that you hire a criminal defense attorney immediately following a criminal charge. A mistake or misunderstanding shouldn’t transform your life’s trajectory. At Bader Law Injury Lawyers, we want to give you a second chance.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Considerations While Facing Criminal Charges in Athens, GA
While considering legal representation, you should:
Refrain From Discussing Your Arrest Publicly
Only you and your immediate family members need to know about your arrest. You shouldn’t post about the incident online or speculate about what happened. You don’t want to give the prosecutor or any potential witnesses more details they could use against you.
Enroll in a Substance Abuse Program
Everyone makes mistakes. If you’re facing drug or alcohol-related charges, you could enroll in a substance abuse program. This would show the prosecution that you’re committed to bettering yourself and won’t commit another offense in the future.
Consider Legal Help
Combating criminal charges is nothing like the courtroom dramas you’ve seen on TV. There are no surprise witnesses or small technicalities that get entire cases thrown out. You want an experienced lawyer who understands the legal process and the importance of protecting your future.
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Contact Bader Law Injury Lawyers Today
If you were charged with a criminal offense, then time is of the essence. While the prosecution works to put you behind bars, you need someone who will work with your best interests in mind.
At Bader Law Injury Lawyers, our clients are our top priorities. We will use all of our resources and knowledge of Georgia state law to keep you out of prison or have your charges reduced if that is the only path forward.
We will review the circumstances surrounding your arrest and protect your rights throughout the process. Call now to learn about your options.
Call or text (404) 888-8888 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
