Getting arrested can be a scary experience, but most of that anxiety stems from fear of the unknown. Without the advice of an experienced professional, it is difficult to know the seriousness of the charges against you and what the likely outcome might be. After any arrest, it’s always worth speaking to a lawyer. Call Hawkins Spizman and ours Criminal Lawyers in Georgia will review your case free of charge to let you know where you stand and how we can help. As our firm works on your case, our experienced legal team investigates, analyzes and discovers evidence and examines all available defenses and the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case against you. We take the time to discuss your options with you so you can make smart decisions about your future. Rely on our experienced Georgia criminal defense attorneys to develop a winning strategy and prosecute your case with confidence and vigour.
There is literally no time to lose in contacting a lawyer after an arrest. The process of booking, first appearing, preliminary hearing, charging and indictment can occur within hours of an arrest. Advice and representation at these critical stages can give you the best chance of success, while failure to speak to an attorney can result in a negative outcome and much harsher treatment from the judge and prosecutor. With Hawkins Spizman by your side, you’re in the best position for a positive outcome.
What crimes does Hawkins Spizman handle?
With over 20 years of experience in Georgian courtrooms, our lawyers have represented defendants across the spectrum of Georgian criminal law. Call Hawkins Spizman for assistance with a Georgia felony or misdemeanor including:
- arson
- attack
- Domestic Violence
- drug crime
- embezzlement
- blackmail
- Fraud
- Weapons and Weapons Crimes
- homicide
- property damage crimes
- prostitution
- sex crimes
- request
- theft
- Speeding Ticket Defense
Hawkins Spizman is also your Georgia legal team for the following related matters:
- Bond hearings
- Non-appearance
- Student Defense
- Private warrant applications
- cancellation of the probationary period
- deletion
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Any criminal conviction can result in serious consequences, including large fines, court costs and surcharges, and possible prison terms. Additionally, a criminal record can haunt you for years, preventing you from getting or keeping the job you want, preventing you from living where you want and affecting your ability to get good credit, obtain a license to work, and own a firearm or exercise your right to vote. Any arrest should be taken seriously and you should always speak to a lawyer before giving any statement to the police or admitting guilt.
All crimes are serious, but crimes classified as felonies are more serious than misdemeanors. In Georgia, a crime is punishable by imprisonment of up to 25 years or even life imprisonment. The death penalty can also be imposed after conviction for crimes such as treason, hijacking or murder, rape, armed robbery or, in certain circumstances, kidnapping.
In contrast, a misdemeanor is a felony punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in prison. Georgian law also imposes fines of up to US$5,000 for certain offenses classified as serious and felony.
Whether a particular offense is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony depends on how it is defined in the Georgia Code. Many offenses have varying degrees of severity, and some can be prosecuted as either a felony or a misdemeanor. These offenses are commonly referred to as “wobblers” because they can be charged either way. If you are arrested for a wobbler, one of the things we can do is work with the prosecutor to ensure the crime is charged as a misdemeanor and not a felony, or negotiate a settlement for the lesser offence. We do this by putting together a strong defense, identifying weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case and letting him know that our experienced trial attorneys are ready to go to court with a strong defense.
Importantly, Section 17-10-5 of the Georgia Code gives judges discretion to impose a misdemeanor penalty for crimes that carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. If you have been found guilty of a felony fitting this description, our experienced Georgia criminal defense attorneys can prepare and present to the judge a compelling case for a misdemeanor punishment as opposed to a lengthy prison sentence.
Make your first call after an arrest in Georgia to Hawkins Spizman Trial Lawyers
Call Hawkins Spizman for immediate help after an arrest in Georgia. Our dedicated criminal defense team is ready to help you. experience counts. Let Hawkins Spizman protect your records, career and reputation. Call 770-685-6400 for immediate help and a free case review.
