Misdemeanor Crime Defense in Atlanta
It is so easy to dismiss the importance of a misdemeanor charge and not take prompt action to address the situation. You did something irresponsible or foolish, got caught, got charged, and now you just want the whole thing behind you. Despite the fact that the charges could be much more serious, a misdemeanor can alter the path of your life, causing potential employers to pass on your candidacy and future licensing boards to deny a critical license.
An experienced criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, like Tanya Miller who has spent years learning how to think like a prosecutor, can straighten out the course.
What You Are Up Against
In Georgia, a misdemeanor is considered a lesser offense than a felony; however, it can still involve significant fines and jail time. You do not want to spend time locked up, even if that time is served in a county jail rather than a prison. Another consideration is whether you have other criminal convictions that move you towards the serious consequences of the Three Strike Rule. Certain misdemeanors will count as that crucial third strike and you could face serious penalties. Do not let this happen to you.
There are many ways to face misdemeanor charges in Georgia, including the following:
- Reckless driving;
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
- Violating the Open Container Law;
- Public intoxication;
- Disorderly conduct;
- Possession of marijuana or other drugs (may be a felony charge depending on amount in possession);
- Vandalism;
- Petty theft or shoplifting;
- Trespassing;
- Property damage;
- Assault (may be charged as a felony);
- Prostitution; and
- Sexual battery
Possible Penalties for a Misdemeanor Conviction
In Georgia, misdemeanor offenses may result in probation, up to one year of county jail time, fines, and possible restitution to the victim of the crime. A misdemeanor conviction will become part of your criminal record and will appear in any background checks that are conducted for the purpose of education, employment, licensing and certification, receiving public benefits, and other legitimate reasons. As discussed above, a misdemeanor conviction also may be a factor if you have other criminal convictions on your record. A misdemeanor violation could be the third strike that leads to serious prison time.
Dedicated Advocacy - Call an Atlanta Criminal Attorney
Do not make the mistake of thinking that it is only a misdemeanor charge and you do not have to worry about finding an experienced criminal defense attorney. This type of case has the possibility of impacting your life and livelihood far more than you might think. Legal counsel like the Law Office of Tanya F. Miller, LLC can mean the difference between: complete dismissal of the charges or a negotiated plea deal for a conviction that later may be expunged; or, serious jail time, fines, and a lifetime of explaining away a mistake.
If you face misdemeanor charges in Fulton, DeKalb, Clayton, Gwinnett, or Cobb County, or any other county around Atlanta, Georgia, our legal team can obtain the best outcome possible.