Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Athens

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Athens, Georgia?

  The non-emergency contact number of Athens is 706-613-3345.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Athens, Georgia?

  You can submit an online request for access to public documents in Athens at https://www.accgov.com/4987/Open-Records-Request. Find the proper department or organization for your request, then complete and submit the online form. You can also email requests to lamb_orr@accgov.com or spratlin_orr@accgov.com. For more information, you may call 706-613-3031 or 706-613-3520.

• What if Athens police didn't read you Miranda warnings?

  Because there is little questioning after an arrest in an Athens DUI case, Miranda warnings are not required. However, the law requires that you be informed of your right to counsel and your right to remain silent in some criminal proceedings. Even though this can stop law enforcement from questioning you, it is still preferable to remain silent because any voluntary remarks you make could be used against you later.

• Can I keep my driver's license with any type of drug charge in Athens?

  Your license in Athens will remain valid in the event of a marijuana arrest, as long as you do not plead guilty. This applies to scenarios, including possession, manufacturing, intent to distribute, and drug paraphernalia charges. Regardless of whether you were not driving when apprehended, pleading guilty could still result in the suspension of your license.

• What separates a misdemeanor from a felony charge in Athens?

  The possibility of a prison sentence is the main difference between a misdemeanor and a felony case. In Georgia, the state where Athens is located, a person convicted of a misdemeanor faces a maximum sentence of one year in county jail. Felony convictions, on the other hand, carry a minimum imprisonment sentence of at least one year and a maximum of 25 years or perhaps life in prison, depending on the offense. They also serve this in prison.

• What defines a minor in possession of alcohol in Athens?

  Those under the age of 21 who were found with alcohol are considered minors in possession of alcohol. This includes having alcohol on you—for example, by holding a beer—or having it in your system. The latter is known as possession by consumption, and you may be arrested even if you are not carrying any physical alcohol on you.

• What are the benefits and drawbacks of hiring a public defender vs a skilled criminal defense attorney in Athens?

  There is a noticeable cost difference between hiring an experienced criminal attorney and choosing a public defender for legal counsel in Athens, with the latter being the less expensive choice. The disadvantage is that they might not have as many resources or as much experience as professional attorneys. A private attorney would likely focus on a smaller number of cases, as opposed to the hundreds of cases that public defenders sometimes handle at once. A skilled private attorney would also have access to broader resources, specialized training, and other support that a public defender would not have.