Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Augusta

FAQs

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

  706-821-1080 is the non-emergency contact number in Augusta, Georgia.

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

  Contact the Records Bureau in Augusta between 6 AM and 6 PM, seven days a week, to get a copy of your incident report. You must be a named, involved party in the case or the authorized representative of a named, involved party in the case in order to seek and obtain a copy of the report. You will also need to give a case number and other identifying information.

• Can an Augusta criminal defense lawyer reduce a felony charge to a misdemeanor?

  Criminal defense attorneys in Augusta who are familiar with the procedure can submit a request asking the judge to look at your case more closely in the hopes of lowering the charge once your probation is over. The court might initially reject the suggestion, but you could go to trial in that event. An expert trial lawyer will be essential in demonstrating that your crime was less severe than the punishment it received.

• Is it advantageous to admit guilt to your Augusta criminal charge?

  Never enter a guilty plea in Augusta without first speaking with an accomplished criminal defense lawyer. Criminal defense lawyers deal with these matters on a daily basis and could be able to assist you in having your charges dropped or reduced. Additionally, they can uphold your reputation and demonstrate your innocence.

• What are the common collateral consequences of a criminal conviction in Augusta?

  In Augusta, punishment for a crime may include probation, jail time, costs, fines, community service, and required education. The State may restrict your ability to vote, own a gun, obtain federal student aid, and even drive. A felony conviction may also lead to losing one's existing job and make it more challenging to acquire new employment.

• How much does a criminal defense lawyer in Augusta charge?

  The typical hourly rate for a criminal defense lawyer in Augusta is between $100 and $350. Depending on how complicated the matter is, costs may change. Cases that require more pre-trial time, study, and negotiation may cost more money. The expertise, experience, and reputation of the attorney are other elements that influence their hourly charge. The fees of well-known attorneys may be greater than those of newer or less experienced attorneys.

• Why do you require an Augusta criminal defense lawyer?

  If you hire a criminal defense attorney in Augusta, you have a significantly better chance of having your charges reduced or dismissed. Criminal defense lawyers are skilled at creating a strong defense and ensuring that you can argue your case in front of a judge.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.