Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Roswell

FAQs

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

  The Roswell Police Department can be reached at (770) 640-4100.

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

  To obtain a police report, call (770) 640-4120 or send an email to policerecords@roswellgov.com.

• What are the legal consequences of engaging in online sexual activities with a minor in Roswell?

  This is called child enticement and is defined as soliciting a minor under the age of 16 for the purpose of molestation or indecent acts. This crime carries a sentence of anywhere from 10 to 30 years in prison and paying a fine of up to $25,000. Additionally, the defendant will have to register as a sex offender in Roswell.

• Are teenagers who committed cyber bullying tried in an adult court in Roswell?

  It depends on the exact age. Teenagers from 17 to 19 will be tried in an adult court in Roswell where they will be facing adult convictions and consequences, such as spending time in prison. However, minors aged 16 and below may get more lenient punishments such as ordering them to perform community service, enroll in treatments or therapies, and follow a curfew.

• Is there an advantage to getting a criminal defense attorney in Roswell early?

  Yes, there is. The best time to hire a criminal defense attorney in Roswell is immediately after getting arrested as, more often than not, no criminal charges have been filed at that point yet. This gives the attorney some space to maneuver for a dismissal of charges. Still, even if the offender has already been charged, hiring an attorney early will give them enough time to negotiate with the prosecution for a reduced sentence.

• What is a good thing to know about Roswell's laws with regard to underage drinking?

  That Roswell is extremely strict when it comes to underage drinking. This is legally called Minor in Possession and is enforced aggressively in all of Georgia. Law enforcement does not need physical evidence to arrest an offending minor. A first-time offense can have them looking at a maximum of 6 months in jail and paying a $300 fine.

• Is shoplifting considered a misdemeanor in Roswell?

  Yes, but only if the item stolen is priced at less than $300. It becomes a felony if the stolen item costs above that, or if the offender has been stealing from many different stores over a seven-day period and the value of each item is at $100 each time. Regardless of the type of charge, the offender will be looking at jail time in Roswell and paying hefty fines.

• 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.