Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Albany, GA

FAQs

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

  Individuals can call the Albany Police Department at (229) 431-2132 for non-emergency situations.

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

  To obtain public police records, you can request a copy by visiting the Albany Police Department or mailing a request to 201 West Oglethorpe Boulevard, Albany, GA 31702. A valid means of identification and record details may be required. For more information on record requests, you can call the Records Section at (229) 431-3278.

• What are your rights if you were detained or accused of a crime in Albany?

  If you are arrested or accused of a crime in Albany, remember that you have the right to remain silent, to have an attorney present during interrogation, and to be treated humanely. Before answering any questions or signing anything, you should consult with an attorney in private because anything you say could be used against you in court. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be assigned to you. Cooperate with law enforcement, but avoid lying or resisting arrest to avoid additional charges.

• Is verbal abuse considered a crime in Albany?

  Verbal abuse is a crime that involves threatening or aggressively using words to offend or attack another person. However, a verbal altercation is not usually considered a battery charge. In Albany, if two people engage in abusive language, only one of them has the right to sue the other. Several conditions must be met, such as the intentional use of derogatory, vulgar, or abusive language.

• What are the steps that you should take when selecting a criminal defense attorney in Albany?

  When selecting a criminal defense lawyer in Albany, here are some things that you should do:

  • Determine your goals and priorities
  • Set your budget
  • Meet with potential lawyers in person
  • Obtain a written fee agreement to avoid conflicts over costs

  Unclear fees and client responsibility for costs are common causes of conflict between lawyers and clients. When lawyers constantly call for money or appear resistant to putting in effort due to unpaid fees, the lawyer-client relationship can quickly deteriorate.

• What are the penalties for drug violations in Albany?

  Penalties for drug offenses vary based on factors like prior convictions, state laws, and the type and amount of drug involved. In Albany, most drug crimes are felonies, except for minor marijuana possession and paraphernalia charges. The severity of the offense and potential punishment also depend on whether it is a misdemeanor or felony, the type and amount of drug, and whether it is for possession or intent to distribute. Possession of over one ounce of marijuana could result in hefty fines and up to 10 years in prison, while trafficking could lead to 30 years or more behind bars.

• Is your license instantly suspended following a DUI in Albany?

  In Albany, your license will not be suspended immediately after a DUI arrest, but you must file for an administrative license suspension hearing or an ignition interlock permit within 30 days. Failing to do so will result in a license suspension. Given the complexity of these processes, seeking the guidance of an experienced attorney is crucial.

• 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.