Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Columbus, GA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Columbus Police Department is 31902-1340.

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

  Most reports are accessible within 48 hours after being collected since patrol officers write them out at the conclusion of their shift. Email delivery of offense/incident reports has been implemented by the Columbus Police Department. You may use this link to submit an online report request: https://www.columbusga.gov/police-4/Records-Reports/Request-Report

• What should you not do if you have an arrest warrant in Columbus?

  If you have an arrest warrant in Columbus, do not do the following:

  • Do not try to run away from your warrant; the police will catch you, making things worse for you.
  • Do not ignore your warrant. It is important that you resolve it as soon as possible.
  • Do not turn yourself in without first consulting with a lawyer.

• What should you do if you are arrested in Columbus for a misdemeanor?

  It is important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Columbus. Even though a misdemeanor is not as serious as a felony, that does not mean you should not take it seriously. A conviction for a misdemeanor can lead to jail time and big fines. A person convicted of a misdemeanor may also have trouble getting a job, getting a loan, or finding a place to live.

• Is it necessary to allow Columbus police to examine a vehicle after being pulled over for a minor traffic violation?

  To prevent illegal searches, Columbus police must have "probable cause" to search your car after pulling you over. If you agree, however, a police officer can search your car without a good reason. Even if you do not think you have anything to hide, you do not have to let the police search your vehicle. Again, this is a common way to gather evidence that can be used against you if you are charged with a crime. On the other hand, if the officer says they have a good reason to do so, it is best to let them in and not argue with them. If it turns out that the search was done wrong, your lawyer can try to get any evidence thrown out or the charges dropped.

• What should you do if your child is accused of a crime in Columbus?

  If your child is accused of a crime, a juvenile court officer will look into it to see if a formal petition against him or her should be filed. This process is the same as when felonies and misdemeanors are charged in superior and state courts. If a formal petition is filed, there will be a court date when the judge will ask your child if he or she agrees or disagrees with the accusation. If your child says the accusation is false, a trial will be set up. If your child says it is true, the judge will decide on a sentence.

• What should you do if you have been charged with a crime in Columbus?

  If you have been charged with a crime in Columbus, hire and work with an attorney to handle your case and be truthful so he or she can give you the best defense. Do not talk to anyone about your case, not your family and friends, strangers, and the media, to protect information about your case. Write down all the details pertaining to your case, including the contact information of witnesses who will support your story.

• 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.