Atlanta Criminal Defense Attorneys

• Investigation: A criminal matter begins with an investigation. During this stage, the police collect physical evidence and speak with witnesses. They may also execute search warrants to go through and seize a suspect's property. The purpose of the investigation is to determine whether a crime has been committed and who committed it.
• Arrest: After law enforcement officials have completed their investigation and have established probable cause, they will arrest the suspect (or suspects). In some cases, they will first obtain an arrest warrant from a judge. However, in other situations, they will make an arrest on the spot. Usually, this happens when an offense has been committed in the presence of an officer.
• Charges Filed: Investigators will hand the situation over to a prosecutor. Based on the information, the prosecutor will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to file charges.
• Arraignment: The arraignment is the first court appearance. During this part of the process, a judge will inform the defendant of the charges against them. The defendant may also have the opportunity to enter a plea. If they plead guilty, their situation will move to sentencing. If they plead not guilty, they and their defense attorney can review the evidence and build a defense.
• Discovery: During the discovery phase of a criminal situation, the prosecutor shares the information they have about the matter with the defense. The defense attorney reviews the evidence to determine how to proceed and may conduct their own investigation to gather evidence to counter the accusations. If they find that procedural errors or violations occurred during the investigation or arrest process, they may file pre-trial motions to have evidence deemed inadmissible.
• Negotiations: Before a situation goes to trial, the prosecutor and defense may try to resolve it through a plea bargain. This is where the prosecutor may agree to drop charges or recommend a lesser sentence in exchange for a guilty plea.
• Trial: If the defense does not feel that the situation can be resolved favorably through a plea bargain, it will go to trial. The prosecutor will try to obtain a conviction by proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In contrast, the defense will attempt to expose weaknesses in the prosecution's case. If the judge or jury is not convinced beyond a reasonable doubt, they must acquit; otherwise, they may find the defendant guilty.
• Appeals: You have the right to appeal a criminal conviction in Georgia after your trial. This means you can request appellate court justices to review the original trial court document and it is their duty to determine if legal errors occurred at the trial that may have substantially affected the outcome. If the appeal succeeds, it is possible that there will be a new trial. Our Atlanta criminal appeals lawyer can help you through this process.

Be sure that if you are facing charges, you retain the services of a criminal defense attorney in Atlanta who knows how to navigate the justice system. At The Abt Law Firm, LLC, we have handled situations in courts throughout Georgia and are intimately familiar with the judicial process. We can deliver the guidance you need. Our dedication to thorough and proactive defense strategies is unwavering, as is our commitment to upholding your rights at every stage.

Understanding of Georgia's Legal System & Local Atlanta Laws

Georgia law presents unique challenges for anybody who has been accused of a crime. From mandatory sentencing laws to the state's stance on specific offenses, your defense lawyer needs to be well-versed in the latest updates to statewide regulations. However, you need a legal advocate on your side who also understands local courthouse procedures and regional legal processes. At The Abt Law Firm, LLC, we pride ourselves on our deep knowledge of Georgia's legal landscape, enabling us to navigate these complexities confidently. Our familiarity with local court systems in Fulton and Dekalb counties allows us to build proactive defenses that anticipate the prosecutor's moves and cater to the judge's approach. As your criminal attorney in Atlanta, we have the insight and experience to provide guidance and clarity through every legal challenge you face in the criminal justice system.

Frequently Asked Questions in Atlanta Criminal Defense

Here are some common questions and answers to help you understand the legal process in Georgia better.

What Should I Do If I Am Arrested in the Atlanta Area?

If you're arrested in Atlanta, or anywhere else in Georgia, it is crucial to remain calm and invoke your right to remain silent until you have spoken with an attorney. Contact The Abt Law Firm, LLC as soon as you can to ensure that you have professional legal assistance at every step. Your initial contact should also involve documenting details about the arrest to provide your defense attorney with an overview of the situation.

How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help with My Situation?

A criminal defense lawyer in Atlanta can provide crucial assistance in understanding your rights, representing you in legal proceedings, and negotiating more favorable terms with prosecutors if possible. They will analyze evidence, identify any procedural errors, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. At The Abt Law Firm, LLC, our focus is on clearly explaining each step, keeping you informed, and working tirelessly for the best possible outcome.

Are Legal Consultations Really Free?

Yes, The Abt Law Firm, LLC offers a free initial consultation. This session allows you to discuss your situation with a criminal attorney and understand the potential defense strategies available to you. It’s an opportunity to alleviate initial concerns, ask questions, and assess how we may assist you in defending your rights. Our goal is to provide clarity from day one, ensuring you feel supported and informed.

What Types of Defenses are Commonly Used in Criminal Cases?

Defenses in criminal cases vary depending on the charges, but they might include lack of intent, self-defense, or proving insufficient evidence for conviction. Other strategies may involve questioning law enforcement procedures or highlighting violations of your rights. At The Abt Law Firm, LLC, we tailor our strategies to the specifics of each situation, always focusing on the strongest arguments available to protect your future.