Facing criminal charges in Atlanta? You need a good lawyer. The State of Georgia has staunchly adhered to, and even doubled down on, the outdated principle of cash bond. Large and increasing numbers of individuals in the United States are under some form of correctional control. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a major felony, you need an attorney. Mandatory minimum sentencing, the political desire of judges and prosecutors to be “tough on crime,” and collateral consequences ranging from the loss of driving privileges, the right to possess a firearm, and the right to vote can all be at stake for someone facing criminal charges.
Criminal Justice Snapshot: Georgia and the U.S.
| Statistic | Georgia | United States (Overall) |
| Incarceration rate (per 100,000 residents) | 968 | 531 |
| % of cases resolved via plea deals | 95%+ | 94–97% |
| People on probation/parole | 429,000+ | 3.7 million |
| % of incarcerated individuals awaiting trial | 47% | 65% (local jails) |
| Average annual cost of incarceration per inmate | $20,000 | $33,000 |
| DUI arrests per year | 19,000+ | 880,000+ |
The internet and other media contain a lot of information. It is often difficult for even a general practitioner to ascertain what is true and what is false or misleading. You should retain a criminal defense lawyer- someone who practices exclusively in the area of criminal defense to help you navigate the rocky waters of criminal justice. It is also important to retain someone you trust and who inspires confidence. A good lawyer will thoroughly review your case, spot evidentiary issues, talk effectively with prosecutors, and build a strategy catered to your needs. A good lawyer will protect your rights while pushing for the best possible outcome.
Bottom Line: The right attorney can make all the difference in your case—and your future.
Common Criminal Charges and How Defense Attorneys Help
Violent Crimes
Georgia’s penalties for violent offenses are among the toughest in the nation. Murder – whether malice or felony murder- carries a mandatory sentence of life. A judge can sentence an adult convicted of murder to life without the possibility of parole. Under certain circumstances, a jury can administer the death penalty.
Aggravated assault and aggravated battery carry sentences ranging from one to twenty years. Aggravating factors like using deadly weapons or targeting certain individuals (police, elderly, or family members) are used to enhance the penalty or to invoke collateral consequences, such as loss of the right to carry a firearm.
Domestic violence battery can be a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the charged person’s criminal history. Even without a conviction, being on bond for domestic violence-related crimes can result in the loss of access to loved ones, his or her home, and the prospect of a major felony charge of aggravated stalking should there be contact with an alleged victim in violation of a bond order.
Defenses to these crimes can include self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, mistaken identity, and mental health-related defenses. Although you are the only person who can elect to proceed to trial or enter a plea, an experienced attorney will investigate your case, negotiate reduced charges if desired, and proceed to trial. Diversionary programs are available in some venues, and certain statutes may be available to avoid conviction.
If you’re facing violent crime charges, get a lawyer immediately. What happens in the first days of your case often determines the outcome. An experienced attorney will protect your rights when you need it most.
DUI
Getting arrested for driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or inhalants in Georgia can turn your life upside down. Even before you go to court, if you refuse a chemical of your breath, blood, or urine, or if a chemical test’s results indicate your blood alcohol level (BAC) is .08g/% or higher, you may be subjected to an administrative suspension of your driver’s license. A lawyer can assist you by filing an appeal of the administrative suspension and representing you at that hearing or, where appropriate, help you receive an ignition interlock limited permit pending the outcome of your case.
First-time DUI penalties within 10 years in Georgia include:
24 hours to 12 months in jail
12 months probation
Fines $300-$1,000, plus court costs and fees
License suspension
Community service (at least 40 hours)
DUI education classes
Second-time DUI penalties within 10 years in Georgia include:
72 hours to 12 months in jail
12 months probation
Fines $600-1000, plus court costs and fees
License suspension
Community service (at least 30 days)
DUI education classes
Clinical evaluation for substance abuse and treatment if recommended
Publication of your name and information in the local newspaper (if 2nd within 5 years)
Three or more DUI convictions within 10 years carry harsher penalties, including longer jail time, bigger fines, and longer license suspensions. A fourth DUI conviction is a felony.
A good DUI lawyer can make a huge difference by challenging the traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of chemical tests, and spotting problems with the administration of field sobriety.
The Criminal Defense Process in Atlanta
Your Initial Consultation with Attorney Jennifer Hanson
You can schedule a free initial consultation with Jennifer in person or via Zoom. The consultation is straightforward and tailored to your needs. The meeting typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour and remains completely confidential and privileged.
Before your meeting, it is helpful to gather any paperwork related to your case – arrest reports, court notices, citations, charging documents, bail documents, etc. You can email them using Jennifer’s docketing system or bring them with you.
During your consultation, Jennifer will listen to your side of the story without judgment. She will ask specific questions of you about what happened, discuss the potential for obtaining witnesses and evidence, and ask about any criminal history.
You will also have the chance to ask questions. Consider asking about her experience with cases like yours, possible defense strategies, and what outcomes you might expect.
Jennifer will explain her fee structure clearly, and she typically offers payment plans to make quality defense accessible.
By the end of your meeting, you will have a better understanding of the charges against you, potential consequences, and defense options. You don’t need to make an immediate decision about hiring her.
Remember, this consultation is as much about you evaluating her as it is about her evaluating your case. You need an attorney you trust and feel comfortable with during this challenging time.
How Do I Know If I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney?
If you’re asking this question, you probably need one. Any time police want to “just ask a few questions,” it is time to call an attorney, even if you are completely innocent, since anything you say can be used against you later. Obviously, if you have been arrested or received court papers requiring your appearance, you need legal help immediately – missing deadlines can make your situation much worse. Consider what’s at stake: jail time, heavy fines, or a permanent criminal record that affects job prospects and housing options for years to come. Georgia’s criminal laws are complicated, and what seems like a minor charge might have serious hidden consequences that only an attorney would recognize. If you’re confused about what happens next in your case, that’s another clear sign you need guidance through the justice system’s strict rules and procedures. Never accept a plea deal without attorney advice – what sounds good might actually be terrible compared to what a lawyer could negotiate. Most importantly, fear and stress make it hard to think clearly, and an attorney provides calm, rational guidance when you need it most.
Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Get My Case Dismissed?
Maybe. A good criminal defense attorney knows exactly what to look for that might help you. Contrary to popular belief, a case is not dismissed by a judge on its merits, i.e., a finding of “not guilty” before trial. In rare cases, a judge may issue a directed verdict of acquittal following presentation of the State’s case during a trial. However, generally, an acquittal must come from the jury (or the judge if you opt for a bench trial) at the end of a trial. If the prosecution can’t prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, your attorney can push for dismissal.
A case may be dismissed or evidence may be excluded on a legal basis, however, based on pretrial motions. Attorneys carefully check to see if police followed proper procedures during your arrest. Did they read your Miranda rights? Was the search legal? Was the Implied Consent warning read properly, at the right time? Was evidence mishandled? These issues might affect what evidence is allowed to go before the jury and influence the prosecutor’s decision whether to try the case, offer a reduced charge/sentence, or dismiss a case.
The key is having someone who knows the system fighting for your best interests.
Final Thoughts on Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney in Atlanta
When facing criminal charges in the State, Superior, or Federal courts in Georgia, hiring Jennifer Hanson could be the most important decision you make. Unlike public defenders juggling dozens of cases, Jennifer gives your case the personal attention it deserves. She answers your calls promptly and keeps you informed every step of the way. She brings over 25 years of experience exclusively in criminal defense practice. This means she knows the local judges, prosecutors, and court staff,relationships that matter when negotiating on your behalf. She understands how each judge tends to rule and which arguments work best in different courtrooms across the state.
The stakes in criminal cases are simply too high to risk inadequate representation. A conviction doesn’t just mean potential jail time,it affects your job prospects, housing options, professional licenses, and even custody rights. Jennifer fights to protect not just your freedom but your future.
Her track record speaks volumes. While no attorney can guarantee specific outcomes, Jennifer has successfully had charges reduced or dismissed for hundreds of clients. Her thorough approach leaves no stone unturned, from challenging evidence collection procedures to identifying constitutional violations.
Jennifer offers reasonable payment plans because she believes quality legal defense shouldn’t be only for the wealthy. The initial consultation is free, giving you the chance to ask questions and determine if she’s the right fit for your case. Remember, the prosecution starts building its case immediately. Shouldn’t you have someone equally dedicated working just as hard for you?