Savannah Criminal Defense Lawyer

Retaining a Savannah criminal defense attorney can be one of the most important actions you take after an arrest. Many people are unaware of their rights after an arrest, and foregoing your right to legal defense could put you at risk of life-changing consequences. A permanent criminal record could hinder you from accomplishing your personal and professional goals, and could even cause difficulty in your personal life.

Attorney Robert F. Pirkle is devoted to helping you build a better tomorrow - one step at a time. He has been successfully defending the rights of his clients and getting results since 1984. As a seasoned litigator and veteran Savannah criminal attorney, he knows how to best help you during this frightening time.

Facing criminal charges in Georgia? Contact us today at (912) 493-9506 for a confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

What are Georgia's Mandatory Minimum Sentences?

Georgia has mandatory minimum sentences, which means that any person who is convicted of a crime will be sentenced to a minimum penalty that has already been pre-established by the state. For this reason, you will need to seek legal defense from a skilled Savannah defense attorney.

Penalties for Criminal Convictions in GA

Possible penalties for any criminal conviction in the state of Georgia could include:

• Misdemeanor Conviction - up to 1 year in prison, fines not exceeding $1,000, or both
• Aggravated or High Misdemeanor Conviction - up to 1 year in prison, fines not exceeding $5,000, or both
• Felony Conviction - more than 1 year in prison, fines exceeding $1,000, or both

With any questions regarding penalties, contact our experienced criminal defense lawyer in Savannah today. 

Common Criminal Defenses in Georgia

When facing criminal charges in Georgia, there are several defense strategies that can be used to challenge the prosecution’s case. Here are some common defenses:

• Mistaken Identity: This defense claims that the accused person was wrongly identified as the perpetrator. For example, if a suspect is identified in a lineup by a witness who made an error, mistaken identity can be used as a defense.
• Self-Defense: If someone is accused of committing a crime like assault, they may argue that they were acting in self-defense. This defense works if the accused reasonably believed that they were in imminent danger of harm and needed to use force to protect themselves.
• Alibi: An alibi is when the accused proves they were somewhere else when the crime took place. This could involve witness testimony, video footage, or other evidence that shows the accused could not have committed the crime.
• Lack of Evidence: If the prosecution cannot provide enough evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, a defense attorney may argue that the case should be dismissed or that the accused should be acquitted.

These defenses can significantly reduce the charges or even result in a case dismissal, depending on the circumstances.

The Criminal Court Process in Georgia

The criminal court process in Georgia involves several stages, each crucial to the outcome of a case. Here's a simple breakdown of what to expect:

• Arrest: The process begins with an arrest. After being taken into custody, the accused will be informed of the charges.
• Arraignment: The accused will appear before a judge to hear the charges and enter a plea. This is typically where bail is set.
• Plea Bargaining: In many cases, the defense and prosecution may negotiate a plea deal. This means the accused might plead guilty to lesser charges in exchange for a reduced sentence.
• Pre-Trial Motions: Before the trial, the defense may file motions to suppress evidence or request the dismissal of charges.
• Jury Selection: If the case goes to trial, the next step is jury selection, where both sides choose the jurors who will hear the case.
• Trial: During the trial, the prosecution and defense present their evidence and arguments. After deliberation, the jury reaches a verdict.

Understanding Probation and Parole in Georgia

In Georgia, probation and parole are alternatives to incarceration, and they offer opportunities for offenders to remain in the community under supervision. Here’s the difference:

• Probation: This is a sentence given instead of jail time. The individual must follow strict rules, such as attending counseling or reporting to a probation officer. If they violate probation, they may face imprisonment.
• Parole: Parole allows someone who is already serving a sentence to be released early under supervision. The individual must meet certain conditions and may be sent back to prison if they break parole terms.

A criminal defense attorney can help clients secure probation or parole by presenting mitigating factors or negotiating terms that minimize jail time. This is especially important for those seeking a second chance.

Need help with your criminal defense case? Contact us now at (912) 493-9506 and get experienced legal guidance every step of the way.