Misdemeanor Lawyer in Marietta GA

A misdemeanor charge is one of three classifications of crimes in the state of Georgia. These acts are considered more serious than infractions but are penalized less harshly than felonies. Regardless, misdemeanors must be staunchly defended.

Infractions are petty violations, usually punishable by fines. The most common types of infractions are traffic offenses. Although they will go on an individual’s record, infractions will probably not affect their professional or personal life. In some cases, going before the judge to fight infractions can be a good idea.

While infractions are considered minor offenses, misdemeanors are more serious offenses that can result in harsh penalties and even jail time if convicted. In addition, penalties for some misdemeanors can also include community service. Crimes that are considered misdemeanors include, for example, DUI offenses, reckless driving, assault, shoplifting, and possession of less than one ounce of marijuana. Misdemeanor convictions also carry other consequences, such as a suspended driver’s license in DUI defense cases.

The most severe offenses are felonies, which usually involve serious physical harm or threat to the victim, although these offenses also include fraud schemes and white-collar crimes. As misdemeanors, felony convictions may also result in jail time, from one year to life in prison without parole, depending on the circumstances of the crime.

Even though some misdemeanor charges do not sound so serious as felony charges, some misdemeanors can be elevated to felonies if an individual is a second-time offender. If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Georgia, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who can defend your rights and provide the best legal representation. The Waltman Firm can offer the legal advice, advocacy, and representation you need.

 

Despite common belief, a misdemeanor is far from minor — in fact, a conviction could mean the loss of your freedom for up to one year, a fine of up to $1,000, and a permanent criminal record. The only way to get out of a misdemeanor or mitigate the potential impacts of a conviction is to hire a skilled Marietta Georgia criminal defense lawyer as soon as you learn of your charges.

At The Waltman Firm, we represent clients facing serious misdemeanor and felony charges, including DUIs, sex offenses, drug charges, and vehicular homicide. With additional experience in practice areas such as personal injury, our law firm is committed to fighting for justice and our client’s rights.

Marietta criminal defense attorney Holly Waltman possesses several years of experience offering personalized and aggressive legal representation to clients in Cobb County and the greater Atlanta area. She is committed to finding a solution that provides the best possible defense that can help you get your life back on track.

 

Do You Have to Go to Jail If You Are Convicted of a Misdemeanor?

Yes, in some criminal cases. On the other hand, some individuals may be eligible for probation. If the court believes that the convicted individual doesn’t present an imminent threat to the community, a judge may give them probation instead of a jail sentence.

However, individuals on probation are often required to meet certain conditions and live up to a set of rules if they don’t want to face a violation of their probation which carries serious penalties. Those who complete all probation requirements may qualify for early termination. A skilled Marietta probation termination attorney can explain all the details.

 

Can a Misdemeanor Conviction Go Away in Georgia?

That depends on the crime an individual is convicted of. Certain misdemeanor convictions are eligible for record restriction or expungement. That means conviction records will be restricted from people outside the judicial branch and the government.

Cobb County criminal defense attorneys can tell you which misdemeanor offenses are eligible for expungement and which are not.

We understand that people can sometimes find themselves in challenging situations. But, no one should fight misdemeanor charges alone. It is essential to consult a criminal defense lawyer in Marietta, Georgia, like Holly Waltman, who will give their best to win your case. Call to book a consultation, and let us help you.