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If you have been accused of a crime, a Carrollton criminal defense lawyer can help you in the legal process. They can provide advice about the criminal justice system and your legal options under Georgia law. Criminal charges can impact your reputation, career, finances, and future. If you are facing accusations related to DUI crimes, drug charges, theft offenses, assault, or other charges, you may benefit from finding out how criminal defense laws apply to your case.
At Christy E. Draper, LLC, criminal defense is supported by decades of legal experience serving clients in the metro Atlanta area. Attorney Christy E. Draper is a former Douglas Assistant District Attorney and has practiced criminal law in Georgia courts for years. She is licensed by the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National College for DUI Defense, and the Lawyers Club of Atlanta.
Attorney Draper also has received advanced training in the forensic interview of children. She has worked on legislation and criminal defense issues that impact Georgians.
Criminal offenses can occur all throughout Carrollton. Criminal charges can be filed for incidents that occur near Bankhead Highway (also known as U.S. Route 78), Interstate 20, Maple Street, and other roads within Carrollton, such as the Adamson Square district downtown.
Being charged with a crime does not automatically equal guilt, and prosecutors must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a conviction. Defendants also have rights during the criminal process, such as the right to remain silent, the right to counsel, and the right to a speedy trial.
Georgia criminal charges involve misdemeanor charges and felonies. Punishment can vary from case to case based on criminal record, circumstances, and severity of the charges. Some crimes are punishable by court fines and probation, while others can involve lengthy prison sentences and collateral consequences.
Carrollton, GA, sees its fair share of crime. According to Neighborhood Scout, the city has a crime rate of 20.74 per 1,000 residents. In a given year, there were 46 violent crimes and 541 property crimes in the city. Some common crimes that we defend include:
No two cases are the same, and various defenses are available in criminal cases. Sometimes the credibility of witnesses, police reports, forensic testing, and video surveillance can become important pieces of a criminal defense. Your attorney can investigate the circumstances of your arrest and the prosecution’s case to build an appropriate defense.
Many laws cover different offenses and issues under Georgia criminal law. Understanding how certain terms are defined by statute can help you better understand your charge. Keep in mind that prosecutors have the burden of proving each element of an offense. If your attorney can prove that an element of the crime was not satisfied, you may have a valid defense to the charge.
The law also discusses who can legally arrest someone in the state of Georgia. Police officers, deputies, and law enforcement agents all have the authority to make arrests. However, there are certain rules that must be followed when making an arrest. Sometimes an investigation or arrest can violate your rights and affect the outcome of your case.
Many people decide to hire a criminal defense lawyer shortly after they first hear they are under investigation or have been charged with a crime. An early consultation with a Carrollton criminal defense attorney can help you understand the charges you face, learn what not to do, and make educated decisions.
The hours and sometimes days after you have been arrested or accused of a crime can be very stressful. An attorney can help answer questions about when you have to appear in court, bond details, what the police can do in their investigation, and what penalties you may be facing. Contacting an attorney early can help you learn what you can anticipate in your case.
When you choose to work with a lawyer, you need someone who knows the local courts and Georgia criminal law and how it all applies to the realities of handling criminal charges in West Georgia. You can also benefit from a local law firm that can formulate strong criminal defense strategies. Christy E. Draper can do that for you.
Call Us Now 770-942-1792
Yes. Criminal charges and convictions can affect nursing licenses, teaching licenses, real estate licenses, contractor licenses, and other professional licenses. Each licensing board usually conducts its own investigation independent of the criminal case. The board may take action against your professional license even if you do not serve jail time. Much depends on what you were accused of doing, what license you hold, and what your particular licensing board allows.
You may be able to travel internationally if you have a criminal conviction. Travel restrictions can vary depending on the country you wish to travel to. Some countries deny entry for specific criminal convictions. Some countries look at applications on an individual basis. Some misdemeanors may cause issues with international travel in certain cases.
If you plan on traveling internationally, look into the entry requirements for the countries you want to travel to.
Yes. Criminal charges or convictions can play a role in family law cases that involve children, specifically custody and parenting time. Most courts look at what is in the best interests of the child and use that as the driving factor for custody decisions. Safety, stability, and decision-making can come into play with any criminal matter.
A witness changing their story during a criminal case does not always help or harm either party’s case. However, it could affect a judge or jury’s opinion on the credibility of the witness and the rest of the case. Witness testimony may change for various reasons. Some witnesses may have memory problems or receive new information. Others may change their story due to pressure from third parties.
If you have been charged with a crime in Carrollton, contact Christy E. Draper, LLC, today. Our team can assist you in the legal process and help you advocate for your rights and future.
Christy E. Draper, Attorney at Law, is a highly qualified and dedicated attorney
who meticulously manages every detail of your case.
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