Augusta Misdemeanor Crimes Lawyer Represents Accused Individuals
Firm provides assertive defense against Georgia misdemeanor charges
Being convicted of a misdemeanor crime can have serious consequences, including possible jail time. Our hardworking attorneys at Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm in Augusta have extensive experience defending Georgians arrested on charges of driving under the influence, marijuana possession and other misdemeanors in Richmond, Columbia and Burke counties. You can rely on us to stand up assertively to challenge the allegations brought against you.
What is a misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor in Georgia is a crime that is punishable by up to one year in jail. The most serious offenses in this category are referred to as misdemeanors of a high and aggravated nature. Area courts where misdemeanor cases are adjudicated include the Georgia Superior Court, the State Court of Richmond County and the Magistrate Court of Richmond County, which are located at the Augusta Judicial Center. The Municipal Court at the Augusta Municipal Building also handles some misdemeanor matters.
What is the difference between misdemeanor and felony crimes?
Misdemeanor crimes are considered to be less serious than felony crimes and carry lighter sentences. As opposed to the misdemeanor standard, felonies can be punished by state or federal prison sentences lasting much more than one year. In certain cases, a felony conviction could lead to life in prison or even capital punishment depending on the crime and its circumstances. No matter that type offense you have been charged with, an Augusta criminal defense attorney from our firm will pursue the best possible outcome for you.
Types of crimes that are misdemeanors
These offenses are commonly charged as misdemeanors in Georgia:
- DUI/DWI
- Drug possession
- Assault
- Battery
- Theft
- Traffic violations
Many crimes can be charged either as a misdemeanor, a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature or even a felony depending on specific case facts and the defendant’s prior convictions. If the specific count brought against you is not supported by the evidence, we will pursue a dismissal or reduction in charge.
Penalties for misdemeanors in Georgia
For a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature, the maximum penalty is 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. Standard misdemeanors can also be punished 12 months in jail, but the top fine is $1,000. Additional penalties can include an order to pay restitution to the victim, driver’s license suspensions and mandatory drug or alcohol counseling. Not all misdemeanor convictions result in jail time. Alternatives to incarceration could involve probation or performing community service. When you trust our law firm with your case, we will work diligently to defeat the case against you or minimize the sentence if that is not possible.
Possible defenses in an Augusta, Georgia misdemeanor case
Possible defenses in misdemeanor cases depend on the crime. For example, in a drug possession case, you might be able to assert that the controlled substance belonged to someone else or that the search lacked proper legal grounds. Many simple battery charges are brought when against individuals who were acting in self-defense. Our firm develops strategies to counter charges brought by charges and raise whatever defenses are supported by the facts. In some cases, it may make sense to pursue a plea bargain where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a less serious offense in exchange for a reduced sentence.
Contact an effective Augusta misdemeanor crimes lawyer for help
At Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm in Augusta, we effectively defend Georgians from Richmond, Columbia and Burke counties who are accused of misdemeanor crimes. Call us at 706-496-1616 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.
