Practice Areas
Common Criminal Defense Matters in Georgia
Georgia criminal defense law operates under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) with cases heard in superior courts, state courts, and magistrate courts throughout the state's 159 counties. The Georgia Supreme Court and Court of Appeals provide appellate review for criminal matters. Atlanta's Fulton County Superior Court handles the highest volume of felony cases statewide. Georgia's criminal justice system emphasizes both punishment and rehabilitation through specialized courts and diversion programs.
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Drug possession and trafficking
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Federal criminal charges
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Domestic violence defense
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Criminal Defense Attorneys by City in Georgia
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Why It Matters
Why Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney in Georgia?
Georgia-licensed attorneys must be admitted to the State Bar of Georgia and understand the state's specific criminal procedures, sentencing guidelines, and local court practices. Only attorneys licensed in Georgia can represent clients in state criminal proceedings and have established relationships with local prosecutors and judges.
Local Courts
Criminal cases in Georgia are prosecuted in superior courts for felonies, state courts for misdemeanors, and magistrate courts for traffic violations and preliminary hearings. The Northern District of Georgia federal court in Atlanta handles federal criminal matters.
Georgia Law
Georgia Criminal Defense Laws & Deadlines
Georgia follows a seven-year statute of limitations for most felonies under O.C.G.A. § 17-3-1, with exceptions for serious crimes like murder which have no time limit. The state operates under determinate sentencing guidelines and Georgia's First Offender Act allows eligible defendants to avoid conviction records for certain crimes.
Key Facts
What to Know About Criminal Defense in Georgia
Cost to You
Free to submit your case
When to Act
Immediately after arrest or charges filed
Attorney Cost
Hourly rates, retainers, or flat fees vary by attorney.
Our Network
Criminal Defense attorneys as they join
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Georgia's First Offender Act and how can it help my case?
Georgia's First Offender Act allows eligible defendants to plead guilty without a conviction being entered on their record. Upon successful completion of probation, the case is dismissed and sealed, though certain restrictions apply for subsequent offenses.
How long does the state have to file criminal charges in Georgia?
Georgia has a seven-year statute of limitations for most felonies, four years for most misdemeanors, and two years for traffic violations. However, serious crimes like murder, armed robbery, and certain sex offenses have no time limit under O.C.G.A. § 17-3-1.
Do I need a Georgia-licensed attorney for criminal charges in the state?
Yes, only attorneys admitted to the State Bar of Georgia can represent clients in Georgia criminal proceedings. Out-of-state attorneys must be admitted pro hac vice on a case-by-case basis and work with local Georgia counsel.
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