Savannah Criminal Defense Lawyer

Aggressive & Skillful Criminal Defense Attorney For You or a Loved One

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 forgoing 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.

If you want to understand how a criminal attorney in Savannah protects your rights, consider these key steps:

• Listening carefully to your story to ensure every factor is evaluated, from the circumstances of your arrest to any potential violation of your rights.
• Investigating the evidence and working with experts to uncover facts that may support your case, particularly in local courts like the Chatham County Courthouse.
• Advocating during every stage of the legal process, from bail hearings to pre-trial motions, so you have a robust defense against the charges you face.

When choosing a criminal lawyer, it is helpful to work with someone who understands the procedures and expectations specific to local courts, such as the Chatham County Courthouse in Savannah. A lawyer who regularly handles cases in these settings can better anticipate challenges and develop strategies that reflect local practices and judicial tendencies. If you or someone you care about is facing charges, seeking early advice from a knowledgeable attorney can make a difference in navigating arraignments, case schedules, and pre-trial requirements unique to this area.

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 Your Rights During Interactions with Law Enforcement

Understanding your rights when approached by police or other law enforcement in Savannah is vital to protecting yourself and your future. Whether you are stopped for questioning or placed under arrest, knowing how to assert your rights can help you avoid unintended self-incrimination or complications with your case. Many individuals aren't sure how to respond when officers request information or entry to their property, particularly when dealing with local authorities who may serve warrants or conduct searches in accordance with Georgia state law.

If you find yourself being questioned by law enforcement, remember that you have the right to remain silent and can politely state that you wish to speak with a criminal attorney before answering questions. You are also entitled to refuse consent to searches unless law enforcement has a valid search warrant. Your right to legal counsel applies at every stage of the process—whether you're at the scene, being booked at the Chatham County Detention Center, or in an interview room at the local police department. Asserting these rights does not imply guilt and can safeguard your legal position during subsequent proceedings.

Key actions to take if you are stopped or arrested by police in Savannah include:

• Remain respectful and calm – Keeping your composure may prevent the situation from escalating.
• Clearly request an attorney – Ask for a criminal attorney as soon as possible if you are taken into custody.
• Refrain from volunteering information – Provide only required information like your name and address, and do not answer questions about your alleged involvement in a crime without your lawyer present.

Understanding your rights—especially during these critical early moments—can make a difference in how your case is handled and may limit the scope of evidence used by prosecutors in Chatham County courts. Consulting with a criminal attorney Savannah residents rely on ensures your rights are respected from the beginning.

Contact the firm at (912) 493-9506 to schedule a FREE consultation with our experienced Savannah criminal defense attorneys.