Felony Attorney in Savannah

Consequences of a Georgia Felony Conviction

Felony charges carry more serious potential penalties than misdemeanor charges. The potential sentence depends on the charged offense and the Georgia law that applies to it. Certain convictions also carry mandatory minimum sentences, meaning state law establishes a minimum punishment that can limit a court’s sentencing discretion.

The consequences may extend beyond incarceration, probation, or other court supervision. These continuing effects are often called collateral consequences: legal and practical restrictions that arise because of a conviction rather than as part of the sentence itself.

A felony conviction can affect important parts of a person’s life:

• Firearm ownership and possession rights
• Employment and advancement opportunities
• Rental and housing opportunities
• Professional licenses and career requirements
• Immigration status and related proceedings

A criminal record can continue creating difficulties after every court-ordered obligation has ended. We handle criminal defense matters under Georgia law and can help determine whether a person is eligible for record restriction (commonly called expungement) of certain criminal records. Because eligibility depends on the record and applicable legal requirements, it must be assessed individually.

What Follows a Felony Arrest in Savannah

After an arrest, booking and detention may occur through the Chatham County Detention Center before the case moves into court. Early proceedings can include a bail hearing and arraignment, where the accused is formally advised of the charge and enters a plea. The exact sequence and timing depend on the case.

A Georgia felony case can involve these stages:

• Arrest and booking: Law enforcement processes the accused and records the arrest.
• Bail hearing: The court considers whether release is appropriate and what conditions may apply.
• Arraignment: The accused receives the formal charge and enters a plea.
• Plea bargaining: The defense and prosecution discuss whether the case can be resolved through an agreement.
• Pre-trial motions: The attorneys ask the court to decide legal or evidentiary issues before trial.
• Jury selection and trial: A jury is selected to hear evidence when the case isn’t resolved earlier.

A criminal case can last from a few months to more than a year. The complexity of the evidence, court scheduling, and whether the case proceeds to trial can affect the timeline.

Investigation, Motions & Trial Preparation

We begin by listening to the client’s account and examining the available evidence. Our investigation may involve working with appropriate investigators when needed. We also identify legal issues, assess the prosecution’s position, and account for local court procedure involving the Chatham County Courthouse.

Our advocacy can begin at bail hearings and continue through pre-trial motions. We may negotiate with the prosecution while preparing for trial when the case doesn’t resolve through an agreement. This approach allows the defense strategy to respond to the evidence and developments at each stage.