Violent Felonies Defense Attorney
Experienced representation for serious violent crime allegations requiring immediate attention.
Violent felony charges represent some of the most serious allegations in the criminal justice system, carrying the potential for lengthy prison sentences, lifetime supervision, and permanent loss of civil rights. These cases often involve complex factual scenarios, emotional victims and witnesses, and intense media attention. The stakes could not be higher, as convictions can result in decades of imprisonment and a lifetime of consequences that extend far beyond the criminal penalties.
Georgia law defines violent crimes broadly, encompassing everything from simple assault to murder. The prosecution of these cases is often prioritized by district attorneys' offices, with experienced prosecutors and significant resources dedicated to securing convictions. The emotional nature of violent crime allegations can create a presumption of guilt in the minds of potential jurors, making it essential to have an experienced defense attorney who understands how to effectively challenge the prosecution's case.
Self-defense is a fundamental right recognized by both Georgia law and the U.S. Constitution. Georgia's "Stand Your Ground" law allows individuals to use force, including deadly force, to protect themselves or others when they reasonably believe such force is necessary to prevent death, great bodily injury, or the commission of a forcible felony. However, claiming self-defense requires careful legal analysis and thorough investigation to establish that your actions were justified under the circumstances.
The investigation of violent crime cases often involves multiple law enforcement agencies, forensic experts, and sophisticated evidence collection techniques. Crime scene analysis, DNA evidence, ballistics testing, and medical examiner reports all play crucial roles in these cases. Our defense team works with independent experts to review and challenge the prosecution's forensic evidence, often revealing alternative explanations for physical evidence or exposing flaws in the investigation.
Witness identification is often a central issue in violent crime cases, particularly when the incident occurred in chaotic or poorly lit conditions. Eyewitness testimony, while compelling to juries, is notoriously unreliable and subject to numerous factors that can affect accuracy. Cross-racial identification, stress, weapon focus, and the passage of time all contribute to the unreliability of eyewitness identification. We thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding any identification procedures and challenge identifications that do not meet constitutional standards.
The psychological impact of violent crime allegations cannot be understated. Defendants often struggle with the stress of facing serious charges, the disruption to their families and careers, and the social stigma associated with violent crime accusations. We provide not only legal representation but also guidance and support throughout the legal process, helping our clients understand their options and make informed decisions about their defense strategy.
We conduct thorough investigations including witness interviews, crime scene analysis, and expert testimony. We examine all evidence for self-defense claims, mistaken identity, and other valid defenses.
Aggravated Assault: 1-20 years in prison, with mandatory minimums for certain circumstances (firearm use, domestic violence), fines up to $100,000
Armed Robbery: 10-20 years in prison (first offense), life imprisonment possible for repeat offenders, no parole eligibility for first 10 years
Murder: Life imprisonment with or without parole possibility, or death penalty for aggravated circumstances
Kidnapping: 10-30 years in prison, with life imprisonment possible for certain aggravating factors
Home Invasion: 10-30 years in prison, enhanced penalties if committed with firearms or resulting in injury
Gang Enhancement: Additional 5-15 years added to underlying sentence for gang-related violent crimes
Victim Impact: Court-ordered restitution for medical expenses, counseling, and other victim-related costs
Civil Consequences: Permanent loss of gun rights, difficulty obtaining employment, housing restrictions, and potential civil liability