2 OF THE BEST CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS IN ATLANTA

We are top ranked criminal defense lawyers, who zealously advocate for their clients in courtrooms all around Atlanta, Georgia. We are skilled criminal defense attorneys and we are committed to thoroughly reviewing each case, considering all the potential outcomes, and, only then, advising clients how best to proceed. We are not scared of trial and would never push a client to close a case, unless it is in the client’s best interest. Our extensive trial experience is what sets us apart from the rest. Most attorneys are not trial lawyers and are intimidated by the very notion of a trial. As a result, most lawyers advise their clients against trial and focus on the quickest way to dispose of cases. Ultimately, those tactics negatively impact the clients and the results in their cases. We strive to obtain the best possible resolution for every single client. Our clients are our #1 priority at the Atlanta Criminal Defense Team.

We have been recognized and awarded for our incredible outcomes and our client-centered representation in the criminal defense field. The National Trial Lawyers organization presented us with the Top 40 Under 40 awards for Criminal Defense, which are only extended to America’s top young trial lawyers. The American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys named our firm one of the 10 Best Law Firms in Georgia for Criminal Defense, based on client satisfaction. Additionally, we have received Top Attorney ratings and numerous five-star reviews from our former clients.

Once you have been charged with a crime, your freedom is at stake. Never sell yourself short when hiring a criminal defense attorney because you cannot afford to be represented by anyone but the best. The Atlanta Criminal Defense Team is a pure criminal defense firm with two of the most passionate defense lawyers in Metro Atlanta. You deserve the best representation, which is why you need the Atlanta Criminal Defense Team fighting for you.

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ABOUT US

INVESTIGATION

This is the first phase in the criminal process. During this phase, the police are building their case against you by interviewing witnesses, collecting physical evidence, submitting evidence to GBI for scientific testing, and questioning potential suspects. Typically, this is when police officers obtain and execute search warrants of your home and any other personal property that belongs to you. Depending on the type of crime, the police can also secure search warrants for your blood or DNA during the investigation phase.

ARREST

When the police are nearing the end of their investigation, they usually have the identity of a suspect (or suspects) that are somehow involved in the crime. If an investigator presents enough evidence for arrest, a judge will sign an arrest warrant for that suspect. With an arrest warrant in hand, police officers locate the suspect and place him under arrest. Here, it’s important to note that just because the police have enough evidence for an arrest warrant does not mean they have enough evidence for a conviction. In other words, just because you were arrested for a crime does not mean that you will be found guilty of that crime.

INDICTMENT

After the investigation is completed, the law enforcement agency turns their investigative file over to the District Attorney’s Office of that county. The DA’s Office then reviews the file and calls in a grand jury to hear evidence and determine whether probable cause exists to charge the defendant with the crimes he is alleged to have committed. Grand jury proceedings are considered secretive because no one from the defense (not even the criminal defense attorney) is allowed to be present during the proceedings. After reviewing the evidence presented, the grand jury issues an indictment, which is a formal charging document that lists each crime you are accused of committing. The indictment is dated and signed by the foreperson, and later filed with the clerk of court for that county.

ARRAIGNMENT

Sometime after the indictment if filed with the clerk’s office, you will receive a court notice for arraignment. An arraignment is the first court appearance you will make, so it is your first opportunity to formally answer to the charges. At this time, you have an option to either plead guilty to the charges in the indictment and be sentenced by the judge, or you can plead not guilty and demand a jury trial. Here, it’s important to note that most people plead not guilty at arraignment to give themselves and their attorneys time to review discovery, conduct an independent investigation, and prepare for trial.

DISCOVERY

In Georgia courts, the term, Discovery, refers to all the evidence the State has against you for the crimes charged in the indictment. Discovery usually includes investigative reports, GBI reports, witness statements, pictures, phone calls, confessions, recorded interviews, cell phone or computer data, results of any search warrants, expert reports, and any other evidence the State plans to present at trial. The discovery phase can last for a while, depending on the severity of the charges against you. This is when your attorney has the chance to review all the State’s evidence and determine how best to proceed. Sometimes, your attorney may request additional evidence from the State, if something is missing. Your attorney will usually conduct an independent investigation by following up with certain witnesses and interviewing people, who are helpful to your defense. Most importantly, your attorney will have an opportunity to file any necessary pre-trial motions and have those hearings.

TRIAL

The last phase in the criminal process is a trial. The U.S. Constitution guarantees you the right to a jury trial. However, you may choose to waive a jury trial and request a bench trial instead. Please note that it’s very important to consult with your attorney before deciding to waive your right to a jury trial. A jury trial is a process during which 12 people (chosen by both, the State and the defense) take an oath to listen to all the testimony, view all the evidence, and render a unanimous verdict in your case. So, all 12 people have to be convinced, beyond a reasonable doubt, that you are either guilty, in which case they would convict, or not guilty, in which case they would acquit.

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