Facing criminal charges in Atlanta is a life-altering experience. The stakes are high—your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line. Whether you’re accused of a misdemeanor like a first offense DUI or a serious felony sex crime, understanding the workings of the criminal justice system and securing the right legal representation is crucial. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about working with an Atlanta criminal lawyer, from finding the best defense attorney and understanding all costs, to knowing your rights and options if you choose to have the court appoint a public defender.
If you or a loved one is charged with a crime in Atlanta, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of individuals face criminal allegations ranging from minor infractions to major felonies. The outcome of your case often depends on the quality and experience of your legal representation. This guide will help you understand the role of an Atlanta criminal lawyer, how to choose the right one, what to expect in terms of costs, and what to do if you can’t afford a private attorney.
What Sets Our Top Atlanta Criminal Lawyers Apart?
Top criminal lawyers in Atlanta distinguish themselves through decades of experience, often including backgrounds as former prosecutors, which provide unique insights into how cases are built and tried. In our case
These attorneys prioritize personalized defense strategies, limiting their caseloads to devote sufficient time and resources to each client. Their established relationships with local judges and prosecutors can facilitate favorable plea deals or sentencing outcomes.
Additionally, leading firms offer around-the-clock availability, understanding that legal emergencies can arise at any time.
How Top Atlanta Criminal Lawyers Build Your Defense
A successful criminal defense hinges on a variety of strategic approaches tailored to the specifics of each case.
One fundamental tactic is filing a Motion to Suppress, which seeks to exclude evidence obtained through illegal searches, seizures, or coerced confessions. If the court grants the motion, critical evidence may be removed from the prosecution’s case, significantly weakening their position.
An Alibi Defense can be powerful when the defendant can prove they were elsewhere when the crime occurred. Defense attorneys gather GPS data, surveillance footage, and witness testimony to establish the defendant’s whereabouts, creating reasonable doubt.
For cases involving mental health issues, attorneys may pursue Mental Health Defenses, including insanity pleas or competency evaluations. This requires collaboration with psychologists and psychiatrists to demonstrate diminished capacity or inability to understand the nature of the crime.
Plea Bargaining remains a common resolution method. Skilled lawyers negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or recommend alternative sentencing such as probation or community service, minimizing the impact on the client’s life.
The use of Expert Witnesses is another critical element. Forensic specialists, accident reconstructionists, and medical professionals provide testimony that can challenge the prosecution’s evidence or offer alternative explanations, strengthening the defense.
How Do I Prepare to Meet With a Criminal Defense Attorney?
To prepare for your free no-obligation consultation with the best criminal lawyers in Atlanta, remember to bring all police reports, warrants, and any evidence related to your pending case. This includes bail paperwork, vehicle impound lot receipts, a copy of your driver’s license, traffic citations, and any other papers that were generated because of your arrest.
Please write down the names and contact information of all eyewitnesses, no matter how insignificant their input may seem today. Let your attorney decide what are the most important details. When you come to our law office, or if you want us to come to you, it’s ok to have a family member with you for emotional support. Or maybe a family member was present when you were arrested and charged with DUI, a sex crime, assault, battery, theft, shoplifting, embezzlement, or any other misdemeanor or felony charge, and they become a defense witness.
Your Atlanta criminal lawyer will want to know as much as, or even more than, what the prosecutor knows about you, your prior criminal convictions if any, and how much evidence the state is prepared to bring against you. But always keep in mind, an arrest does not automatically mean you will be convicted at the end of your case. Larry Kohn and Cory Yager have plenty of successful defense strategies that can be tailored to your unique situation. Be honest and upfront with your attorney and your chances of a more favorable outcome will go up.
What Happens During the Free Initial Consultation?
Initiating a conversation with a criminal defense attorney can feel intimidating, but it’s a vital first step in protecting your rights. When reaching out to the best criminal lawyers in Atlanta Georgia, preparation is key.
During your first meeting, focus on clear and honest communication. Share every detail, even those you might find embarrassing or incriminating. Remember, attorney-client privilege protects your disclosures, and your lawyer needs the full picture to build a strong defense.
Both Larry and Cory offer an initial free consultation at our Sandy Springs law office, or one of our other 3 metro Atlanta offices. When you come in and sit down with either attorney ask them critical questions like:
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How many cases like mine have you handled?
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What are the possible outcomes for my case?
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How will you keep me updated on progress?
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How would you approach my defense strategy?
By the end of the meeting you should feel comfortable with your potential attorney, and confident thaat he can give you the best shot at a favorable outcome over any other candidates you meet with. Larry and Cory have over 30 years of combined courtroom experience and neither lawyer has worked with anyone else. When you find a formula that works you stick with it.
Discuss your financial situation openly with your attorney—they may be able to recommend solutions like a payment plan. If you cannot afford to hire an attorney, you have the right to request court-appointed counsel. The best criminal defense attorney in Georgia may sometimes serve as a court-appointed lawyer, but most commonly, you’ll be assigned a public defender. You must apply directly to the court where your case will be held.
What Happens If You Can’t Pay for a Lawyer?
To qualify for a public defender in Atlanta, you must complete an application and provide financial documentation. A judge will review your case and determine eligibility based on your income and assets.
Public defenders are experienced attorneys who handle a high volume of cases. While they are dedicated and knowledgeable, their heavy caseloads can sometimes limit the amount of individual attention they can provide. However, they are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive a fair trial.
How to Know If a Criminal Defense Lawyer Is Good
Choosing the right lawyer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here’s how to evaluate your options:
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Check Credentials and Experience: Look for attorneys with a strong track record in criminal defense, especially those who have handled cases similar to yours. Look for the attorney’s ratings on trusted lawyer review sites like Super Lawyers, AVVO.com, and Justia.com. Larry Kohn has over five hundred 5-star reviews on AVVO.com.
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Review Client Testimonials: Ask for references or read online reviews to gauge client satisfaction and outcomes.
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Assess Communication Skills: A good attorney is a strong communicator, both in court and with clients. They should be able to explain complex legal concepts in simple terms and keep you informed about your case’s progress.
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Verify Local Experience: Choose someone familiar with local courts and judges, as this can be an advantage in negotiations and trial strategy.
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Evaluate Rapport: Trust your instincts during your initial meeting. You should feel comfortable, respected, and confident in your attorney’s abilities.
The attorneys at Kohn & Yager offer a criminal defense attorney Atlanta free consultation, giving you the opportunity to ask questions and assess whether they are the right fit for your needs.
What to Look for When Reading a Lawyer’s Client Reviews
When choosing an Atlanta criminal lawyer, client reviews are a valuable resource for finding out how prior clients rate his legal expertise, and communication style. Here’s what you should look for in those reviews:
1. Responsiveness and Communication
Look for feedback that highlights the attorney’s responsiveness—how quickly they return calls or emails and how well they keep clients informed throughout the process. Reviews that mention clear, regular communication and a willingness to answer questions are strong indicators of a client-focused lawyer.
2. Professionalism and Respect
Professionalism is crucial. Reviews should reflect that the attorney treats clients with respect, maintains confidentiality, and behaves ethically both in and out of the courtroom. Comments about being treated as a person, not just a case number, are positive signs.
3. Legal Knowledge and Expertise
Seek out reviews that discuss the attorney’s knowledge of Georgia law, their experience with similar cases, and their ability to explain legal concepts clearly. Clients often mention when a lawyer’s expertise led to favorable outcomes or when the attorney provided clear, actionable advice.
4. Results and Case Outcomes
While every case is different, reviews that describe successful outcomes—such as charges reduced, cases dismissed, or favorable plea deals—demonstrate the attorney’s effectiveness. Look for patterns of positive results, but remember that no ethical lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome.
5. Personalized Attention and Advocacy
High-quality reviews often mention attorneys who take the time to understand clients’ individual needs, offer tailored strategies, and show genuine care for their clients’ futures. Comments about attorneys going “above and beyond,” being “very considerate,” or “fighting for the best possible result” are strong endorsements.
6. Handling of Negative Reviews
Consider how the attorney responds to criticism. Professional, respectful responses to negative feedback can indicate integrity and a commitment to client service.
7. Volume and Consistency of Reviews
A larger number of consistently positive reviews across multiple platforms (such as Google, Avvo, and Yelp) suggests a strong reputation and a history of client satisfaction. Consistency in praise for qualities like communication, professionalism, and results is a good sign.
In summary, focus on detailed reviews that discuss the attorney’s communication, professionalism, legal expertise, results, and personalized service. These insights, combined with the attorney’s credentials and your own impressions during a consultation, will help you make an informed decision when choosing an Atlanta criminal lawyer.
The Criminal Defense Process in Atlanta
Understanding the criminal defense process can help you feel more in control and prepared. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved in a typical case:
1. Investigation
Law enforcement investigates the alleged crime, gathers evidence, and interviews witnesses. If you believe you are under investigation, contact an attorney immediately to protect your rights.
2. Arrest
If police have sufficient evidence, they will make an arrest. Remember to exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney as soon as possible. Call us at (404) 567-5515 and we will spring into action.
3. Arraignment
Your first court appearance, where you are formally charged. An attorney can help you understand the charges, negotiate bail, or argue for your release.
4. Pretrial Proceedings
This stage involves discovery, where your attorney reviews the evidence against you, files motions, and negotiates with the prosecution.
5. Trial
If your case goes to trial, your attorney will present your defense, cross-examine witnesses, and argue your case before a judge or jury.
6. Sentencing and Appeals
If convicted, your attorney can advocate for a fair sentence and, if appropriate, file an appeal to challenge the verdict or sentence.
Understanding the legal process in Georgia can help defendants feel more prepared and empowered.
For felony charges, a Grand Jury Indictment is typically required. This process involves a panel of citizens reviewing evidence presented by the prosecution to determine whether there is sufficient cause to proceed to trial. Experienced defense attorneys carefully scrutinize the indictment for procedural errors or insufficient evidence and may file motions to dismiss if warranted.
If convicted, defendants have the right to pursue an Appeals Process. Grounds for appeal include judicial errors during trial, ineffective assistance of counsel, or the discovery of new evidence that could alter the outcome. Appeals require filing legal briefs and presenting oral arguments before appellate courts, a process that demands specialized appellate expertise.
Defendants facing a Violation of Probation (VOP) charge must act quickly. Defense attorneys investigate whether the alleged violation is valid, whether proper reporting procedures were followed, and if mitigating circumstances exist. Often, lawyers negotiate with probation officers and judges to avoid incarceration by demonstrating compliance or proposing alternative sanctions.
Common Types of Criminal Cases in Atlanta
Atlanta criminal lawyers represent clients in a wide variety of cases, each requiring specialized knowledge and a tailored defense approach.
Traffic Offenses are among the most common charges in Atlanta due to the city’s dense traffic and strict enforcement. These include DUI, speeding, reckless driving, hit-and-run incidents, and driving without insurance. Georgia’s point system penalizes drivers who accumulate 15 points within two years by suspending their licenses. An experienced attorney will scrutinize the circumstances of your traffic stop, challenge the accuracy of radar devices, question the credibility of law enforcement officers, and identify procedural errors such as unlawful stops or improper issuance of citations. Effective defense strategies can often reduce or dismiss charges, preserving your driving privileges.
Sex Crimes carry severe penalties and long-lasting consequences. Charges such as sexual assault, child molestation, and sexual battery require a defense attorney who understands the nuances of forensic evidence and the sensitive nature of these cases. Defense strategies often involve investigating the accuser’s background, examining inconsistencies in statements, and challenging the validity of forensic tests. A skilled lawyer will also protect your rights during police questioning and ensure that any evidence obtained unlawfully is excluded from trial.
Fraud and White-Collar Crimes involve complex financial transactions and often overlap with civil litigation. These cases include embezzlement, insider trading, Medicare fraud, and identity theft. Defense attorneys dissect financial records, audit trails, and electronic communications to uncover inaccuracies or prove lack of criminal intent. Because these cases can involve significant fines and prison time, having a lawyer who can navigate both criminal and civil implications is critical.
Drug Crimes range from simple possession to large-scale trafficking. Atlanta’s criminal defense attorneys challenge illegal searches, improper chain-of-custody procedures, and lab report inaccuracies. They may also work with forensic experts to analyze evidence validity. Specialized firms understand the importance of scrutinizing every detail to protect clients from harsh penalties.
Computer and Cybercrimes are increasingly prevalent, with charges including hacking, data theft, and cyberstalking. Given the technical complexity, defense lawyers stay current on evolving laws and use expert testimony to argue that alleged unauthorized access was accidental or misinterpreted. This area requires a combination of legal expertise and technological understanding.
Theft and Property Crimes: Burglary, shoplifting, and embezzlement.
Violent Crimes: Assault, battery, and homicide.
White Collar Crimes: Fraud, forgery, and identity theft.
Probation Violations: Alleged breaches of probation terms.
Each type of case requires a unique defense strategy and understanding of Georgia law.
Why You Need an Atlanta Criminal Lawyer
A skilled criminal defense lawyer provides critical advantages in courtrooms in Fulton County, Cobb County, DeKalb County, Forsyth County, and Gwinnett County. The person you trust your freedom with must have broad legal knowledge and understand the complexities of Georgia criminal code (O.C.G.A.) and local court proceedings. In the courtroom your attorney should have good working relationships with the prosecution team, the presiding judge, and also court clerks and other administrative staff. Respect for both sides should be evident.
Your lawyer must have complete confidence in negotiating plea deals or possible charge reductions with the state prosecutor, and present these opportunities to you. In the end the decision is yours.
Larry Kohn and Cory Yager have represented thousands of clients over their lengthy legal careers, and understand how each local court operates. While the overwhelming majority of cases get resolved before going to trial, both Larry and Cory have successfully presented cases before judges and juries alike. Cory was a Roswell police officer and a Cobb County police officer even while he attended law school at night. He understands how police procedures must be followed during the arrest process, and is keen to uncover any procedural mistakes that could work to his client’s advantage.
Attempting to represent yourself can mean costly mistakes and missed opportunities for defense. Even minor charges can have lasting consequences, including fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record.
What to Avoid When Facing Criminal Charges
Protect your case by avoiding common mistakes:
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Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.
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Avoid posting about your case on social media.
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Never speak to police or investigators without your lawyer present.
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Do not destroy or alter evidence.
These actions can seriously harm your defense and may be used against you in court.
Client Support and Resources
The best Atlanta criminal lawyers understand that facing criminal charges is stressful and disruptive. They offer 24/7 availability to respond promptly to emergencies, such as arrests or warrants, providing peace of mind when you need it most. Payment flexibility is also a priority. Many firms provide payment plans to ensure that quality legal representation is accessible.
Beyond legal defense, some attorneys offer holistic support, referring clients to substance abuse programs, mental health counseling, or social services. This comprehensive approach addresses underlying issues that may affect your case and personal well-being.
Call Larry Kohn or Cory Yager Today and Sleep Better
Choosing the right Atlanta criminal lawyer is critical to protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome. By understanding the types of cases handled, the defense strategies employed, the legal process, and what to look for in an attorney’s credentials and client support, you can make an informed decision.
If you or a loved one faces criminal charges in Atlanta, act quickly. Contact trusted criminal defense attorney Larry Kohn today for a free, confidential consultation. Early legal intervention can make all the difference in your case and your future.
Facing criminal charges in Atlanta is overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you’re searching for an affordable criminal defense attorney Atlanta or the top criminal lawyers in Georgia, the right legal representation can make all the difference.
Ready for help? Contact our experienced legal team today for a confidential free case evaluation at (404) 567-5515 day or night, including weekends and holidays.