It is essential to seek legal counsel if being charged with a misdemeanor, as a conviction can result in financial, social, and professional consequences. DeKalb County misdemeanor lawyer Robert James provides experienced representation in such cases.
Attorney James is aggressive and dedicated to doing his best to protect your future. He has the background and resources to handle all types of criminal cases.
Call to talk to a seasoned criminal attorney.
What Are Misdemeanors?
In Georgia, misdemeanors are defined as crimes that can be punished by one year or less in county jail. There are two different categories: misdemeanors and misdemeanors of a high and aggravated nature. Both are punishable by up to 12 months in a county jail.
The former charge includes a fine of up to $1,000 while the latter’s fine can be up to $5,000.
With misdemeanors, judges hold a significant amount of power in determining how the accused serves their sentence such as:
- Suspending some or all of the sentence
- Giving the defendant the option of probation instead of jail
- Permitting the defendant to serve a jail term of less than 6 months on the weekends or during non-working hours
A DeKalb County misdemeanor attorney could explain these potential penalties in more detail during an initial consultation.
How Long Can a Misdemeanor Case Stay Open?
Most specific offenses do not have a predetermined statute of limitations, but the general guideline is that most felonies aside from rape, murder, or crimes against underage victims hold a statute of limitations of four years, while misdemeanors hold a statute of limitations of two years.
What Are the Penalties if Convicted?
While being charged with a misdemeanor is less serious than a felony, there are still penalties with long-lasting implications that must be considered, such as:
- Loss of right to own a firearm
- Loss of federal financial aid or education
- Loss of driver’s license
- Publication of photo in newspaper
- Mandatory community service
- Ineligibility for certain jobs
- Fines
- Jail time
- Permanent criminal record
Working with a seasoned DeKalb County misdemeanor attorney is critical in avoiding the steepest penalties in a criminal case.
Get in Touch with a DeKalb County Misdemeanor Attorney
The former elected District Attorney Robert James is here to walk you through this legal process and attempt to reduce the possible cost. It is not wise to wait to find representation; get in touch with our firm today. We offer free case consultations over the phone, in our office, or we’ll even come to you!
Call now to schedule a consultation with a DeKalb County misdemeanor lawyer.