If you are arrested and charged with a crime, your livelihood, security, and freedom is at stake. It may feel like the world has turned against you, and that you are on your own.

At the Law Firm of Abbi S. Taylor, we understand the feelings of stress, confusion, and hopelessness that often follow an arrest. For more than three decades, we have defended clients against criminal charges throughout the states of Georgia and Florida and the US Virgin Islands. With every case we take, our law firm fights tirelessly for our client’s freedom, and we will do the same for you.

What Is Considered A Criminal Offense?

There are many types of criminal offenses, which include personal crimes, property crimes, and statutory crimes.

Personal crimes, for example, are criminal acts that harm or injure another person. These may include acts such as arson, domestic abuse, rape, assault, battery, and homicide. Property crimes, on the other hand, involve the deprivation of, or harm to, another person’s property. Property crimes include theft, burglary, shoplifting, and criminal damage to property.

There are statutory crimes in which certain conduct is prohibited by law. Statutory criminal offenses include alcohol related crimes, drug crimes, and traffic violations. For example, driving under the influence (DUI), public intoxication, underage drinking, marijuana possession, drug trafficking, and speeding are considered statutory crimes.

What Are The Possible Charges For Criminal Conduct?

Charges for criminal offenses vary depending on the type of crime committed and the specific facts of each case.

A felony is the most serious criminal offense in Georgia, and is punishable by one year or more in prison. Misdemeanor offenses often involve less serious crimes, and can be punished by up to twelve months in a county jail. 

Both felony and misdemeanor charges can seriously impact your freedom, education, and future employment. Hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer is critical to a successful defense against any criminal charges you face.

What Should I Do After An Arrest?

If you are arrested for alleged criminal conduct, you have powerful constitutional rights. The arresting officer should recite a Miranda warning, which explicitly states those rights. However, it is up to you to invoke your rights.

After an arrest, you should tell law enforcement that you wish to remain silent. In addition, you should ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not speak about your case to law enforcement without an attorney present. Anything that you say can and will be used against you in court.

The police may ask you questions, such as your name, age, and address. This type of biographical information is safe to share with the arresting officer. However, this is not the time to argue your case - you will be able to do that in court with the help of your criminal defense attorney.

You may also appear before a judge within 48 to 72 hours after you have been booked for a bail determination. When you appear before the judge at this initial hearing, you should ask for a lawyer, or have your own attorney speak on your behalf.

Should I Hire A Criminal Defense Attorney?

If you have been charged with a crime, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney fighting for your freedom - regardless of the severity of the charges. A criminal conviction can have a long-lasting impact on your ability to find stable employment, buy or rent a comfortable home, and other important freedoms.

The Law Firm of Abbi S. Taylor has the experience you need to fight your criminal charges. We have a proven track record that spans more than three decades. Our criminal defense law firm provides a voice for hundreds of individuals charged and convicted of criminal offenses.

The first step to receiving the representation you need is a free consultation to discuss the facts and strengths of your case. Contact the Law Firm of Abbi S. Taylor today to schedule your free consultation by calling (404) 378-3555 or by using the form below.