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It is universally understood that if you are accused of a crime or have been arrested, you should contact a criminal defense attorney. Their competence in the criminal justice system can help you protect your rights and reach a positive outcome, but there are often numerous options to choose from when conducting a search. If you have been accused of a crime or arrested, you are likely wondering how to choose the best criminal defense lawyer in Georgia.

Seeking Experienced Legal Support in Georgia

With over 25 years of experience in criminal defense law, The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman offers quality support to members of our community who are facing the criminal justice system. We value our reputation as a trusted criminal defense team and want our community to carefully consider their choice when choosing a defense lawyer.

Why Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

The criminal justice system was developed to create a formal framework for deterring crime, maintaining social order, and administering justice; however, this system can be complex and flawed. Navigating this system effectively requires thorough knowledge of the law and a practical understanding of how to apply it. Learning this information can take years, years you do not have once you have been arrested for a crime.

Criminal defense attorneys help bridge this gap, supporting their clients through the criminal justice system. They can also provide a shield between you and the prosecution. Law enforcement and the prosecution will use all their resources in an attempt to find you guilty.

Though you have the right to represent yourself in court, this disparity in knowledge, experience, and resources makes it highly inadvisable. Retaining a criminal defense attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and that your defense strategy is effective. Skilled attorneys can also handle cases involving appeals, drug crime, drug trafficking, federal criminal defense, gun crime, murder defense, and white collar crime.

Finding a Quality Criminal Defense Attorney

Competency and knowledge of the law can be difficult to ascertain when comparing criminal defense attorneys, but there are things to look for that can help you find an attorney who can make your experience a positive one. These include: 

• Experience: Vetting the experience of potential criminal defense attorneys is crucial; experience in criminal defense law is not enough. It is important that you choose an attorney with a history of handling cases similar to yours in the court where your case is to be tried.With more than 25 years of experience, The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has handled a wide range of cases in Georgia, meaning we have likely handled a case like yours.
• Reputation: For criminal defense attorneys, reputation within the legal community is an important indicator of professionalism and skill. Positive reviews from previous clients can also offer a window into the office’s culture and competency.The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has won multiple awards and has been published in the Georgia Bar Journal. Our past clients have also described us as “professional,” “caring,” and “super proactive.”
• Personal connection: One aspect of an effective criminal defense is feeling cared about and supported. Choosing an attorney who takes a personal interest in your case can help you feel like they are more committed to the outcome.The team at The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman understands how scary it can be to be arrested and has a vested interest in helping you through this challenging time. We can handle every case and client with the care and respect you are owed.
• Communication: A quality legal team will understand that there are different types of communication styles and will work with you to reach your goals. An effective attorney-client relationship requires open, honest, and successful communication.The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman maintains open lines of communication with our clients. We want you to feel included and involved throughout the process, from start to finish.

With more than 34,000 resident lawyers in Georgia, choosing the right attorney to handle your criminal defense is one of the most important choices you can make if you have been arrested or are suspected of committing a crime, or have been falsely accused of a crime.

FAQs

Can I Defend Myself if I Have Been Arrested for a Crime in Georgia?

You have the right to defend yourself if you have been arrested for a crime in the Peach State, but it is not often recommended. Retaining a criminal defense attorney is the most effective way to ensure your rights are protected and that you reach a favorable outcome for your situation. A quality defense attorney’s experience, knowledge, and skill can offer protection from the prosecution team and law enforcement.

What Questions Should I Ask a Criminal Defense Attorney During a Consultation?

During a consultation with a criminal defense attorney, the questions you ask should help you determine if the attorney is a good fit for your case. You can ask if the attorney has handled cases similar to yours in the court where your trial will be held. You can also ask about the potential outcomes of your case and how the attorney will handle your defense strategy. Ultimately, the consultation should help you explore the attorney’s experience, skill, and compatibility.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost in Georgia?

Determining how much a criminal defense attorney will cost in Georgia is complicated, as several factors can impact the total bill. Since most defense attorneys charge by the hour, defenses that require more time to build and implement will cost more than cases that require less time and effort.

During a consultation with a criminal defense attorney in Georgia, they can explain their rates and provide estimates for how much your case will cost, depending on the circumstances.

Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help Me?

In almost every case, a criminal defense attorney can help. In almost 90% of federal criminal cases, the defendant pleaded guilty. A defense attorney can negotiate a plea deal on your behalf. In exchange for a guilty plea, they can negotiate for a reduced sentence or lesser charge. Plea bargains are the primary way to resolve criminal cases, but that does not necessarily make them the right choice in every circumstance, especially if your case involves a federal investigation.

Schedule a Consultation With Our Team Today

The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman is trusted, competent, and skilled in criminal defense law. Reach out to our team today to see how we can help.