Cobb County Gang Charges Lawyer

Cobb County Gang Charges Attorney

Any accusation of breaking the law can result in severe consequences and negative impacts on your future, but this is especially true if you have been accused of criminal gang activity. It is not uncommon for law enforcement and the prosecution to aggressively pursue gang charges, putting you at even more of a disadvantage when facing the criminal justice system. To even out the scales, it is crucial that you speak with an experienced Cobb County gang charges lawyer.

Skilled Gang Charges Support in Cobb County, GA

The attorney you choose to represent you through gang charges can have an immense impact on the outcome of your case. The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman understands the potential consequences of gang charges and can work with you to reach a favorable outcome. With more than 25 years of experience in criminal law, we can approach your case with the compassion, reliability, and competence you deserve. Our firm also provides strong defense strategies in a wide range of matters, including criminal defense, drug crime, and violent crime cases.

Criminal Gang Activity in Georgia

The Georgia Gang Investigators Association (GGIA) conducted a survey that showed an estimated 127,732 known gang members and active associates are present in the state. These gang members represent roughly 1,974 violent gangs and are responsible for an estimated 65% of all crime in Georgia.

In response to this significant number of gang members and associates, a number that has surged by 80% since 2018, Georgia law enforcement and prosecution teams have begun aggressively pursuing gang-related charges. In addition to an increase in convictions, there has also been an increase in the penalties faced by those accused of gang activity.

Though these actions have the intent of reducing gang activity and the total crime in the state, it does come at a cost. Aggressive prosecution can result in overcharging, false accusations of gang activity or gang affiliation, or even civil rights violations during the investigation. The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has seen these negative outcomes and can help you protect your rights and reach a favorable outcome for your case.

Strong Defense Strategies Against Gang Charges in Cobb County

If you are facing gang charges, your situation is far from hopeless. A skilled criminal defense attorney can examine your situation and create a defense strategy tailored to your situation. Potential routes include getting charges dismissed or reduced, approaching the prosecution to reach a plea deal, or crafting an argument for reduced sentencing if found guilty.

Targeting the four criteria the prosecution must prove in gang charge cases is one of the most effective defense strategies. These criteria are:

1. The defendant is associated with a gang. The association can be direct or indirect.
2. The gang falls under the definition of a criminal street gang stated in O.C.G.A § 16-15-3.
3. The accused crime falls within the standards set in O.C.G.A § 16-15-3.
4. The crime was committed with the intent to advance the gang’s interests.

If the prosecution is unable to prove any of these tenets, then a skilled defense attorney is more likely to make an argument for charge reduction or dismissal. Since criminal gang activity charges are often added to other charges, getting these charges removed can significantly reduce the potential penalties you face.

In many instances, a successful defense strategy requires thorough legal knowledge and a creative understanding of how to apply the law in the client’s best interests. Retaining a skilled criminal defense attorney can help you build the most effective defense strategy for your specific situation.

Why Hire a Gang Charges Lawyer in Cobb County, GA

If you have been accused of gang-related crimes in Cobb County, GA, it is important to seek legal support from a local attorney. Their relationship with the local prosecution team and knowledge of how these cases are typically handled can be invaluable while you fight the charges that have been brought against you.

For more than 25 years, The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has supported defendants in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Our team is dedicated and competent, approaching every client with the respect and compassion they deserve. Regardless of the situation or crime you are accused of committing, we can handle your case without judgment.

FAQs

What Should I Do if I Am Accused of Being in a Criminal Gang in Cobb County, GA?

If you are accused of being in a criminal gang, your first action should be contacting an experienced, local criminal defense attorney with a history of representing defendants in similar positions.

Cobb County prosecutors often handle gang-related cases with little mercy and aggressively pursue severe criminal sentences. To protect your rights and reach a favorable outcome for your case, speaking with a criminal defense team like that found with The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman is recommended.

Will I Go to Prison if I Am Convicted of Criminal Gang Activity in Georgia?

It is very possible that you will be sentenced to prison if you are convicted of criminal gang activity in Georgia. The potential penalties for each violation are stated in O.C.G.A § 16-15-4, but the potential incarceration period is generally between five and 20 years for each violation. Additional penalties that can apply include probation and a fine between $10,000 and $15,000.

What Is Criminal Gang Activity in Cobb County, GA?

In Cobb County, GA, criminal gang activity is any involvement in committing or intending to commit crimes that involve damage to property, criminal trespassing, violence, possession or use of a weapon, helping a child escape from custody, or aggravated sexual battery. It is important to note that the involvement does not have to be direct; even indirect involvement in the crime can result in a criminal gang activity charge.

What Is a Criminal Street Gang in Georgia?

To be considered a criminal street gang in Georgia, the gang must meet two parameters — that the group formally or informally contains three or more people, and the group is engaged in criminal gang activity. The existence of the group can be established in many ways, including symbols, signs, attire, tattoos, customs, or behavior.

Facing Gang Charges in Cobb County? Seek Skilled Legal Support

If you or a loved one has been accused of gang activity in Cobb County, The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman can support you and your defense. Reach out to our office to schedule a consultation today.