Kennesaw Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Attorney in Kennesaw, GA

Facing criminal charges in Cobb County can leave you worried about your future, but you don’t have to navigate the complex Georgia legal system alone. If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation, working with an experienced Kennesaw criminal defense lawyer from The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman can help to protect your future, your freedom, and your reputation.

About The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman

At The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman, we understand that a single criminal charge shouldn’t define the rest of your life. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor in the Kennesaw Municipal Court or you’re dealing with felony charges in Cobb County Superior Court, our founding attorney, Lawrence J. Zimmerman, has the legal knowledge and local experience needed to defend you against complex charges in Kennesaw.

Understanding Criminal Defense Laws in Georgia

Georgia has some of the strictest criminal defense laws in the country, as the state utilizes a “Truth in Sentencing” approach. This means that many criminal convictions require significant time served without the possibility of early parole.

In Georgia, criminal offenses generally fall under two classifications:

1. Misdemeanors: Defendants convicted of misdemeanors may have to serve 12 months in jail or pay fines up to $1000. Examples of this type include shoplifting amounts under $500, possession of less than an ounce of marijuana, and first-offense DUIs.
2. Felonies: Felonies in Georgia are serious convictions that carry a sentence of at least one year in prison. Serious felonies, such as aggravated assault or drug trafficking, can result in decades behind bars.

Beyond jail time, a criminal conviction in Kennesaw can lead to a permanent criminal record. This can keep you from securing housing, obtaining student loans, or keeping a professional license. Our goal is to prevent these collateral consequences by using proactive, thorough criminal defense strategies.

Common Criminal Offenses in Kennesaw

Every day, countless individuals across the state are arrested on criminal charges. While certain criminal offenses are on the decline, there are a variety of common crimes still seen throughout the state, including:

• Property Crimes: Property crimes like larceny and theft continue to be the most frequently prosecuted offenses in the state. 126,572 larceny-theft incidents were reported in Georgia in 2024 alone. Cobb County also mirrored statewide data, with 7,380 cases of larceny-theft being reported, the most of any crime occurring in the area.
• Fraud Crimes: Fraud crimes continue to grow as technology advances, and the internet’s scope increases, often putting countless victims at risk of devastating loss. Wire fraud, healthcare fraud, and investment fraud are all common offenses.
• Drug Crimes: Drug and narcotics offenses rose in Kennesaw in 2025, with common offenses including drug possession, manufacturing, or trafficking.
• Gun Crimes: Gun crimes are relatively common throughout Georgia and require a firm legal strategy to protect your future and your right to own weapons.

Why You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney in Kennesaw

From the high-traffic corridors of North Cobb Parkway to the busy student life at Kennesaw State University, local law enforcement, including the Kennesaw Police Department and the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, is highly active across the state.

When you hire a criminal defense lawyer who is familiar with the local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures in Kennesaw, you gain an advocate who knows how to effectively navigate local court systems and protect your future. At The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman, our lead attorney leverages his knowledge of criminal law and in-depth understanding of local courts to build powerful defenses tailored to every case he takes on.

The moments immediately following an arrest are when your rights are most vulnerable. Many individuals wait until their first court date to seek counsel, but by then, the prosecution has already begun building its case. You should consider legal representation if:

• You have been detained or questioned by the Kennesaw Police.
• You have been served with a warrant.
• You’re facing charges ranging from DUI to serious felony offenses.
• You’re a KSU student facing a disciplinary hearing on top of criminal charges.

FAQs

What Penalties Can You Face If You’re Convicted of a Crime in Georgia?

The penalties you’ll face if convicted of a crime in Georgia depend on the severity of the charge and the circumstances of your case. A misdemeanor typically results in probation, fines, and up to one year of jail time. However, Georgia law is particularly harsh on felonies. For example, felony theft or burglary can carry two to 20 years in prison and large fines.

What Is the Georgia First Offender Act, and How Does It Help a Defendant?

The Georgia First Offender Act allows those with no prior felony convictions to plead guilty or nolo contendere and receive an alternative sentence like probation, without an official conviction going on their record. It helps a defendant because, if they successfully complete the terms of their sentence, their case is discharged, and they’re legally not considered convicted under the law.

Should I Speak to Police Before Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Georgia?

You don’t have to speak to the police before you hire a criminal defense lawyer in Georgia. You have the right to remain silent, and you should exercise it. You may think that explaining your side of the story will clear things up, but law enforcement is trained to gather evidence to use against you. Simply state that you want to speak with your lawyer, and don’t say anything else. Your lawyer can advise you on what to discuss moving forward.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost in Kennesaw?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense attorney in Kennesaw depends on a variety of elements, including the complexity of your case, whether your case is settled outside of court or if it requires trial, whether your charge is a misdemeanor or felony, and more. You should discuss your lawyer’s pricing structure during your initial consultation.

Get the Protection You Need in Kennesaw

The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman knows that the people of Kennesaw are hardworking neighbors, parents, and students. That’s why the firm is dedicated to advocating for your rights. Criminal charges are intimidating, but they aren’t the end of the road. Contact The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman to speak with a criminal defense attorney who can help you face the courtroom with confidence.