
Being charged with a violent crime in Roswell is a life-altering experience. In Georgia, charges of violent crime are taken very seriously, and if convicted, you could be looking at years in prison, large fines, and the loss of your reputation forever. An experienced Roswell violent crime lawyer can help people facing violent crime accusations in Roswell avoid conviction and secure a second chance.
For over 25 years, Lawrence J. Zimmerman has successfully represented defendants in serious criminal cases, including federal criminal defense, white collar crime, and violent crime matters. His track record includes acquittals in state and federal courts on charges ranging from murder to sex crime allegations and assault.
He is a former President of the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (GACDL), a member of the Board of Directors of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and a fellow of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers. Each client receives his personal attention and care.
Georgia’s laws for violent crime are some of the strictest in the United States. Violent crimes refer to any act that inflicts, or threatens to inflict, harm on another person or group of people. While these charges can be either misdemeanors or felonies, in most instances, crimes that involve the use of force, threat of force, or the use of a weapon are felonies.
Georgia Code Title 16 (Crimes and Offenses) defines a number of offenses as violent crimes. Aggravated assault, armed robbery, kidnapping, and homicide are some examples of violent crimes under Georgia law. Sentencing for each charge is unique based on the specifics of the case, previous criminal record, and use of a weapon.
Roswell has a violent crime rate of 2.02 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the state rate of 3.52. This recent report showed that in one year, there were no murders, 18 reported rapes, 18 reported robberies, and 149 reported assaults in the city.
Violent crime cases can take many shapes and forms, and the specific charge will depend on the facts alleged and the evidence presented by prosecutors. Some of the most common violent crime cases we’ve handled in Roswell and across Fulton County include:
Penalties for violent crimes in Georgia vary based on the charge and whether aggravating factors are involved. Most violent felonies carry sentences of several years in prison up to life without parole. Judges may also levy hefty fines, as well as require counseling and probation.
If you are arrested for a violent crime, try to remain calm. The steps you take following your arrest can impact your case. First, you want to utilize your right to remain silent. Outside of vital information, such as your name, do not say anything to law enforcement or anyone else about the incident without a lawyer present.
Hire a violent crime lawyer immediately. The earlier you contact a Roswell violent crime attorney, the greater your chances of a favorable outcome. Do not discuss your case on social media or with friends and family. These statements can and will be used against you in court.
Speak with your attorney to make sure you are prepared for court. Many violent crime cases are held at the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta.
When dealing with violent crimes, prosecutors tend to be aggressive and push for maximum sentences. Having a skilled and dedicated violent crime lawyer can make a huge difference in your future freedoms. A seasoned lawyer can investigate the details of your case and build a strong, appropriate defense for you.
They can also identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and bring them to light. If necessary, they can negotiate plea deals or represent you in court. Overall, they also ensure that your rights are protected.
A violent crime in the state of Georgia is generally any offense where the defendant uses force or violence, the threat of force or violence, or a deadly weapon. Some examples of offenses that are often considered violent crimes include aggravated assault, armed robbery, kidnapping, rape, and murder. Violent crime charges can often result in felony charges and a mandatory prison sentence, even for first-time offenders.
The cost of a criminal lawyer in Roswell, GA, will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of the crime and whether or not the case proceeds to trial. Typically, less serious offenses will cost less than serious and complex felonies. Additionally, if a case goes to trial, it will cost more than one that settles outside of court.
The FBI defines four violent crimes: murder and nonnegligent manslaughter, forcible rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. In these crimes, the individual uses or threatens to use physical force against the victim. While other crimes like kidnapping and certain types of domestic violence are considered violent and may be counted by states like Georgia, these four are the most recognized as violent crimes.
Aggravated assault is the most frequently reported violent crime both nationwide and in Georgia. The offense involves someone trying to cause serious bodily harm by using a weapon or demonstrating an intention to kill a person. Robbery and homicide are both less common, but charges of aggravated assault are brought in a significant number of cases involving violent crimes.
If you were charged with a violent crime, do not try to handle your case alone. An attorney at The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman can help you fight for your future and freedom. Contact us today to get started.
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