Savannah Violent Crime Lawyer
A violent crime is a crime in which an offender uses or threatens force upon a victim. This entails both crimes in which the violent act is the objective, such as murder, as well as crimes in which violence is the means to an end.
Violent crimes may, or may not, be a crime committed with a weapon. Depending on the jurisdiction, violent crimes may vary from homicide to harassment. If you or a loved one is accused or charged with a violent crime, contact an experienced Savannah, GA based violent crime lawyer.
Most violent crimes are felony crimes. These are considered the most serious crimes and carry a sentence of one year or more in prison.
Understanding Violent Crime Statistics and Legal Outcomes
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s statistics, in 2010, approximately 1,246,248 violent crimes occurred in the United States. Additionally, aggravated assaults accounted for the highest number of violent crimes reported to law enforcement, at 62.5%. Moreover, robbery comprised 29.5% of violent crimes, sex crimes like forcible rape accounted for 6.8%, and murder accounted for 1.2% of estimated violent crimes in 2010.
A conviction for a violent crime can carry a range of unanticipated consequences that are even worse than jail time. You may have difficulty finding employment, risk losing custody of your children, and irreparably damage personal relationships. By working with a Savannah, GA based violent crime attorney experienced in defending violent crimes, you can ensure you receive a fair trial and the best possibility of avoiding these consequences.
Comprehensive Legal Support for Violent Crime Cases
The Savannah violent crime attorneys at Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. have years of legal experience defending people against serious criminal charges. Our violent crimes lawyers in Savannah, GA, have a network of specialists who can, when needed, help us build a strong case.
These include private investigators to find witnesses and experts who can review evidence to find the truth and find errors that police may have committed. We examine police procedures to determine if errors were made or if your constitutional rights were violated when police were gathering evidence. Unlawful search and seizure of evidence can result in that evidence being inadmissible in court.
Types of Violent Crime Charges We Handle
Some violent crimes include:
- Aircraft hijackers
- Bank robbers
- Burglars
- Terrorists
- Carjackers
- Domestic violence
- Kidnappers
- Torturers
- Active shooters
- Murderers
- Gangsters
- Drug crimes
Because violent crimes endanger the lives, safety, and well-being of other people and society in general, these types of crimes are always aggressively prosecuted by law enforcement officials and district attorneys. This is especially true in cases involving the use of weapons, in which the victim is likely to suffer from substantial injuries that are usually painful, emotionally scarring, and difficult to recover from.
For these reasons, people convicted of violent crimes throughout the state of Georgia typically face a vast array of harsh legal penalties, such as lengthy prison sentences, steep fines, probation, mandatory counseling, community service, restraining orders, and restitution to the victim.
Additionally, any person who commits a violent crime may be subject to enhanced sentencing charges if he or she has a prior criminal record, if he or she has a prior violent crime conviction, if he or she caused another person(s) bodily harm, or if he or she used a weapon during the commission of the crime. In addition, many violent crime offenders are shunned by society and suffer from a damaged reputation and limited opportunities.
Understanding Homicide Charges
Homicide cases are the most serious charges anyone can face. Georgia law divides homicide into different categories, including murder, voluntary manslaughter, and involuntary manslaughter.
Our criminal defense attorneys have experience with homicide cases. We understand the legal system and how to build a strong defense for these complex cases. We fight for every client with the same intensity, regardless of the charges.
Homicide accusations require immediate action. The legal process moves quickly in these cases, and early preparation is your top priority.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney
Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. Our law firm understands the criminal justice system and how prosecutors build their cases. We represent clients throughout Chatham County and surrounding counties, providing aggressive legal representation when you need it most.
Our defense attorneys have over a decade of experience in criminal law. We handle everything from DUI charges to homicide cases. Your defense starts the moment you contact us.
Former Prosecutor Experience Advantage
Our team includes a former prosecutor who knows how the prosecuting attorney thinks. This insight helps us develop a defense strategy that anticipates the opposition’s moves. We fight to protect your rights and future.
Our Criminal Defense Practice Areas
Our law firm handles a wide range of criminal charges beyond violent crime cases. We provide skilled legal representation for clients throughout Coastal Georgia.
DUI and Traffic Offenses
We handle DUI cases with the same intensity as any other criminal case. A DUI conviction can affect your driving privileges, employment, and insurance rates. Our attorneys understand DUI laws in Georgia and work to achieve the best possible outcome for each DUI case.
Whether you’re facing your first DUI charge or multiple DUI charges, we fight for you. DUI cases require immediate action to protect your driving privileges and constitutional rights.
Drug Offenses and Related Charges
Drug charges and drug offenses carry severe penalties in Georgia. Our criminal defense lawyers understand drug crimes laws and build a strong defense for each client. We protect your best interest throughout the legal process.
Sex Crimes Defense
Sex crimes allegations require immediate legal representation. These charges can destroy your reputation and freedom. Our defense attorneys provide confidential, aggressive defense for those facing criminal charges of this nature.
Misdemeanor and Felony Defense
Our law firm handles both misdemeanor and felony charges. Felony charges carry prison time of one year or more. Our attorneys work toward a favorable outcome, whether that means charges dropped, a plea bargain, or taking your case to trial.
How We Build Your Defense
Our criminal defense attorney team takes a comprehensive approach to every criminal case. We investigate the criminal investigation conducted by the police and look for violations of your rights.
Our defense strategy includes reviewing all evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting expert witnesses when needed. We examine bond hearings procedures and work to secure your release while your case proceeds.
Protecting Your Constitutional Rights
You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. We protect these constitutional rights throughout the legal process. Any violation of these rights can result in evidence being excluded from your case.
Experience in Chatham County Courts
Our attorneys have appeared in courtroom settings throughout Chatham County, Richmond Hill, and surrounding counties in Coastal Georgia. This local experience gives clients an advantage when facing criminal charges.
We understand how local prosecutors handle cases and what strategies work in these courtrooms. Our law firm has built relationships within the legal community over the years of practice.
Jury Trials and Courtroom Experience
Our attorneys have handled numerous jury trials. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This preparation often leads to better plea offers and charges dropped before trial.
Past client results show our commitment to achieving the best outcome in each case. While past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, they demonstrate our unwavering dedication to clients.
The Importance of Early Legal Intervention
Criminal conduct allegations require immediate legal representation. The sooner you contact our law firm, the better we can protect your rights. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and opportunities to build your defense diminish over time.
Your defense today determines your future tomorrow. Don’t wait to seek help when facing criminal charges.
What to Do After an Arrest
If you’re arrested, remain silent and ask for an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Our attorneys can be at your side during questioning and bond hearings.
We represent clients immediately after arrest, working to secure release and begin building their defense. This early intervention is your best possible outcome strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Violent Crimes Defense in Savannah, GA
What is the difference between Simple Assault and Aggravated Assault in Chatham County, and why does it matter?
The difference between Simple Assault (a misdemeanor) and Aggravated Assault (a felony) is crucial, as the latter carries a mandatory prison sentence of 1 to 20 years in Georgia. The charge is elevated to aggravated status if the offense involves: (1) intent to murder, rape, or rob; (2) the use of a deadly weapon or any object used like one; or (3) assault upon certain protected victims, such as a police officer or the elderly. In a Savannah courtroom, a defense attorney will fight to prove that a client lacked the necessary intent or that the object used did not constitute a deadly weapon, potentially getting the serious felony charge reduced to a much less severe misdemeanor.
What are the primary defense strategies against an Armed Robbery or Murder charge in the Savannah Superior Court?
In Savannah Superior Court, defending against capital-level charges like Armed Robbery or Murder requires aggressive investigation and strategy, often focusing on challenging the prosecution’s evidence regarding identity and intent. Common defenses include Mistaken Identity, often supported by cross-examination of eyewitnesses or analysis of surveillance footage; the Alibi Defense, proving the accused was elsewhere when the crime occurred; and the Defense of Justification (Self-Defense), arguing the client acted only to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. The defense attorney’s goal is to raise a reasonable doubt about the prosecution’s evidence, which is essential to defeating these high-stakes felony charges.
Can a defendant argue Self-Defense (Justification) for a violent crime committed in Savannah, and how does that work?
Yes, Self-Defense, legally known as the Defense of Justification in Georgia, is a powerful defense to violent crime charges like aggravated assault or murder. It asserts that the defendant used force that was reasonably necessary to prevent death or great bodily injury to themselves or a third person. Under Georgia’s Stand Your Ground law, a person has no duty to retreat if they are lawfully present where the force is used. Your attorney must present compelling evidence, such as testimony, forensic analysis, or medical records, to show the defendant genuinely and reasonably believed the use of force was necessary to defend against the victim’s imminent threat.
Get in Touch with a Savannah Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you have been charged with a violent crime in Georgia, you must hire an experienced and skilled Savannah violent crimes defense attorney, well-versed in defending those accused of violent crimes. The attorneys at Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. have the skill and experience to handle any criminal allegation in Georgia, regardless of complexity. to retain a lawyer who will fight to the end to defend your rights. Contact us today at 912-713-3426 for a free consultation.
Our unwavering dedication to clients means your case is our top priority. We protect your best interests and work toward the best outcome possible in every situation.
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What A Criminal Defense Attorney Will Do For You
A lawyer may be contacted directly or a court may appoint a private lawyer.
The lawyer will gather as many details about the case to learn about possible defenses, strengths, and weaknesses.
The lawyer will typically question the police, speak with witnesses, and gather information used to build a strong defense.
The lawyer must study the facts and theories of the case carefully.
A lawyer will communicate often with their client, ensuring confidentiality, to provide information about the case so that they understand the possible consequences.
A lawyer is involved in the jury selection process. This means he or she may have jurors removed if they believe they may be biased against the defendant.
A lawyer is responsible for negotiating with the prosecutor regarding any plea bargain. He or she may be able to secure a favorable deal for the defendant, which results in a reduction of charges.
A lawyer examines witnesses, cross-examines the state’s witnesses, and tries to convince the jury that the prosecution failed to find the burden of proof.
If the criminal defendant is sentenced for the crime, a criminal defense lawyer can still represent the defendant during the sentencing phase. He or she may try to convince the judge or jury to limit the amount of time that the defendant serves and discuss alternatives to incarceration.