Savannah Municipal Court Lawyer

Savannah Municipal Court Attorney

Hire a Municipal Court Lawyer

Common Cases Handled in Savannah Municipal Court

The Savannah Municipal Court handles a wide range of lower-level offenses, including:

• Traffic tickets
• Misdemeanor marijuana possession
• Shoplifting under $500
• DUI charges
• Probation violations
• City ordinance infractions

While these offenses may not seem severe, they can yield substantial penalties, including monetary fines, loss of driving privileges, and incarceration. That’s why you need an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer for your Municipal Court case. They can fight to prevent you from enduring these penalties.

Here at Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we represent defendants with precisely those charges. Our team has the experience to defend your record and rights. We are familiar with the intricacies of the local court system, and we have the experience needed to craft tailored and effective defenses for every unique case.

Why You Need a Lawyer for a Municipal Court Appearance

A misdemeanor conviction in Savannah Municipal Court can have consequences for your job, driver’s license, and background checks. Statewide, municipal courts in Georgia deal with over 1.2 million cases annually, which makes them the most active within the state, according to the Georgia Council of Municipal Court Judges.

The risk of a conviction and the lack of understanding of plea options are significantly greater for individuals who appear in court without an attorney. Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., can negotiate and advocate on your behalf, protecting your rights and presenting your case in the most favorable light, giving you an advantage in a court that handles a high volume of cases.

Protecting Your Driving Privileges and Professional Future

A conviction can impact your driving privileges, professional license, and future job opportunities. Our firm works to protect your record and minimize the impact on your family and career. We understand that criminal charges affect every aspect of your life.

Consequences of a Conviction in the Savannah Municipal Court

The long-term effects of a conviction in the Savannah Municipal Court are frequently underestimated. By pleading guilty to a misdemeanor or traffic violation, you may end up with more than a fine. Some convictions, like second DUI, Felony DUI, Multiple DUI, may result in a suspended license, increased insurance rates, probation, or even jail time. In certain cases, some convictions can even impact your immigration status, professional license, and future job opportunities.

With 368 municipal courts in Georgia, each having their own local rules and sentencing practices, hiring a municipal court lawyer who understands both municipal court laws and municipal court defense is important.

Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., can fight to reduce or eliminate the effects of the prosecution’s case through effective negotiation, aggressive litigation, and an in-depth understanding of the Savannah court system.

FAQs

Q: What Types of Cases Are Handled in the Savannah Municipal Court?

A: The Savannah Municipal Court has jurisdiction over misdemeanor crimes, traffic infractions, local ordinance violations, and probation violations. The most common offenses tried in the Municipal Court are DUI, possession of marijuana, theft under $500, and driving without a valid license.

The Savannah Municipal Court does not have jurisdiction to try felony cases. Felony charges can sometimes be initiated in the Municipal Court but are later transferred to a higher court. Our attorneys handle drug charges, DUI cases, and other criminal law matters in Savannah, GA.

Q: Where Is the Savannah Municipal Court Located?

A: The Savannah Municipal Court is located at 133 Montgomery Street, Savannah, GA 31401. Public parking is available in the vicinity of the Municipal Court. The court is open on weekdays and usually follows regular business hours. It is important that you arrive early and verify your court date, time, and courtroom number on your citation or court notice. If you miss your court date, you could face bench warrants and extra fees.

Q: What Happens If I Miss My Court Date?

A: Failure to appear in the Savannah Municipal Court can result in the issuance of a bench warrant, suspension of your license, and additional charges. The Savannah Municipal Court takes nonappearances very seriously, even for minor charges. If you missed your court date, contact an attorney as soon as possible. They could file a motion to recall the warrant and reset your case. It is important to take action as soon as possible to avoid additional charges.

Q: Can I Get My Charges Dismissed or Reduced?

A: Yes, your charges in Savannah Municipal Court can potentially be dismissed or reduced, depending on the facts of your case and your background. Some first-time offenses, like shoplifting, minor marijuana possession, or traffic tickets, may be eligible for a diversion program or a negotiated plea. A Savannah Municipal Court attorney can review your case to determine if dismissal or charge reduction opportunities exist. Then, they can fight for your optimal legal resolution.

Q: What Is Your Success Rate With DUI Defense?

A: Our firm has handled DUI cases for years, and we fight to win every case we take. While past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, our attorneys bring experience as former prosecutors to build strong defense strategies. We work to protect your record, license, and freedom.

Q: Do You Offer Free Consultations?

A: Yes, we offer free consultations to discuss your situation and legal options. Contact our office to speak with an attorney about your charges. We provide assistance without requiring consent to representation during the initial consultation.

Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief

If you’ve already been convicted, our attorneys can review your case for appeals or post-conviction relief options. We examine the record for errors and fight to protect your future. Our practice includes challenging convictions when legal mistakes were made.

Contact a Savannah Municipal Court Attorney

A Savannah Municipal Court charge can have serious long-term consequences, including fines, probation, or even a criminal record. If you are charged with a DUI, theft offense, or traffic violation, hire a seasoned attorney who can achieve a positive resolution to your case.

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our lawyer knows the inner workings of the local court. Our firm has the determination needed to aggressively fight for your rights and future. Contact us to speak with a Savannah Municipal Court lawyer at 912-713-3426 and begin working on your defense.