We Defend Violent Criminal Charges in Hinesville
At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our Hinesville violent crime defense lawyer provides personalized, justice-focused legal guidance and support to clients. Georgia takes violent criminal charges very seriously. Many of them are felony offenses. If you or your loved one was arrested and charged with any type of violent criminal offense, we can help. Contact our Hinesville criminal defense lawyer today for a fully private initial consultation.
Certain Crimes are Classified as Serious Crimes of Violence in Georgia
Violent crimes are criminal offenses that involve the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against another person. Notably, Georgia law classifies certain offenses as “serious violent felonies” (O.C.G.A. § 17-10-6.1). These crimes involve the use or threat of force against another person and include offenses such as murder, felony murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, rape, aggravated sodomy, aggravated child molestation, and aggravated sexual battery. Prosecutors must prove the elements of the underlying offense beyond a reasonable doubt, including the intentional use of violence or coercion. Because these offenses present a substantial threat to public safety, there are very strict sentencing rules.
Know the Penalties for Violent Criminal Charges in Georgia
Serious violent felony convictions in Georgia carry some of the most severe criminal penalties under state law. Under O.C.G.A. § 17-10-6.1, people convicted of a designated serious violent felony must serve a mandatory minimum sentence in prison without eligibility for parole for the initial portion of the sentence. For example, a conviction for armed robbery typically carries a minimum term of 10 years of imprisonment without parole eligibility. If you have any questions about the penalties for a violent criminal charge, an experienced Hinesville, GA defense attorney can help.
Jarrett Maillet is a Leading Hinesville Criminal Defense Lawyer
In Georgia, violent crimes are a very serious matter. You may be facing a felony offense. The good news is that you do not have to take on the criminal justice process alone. Our founder and principal attorney, Jarrett Maillet, is standing by, ready to help. We are always proactive. When you connect with us, you will speak to a Hinesville violent crimes defense lawyer who can:
- Conduct a comprehensive review and evaluation of your case;
- Investigate the violent criminal charges in Hinesville, gathering key evidence;
- Handle all of the interactions with police and prosecutors; and
- Develop a personalized strategy designed to help you get the best possible outcome.
Violent Crimes in Hinesville: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do violent crime convictions carry mandatory prison sentences in Georgia?
Yes, or at least they do in many cases. For offenses classified as serious violent felonies under O.C.G.A. § 17-10-6.1, Georgia law requires a mandatory minimum prison sentence. Defendants convicted of these crimes must typically serve the required minimum term without eligibility for parole. The minimum sentence varies depending on the specific charge.
Do I have the right to remain silent if I am investigated for a violent crime?
Yes. A person suspected of a violent crime retains the constitutional right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. Law enforcement officers may ask investigative questions, but you are generally not required to answer them beyond providing identifying information. As anything you say can be used against you in court, the best approach is to handle all of the correspondence with police officers and prosecutors through an experienced Hinesville criminal defense attorney.
Should I take a plea agreement in a violent crimes case?
It depends. That is not a question that can be answered in the abstract. A plea agreement is the right defense strategy in certain cases, but taking a plea deal from prosecutors is never the right option without first speaking to an experienced Hinesville, GA, criminal defense lawyer. A key point to remember in these cases is that violent crime charges in Georgia often carry mandatory minimum prison sentences, especially for offenses classified as serious violent felonies under O.C.G.A. § 17-10-6.1. Do not accept a plea without first speaking to an attorney.
Contact Our Hinesville Violent Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our Hinesville criminal defense lawyer is committed to putting clients first. Arrested and charged with a violent criminal offense? We can help. Contact us today to set up a strictly confidential, no obligation case evaluation. We defend violent criminal charges in Hinesville, Liberty County, and throughout the region in Georgia.
Practice Areas
Testimonials
I am so happy with the service that I received from Jarrett Maillet. Jarrett did a great job solving my legal issue and I can’t recommend him enough! He was able to do everything quickly, painlessly, and was ALWAYS available…
Criminal Defense Client
Request your
free consultation
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.