Criminal Defense Attorney

The main differences between misdemeanors and felonies lie in the severity of the crime, the potential penalties, and the long-term consequences.

• Misdemeanors are minor offenses that are punishable by up to one year in jail, fines, or probation. They have less severe long-term effects and may be eligible for expungement. These cases are often resolved faster with shorter court proceedings. Plea bargains are more common, and trials are less frequent.
• Felonies are serious crimes that are punishable by over a year in prison. They carry lifelong consequences, such as losing voting rights or difficulty finding employment. Felony cases involve more complex and lengthier court proceedings. Grand jury indictments may be required, and trials are more common.

Drug Charges

Facing charges for possession, sale, or manufacturing of drugs can lead to severe penalties. In Georgia, even minor offenses like simple possession often result in jail time and probation. If you’ve been charged with a drug crime, it’s critical to seek legal counsel immediately.

We take the time to thoroughly understand your case and build a strong defense strategy. Our team will scrutinize how the evidence against you was obtained, as illegal searches by law enforcement can render evidence inadmissible, potentially leading to dropped charges. Even when evidence is legally obtained, we fight vigorously to protect your rights. Attorney Dean Phillips often negotiates with prosecutors to reduce charges, secure first-offender treatment, or explore alternatives to incarceration.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

In Georgia, when you’re arrested for DUI, the arresting officer must complete a Department of Driver Services (DDS) Form 1205, notifying the DDS of your arrest. If you don’t request a hearing within 30 days of your arrest, your license will be suspended.

To avoid suspension, our DUI attorney will file a “30-Day Letter” with the DDS, which halts the suspension while awaiting your court date. It’s crucial that the DDS receives this letter within the 30-day window, as no extensions are allowed. Acting quickly is essential to protect your driving privileges.

Theft

Theft is the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Theft might may include criminal charges such as:

• Burglary
• Robbery
• Conversion
• Shoplifting
• Theft by taking
• Theft by receiving

Assault and Battery 

Assault involves unlawfully threatening another person with physical harm or violence, even without physical contact. Battery, on the other hand, requires intentional physical contact that causes harm. Both assault and battery are serious crimes that can result in significant jail time.

Probation Violations

Probation terms can be confusing, and it’s possible to violate them without realizing it. Without guidance from an experienced criminal defense attorney, you risk facing serious consequences, including fines and jail time. In Cobb County, judges often impose a 30-day jail sentence for probation violations.

Sex crimes

Common sex crimes include sexual assault, rape, statutory rape, prostitution, and indecent exposure. Our experienced criminal team is equipped to build a strong defense against such accusations.

Navigating the criminal justice system can be overwhelming, which is why it’s essential to work with a trusted defense attorney who will protect your rights and explore every legal option. At The Phillips Law Firm, we proudly represent clients across Georgia in a variety of criminal cases. We are committed to delivering personalized service and exceptional results, guided by our high standards of ethics, diligence, and professionalism.

If you’ve been accused of committing a misdemeanor or felony in Georgia, speak with the experienced criminal defense team at The Phillips Law Firm. Based in Marietta, we serve clients throughout Cobb, Bartow, Cherokee, Douglas, Paulding, and Fulton counties. To set up a free consultation, call 770-627-5936 or contact us online.