Criminal Defense Attorney Atlanta, GA

One of the most stressful experiences a person can experience is being placed under arrest. Although it is something you hope will never happen, there are all kinds of reasons people are arrested in Georgia – even people who did not commit any crime. Knowing what to do and how to handle yourself should you ever find yourself in this position can go a long way in ensuring your rights are not violated, as well as resulting in a possible better resolution to the charges. If you are charged with a crime, you will want to contact a criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, GA right away.

How is a person arrested?

There are a number of ways a person can be arrested. You can be arrested and taken into custody without a warrant if law enforcement believes you violated the law.

A judge can also issue a warrant for your arrest if law enforcement requests one be issued. If a warrant is issued and you are not already in custody, you can turn yourself in when you become aware of the warrant or you can wait for law enforcement to find you and take you into custody. This is something you should discuss with your Atlanta, GA criminal defense attorney.

Depending on the charges, but for lesser offenses, you may just be issued a citation to appear in court.

Always remember, however, that if you are arrested, anything you say to police can be used as evidence against you. Do not say anything without your attorney present. This is critical in ensuring your rights are protected.

What is an arraignment?

The arraignment is the formal hearing in which you’ll be advised about the charges you’re facing. You will also be asked how you plead. This is not the time to tell your side of the story. Usually, you will either plead not guilty or guilty.

At your arraignment, the judge will also make a decision about bail. The amount of bail set is usually dependent on the severity of the charges against you, as well as what your criminal history/record looks like. 

If I am in custody, won’t I be released sooner if I don’t have to wait for a lawyer to show up for my arraignment?

Although you may think that getting in touch with a lawyer and waiting for them to be able to speak with you while you are in custody, and then show up to your arraignment will delay your ability to be released on bail and keep you sitting in jail longer, the truth is that the possible extra time that will take will result in a much better outcome in your case.

The criminal justice system is complex and the only one on your side is YOUR attorney – not the police and not the prosecutor. Without an attorney representing you, you could end up saying or doing something that could incriminate you.

If you have been charged with a crime, call The Lynch Law Group to speak with an Atlanta, GA criminal defense attorney right away.