Miles Hansford Law Firm
Your Criminal Defense Team
Brian A. Hansford
Partner
Knox L. Allen
Associate
Criminal Defense Attorney in Alpharetta, GA
Comprehensive Legal Support for Criminal Charges in Fulton & Forsyth Counties, and Surrounding Areas
At Miles Hansford, our first goal in every criminal defense case is to make sure your rights are protected. If you have a pending case in Alpharetta, Forsyth County, North Fulton County, or elsewhere in North Georgia, our attorneys are committed to ensuring that you are aware of your options and that you receive all the protection the law allows.
Build a Solid Defense with Our Knowledge & Experience
The criminal justice system can be extremely confusing and intimidating. Our Alpharetta, GA criminal defense attorney, Brian Hansford, is here to help. We defend many types of criminal charges, including:
- DUI/DWI: Traffic stops for drunk driving can lead to consequences, including losing driving privileges, fines, and jail time. Attorney Brian Hansford understands Georgia DUI laws and how to use them to benefit the people our firm defends.
- Major Felonies: Attorney Brian Hansford has extensive experience defending serious crimes such as assault, fraud, kidnapping, and domestic violence. We are committed to ensuring your rights are protected.
- Drug Crimes: Many convictions for drug-related charges lead to mandatory minimum sentences. This can apply to prescription drug cases and illicit drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and marijuana.
- Misdemeanors: If you’re charged with a misdemeanor rather than a felony, it’s essential to take it seriously. You could still face jail time, financial penalties, or probation if convicted.
- Juvenile Offenses: Parents whose children have faced legal trouble need defense attorneys with experience in Georgia’s juvenile court system.
Facing charges? Reach out to our criminal defense lawyers in Alpharetta, GA at 770-781-4100, or contact us online. For assistance after hours, please call 678-343-8075
Understanding Criminal Charge Classifications in Georgia
Georgia classifies crimes into misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses, punishable by up to 12 months in a county jail and fines up to $1,000 for standard crimes. More severe misdemeanors, known as “high and aggravated,” can carry higher fines of up to $5,000.
Felonies are the most serious crimes, with punishments of more than one year in state prison. The exact sentence depends on the specific crime. The most severe felonies, classified as “serious violent felonies,” can result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Some crimes, known as “wobblers,” can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the specifics of the case.
The Criminal Process in Georgia
The criminal process in Georgia plays a vital role in ensuring the state’s criminal justice system functions efficiently. Depending on the criminal case nature, the process may involve various investigations and legal proceedings.
Generally, criminal cases involve four major stages:
- Initial appearance
- Pre-trial hearing
- Trial
- Sentencing
During each stage, specific procedures are followed to ensure criminal justice is maintained. Furthermore, criminal legal professionals like prosecutors and criminal attorneys are present throughout all Georgia criminal process stages, providing representation and advice for both sides in court proceedings.
Why Choose Miles Hansford Law Firm
When facing a legal challenge, you need more than just an attorney—you need experienced counsel you can depend on. At Miles Hansford Law Firm, our attorneys have built a reputation for excellence in Fulton County, Forsyth County, and the greater Atlanta area, earning the trust of individuals, businesses, and even governments.
We are ready to lead you forward with decades of experience in both mediation and aggressive litigation. Our team routinely handles cases in municipal, superior, state, and federal courts, so no matter the complexity of your situation, we are prepared.
We believe that a strong reputation is earned through hard work, and our dedicated team is committed to delivering favorable results every day. With a focus on particular areas of law, our attorneys bring specialized expertise to your case, ensuring you have a highly experienced professional by your side.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Defense Attorney?
A criminal defense attorney is an integral part of the criminal justice system, providing legal assistance and representation to individuals accused of crimes. A defense attorney ensures their client’s rights are protected throughout legal proceedings.
This role includes duties such as researching law, interpreting regulations, examining evidence, developing defense strategies, preparing legal documents, interviewing witnesses, filing motions, negotiating plea deals with prosecutors, and representing clients in court before a judge or jury.
What is the Role of a Defense Attorney?
The role of a criminal defense lawyer is to uphold their clients’ rights and ensure a fair trial. They represent the accused and provide legal counsel as clients navigate judicial proceedings. All legal actions are approved by the defendant, so it is vital that a lawyer ensures the client’s rights are protected and any agreements are made with full knowledge of significance.
An attorney is essential in protecting privacy and employing all legal aspects related to the case to reach favorable outcomes. In many cases, an attorney can be the defendant’s best chance at reducing sentences or avoiding jail.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?
You should hire a criminal defense attorney in Alpharetta, GA, as soon as possible. Facing possible jail time makes hiring an attorney early on essential, as it can save money and provide crucial guidance. Understanding serious charges come with severe consequences, a criminal defense attorney in Alpharetta can offer the dedicated representation you need!
What Makes Alpharetta’s Court System Unique?
Alpharetta’s proximity to major legal hubs like Atlanta provides it with a unique judicial environment that balances small-town accessibility with metropolitan resources. Operating under the Fulton County court system, Alpharetta is known for its comprehensive legal resources and efficient processing times, subject to case complexity. This mix often necessitates a nuanced understanding of urban and suburban legal practices, which Miles Hansford Law Firm is adept at navigating.
Court officials and prosecutors in Alpharetta may handle cases differently due to localized priorities, such as community safety and public policy initiatives. Experienced attorneys leverage these insights to craft defense strategies specifically tailored to the protocols and expectations of the Alpharetta court system. This strategic approach, considering everything from plea negotiations to potential trial settings, ensures defense plans are robust and locally relevant.
What is Extradition?
Extradition refers to the transfer of a person accused of a crime to another jurisdiction where the crime is to be tried. This can occur if you have outstanding legal issues in another state, and it is often a distressing process for the subject involved.
In such cases, you can consent to the extradition, request a bond, or request a hearing. It’s generally recommended not to consent unless it’s your last option, as insufficient documentation or lack of identification might help you avoid this process. Our criminal defense team in Alpharetta, GA, has experience helping clients avoid being extradited, and we are prepared to assist you too.
What Are My Rights in a Criminal Investigation?
In the criminal justice system, criminal defense plays a crucial role in outlining individuals’ rights facing criminal charges. Facing charges in GA, it’s important to understand your right to due process and innocence until proven guilty. Additionally, you have the right to a trial by jury or bench trial, representation from a criminal defense attorney, the right to remain silent throughout proceedings, and to call witnesses on your behalf. By understanding Georgia criminal law and your rights in different scenarios, you can take necessary steps for proper criminal defense if found guilty.
If you or a family member has been arrested, we invite you to contact our office or call 770-781-4100 and let our knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense lawyers discuss your unique situation and craft the most effective defense for your particular case.