Alpharetta Felony Defense Lawyer

Handling All Serious Felony Cases in Alpharetta, GA

When a prosecutor charges you with criminal activity, regardless of your guilt, the prosecution must persuade the judge or jury of your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. At the Alpharetta office of Miles Hansford, we know each detail that stands between an arrest and a possible conviction.

Our defense attorney, Brian Hansford, applies detailed legal analysis and persuasive communication to defend Georgia clients in local, state, and federal courts. We understand the critical stakes that come with serious charges.

Our lawyers have extensive experience defending individuals in a broad range of cases with significant consequences. We take the time to explain the severity of felony charges—including the degree assigned—what each charge means, and our approach for defense. 

Attorney Hansford is highly knowledgeable regarding the Georgia criminal code and successfully manages even the most complex felony criminal defense cases.

Call an experienced Alpharetta felony crimes defense attorney at (770) 574-6688 or reach out online now. We offer free consultations and bilingual services to begin your defense immediately.

Understanding Felonies Under Georgia Law

The State of Georgia does not use a standardized classification system (like Class A, B, or C felonies). Instead, the Georgia Code defines the maximum and minimum penalties for each specific felony. Generally, felonies are distinguished from misdemeanors by the potential punishment: 12 months or less is a misdemeanor; anything more is a felony.

Common Felonies Handled by Our Firm

The range of crimes charged as felonies in Georgia is extensive, and the penalties are always severe:

• Violent Crimes: Murder, Manslaughter, Armed Robbery, Kidnapping, Aggravated Assault, and Aggravated Battery.
• Drug Offenses: Possession with Intent to Distribute, Drug Trafficking (which carries mandatory minimum sentences).
• Property Crimes: Burglary, Arson, and Theft of property valued above a certain threshold, or specific items like motor vehicles (often charged as Theft by Taking or Auto Theft).
• White-Collar Crimes: Serious Fraud, Forgery, and certain types of Embezzlement.

The presence of prior offenses or certain aggravating factors (e.g., use of a weapon) can elevate many charges, including some typically viewed as misdemeanors, into serious felonies. An experienced Alpharetta felony crimes defense attorney knows how to argue against these enhancements to mitigate the potential punishment.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Georgia Felony Conviction

The consequences of a felony conviction are severe and long-term, representing a permanent barrier to civic and professional life.

Direct Criminal Penalties

• Incarceration: Sentences range from one year up to life imprisonment, or even the death penalty for capital offenses. Georgia maintains a "Two Strikes" law for violent felonies, significantly enhancing subsequent sentences.
• Mandatory Minimums: Many drug felonies and violent crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences, which a judge is required by law to impose, regardless of mitigating factors.
• Fines and Restitution: Hefty fines and mandatory restitution orders to the victim.
• Probation and Parole: Lengthy periods of probation upon release, often with severe conditions that can lead to revocation and re-incarceration for any violation.

Collateral Consequences: The Lifetime Sentence

A conviction for a felony defense lawyer in Alpharetta client triggers the loss of core rights and opportunities:

• Civil Rights: Permanent loss of the right to vote, serve on a jury, or hold public office.
• Firearm Rights: Permanent loss of the right to possess or purchase firearms under state and federal law.
• Employment and Licensing: Loss or denial of professional licenses (e.g., law, medical, accounting, teaching) and near-total exclusion from employment requiring background checks.
• Housing: Ineligibility for public housing and significant difficulty securing private rentals.
• Immigration: For non-citizens, a felony conviction is often classified as an aggravated felony, leading to mandatory detention and deportation.

The Georgia Felony Court Process

The Georgia felony prosecution process is highly structured. Our firm intervenes strategically at each stage to protect your rights:

• Arrest and Initial Appearance: Following arrest, you must appear before a Magistrate Judge (usually within 48 hours) to be informed of the charges and have bond set. Our firm fights vigorously at the bond hearing to secure your release.
• Preliminary Hearing (Committal Hearing): This hearing determines if there is enough probable cause to bind the case over to Superior Court. We use this as an early opportunity for cross-examination of police and witnesses, which can be critical for later trial motions.
• Grand Jury Indictment: As noted, all felonies require an indictment. Our firm challenges the evidence presented to the Grand Jury whenever possible.
• Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions: This is a crucial phase where we investigate and obtain all evidence held by the prosecution. We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence (violating the Fourth Amendment) or involuntary statements (violating the Fifth Amendment), often leading to case dismissals or significantly reduced charges.

Why Choose Miles Hansford Law Firm, LLC

When facing felonies in Georgia, you need an Alpharetta felony crimes defense attorney who understands both the courthouse and the collateral consequences of a conviction. Our firm provides a dedicated, highly experienced defense that focuses on protecting your life beyond the courtroom.

We are committed to immediate, accessible representation, which is why we offer free consultations and bilingual services. Our firm ensures that every client receives the personalized attention and vigorous defense required to fight the State's resources effectively. 

Choose a felony defense lawyer in Alpharetta with a reputation for integrity and relentless advocacy to protect your rights and your future.

Contact Us Now—We Know How to Prepare for Your Case

If law enforcement made mistakes during your arrest or investigation, we identify them. When the prosecution presents a weak case, we use those weaknesses to your advantage. We work to ensure you share your side, address the accusations, and focus on reclaiming your life.

You can reach us at (770) 574-6688 or through email to schedule a consultation with attorney Brian Hansford. You can also call our 24/7 criminal defense line at (678) 831-5855.