Experience and Strength You Can Count On For Georgia Criminal Defense Matters
Georgians facing criminal charges must confront a great deal of stress and navigate a challenging justice system. Depending on the allegations, you may be facing a great deal of jail time and substantial fines that jeopardize the well-being of your family. When your future is at risk, you want to know your lawyer can get you the results you need.
At Cox Byington Twyman LLP, our attorneys have decades of experience handling criminal law issues in courts across the state and at the federal level. Under the leadership of criminal defense attorney Christopher P. Twyman, we work diligently to build an aggressive defense designed to protect your rights and mitigate negative consequences.
Recognized And Respected For Securing Results
We believe that strength in court leads to better results. That principle has led to our reputation for obtaining successful results. The work we have done for clients in criminal cases is one of our points of pride. The successes we have achieved have brought us recognition from all over Georgia and across state lines.
Our experience and abilities are second to none. We have served as advising counsel on cases in other states, taken appeals all the way to the federal level and defended people facing the death penalty and federal racketeering cases.
We can defend you against any misdemeanor or felony charge, including:
- DUI offenses
- Narcotics charges
- Assault and sexual assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Theft
- Probation violation
- Manslaughter
- Murder
- White collar crimes
No matter the complexity and the stakes of the charge you are facing, you can count on us to take a forward stance on your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense In Georgia
If you are facing a criminal charge in Georgia, it is normal to feel confused and concerned. To help you understand your situation better, our Rome criminal defense attorneys have answered some common questions defendants ask.
What is the legal difference between a misdemeanor and a felony charge in Georgia?
Georgia law separates criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies based on their severity. A misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of up to 12 months in a county jail and fines that generally reach $1,000. However, aggravated misdemeanors can involve fines of up to $5,000.
Felonies involve more serious conduct and carry sentences exceeding one year in state prison. Some felonies can result in multiyear sentences or even life imprisonment. Significant financial penalties reaching several thousand dollars, along with the long-term loss of important civil rights such as voting or firearm ownership, may also result from a felony conviction.
What is the Georgia First Offender Act, and how does it work?
The Georgia First Offender Act allows eligible defendants with no prior felony convictions to resolve a qualifying charge without receiving a formal conviction if they successfully complete all sentencing requirements.
The act permits a judge to withhold adjudication of guilt and impose probation, confinement or other conditions. Once all terms are completed, the court discharges the case and restricts the record from public view. This option is available only once. A violation of required conditions allows the judge to revoke the status and impose any sentence for the original offense.
Certain offenses, including serious violent felonies and sex crimes requiring registration, are excluded by statute. Judges also retain discretion to deny first-offender treatment even when a charge qualifies.
How does court jurisdiction work for a criminal arrest in Rome or Floyd County, Georgia?
Jurisdiction depends on the location of the arrest and the severity of the charge. Municipal ordinance violations and some traffic offenses occurring within Rome city limits typically begin in the Municipal Court of Rome. Misdemeanor cases arising in the county are generally handled by the Floyd County State Court.
All felony charges are bound over to the Floyd County Superior Court, which has exclusive authority over felony prosecutions and conducts both jury and bench trials. The Superior Court also handles probation revocations and grand jury matters for the region.
Learn More About Our Work During A Free Consultation
To discuss the details of your case with an Rome criminal defense attorney, arrange a no-cost consultation. During your appointment, we will answer your questions and develop a defense strategy that best meets your individual needs. Contact us today by email or by calling 706-784-8140. Serving Rome and northwestern Georgia.