Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Atlanta, GA 2024 – Forbes Advisor

Do you need a lawyer? If you are facing criminal charges, hiring a private attorney or retaining a public defender can significantly increase your chances of avoiding prison.

A defense attorney represents you at trial, presents evidence, and cross-examines witnesses, but how an attorney conducts himself outside of the courtroom is just as important. When you hire an Atlanta criminal lawyer, you gain access to their network of legal and professional relationships. Your attorney will use his or her expertise to explore all possible outcomes with you and work in your best interest to reduce or dismiss the charges.

Public defender versus private criminal lawyer

Public defenders and private attorneys are both licensed to practice law in Georgia. The main difference is that public defenders work for the state, county or city and are assigned to defendants by the court.

In Georgia, any adult or minor accused of a felony or misdemeanor has the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford a private criminal attorney, ask a public defender to represent you. A judge will determine if you qualify based on your income.

Public defenders handle multiple cases simultaneously, often carrying a larger caseload than private attorneys, who are self-employed and can choose which clients to represent. Because of this, private attorneys have more time and resources to investigate your case, which ultimately leads to better outcomes for clients.

Should you represent yourself in a criminal case?

Georgia law guarantees an attorney to anyone accused of a crime, so there is no need to represent yourself at trial. However, you are not required to hire a public defender or hire an attorney: you can represent yourself if you wish.

Is it a good idea to represent yourself in court? In general, no. At trial, you will expose yourself to prosecutorial attorneys with years of experience arguing before juries and negotiating pleas. But working with a criminal defense attorney means you can anticipate the prosecution’s approach and develop multiple ways to prove your innocence and protect your rights.