An arrest for any criminal offense is a traumatizing experience. You may spend the night in jail, but you may also face a future that feels unknown upon release. Whether you are looking at spending time in prison, steep fines, loss of certain rights, or a conviction that remains on your criminal record, you may feel unsure about where you should start building your defense. Finding an experienced attorney you can depend on should be your first step.
A Palmetto criminal defense lawyer could fight to defend your liberties and freedoms regardless of the offense you have been accused of or charged with. You deserve a hardworking advocate who is on your side while you go through the criminal process.
Any time an individual faces a criminal charge in Palmetto, they should speak with a skilled defense attorney before making any statements or agreeing to any plea deals. It is never wise to make any final decisions without first discussing the case with a legal advocate who has your best interest in mind and can advise you.
A seasoned local lawyer could evaluate your arrest, evidence, and the state’s case against you—they could also negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf. When a person decides to enter into a plea without consulting legal counsel, they face the risk of losing out on many opportunities that could change the course of their entire future.
The Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 17-3-1 sets forth the time frames in which the state may bring charges. These are commonly known as statutes of limitation.
Generally, felony prosecutions must be commenced within four years of the commission of the crime and misdemeanor prosecutions must be commenced within two years of the commission of the crime. There are, however, many exceptions.
Murder charges can be brought by the prosecution at any time. When a case is punishable by life in prison or the death penalty the State may commence the proceedings at any time within seven years from the commission of the crime.
For instance, in forcible rape cases, the State must prosecute a defendant within 15 years of the crime. The prosecution may also file charges at any point in time where DNA is used to identify the perpetrator for various offenses such as rape, armed robbery, kidnapping, aggravated child molestation, aggravated sodomy, aggravated sexual battery. If the crimes below were committed after July 1, 2012, the State can file charges against at any time if the victim was 16 years old or younger.
If you face any of these criminal charges, you should contact a seasoned lawyer in Palmetto immediately to discuss your arrest and plan for your defense.
If you have been charged with a criminal offense, whether for a violent crime like assault, drug charges, driving under the influence, or a sex crime, you need experience you can count on by your side.
A Palmetto criminal defense lawyer could advocate on your behalf and fight for your freedoms inside and outside the courtroom. The sooner you get started working on your case, the better chances you have for a favorable outcome. Schedule your private consultation today.
J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC
J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC
