Felony Defense

A felony charge is one of the most serious situations a person can face. In Georgia, a felony is a crime that can be punished by more than 12 months in prison, and a conviction can follow you long after the case ends, affecting jobs, housing, professional licenses, firearm rights, and voting rights. CAM LAW defends people charged with felonies in Carrollton and across West Georgia, including Carroll, Coweta, Troup, Heard, Polk, and Haralson counties.

What Makes a Charge a Felony in Georgia

Georgia separates crimes into misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors generally carry up to 12 months in jail and fines. Felonies carry longer potential prison sentences, and many have mandatory minimums or enhanced penalties for repeat offenses. Common felony charges include:

• Violent crimes such as aggravated assault, armed robbery, and homicide-related charges
• Drug offenses including possession with intent to distribute and trafficking
• Felony theft, burglary, and financial crimes
• Felony DUI, serious injury by vehicle, and vehicular homicide
• Weapons charges and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
• Sex offenses and certain family violence allegations

How a Georgia Felony Case Moves Through Court

Most felony cases follow a similar path, and each stage is an opportunity to protect your rights:

• Arrest and first appearance. After an arrest, the accused person is brought before a judge, informed of the charges, and bond may be addressed. See our bond hearings page for more on getting released.
• Preliminary hearing. A judge decides whether there is probable cause to send the case forward. This hearing can be an early chance to test the State's evidence.
• Indictment or accusation. Felony cases are generally formally charged in superior court, often through a grand jury indictment.
• Arraignment, motions, and discovery. The defense reviews the evidence and may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the case.
• Negotiation or trial. Cases may be resolved through dismissal, reduced charges, a negotiated plea, or a jury trial.

Defense Options That May Be Available

Every felony case depends on its facts, but common defense strategies include challenging an unlawful stop or search, questioning witness identification, testing lab results and forensic evidence, raising self-defense or lack of intent, and holding the State to its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

For eligible people without a prior felony conviction, Georgia's First Offender Act may allow a case to be resolved without a formal conviction once the sentence is successfully completed. Pretrial diversion, accountability courts, and charge reductions may also be possible in the right case.

Why You Should Call an Attorney Before Talking to Investigators

If police or an investigator wants to "just ask a few questions," you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Statements made early in an investigation are often the most damaging evidence in a felony case. Speaking with a defense lawyer first can protect you from saying something that is misunderstood or used against you.

Felony Defense FAQs

Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in Georgia?

Sometimes. Depending on the facts, the evidence, and the person's history, a felony charge may be negotiated down to a misdemeanor or resolved through a diversion or First Offender sentence.

Do I have to go to prison if I am convicted of a felony?

Not always. Many felony sentences involve probation, a split sentence, or alternative programs, though some charges carry mandatory prison time. An attorney can explain the possible range for your specific charge.

Attorney advertising. This page provides general information about Georgia law and is not legal advice. Every case is different, and prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact CAM LAW to discuss the specific facts of your situation.