Protect Your Freedom When Facing Criminal Charges
Whether charged with a misdemeanor or felony, there is no charge so inconsequential that representing yourself or simply pleading “guilty” without considering the consequences is a good idea. Even if you serve no jail time, you may be faced with heavy fines, loss of your right to drive or own a gun, or other restrictions on your freedom. Some charges, such as sex offenses, carry a stigma that can permanently damage your career or community standing.
W. Bartlett Barnwell, P.C., has served criminal defense clients in Dalton and throughout northwest Georgia for over 30 years. He has practiced in state and federal courts and is committed to seeing every case he takes all the way through. He understands that your criminal case can change rapidly at any point in the process – from arrest to sentencing – and he is available to clients by mobile phone 24/7. He looks for solutions to your specific circumstances and charges and always fights for the best possible outcome.
Experienced In Multiple Types Of Criminal Cases
Mr. Barnwell has produced positive results for clients charged with both misdemeanors and felonies. He frequently represents clients charged with the following:
- Drug possession, including marijuana possession
- Intoxicated or drugged driving (DUI/DWI) cases
- Battery, assault and aggravated assault charges
- Domestic violence battery
- Sex offenses
- Child molestation
- Statutory rape cases
Our firm’s many years of experience in handling criminal defense means we are efficient in our representation. This results in affordably priced legal fees for you. We believe everyone should have access to quality legal help, and we price accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense In Northwest Georgia
If you are facing criminal charges in Dalton or elsewhere in northwest Georgia, below are answers to common questions about your legal rights and options.
If I am taken into custody or arrested in Georgia, what rights do I have?
Georgia law and the United States Constitution provide fundamental protections when you are taken into custody. You possess the right to remain silent and refuse to answer questions from law enforcement without an attorney present. Anything you say during arrest or interrogation can be used as evidence against you in court, making silence your best protection. Law enforcement must inform you of these rights before custodial interrogation begins.
Additionally, you have the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment. Police generally need a warrant or probable cause to search your property, vehicle or person. Evidence obtained through illegal searches may be suppressed and excluded from use at trial.
If I am falsely accused of a crime in Georgia, what should I do next?
False accusations create devastating consequences. Your immediate priority should be invoking your right to remain silent and contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights. Do not attempt to contact your accuser or discuss the case with anyone other than your lawyer, as these communications can be misinterpreted or used against you.
Document everything you remember about the incident, including dates, times, locations and potential witnesses who can support your account. Preserve any physical evidence, text messages, emails, photographs or social media posts that might be relevant.
Avoid making public statements about the case on social media or to friends and family, as these comments can be taken out of context. Trust your attorney to handle communications with prosecutors and develop a strategy demonstrating your innocence.
Does Georgia law allow the expungement of criminal charges?
Georgia allows record restriction (similar to expungement) for certain criminal charges under specific circumstances. If your case was dismissed, you were acquitted at trial, or charges were not pursued by prosecutors, you may petition the court to restrict your criminal record. Successful restriction prevents most employers and members of the public from accessing arrest and charge information.
However, convictions generally cannot be restricted from public view in Georgia except in limited situations, such as defendants with youthful offender status or certain first-time offenses. The process requires filing a petition with the court that handled your case and paying associated fees.
Call Today To Discuss Your Defense Strategy
To schedule an appointment with our attorney, call our office in Dalton at 706-770-6459 or use our email contact form. We serve clients in Whitfield County and throughout northwestern Georgia.