While your case cannot technically be ‘dropped,’ our Atlanta criminal defense lawyers explain the options for getting criminal charges in Georgia reduced or dismissed.
Criminal charges in Georgia have the potential to ruin your life. People facing this type of situation often cling to the hope that their charges will be ‘dropped,’ avoiding the need to go to court. However, this is generally not the case. To protect yourself, reach out to our Atlanta criminal defense lawyers at Ghanayem & Rayasam immediately. We can advise you on the options available, including getting your charges reduced or dismissed.
The Myth of Getting Criminal Charges Dropped in Your Case
Many of us have seen movies or television shows in which police drop charges against a suspect. It is also portrayed in cases of domestic violence, where the victim drops their accusations against a family member.
This is largely a myth. Under the Georgia Criminal Code, once criminal charges are filed in a case, it must go to trial, and it is up to the prosecutor alone to decide how to proceed. However, three options can achieve similar goals in terms of helping you avoid a criminal conviction:
- Having your criminal charges reduced: Our Atlanta criminal defense lawyers may be able to negotiate with police or prosecutors to have the charges against you reduced to a lesser crime.
- Having your charges dismissed: In some situations, errors, and mistakes on the part of others could violate your civil rights, resulting in your criminal case being dismissed.
- Entering a plea: Depending on the circumstances, we may be able to get your charges dropped or dismissed in exchange for a plea agreement.
When Can Criminal Charges in Fulton County Be Reduced or Dismissed?
When facing any type of criminal charges through the Fulton County Criminal Court, it is important to get our Atlanta criminal defense attorneys on your side right away. Prior to when actual charges are filed in your case, we may be able to work with the police in getting them dropped pending legal actions.
However, once an arrangement is held, your options become more limited. In this situation, possible reasons for getting your charges either reduced or dismissed include the following:
- There is a lack of evidence to warrant the criminal charges against you;
- Police obtained evidence through illegal search and seizure;
- Your rights were otherwise violated, either during arrest, detention, or in criminal court proceedings;
- You have no prior criminal offenses and qualify for a pretrial diversion program;
- You are willing to cooperate with prosecutors and act as a witness in other criminal cases.
Discuss Your Case With Our Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyers
If you are facing criminal charges in Fulton County, reach out to Ghanayem & Rayasam right away. We can review your options regarding getting your charges reduced or dismissed. To discuss your case with our experienced Atlanta criminal defense lawyers, call or contact our office online and request a consultation today.