Misdemeanor Charges Should Be Taken Seriously

Facing misdemeanor charges in Georgia? You need a criminal defense attorney with experience and a proven track record of successful outcomes in this area. At Hirsch Criminal Defense, attorney Matt Hirsch handles misdemeanors such as:

• DUI and reckless driving
• Misdemeanor possession of marijuana (less than one ounce)
• Misdemeanor theft by shoplifting (less than $500)
• Theft by taking (less than $1,500)
• Criminal damage to property (less than $1,500)
• Domestic violence
• Simple assault
• Simple battery
• Battery
• Stalking, harassing phone calls
• Criminal trespass
• Traffic violations

Although misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, the outcome may seriously impact your future. Convictions for certain misdemeanors may result in the loss of your driver’s license, gun rights, financial aid for school, deportation if you are not a U.S. citizen and perhaps even job loss. To avoid having a misdemeanor limit your future opportunities, you need to hire a skilled aggressive experienced criminal defense attorney to fight for your rights and for a favorable outcome for you.

The good news is that if you have no criminal history there are many options for resolving your misdemeanor case without having a conviction on your record. Many jurisdictions offer diversion programs for many types of cases, including some domestic violence cases. Even if you have something on your criminal history you may still be eligible for first-offender treatment under one of two statutes available to first-time offenders: The general First-Offender Statute and the Conditional Discharge Statute for first-time drug offenders.

If you are charged with DUI, a high and aggravated misdemeanor, or if you already have a criminal history, you must act quickly to retain an aggressive experienced criminal defense attorney to level the playing field and ensure that you can pursue the best possible outcome for your situation.

Why Choose Hirsch Criminal Defense?

Hirsch Criminal Defense, is a good choice for representation on a Georgia misdemeanor. Attorney Matt Hirsch is well-respected throughout the local court system and by the prosecuting attorneys.

Frequently Asked Questions On Misdemeanor Defense

Attorney Matt Hirsch helps individuals evaluate their options, protect their rights and pursue the best possible outcome when facing criminal allegations. Below are some of the questions commonly asked about misdemeanor defense.

What penalties do misdemeanors carry in Georgia?

In Georgia, misdemeanor penalties depend on the offense, prior history and court findings. Common consequences include:

• Jail time: A standard misdemeanor can carry up to 12 months in county jail.
• Fines: A standard misdemeanor may include fines of up to $1,000.
• Probation: The court may order reporting, testing, classes, community service or other probation conditions.
• High and aggravated penalties: Some misdemeanors can carry fines of up to $5,000.
• Collateral consequences: A conviction may affect employment, licensing, housing, education and background checks.

Attorney Matt Hirsch helps clients understand the possible penalties and defense options before making decisions in court.

Should I hire a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge in Atlanta?

Yes. A misdemeanor charge in Atlanta can still create serious consequences. A lawyer can help by:

• Reviewing the evidence: Attorney Matt Hirsch can examine police reports, witness statements, videos and charging documents.
• Identifying defenses: Legal issues may involve unlawful stops, weak evidence, mistaken identity or improper procedures.
• Negotiating with prosecutors: Reduced charges, diversion, dismissal or alternative sentencing may be possible.
• Protecting your record: Avoiding or reducing a conviction can matter for work, school, housing and licensing.
• Guiding court appearances: Legal representation helps you avoid mistakes that may harm the case.

Hiring legal help early can improve the chances of a stronger outcome.

Can a misdemeanor be expunged or restricted in Georgia?

Georgia generally uses the term “record restriction,” not “expungement.” Eligibility may depend on:

• Case outcome: Dismissed, nolle prossed or nonconviction cases may qualify.
• Type of charge: Some offenses are easier to restrict than others.
• Waiting periods: Certain misdemeanor convictions may require a waiting period before restriction is available.
• Prior record: A person’s criminal history can affect eligibility.
• Court approval: Some cases require a petition and judicial review.

Attorney Matt Hirsch can review the case history and determine whether record restriction may limit public access to the misdemeanor record.

Avoid Serious Criminal Consequences From Your Misdemeanor

Contact the firm’s Atlanta, Georgia, law office at 404-919-7096 for a consultation today.