Misdemeanor Attorney in Cobb County
Dealing with a misdemeanor charge in Cobb County can disrupt your life and future. At Smith, Schnatmeier, Dettmering & Kilgo, LLP, we approach every case with a focus on resolving your concerns and guiding you forward with clarity. Our team stands by your side, offering real support and steady communication from start to finish.
Each misdemeanor case deserves careful, individualized attention. Laws in Georgia and specifically in Cobb County often change, and local court procedures can affect both the process and possible outcomes. As your misdemeanor lawyer in Cobb County, we tailor our guidance to the unique aspects of your circumstances, giving you direct, actionable information.
If you are facing misdemeanor charges, secure the aggressive defense of a dedicated Cobb County misdemeanor lawyer with 100+ years of combined experience. Contact us online or call (770) 599-5328.
Understanding Misdemeanor Classes and Penalties in Georgia
Georgia law distinguishes between two types of misdemeanors, with the difference affecting the severity of the potential fine and the overall seriousness of the offense in the eyes of the court.
Standard Misdemeanor Penalties (O.C.G.A. § 17-10-3)
- Maximum Confinement: Up to 12 months in the county jail.
- Maximum Fine: Up to $1,000.
- Examples: Simple theft (under $500), first-offense DUI, simple assault, and public intoxication.
Misdemeanor of a High and Aggravated Nature (O.C.G.A. § 17-10-4)
This classification is reserved for more serious offenses, often where the victim is vulnerable (e.g., law enforcement, elderly) or the defendant is a repeat offender (e.g., a third DUI).
- Maximum Confinement: Still capped at 12 months in the county jail.
- Maximum Fine: Elevated to $5,000.
- Impact: This classification signals heightened severity to the sentencing judge, often resulting in sentences closer to the one-year maximum, stricter probation, and fewer opportunities for early release.
A dedicated misdemeanor attorney in Cobb County must determine the exact nature of the charge, as defending a high and aggravated misdemeanor requires a more comprehensive approach.
Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction in Georgia
Even a standard misdemeanor conviction in Georgia can lead to significant collateral consequences that impact your life more than the jail time itself.
- Loss of Driver's License: DUI and other serious traffic misdemeanors result in mandatory license suspension by the Department of Driver Services (DDS).
- Firearm Rights: While simple misdemeanors generally don't ban firearm possession, a misdemeanor conviction for Family Violence Battery in Georgia triggers a lifetime federal ban on possessing firearms.
- Employment Disadvantage: Many employers, particularly those in finance, healthcare, or security, will not hire applicants with convictions for theft, drug possession, or assault.
- Licensing Issues: Professional licenses (teaching, real estate, nursing) can be denied or revoked due to criminal convictions.
The Cobb County Criminal Defense Process for Misdemeanors
The majority of misdemeanor cases are handled in the Cobb County State Court. We manage this process efficiently and strategically, aiming for an optimal pre-trial resolution.
- Arraignment: We appear at the arraignment to enter a plea of Not Guilty, waiving formal reading of the charges and allowing us to begin the pre-trial negotiation process.
- Discovery: We use the discovery phase to obtain all police reports, body camera footage, and evidence the State plans to use. Our firm uses this information to build our defense and prepare our constitutional motions.
- Negotiation & Diversion Application: This is the phase where we apply for the Pre-Trial Diversion Program or negotiate a reduction with the Cobb County Solicitor General’s Office.
- Motion Hearing & Trial: If negotiations fail, we argue our motions to suppress evidence before the State Court judge. We are prepared to take your case to a jury trial, challenging the State's burden of proof.
Why Choose Our Misdemeanor Lawyers for Your Cobb County Case
Clients trust Smith, Schnatmeier, Dettmering & Kilgo, LLP because we combine strong legal knowledge with a personal approach. Here’s how we stand apart as your misdemeanor attorney in Cobb County:
- Former District Attorneys on our team: This unique perspective helps us anticipate prosecution strategies in local Cobb County courts.
- 100+ years of combined litigation experience: Our attorneys draw from decades of real courtroom practice, handling a wide range of criminal matters.
- Industry-recognized quality: Our awards and ratings, such as AV Preeminent®, Super Lawyers, and 10.0 Avvo, recognize our commitment to high standards and dependable results.
- Personalized communication: Clients receive clear updates and honest advice tailored to the specific details of their situation.
- Ethics and integrity: We hold ourselves to strong ethical standards, supporting you through challenging times with respect and professionalism.
Our local knowledge extends beyond the statutes. We understand the preferences of Cobb County judges and prosecutors, the structure of local courts, and the procedures that can influence the timing or handling of your case. This experience allows us to advise you on how the local process may affect hearings and decision points. By remaining accessible, we build real partnerships with our clients and help you prepare for every stage following a misdemeanor charge.
Don't let a misdemeanor define your future. Call a proven misdemeanor attorney in Cobb County at Smith, Schnatmeier, Dettmering & Kilgo, LLP. now. Protect your record today by calling (770) 599-5328 or contact us online.
The Right Choice for Your Defense
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Constant Contact with Client
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Results Oriented
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Personalized Attention
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100+ Years of Combined Experience
Client Experiences
Hear from those we've represented in their legal battles.
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Thank you, Ben Smith, for your time, knowledge, and your thoroughness and wisdom
Former Client -
Ben, I was very impressed with how you handled everything.
Jeff -
Mr. Schnatmeier made the experience as painless as possible. He was very responsive and I was pleasantly surprised by how available he was.
Anonymous
Our Approach: Guidance & Support Through Every Step
Choosing the right misdemeanor lawyer in Cobb County means more than legal representation—it means partnering with a firm that takes your concerns seriously and values open communication. Here’s how we support our clients when facing misdemeanor charges:
- Initial consultation: We listen to your story and outline the key steps in your case. You will know how Cobb County courts typically handle charges similar to yours.
- Personalized strategy: Every case is different. Our attorneys use their former prosecutorial insight and local experience to find paths that pursue the best possible outcome based on your circumstances.
- Clear updates: We keep you informed so you understand what’s happening and never feel left in the dark about important developments.
- Practical guidance: We answer your questions about hearings, possible penalties, and what actions you may need to take throughout the legal process.
From the initial meeting to the close of your case, we work to protect your rights while reducing stress and uncertainty along the way.
We understand the stakes of a misdemeanor charge are higher than many realize. In Cobb County, a misdemeanor conviction can influence job applications, your driving record, and future housing. We explain each potential consequence in straightforward language so you can make confident decisions. Our attorneys often appear before local courts and maintain familiarity with courtroom procedures, giving us a realistic understanding of what unfolds day to day. We also value your time and always aim to make the legal process as transparent and predictable as possible, avoiding unwanted surprises.
Contact Our Cobb County Misdemeanor Lawyers for Trusted Guidance
If you or a loved one faces a misdemeanor charge in Cobb County, reach out to Smith, Schnatmeier, Dettmering & Kilgo, LLP for steady legal support. Our team listens, explains your options, and stands beside you at every stage, helping you make informed decisions. Our attorneys bring extensive courtroom and prosecutorial experience—plus a strong record of respected results and client-focused service.
Taking action early can expand your options and reduce stress during an uncertain time. We are ready to provide a confidential space where you can ask questions, understand next steps, and feel supported—not rushed. When you contact us, you connect with attorneys who have built lasting relationships in the Cobb County legal community and who value treating every client with consideration and respect. We encourage you to reach out and begin the process of making informed choices about your future.
Contact us online or call (770) 599-5328 today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward clarity and confident action.
