Defending You Against Criminal Charges
If this is the first time you have been charged with a criminal offense, you are probably concerned about issues such as jail and fines. However, the collateral consequences can be even more serious. A criminal conviction can cause you to lose your job and can make it harder to find a job in the future. If you are an immigrant, a conviction can result in deportation.
If you have been charged with a criminal offense, it is important to contact an experienced defense lawyer as soon as possible who will fight not only to keep you out of jail, but to avoid conviction, preserve your future and minimize collateral consequences.
For more information about specific criminal defenses, click on the headings below:
DUI
If you have been charged with driving under the influence, be patient and concentrate on the finish line. DUI can be a difficult charge for the state to prove.
MIP/UPA (Underage Alcohol Possession/Consumption)
With a lawyer's help, a conviction for a first or second MIP is almost never necessary.
Caught With a Fake I.D.
Fake I.D. charges are associated with identify theft, terrorism and serious fraud, and may be viewed very with a suspicious and cautious eye by prospective employers. The formal title for this crime is "Possession of a Fraudulent Identification Document", which is not something you want attached to your resume. A strong defense is necessary to protect your rights and your future.
Drug Possession | Drug Trafficking
There is no such thing as a minor drug charge. Depending on the quantity of drugs, you could be charged with possession with intent to sell, a serious felony, and even the most minor drug charges can result in suspension of your driver's license.
Under-21 Speeding Tickets and Other Traffic Offenses
If you are under 21 years old, and were ticketed for going 24 or more miles per hour over the limit, you are exposed to a mandatory license suspension, and you should make every effort to avoid that result. Even a simple traffic ticket can cause your insurance rates to go up. If you get too many tickets, your driver's license can be suspended.
Domestic Violence | Simple Battery
A domestic battery conviction can affect your freedom, your reputation, your job and even your future employment prospects.
Sex Crimes | Child Molestation
My goal in any sex crime case is to avoid prison and any conviction that would result in the need for sex offender registration. Current laws in this area are extremely harsh, and they are very broad in terms of the conduct they reach, and the collateral consequences they impose.
Date Rape
Date rape allegations often develop dangerous momentum early on. You need to get out in front of the accusations as early as possible with an experienced defense lawyer by your side.
Fraud Defense | White Collar Crimes
Cases like this are often referred to as "paper cases", because, in theory, the proof is in the documentation, usually computer records or documents. However, all too often the reliability of the information in those records goes unquestioned. This is not acceptable, and as a former prosecutor, I have the ability to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the state's case and identify any viable defenses.
Free Attorney Consultation
Whether you need DUI defense, dismissal of an underage drinking violation, or defense against drug charges, contact me, lawyer Matt Karzen, for a free consultation. My law office is in downtown Athens, Georgia. Call toll free at 866-487-0881.
