Criminal Defense Lawyers
If you are facing criminal charges in Georgia, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who can protect your legal rights.
Trial Experience
Combined Experience
Cases Handled
Don’t leave your future to chance. Choose the trial-proven criminal defense law firm of Crawford and Boyle, LLC, one of Gwinnett County’s largest criminal defense firms.
Our dedicated criminal defense attorneys are highly qualified with over 50 years of experience. We can discuss your case during a free and confidential consultation. If you decide to retain our legal services, we can advise you on your legal options and will take your lead going forward. There may be steps that we can take early in your case that improve the chances of a positive outcome for your case, so don’t delay in contacting us for legal assistance.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney
When you’re charged with a crime, you may be confronting the criminal justice system for the first time. You have the full weight and power of the government against you, so you will be overpowered and potentially taken advantage of if you don’t hire a skilled attorney.
Crawford and Boyle criminal attorneys can help by:
Conducting an independent investigation to identify possible defenses and witnesses
Challenging police conduct and constitutional violations
Filing legal motions to exclude evidence to improve your chances of a successful outcome
Speaking with prosecutors and police so that you don’t say anything that harms your case
Crafting legal arguments leading up to and during the trial to advocate for you
Consulting with expert witnesses on polygraph exams, psychosexual evaluations, cell phone technology and computer forensics
Providing aggressive cross-examination of the state’s witnesses
Negotiating for a favorable plea bargain, which may provide for reduced or dismissed charges or lesser penalties
Representing your legal interests at every phase of your case and helping you protect your record
Justice You Deserve
You can learn more about how our criminal defense attorneys can help when you call for your free case review.
Our Expertise
At Crawford and Boyle, LLC, we provide comprehensive criminal defense services throughout Georgia. We represent individuals accused of various crimes, including:
Drug Charges
Defense for possession, distribution,
and related offenses.
Whether you are facing misdemeanor charges for possession or felony charges for possession with the intent to distribute or drug trafficking, you will need an experienced attorney who understands how to mount a solid defense in a drug crime case. Our Gwinnett County criminal defense attorneys know how to challenge illegal traffic stop, unconstitutional searches, demand independent lab testing, and question corrupt law enforcement officers.
DUI
Challenging charges, license issues,
and penalties.
Our attorneys have successfully handled hundreds of DUI cases. We can explain issues surrounding Georgia’s implied consent law, per se DUI, and blood alcohol evidence. We know how to make compelling arguments in court and fight for our clients. We also represent individuals in ALS hearings to protect their driving privileges.
Theft Crimes
Shoplifting, burglary, and property crime defense.
At Crawford and Boyle, LLC, we represent individuals charged with misdemeanor or felony crimes involving theft, including shoplifting, theft by taking, theft by conversion, burglary, and robbery. We build a robust defense that demands the prosecution meet its heavy burden against you.
Traffic Crimes
Protecting your license and driving
privileges.
Sex Offenses
Discreet, experienced defense for life-
changing charges.
Sex crimes carry a certain stigma that is not associated with other types of crimes. Our lawyers provide compassionate legal representation to individuals accused of rape, sexual exploitation of children, human trafficking, or other sex offenses.
Violent Crimes
Strong representation for assault,
battery, and serious allegations.
Our attorneys have extensive experience representing individuals accused of various violent crimes. We can represent you if you are facing charges for any of the following:
- Assault and simple battery
- Aggravated assault
- Robbery
- Home Invasion
- Driveby Shooting
- Rape and sexual assault
- Murder
- Voluntary Manslaughter
- Armed robbery
- Family violence battery
Computer Crimes
Computer crime defense with technical expertise.
Our criminal defense attorneys also provide legal representation to individuals accused of violating computer crime laws, such as wire fraud or child pornography. These cases often demand technological acuity and a firm grasp of complex topics to provide a solid defense.
Probation Violations and Early Termination of Probation
Probation violation defense and early termination.
Our legal team provides high-quality legal counsel to individuals accused of violating the terms of their probation. We will defend you from the accusations of the probation officer that you have violated your sentence.
At Crawford & Boyle LLC, we also move the court to terminate probation early for our clients who have been successful. Instead of remaining on probation for years, we actively push for our clients sentence to end early, either pursuant to a behavioral incentive date (BID), or by showing the court that our client is no longer in need of State supervision.
Why Choose Crawford and Boyle, LLC
After you have decided to hire a criminal defense attorney, the next question becomes who you will hire. Here are just some of the reasons Crawford and Boyle, LLC is your best choice:
Our attorneys have over 60 years of legal experience. We likely have specific experience handling the same type of criminal charges you are facing. We are former prosecutors and have trained the police and investigators. We can use strategies that have proven effective in other cases while tailoring our defense to your unique situation.
Our criminal defense lawyers take cases very seriously and prepare a personalized defense strategy customized to the strengths and weaknesses of your case. We also have experience in appeals, so we can detect grounds for appeal and make proper objections to preserve the issue for appeal.
We prepare cases from the beginning to go to trial. We aren’t afraid to go all the way to trial and won’t just plea bargain your case if that’s not in your best interest. You have control of your case, and we work to get you the results you desire. Our criminal defense attorneys are former prosecutors and experienced litigators, giving us unrivaled trial experience.
Our lawyers understand that you and your loved ones are facing a hard time. The criminal justice system can be confusing and difficult to navigate. We try to ease your burden by providing genuine and honest legal guidance and treating you with the respect that you deserve.
We use all the technology available to meet the needs of your case. We meet with you at your convenience in the form that you prefer, as well as to present evidence in a convincing manner.
Clients know that they can reach us when they need us. Our law firm answers calls 24/7. Our clients benefit from individual attention. We carefully examine the charges against you, provide you with a copy of the evidence against you, craft personalized defense strategies, and explain how Georgia law can impact the outcome of your case.
When you hire our local criminal defense law firm, you get a legal team with a proven track record of success, including dismissal of charges, exonerations, and suppressed evidence.
Your Defense Team
Motions for New Trial and Appeals
Years Combined Experience
Cases Handled
Availability
Office Locations
How Crimes Are Classified in Georgia
One of the most important things you can do to aid your defense is to understand the seriousness of the case in front of you. By learning about the classification of crimes, you can better understand the potential consequences lying ahead and make informed decisions about how you want to proceed with your case.
The first major difference in how crimes are classified in Georgia is whether they are considered a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor offenses are generally considered less serious and punishable by less than a year in jail.
In contrast, felony offenses are generally more serious crimes in nature and can result in prison sentences of one year or more.
Capital felonies involve the most serious types of felonies in the state, including murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, and rape. Capital felonies are punishable by death, life imprisonment, or long prison terms.
Georgia Code Title 16 lays out various criminal offenses in Georgia. In some situations, the amount of money or drugs involved can affect whether the crime is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. For example, marijuana possession is generally considered a misdemeanor if less than one ounce is involved, but it is a felony when a higher quantity is involved. Similarly, shoplifting is a misdemeanor when less than $500 of goods are taken, but a felony when the amount exceeds $500.
Georgia also defines some crimes as “crimes against the person,” which generally involve physical harm or threats to another person, such as:
- Homicide
- Felony murder
- Voluntary manslaughter
- Involuntary manslaughter
- Kidnapping
- Simple assault
- Aggravated assault
- Simple battery
- Aggravated battery
These crimes carry more significant penalties and consequences than others.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
One of the founding principles in this country is that you have certain inalienable rights when you are formally accused of committing a crime.
Your right to be free from self-incrimination
Police cannot legally coerce you into confessing to a crime or providing evidence against yourself.
Your right to be free from searches and seizures without probable cause
You have the right under the Fourth Amendment to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. This typically requires that law enforcement have a warrant or probable cause before they search you unless an exception applies.
Your right to remain silent
You have the right not to answer police questions or to say anything if police question you. And we never advise talking to the police.
Your right to the presumption of innocence
In the United States, you are presumed to be innocent until the prosecution proves you guilty. This means that the court system and jury cannot treat you as though you have committed a crime until you have been convicted of one.
Your right to an effective attorney
One of your most important rights is the right to have an effective attorney represent you. Police could have violated your rights, you could be innocent of the charges against you, or you could have a valid defense against the charges. An effective attorney can identify the most effective defense strategies to apply to your case.
The legal team at Crawford and Boyle, LLC, fights diligently for our clients. Our law firm is backed by a strong reputation for honest, effective, and zealous legal representation.
What Are the Consequences of Being Convicted of a Crime in Georgia
While some criminal defendants think it would be easier to simply plead guilty and avoid the hassle of a trial, a criminal conviction can affect your life in many profound ways. Criminal convictions remain on your criminal record forever. There is no reason to rush to court and plead guilty. Criminal convictions can include fines, loss of driving privileges, probation, jail, or prison time.
For many misdemeanor and felony crimes in Georgia, proposed sentencing ranges are not mandatory jail sentences. The judge may sentence the defendant to probation instead of incarcerating them. Still, probation can severely limit your freedom and result in incarceration if you violate the terms of your probation.
In addition to the criminal consequences of a conviction, a conviction can also mean a criminal history that follows the defendant around for years to come, which can affect their employment opportunities, housing options, loss of gun rights, immigration status, and professional licenses.
Various factors affect the potential sentence that defendants receive, including the nature of the charges, the severity of the offense, the victim’s impact statement, and any prior criminal history. Oftentimes, there are other options, such as the First Offender Act, Conditional Discharge, Accountability Court, or Pre-Trial Diversion, that can protect an individual from having a criminal record.
Seeking experienced legal representation is the first step to mounting a robust defense to prevent or minimize the impact of a criminal conviction.
What to Do If You Are Arrested in Georgia
If you are arrested in Georgia, the immediate steps you take can have a lasting impact on you and your case. Here are some simple guidelines to follow:
- Remain calm, and don’t try to resist arrest.
- Exercise your right to remain silent.
- Don’t consent to a search without a warrant.
- Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
- Do not talk about your case while in jail, especially on a recorded call to a family member.
Contact Our Dedicated Criminal Defense Attorneys for a Free Case Consultation
If you are facing a felony, misdemeanor, or traffic citation, you need a lawyer you can depend on to protect your rights and your freedom. The criminal defense lawyers at Crawford and Boyle LLC have a profound level of experience and passion to protect their clients’ rights. We have successfully helped thousands of people in similar predicaments. Contact us today to take advantage of a free consultation.
Our team of experienced attorneys brings decades of combined legal experience to every case. As former prosecutors, our partners understand both sides of the courtroom, giving you a strategic advantage in your defense.
Eric C. Crawford
Partner
David E. Boyle
Partner
Kevin C. Charles
Attorney
Sarah Dobbins
Attorney
Brandon Fitz
Attorney
Cori Whitford
Attorney
Tre Cobbs
Attorney
50+
Years Combined
1000s
Cases Handled
7
Team Members
Our clients trust us because we deliver. See a few examples of how we’ve helped people move forward from difficult situations.
Second Degree Murder & Cruelty to Children
Probation Violation
DUI
DUI
DUI
Drug Possession
Read testimonials from clients who have trusted Crawford and Boyle, LLC with their legal matters.
Mr. Brandon Fitz of Crawford and Boyle Law Firm is the main reason why I encouraged my granddaughter to go with this firm. He’s very knowledgeable and personable. He listened to what you had to say and responded accordingly. He always returned my calls answered my emails and text messages. He answered every question I had and made me feel assured. I would use him again if the need arose. I highly recommend Mr. Fitz. The staff were always pleasant as well.
D
My first time hiring any lawyer in my lifetime, the first thing I felt was trustworthy. He made me feel at ease. He answered all my e-mails, answer all my questions. He always informed me of what’s going on with my case, explained in terms I was able to understand. He didn’t make me feel like I was being attacked by anyone (ex. District Attorneys). He didn’t judge me. He fought for me every step of the way and made sure I got the best outcome for my situation. He went up and beyond my expectations.
D
Thanks David, you do excellent work.
D
I am a little hesitant to admit I have had my fair share of experience with attorneys. Mr. Boyle has by far been the most honest and hardest working attorney I have dealt with. He kept me aware of the entire criminal process without making unrealistic claims that could not be lived up to just to get me to sign up with him. He was a great lawyer and I would use him again.
D
David and Eric did an excellent job defending me and getting my charge dismissed. They responded quickly and informed/educated me on the legal process I had to expect.
D
I hired Ms. Armstrong as my lawyer to represent me in court. She was very personable and made me feel very at ease. She was confident in what she could do for me. Her and the entire staff in this office were very attentive and responded quickly to all my emails and concerns.She was able to get the very best outcome for me as she said she would do. Excellent firm!
D
David Boyle is the best lawyer that I ever had. He was honest, well prepared and his background was key to obtaining the best result possible in my situation. David saved my life and was there for me during the entire ordeal. If you have a serious legal problem, David Boyle is the lawyer for you!
D
Mr. Boyle has represented me in 2 cases and I have been very satisfied with his services. I would highly recommend him. Overall I would rate him very high in his knowledge of the court and court system. He works hard and goes above and beyond for his clients.
D
I had 2 felony cases and Mr. Boyle represented me and had great results. keeps you informed and available when you need him. Very Professional Lawyer. Fully recommend.
D
We all know that you never know what you are going to get when working with attorneys. But I can confidently say that no better outcome would have been achieved working with any other firm. Completely responsive, polite, and they get the job done honestly without selling you on false hope. David has under promised and over delivered!
D
Trusted recognition and results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to help you make informed decisions about your case.
Is my freedom at risk if I was accused of a violent crime?
How do prosecutors build a case against me?
Prosecutors will go to great lengths to paint you as a dangerous villain who should not be let back into the public. As former prosecutors, Eric Crawford and David Boyle are well aware of the procedures being undertaken by law enforcement to gain a conviction. With their unique insight into the workings of the prosecution, they can mount a well-prepared defense that protects their clients’ interests.
Should I speak to the police to clear things up?
A person’s first step after being arrested should be to contact an experienced local criminal lawyer. Arrests are frightening, and it’s common to feel unsure about what to do. By staying calm and remaining silent, you protect your right against self-incrimination. Police may still attempt to gather evidence or statements if you speak without an attorney present.
From Our Blog
Stay informed with insights and updates on Georgia criminal law,
DUI defense, and your legal rights.
Tell us about your situation, and we’ll help you understand your options. Your initial consultation is completely free and confidential.
678-680-5000
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Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Monroe, GA 30655
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