Finding the Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Sandy Springs, Georgia
If you or a loved one have been charged with a crime in Sandy Springs, Georgia, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can make all the difference. With their knowledge of criminal law and the local court system, the right lawyer can analyze the charges and evidence against you, advise you on possible defenses, and represent you through the legal process. But with so many options to choose from, how do you find the very best criminal defense lawyer in Sandy Springs for your particular situation?
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most capable and trusted criminal defense attorneys practicing in the Sandy Springs area. We’ll provide an overview of their background, experience, and areas of expertise so you can determine if they may be a good fit for your needs. Our goal is to give you a head start in researching and selecting the lawyer that is best equipped to protect your rights, seek the most favorable outcome, and provide skilled guidance at this difficult time.
Focusing on Former Prosecutors
One category of criminal defense lawyers that often stand out are those with previous experience as prosecutors. The perspective they gained working on the other side of criminal cases can be invaluable in anticipating the prosecution’s strategies and arguments when building a defense. Here are two former prosecutors now working in private practice who have strong reputations in Sandy Springs:
David West – With over 20 years of experience, including 8 years as an Assistant District Attorney, David West has handled thousands of criminal cases. He takes an aggressive approach in seeking pre-trial motions to get charges reduced or dismissed when possible. If a trial is necessary, he’s known for his skilled and tenacious courtroom advocacy.
Lisa Wells – Previously a prosecutor for over a decade, Lisa Wells started her own firm focused exclusively on criminal defense. She’s highly regarded for her ability to identify procedural problems with the prosecution’s case and leverage them to her client’s advantage.
Seasoned Litigators Who Aren’t Afraid of Trial
For defendants who want an attorney willing to fight the charges at trial if that becomes the best option, these Sandy Springs lawyers have substantial litigation experience in criminal matters:
John Garland – With over 25 years handling criminal cases, John Garland has tried hundreds of cases to verdict. His peers have recognized his skills by electing him to leadership positions in lawyer associations. He’s especially strong when the defense requires challenging technical forensic evidence.
Ahmad Crews – A skilled litigator, Ahmad Crews is known for his relentless efforts pursuing every advantage for his clients before and during trials. He’s passionate about protecting the rights of the accused when the stakes are highest.
Attorneys Focused on DUI and Traffic Offenses
For drivers charged with DUI, traffic violations, or license suspension matters, these Sandy Springs attorneys concentrate their practice in this field:
Elizabeth Brandenburg – With deep knowledge of Georgia’s DUI and traffic laws and experience representing drivers before the Department of Driver Services, Elizabeth Brandenburg routinely obtains positive outcomes for her clients in these cases. She’s also one of the few local attorneys certified to operate the Intoxilyzer 9000 breath testing device.
David Carnell – A former DUI prosecutor, David Carnell now puts his experience to work defending drivers. He knows how to analyze breath and blood tests for flaws and uses innovative strategies to get DUI and license suspension penalties reduced or avoided entirely.
Advocates for Juvenile Defendants
Being charged with a crime is difficult at any age, but the juvenile justice system adds additional complexities. These Sandy Springs attorneys focus their practice on the needs of younger defendants:
Lisa Wells – In addition to adult defendants, Lisa Wells has extensive experience representing juveniles charged with crimes. She handles matters in juvenile courts as well as cases transferred to adult court, vigorously protecting her clients’ rights throughout the proceedings.
Ahmad Crews – With a background as a juvenile probation officer, Ahmad Crews understands the juvenile justice system from all angles. His juvenile clients benefit from his ability to obtain treatment and rehabilitation alternatives rather than harsh punishments whenever possible.
Respected Criminal Appeals Specialists
If a conviction occurs at the trial level, these appellate attorneys can evaluate whether there are solid grounds for an appeal and handle the complex appellate process:
David West – In addition to his trial skills, David West has extensive appellate experience. He’s argued before the Georgia Supreme Court and Court of Appeals, getting convictions overturned when procedural or constitutional rights were violated.
John Garland – Highly regarded for his research and writing abilities, John Garland crafts persuasive arguments in appellate briefs to highlight trial court errors requiring reversals of convictions.
How to Choose the Best Attorney for Your Needs
With this overview of some of Sandy Springs’ most skilled criminal defense lawyers, how do you select the right one for your specific case? Here are a few tips:
- Make sure they have significant experience handling cases similar to yours – don’t be their “guinea pig” case to learn on.
- Gauge their responsiveness and accessibility to you as a client. A top lawyer will make you feel like your case is their top priority.
- Ask direct questions about strategy and be wary if they make unrealistic promises or absolute guarantees. Ethical lawyers will explain the pros and cons of different approaches.
- Make sure you clearly understand what fees will be charged and what costs may be added. Get fee estimates in writing.
- Pay attention to whether they listen carefully and welcome your questions. You want a lawyer who seeks your input and keeps you informed.
- Evaluate their confidence and command of the law, but be skeptical of arrogance or a condescending attitude. Humility is important.
- Consider logistics like office location and availability outside of business hours that work for you.
Finding the best criminal defense lawyer for your needs in Sandy Springs takes research, care, and discernment. But the effort can pay off tremendously in the long run with an advocate who has the skills, experience, and tenacity to obtain the most favorable outcome possible. Use this overview as a starting point, ask questions, and don’t rush the decision – your future may depend on it.