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160 Clairemont Avenue, Suite 645, Decatur, Georgia 30030
Free Consultation | 24/7 404-857-4059 404-857-4059

Accomplished Metro Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyer Handles Complex Cases

Experienced attorney fights Georgia traffic summonses and other criminal charges

Being arrested and charged with a crime can turn a person’s entire world upside down. The law office of James D. Michael, P.C., with locations in Decatur, Georgia, and Marietta, Georgia, provides thorough and caring criminal defense for individuals in DeKalb County, Fulton County, Cobb County, Gwinnett County and the surrounding areas. As an accomplished trial attorney, Jim Michael has worked to protect defendants’ rights throughout Georgia since 1995. He represents clients charged with violent crimes, white collar crimes, sex and drug offenses, traffic violations and juvenile delinquency offenses.

Trusted Dekalb County law firm helps clients navigate the criminal justice system

When you hire Jim Michael for your legal defense, you can rely on his:

  • Record of success — With more than 20 years of experience taking on difficult cases, Jim has helped countless clients and their families to resolve and move past conflicts with the law.
  • Strong reputation — Jim has earned an AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rating by Martindale-Hubbell® for his high ethical standards and professional ability.
  • Personalized approach — Jim pursues legal solutions in line with the particular needs and goals of each client.

Possessing a firm grasp of the ins and outs of Georgia’s criminal code, attorney Jim Michael is capable of bringing even the most challenging cases to trial.

Seasoned attorney helps drivers resolve DUI charges

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a crime punishable by fines and possibly jail time depending on the level of consumption and the extent of the injuries that may have resulted. Jim is a skilled trial attorney with a history of obtaining favorable outcomes for clients in these cases. He is experienced in raising all viable defenses to DUI charges, including challenges to the chemical testing procedures employed and to the accuracy of the evidence presented by the prosecution.

Stalwart defense lawyer skilled in drug cases

Charges of illegal possession, manufacture or sale of illicit drugs can be prosecuted as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the quantities involved and the surrounding circumstances. The fallout from a conviction can negatively impact your career, family, personal freedom, reputation and everyday life. In drug crime prosecutions, Jim Michael is well versed in identifying weaknesses in the government’s case, including how evidence was obtained. Depending on the details of your situation, Jim will work to have charges dropped, dismissed or reduced. He also can pursue alternative rehabilitative options to prosecution for in appropriate cases.

Knowledgeable defense attorney fights weapons charges

Jim Michael is well versed in Georgia’s laws concerning gun ownership, possession and use and he applies that knowledge in diligently pursuing justice for his clients. In defending against weapons violation charges, he is adept at bringing pretrial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and at raising all potential problems in the government’s case. He is also a skilled negotiator who can often work out favorable plea bargains for reduction of charges and sentencing.

Defense counsel is diligent in opposing theft allegations

The law firm of James D. Michael, P.C. defends against a wide range of theft charges from shoplifting to white collar crimes. Theft prosecutions require proof of criminal intent, which can be refuted through careful investigation and challenging of testimony and other incriminatory evidence. Jim brings the strongest defense possible in each case and also pursues fair resolutions that can reduce or avoid jail time, such as restitution and community service.

Respected counselor pleads down traffic tickets and moving violations

A traffic offense conviction or guilty plea may result not only in a fine but also in points being added to your license. A Georgia driver who racks up 15 points within a 24-month period will have their license suspended. As a lawyer experienced traffic courts, Jim Michael is committed to helping clients retain their driving privileges and keep points at an acceptable level. Even where individuals are charged with such serious violations as speeding, aggressive driving and reckless driving, he can often persuade prosecutors to accept a plea to a lesser offense or one that carries fewer points and/or lower penalties.

Focused advocate handles complicated felony and misdemeanor cases

In Georgia, a crime is a misdemeanor if it is punishable by not more than a year in prison; otherwise, the crime is a felony. Whether a crime rises to the level of a felony depends on several factors, including the offender’s intent and the amount of personal injury, property damage or financial harm resulting. Most traffic offenses are misdemeanors, while violent crimes like rape and murder are felonies. There are exceptions, however. In cases where the punishment for a felony is 10 years or less, a Georgia judge is allowed to decide that the crime should be treated as a misdemeanor instead. Jim Michael seeks a reduction of charges wherever the facts allow. Whether case is prosecuted as a felony or a misdemeanor, he prepares a strong defense and negotiates assertively for just outcomes.

Contact a dedicated Decatur defense attorney for help fighting criminal charges

The law firm of James D. Michael, P.C. in Decatur, Georgia focuses specifically on criminal defense. To schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced attorney, call 404-857-4059 or contact Jim online. The firm represents clients in and around DeKalb County.