Best Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyers

A criminal charge in Atlanta can upend your life in hours. You face confusing court dates, aggressive prosecutors, and penalties that follow you for years. The right Georgia criminal defense attorney makes the difference between a dismissed case and a conviction. Below, we profile experienced Atlanta defense lawyers who handle DUI arrests, drug charges, and felony cases across Fulton, DeKalb, and Cobb counties.

List of the Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Atlanta, Georgia

Screenshot of the Yeargan & Kert, LLC Website
3715 Northside Pkwy NW Building 100 Suite 500, Atlanta, GA 30327, USA

Yeargan & Kert is a top-rated Atlanta DUI defense law firm led by former prosecutors. Jim Yeargan and Julie Kert bring over 50 years of combined courtroom experience to every case. Their insider knowledge of how the state builds DUI cases gives clients a strong advantage.

The firm has earned AV Preeminent ratings and Super Lawyers recognition for its aggressive defense work. They handle first-time and repeat DUI offenses, license suspension hearings, and related criminal charges. Their track record includes numerous dismissals on cases with failed field sobriety tests and breath samples.

Clients get around-the-clock access and pay nothing unless the firm takes their case. The team also defends assault, domestic violence, and other criminal matters throughout metro Atlanta.

Screenshot of the Issa and Castro LLC Website
66 Lenox Pointe NE, Atlanta, GA 30324, USA

Issa Castro Law is an Atlanta criminal defense firm with offices across metro Georgia. Attorneys Mark Issa and Miguel Castro have secured major courtroom wins, including a $3.7 million jury verdict and a murder acquittal.

The team handles DUI charges, drug crimes, assault cases, and federal offenses. They also defend clients facing probation violations and weapons charges. Spanish-speaking staff members assist clients who need bilingual support.

Case managers with over a decade of experience guide clients through each step of the legal process. The firm offers complimentary case reviews and provides weekly updates on case progress. They serve clients from Brookhaven to Marietta and throughout Georgia.

Screenshot of the Attorney Scott Fortas Website
200 Ashford Center N Suite 350, Atlanta, GA 30338, USA

Georgia Traffic Lawyers is a statewide traffic defense practice led by Scott Fortas. The firm has resolved over 10,000 tickets since 2001. They fight speeding violations, DUI charges, reckless driving accusations, and suspended license cases across Georgia.

Attorney Fortas brings 24 years of courtroom experience to traffic and criminal matters. His team handles commercial driver violations, red light tickets, and failure-to-appear warrants. Most clients avoid court appearances while their cases are resolved.

The office answers calls around the clock and offers complimentary ticket reviews. They work to prevent points on driving records and keep insurance rates from rising. Clients throughout metro Atlanta rely on their focused traffic law expertise.

Screenshot of the Schnipper Law, P.C. Website
2300 Henderson Mill Rd Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30345, USA

David Schnipper is an Atlanta criminal defense attorney who previously worked in two District Attorney offices. His prosecutorial background gives him insight into how the state builds cases against defendants. This experience shapes his defense strategies for clients facing serious charges.

The firm holds a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating and National Trial Lawyers Top 100 membership. Schnipper Law defends DUI cases, drug charges, violent crimes, and white collar offenses. They also handle personal injury claims for accident victims.

Attorney Schnipper has earned Lawyers of Distinction recognition and the Avvo Clients' Choice Award. The team serves clients throughout Georgia with aggressive representation in both misdemeanor and felony cases. Initial consultations are complimentary.

Screenshot of the Hirsch Criminal Defense Website
1936-B N Druid Hills Rd 1st floor, Atlanta, GA 30319, USA

Matt Hirsch is an Atlanta criminal lawyer with over 20 years of experience defending adults and juveniles accused of crimes. He earned his criminal justice degree from the University of Georgia and his law degree from John Marshall Law School. His Georgia Super Lawyers recognition spans 2021 through 2025.

Attorney Hirsch handles everything from traffic tickets to murder charges. He represents clients in Superior Court, State Court, Juvenile Court, and Municipal Courts throughout metro Atlanta. His approach combines thorough preparation with strong courtroom advocacy.

The firm offers flexible payment plans and provides personal attention to each case. Clients appreciate his immediate responsiveness and straightforward communication style. Judges and prosecutors throughout Georgia know him for his professional, prepared approach.

Screenshot of the David West & Associates Website
123 Church St #220, Marietta, GA 30060, USA

David West has practiced criminal defense exclusively since 1994. His Marietta firm handles state and federal cases throughout Georgia and nationwide. Attorney West has appeared on CNN, Fox News, and 48 Hours discussing high-profile criminal matters.

The firm defends drug trafficking charges, DUI cases, sex crimes, and violent offenses. They represent clients facing everything from marijuana possession to murder allegations. West holds membership in NORML and has deep expertise in drug crime defense.

Payment plans help clients afford quality representation. The office takes calls around the clock and offers complimentary initial consultations.

Screenshot of the Michael D. Barber & Associates, P.C. Website
1842 Independence Square Suite A & B, Atlanta, GA 30338, USA

Michael D. Barber & Associates is a Dunwoody criminal defense firm serving DeKalb, Gwinnett, Fulton, and Cobb counties. The team defends DUI charges, drug crimes, violent offenses, and felonies throughout metro Atlanta.

Their case results include DUI reductions to reckless driving and felony dismissals. The firm handles boating under the influence cases along with standard DUI matters. They also assist with family law and personal injury claims.

Flexible payment options make quality defense accessible. The attorneys know local courts and work to protect clients' driving privileges and criminal records.

Screenshot of the W. Scott Smith Website
100 Peachtree St NW #2060, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA

W. Scott Smith is a former prosecutor who co-authored the Georgia manual on jury selection questioning. His firm maintains a 90% win rate at trial. He has defended professional athletes and high-profile clients throughout Atlanta.

The Peachstate Lawyer team handles DUI charges, drug offenses, sex crimes, and federal matters. Attorney Smith is a member of the National College of DUI Defense and recognized by Super Lawyers. He trained at the National Institute for Trial Advocacy and Georgetown University Law Center.

Staff members respond to calls day and night. The downtown Atlanta office provides aggressive representation for both misdemeanor and felony charges.

Screenshot of the Weintraub & Alper Legal Website
1447 Peachtree St NE Suite 455, Atlanta, GA 30309, USA

Weintraub & Alper Legal brings 55 years of combined criminal defense experience to clients in Atlanta. The firm has protected rights and freedoms since 1985. Both partners hold perfect 10.0 Avvo ratings and National Trial Lawyers membership.

Howard Weintraub previously served as a federal prosecutor, giving him insight into how the government builds cases. The team defends DUI charges, drug crimes, homicide cases, and federal offenses. They handle everything from misdemeanors to complex white collar matters.

Around-the-clock support keeps clients informed throughout their cases. Super Lawyers recognition confirms their standing among Georgia's top criminal defense attorneys.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Matthew T. McNally Website
659 Auburn Ave NE STE 153, Atlanta, GA 30312, USA

Matthew McNally is a former Assistant District Attorney who handled cases in Coweta and Cobb counties. He has tried over 70 jury cases and managed thousands of criminal matters. Super Lawyers recognized his work for 2022 and 2023.

The Atlanta criminal attorney keeps his caseload small to give each client personal attention. He handles DUI defense, drug charges, domestic violence cases, and white collar crimes. Born and raised in Atlanta, he has deep relationships throughout local courts.

Zero-down financing with six months of interest-free financing helps clients afford a strong defense. McNally personally responds to text messages and keeps clients updated on their cases.

Screenshot of the The Abt Law Firm, LLC Website
2295 Parklake Dr NE, Suite 525, Atlanta, GA 30345, USA

The Abt Law Firm has successfully handled over 3,000 criminal cases across Georgia. E. Jay Abt leads a team with 29 years of combined defense experience. They won 18 of their last 20 murder trials.

Featured on CNN, Fox, MSNBC, and CBS, the firm takes on serious felony charges. They defend drug trafficking cases, sex crimes, federal offenses, and fraud allegations. Their goal: no prison time and no criminal record.

The team accepts calls around the clock and provides complimentary case evaluations for new clients.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Judy Kim Website
3500 Lenox Rd NE suite 1500, Atlanta, GA 30326, USA

Judy Kim is a Super Lawyer who has handled over 3,000 criminal cases in Atlanta. Her firm defends DUI charges, drug crimes, violent offenses, and federal matters. Spanish-speaking services assist clients who need bilingual support.

The team has achieved impressive results, including felony reductions and complete dismissals. Attorney Kim combines aggressive advocacy with affordable rates. She offers consultations around the clock for clients facing urgent criminal charges.

Screenshot of the The Law Ladies Website
691 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE Suite V-138, Atlanta, GA 30312, USA

The Law Ladies defend criminal cases throughout metro Atlanta from their downtown office. Attorney Ashley McMahan handles DUI charges, drug offenses, and felony matters. Their results include murder bond reductions, DUI dismissals, and trafficking charges reduced to probation.

Video consultations make legal help accessible for busy clients. The firm has helped thousands of people facing criminal charges in Georgia.

Screenshot of the Conoscienti & Ledbetter, Attorneys at Law Website
315 W Ponce de Leon Ave #400, Decatur, GA 30030, USA

Conoscienti & Ledbetter is a Decatur law firm with 40 years of combined experience. Joseph Conoscienti has defended criminal cases in Georgia courts since 1987. Blake Ledbetter earned Super Lawyers Rising Star recognition for civil litigation.

They handle DUI defense, drug charges, assault cases, and felonies throughout metro Atlanta. Spanish-speaking services are available. The team responds to calls around the clock.

Screenshot of the EHG Law Firm Website
Ponce City Market, 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Suite 8500, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA

EHG Law Firm is an Atlanta practice focused on DUI defense, traffic violations, and drug charges. Attorneys Erin Gerstenzang and Juanita Kimble provide client-centered representation. They also defend juvenile offenders and college students facing criminal accusations.

The Ponce City Market office handles bench warrants and failure-to-appear cases with expertise in clearing FTA status.

Screenshot of the Thomas C. Nagel Attorney at Law Website
5855 Sandy Springs Cir STE 150, Atlanta, GA 30328, USA

Thomas Nagel is an AV-rated Atlanta criminal attorney with over 25 years defending clients across Georgia. His Sandy Springs office handles DUI cases, juvenile crimes, and serious felony charges. Avvo awarded him a perfect 10.0 rating and Clients' Choice recognition.

Complimentary consultations available around the clock.

Screenshot of the The Maloof Law Firm Website
215 N McDonough St, Decatur, GA 30030, USA

The Maloof Law Firm is a three-generation Decatur practice serving metro Atlanta since 1975. Mike Maloof Jr. continues his family's legacy of criminal defense excellence. Both father and son earned Super Lawyers recognition and AV Preeminent ratings.

The team defends DUI charges, drug crimes, and felonies in DeKalb County courts.

Screenshot of the Joe S. Habachy, PC, Attorney at Law Website
44 Broad St NW #203, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA

Joe Habachy has defended nearly 2,000 DUI cases during his 25-year career. He chairs the Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyers Education Foundation and holds Super Lawyers recognition from 2018 through 2025. His Atlanta practice handles criminal defense and entertainment law matters in state and federal courts nationwide.

Screenshot of the Hill Duvernay and Associates, LLC Website
110 Habersham Dr, Fayetteville, GA 30214, USA

Hill Duvernay & Associates defends criminal cases throughout South Metro Atlanta. Candace Hill Duvernay is a trial lawyer, mediator, and part-time judge with Super Lawyers Rising Star recognition. The Fayetteville firm handles traffic defense and expungement cases.

Screenshot of the The Law Offices of Brandon A. Thomas Website
1 Glenlake Pkwy NE, Suite 650, Atlanta, GA 30328, USA

Brandon Thomas is a former federal public defender with 15 years of criminal law experience. His Buckhead office handles DUI charges, drug offenses, assault cases, and white collar crimes. The Emory Law graduate provides complimentary case evaluations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when hiring a criminal defense lawyer?

Start by checking their experience with your specific type of charge. A lawyer who handles DUI cases daily will serve you better for a drunk driving charge than someone who mainly does white-collar crime. Look for these key factors:

  • Track record: Ask about their success rate with cases similar to yours
  • Local court experience: They should know the prosecutors and judges in your courthouse
  • Communication style: You need someone who explains things clearly and returns calls promptly
  • Fee structure: Understand whether they charge flat fees or hourly rates, and what's included

Always meet with at least 2-3 lawyers before deciding. Trust your instincts about who will fight hardest for you.

How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost?

Criminal defense lawyers typically charge between $2,500-$10,000 for misdemeanors and $5,000-$50,000+ for felonies. The exact cost depends on case complexity, the lawyer's experience, and whether you go to trial.

Common fee structures:

  • Flat fees for straightforward cases (most common for DUI, simple assault, theft)
  • Hourly rates ranging from $250-$750 per hour
  • Retainer fees that cover initial work, with additional costs if the case continues

Some lawyers offer payment plans. Public defenders are available for free if you qualify based on income, though they often have heavy caseloads.

What's the difference between a misdemeanor and felony in Georgia?

Misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in county jail and $1,000 in fines. Common examples include simple battery, first-offense shoplifting under $500, and disorderly conduct.

Felonies mean potential state prison time of one year to life, depending on the charge. Georgia classifies felonies by severity - from shoplifting over $500 to murder. Felony convictions also strip certain rights:

  • Voting (until sentence completion)
  • Gun ownership
  • Professional licenses
  • Housing and employment opportunities

The classification affects your lawyer strategy, potential plea deals, and long-term consequences.

Should I accept a plea bargain?

Accepting a plea depends on evidence strength, potential sentences, and your personal situation. Your lawyer should explain the pros and cons clearly.

Consider accepting when:

  • The evidence against you is overwhelming
  • The plea significantly reduces potential jail time
  • You avoid felony charges or sex offender registration
  • Trial costs exceed your resources

Consider refusing when:

  • The state has weak evidence
  • You have a strong defense
  • The plea offer isn't much better than likely trial outcome
  • Long-term consequences outweigh short-term benefits

Never accept a plea without understanding every consequence, including immigration issues, job impacts, and license suspensions.

How do I compare criminal defense lawyers effectively?

Create a comparison chart with these essential factors:

FactorQuestions to AskRed Flags
ExperienceYears practicing? Cases like mine? Trial experience?Less than 3 years practicing or no jury trials
ResultsSuccess rate? Recent case outcomes?Won't discuss past results or makes guarantees
AvailabilityWho handles my case? Response time?Hands everything to junior associates
StrategyInitial case assessment? Defense options?Can't explain their approach clearly
CostsTotal estimated fees? What's included?Hidden fees or unclear billing

Schedule consultations with your top three choices. The right lawyer will make you feel heard, explain your options without legal jargon, and give you realistic expectations.

What happens at my first court appearance?

Your first appearance (arraignment) typically happens within 72 hours of arrest. The judge reads your charges, sets bail, and asks for your plea. You'll plead not guilty at this stage - even if you plan to negotiate later.

What to expect:

  • The hearing lasts 5-10 minutes
  • You'll receive formal charging documents
  • The judge sets conditions for release (bail, no contact orders, travel restrictions)
  • Your next court date gets scheduled

Having a lawyer present protects your rights and can mean lower bail. If you can't afford one yet, tell the judge you're seeking counsel - they'll usually grant a short continuance.

Can a criminal conviction be expunged from my record?

Georgia has strict expungement laws. You can't expunge convictions - only certain arrests and dismissed charges qualify.

Eligible for restriction (Georgia's limited expungement):

  • Arrests without conviction after case completion
  • First-time misdemeanor convictions (if under 21 when crime occurred)
  • Certain marijuana possession convictions

Never eligible:

  • Felony convictions
  • Sexual offenses
  • Crimes against children
  • Family violence convictions

The process takes 3-6 months and costs around $300 in fees. Some employers still see restricted records during background checks for sensitive positions.

What should I do immediately after being arrested?

Stay quiet beyond providing basic identification information. Police must read Miranda rights before interrogation, but anything you volunteer can hurt you.

Critical first steps:

  1. Invoke your right to remain silent and request a lawyer
  2. Don't discuss your case with anyone except your attorney
  3. Write down everything you remember while it's fresh
  4. Gather witness contact information if possible
  5. Document any injuries with photos
  6. Avoid social media completely - prosecutors check

Contact a lawyer before your first court date. Many offer free consultations and can start protecting your rights immediately, including preserving evidence and contacting witnesses.