Violent Crime Lawyer
in Lawrenceville, Georgia

Violent crime charges in Georgia are prosecuted aggressively, and the consequences are serious.

Mandatory minimum sentences, permanent felony records, and years in state prison are all real possibilities. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor assault charge or a more serious allegation involving aggravated assault, robbery, or homicide, how you respond from the very first day matters.

At Philip Kim Law, our criminal defense team are ready to help individuals facing violent crime charges across Lawrenceville and Gwinnett County.

Call Now For a Free Consultation

Understanding Georgia's Violent Crime Charges

Georgia law covers a wide range of violent offenses, each carrying its own definition and penalties:

  • Simple Assault – An attempt to commit violent harm or any act that causes another person to reasonably fear injury. No physical contact is required.
  • Simple Battery – Intentional offensive physical contact or contact that causes bodily injury.
  • Aggravated Assault – Assault committed with a deadly weapon, with intent to murder, rob, or rape, or through strangulation or discharge of a firearm from a vehicle. A felony carrying 1 to 20 years, with mandatory minimums of 3 to 10 years depending on the weapon and the victim’s status.
  • Aggravated Battery – Maliciously causing serious bodily harm to another person. A felony carrying 1 to 20 years.
  • Arson – Maliciously damaging or destroying property through fire or explosives.
  • Robbery and Armed Robbery – Taking another person’s property by force or with an offensive weapon. Armed robbery carries a mandatory minimum of ten years in prison.
  • Kidnapping – Abducting or holding a person against their will without legal authority. Penalties range from ten years to life, and can include the death penalty depending on the circumstances.
  • Manslaughter – The killing of another person without the elements required for a murder charge, either voluntary or involuntary.
  • Murder – The intentional killing of another person. Penalties range from a minimum of ten years to life without parole or the death penalty.
  • Domestic Violence – Abusive conduct directed at an intimate partner, family member, or household member, including physical, emotional, or psychological harm.
  • Sexual Assault – Any sexual act that occurs without consent, including offenses involving minors.
  • Stalking – Repeated conduct directed at a specific person that causes reasonable fear for their safety.

Simple assault and battery are misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail. Most aggravated offenses are felonies subject to mandatory minimum sentencing.

Misdemeanor cases are heard in Gwinnett County State Court. Felony cases proceed to Superior Court. The statute of limitations is two years for misdemeanor assault and battery, four years for most felony violent crimes, and no limit applies to crimes punishable by life imprisonment.

Step by Step
What Happens in a Violent Crime Case

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STEP 1 – Arrest:

Violent crime arrests typically follow a 911 call or law enforcement investigation. The decision to file charges belongs to the prosecutor, not the alleged victim. Contacting Philip Kim Law as early as possible is important.

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STEP 2 – Bond Hearing:

We appear at your bond hearing and present arguments for release on the most reasonable conditions available.

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STEP 3 – Case Review:

We examine the police report, witness accounts, any available surveillance footage, and all potential defenses, including self-defense and justification under Georgia law.

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STEP 4 – Pre-Trial Motions:

We review how evidence was gathered and challenge any constitutional violations, including confessions obtained in violation of Miranda rights or identifications made through suggestive procedures.

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STEP 5 – Stand Your Ground Evaluation:

Georgia’s Stand Your Ground law (O.C.G.A. § 16-3-23.1) provides that a person in a place they have a right to be has no duty to retreat before using force in self-defense. Where applicable, we evaluate immunity carefully and pursue immunity hearings when the facts support it.

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STEP 6 – Negotiation or Trial:

We pursue reduction to lesser-included offenses where the facts allow, and we are prepared to take cases to trial when a fair resolution cannot be reached through negotiation.

Types of Violent Crimes Cases We Handle
in Georgia

  • Simple assault and simple battery
  • Aggravated assault and aggravated battery
  • Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
  • Battery against a police officer or public employee
  • Arson
  • Domestic violence
  • Stalking and aggravated stalking
  • Terroristic threats and acts (§ 16-11-37)
  • False imprisonment and kidnapping
  • Robbery and armed robbery
  • Manslaughter
  • Murder and attempted murder
  • Cruelty to children
  • Riot and affray
  • Sexual assault

What Outcomes May Be Possible For Your Case

Stand Your Ground Immunity

Dismissal before trial based on a lawful self-defense finding, where applicable.

Dismissal

When the state’s evidence is insufficient or constitutional violations occurred during the investigation.

Acquittal at Trial

When the prosecution is unable to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Reduction to a Lesser-Included Offense

For instance, aggravated assault reduced to simple assault.

Alternative Sentencing

Probation or First Offender treatment where eligible.

Every case is different, and no outcome can be guaranteed. Philip Kim Law approaches each case with thorough preparation, honest counsel, and careful attention to the facts at every stage.

What Our Clients Say

“I hired Mr. Kim to represent me in a case dating back a few years ago. I was extremely scared that my case would derail my career because of a previous mistake. Luckily, with Mr. Kim’s constant hard work and dedication, I was able to get the results I hoped for that wouldn’t hurt my future. I appreciate everything Mr. Kim has done and, if I had to do it all again, I would pick Mr. Kim every time. Thank you sir, you’re a life saver.”

– G. J.

“Highly recommended. Philip is pretty straightforward and honest. Provided a clear approach and execution. Kayley was extremely welcoming and supportive at the first meeting. Aide was on top of timelines. Pretty terrific group.”

– E. K.

“With much patience and Mr. Kim’s counsel, I was extremely satisfied with the outcome of my case. He is very honest and straightforward. He respected my decisions and really looks out for his clients. He truly wants the best for them. I also had a great experience with his office, as they were highly professional and communicated effectively. I highly recommend him. Big thanks to Mr. Kim!”

– T. R.

“From start to finish, Philip Kim Law was professional, responsive, and incredibly knowledgeable. They took the time to explain every step of the process and made sure I understood all of my options. Thanks to their hard work, my case was dismissed, which was a huge relief and a far better outcome than I ever expected. I felt confident knowing I had someone truly fighting for me and my future.”

– W.S.

“If you are looking for a lawyer and staff with integrity, excellent skills, and legal knowledge, not to mention a very professional and courteous attitude, this is the law office to go to. Mr. Kim handled my legal issue as a priority and had my best interest at heart. He did only what would be beneficial to me, not himself or anyone else. Finally a lawyer you can trust!”

– S.K.

Why You Need a Violent Crimes Lawyer in Georgia

Local court knowledge

Violent crime cases in Gwinnett County are prosecuted aggressively and move through specific courts, procedures, and prosecutors. Understanding how these cases are handled locally, from the initial charge through trial, is foundational to building an effective defense.

Familiarity with how these charges are prosecuted

Violent crime charges are investigated and prosecuted differently than other felonies. Knowing how Gwinnett County prosecutors approach these cases, what evidence they prioritize, and how judges handle sentencing at each stage can shape the entire direction of a defense strategy.

Experience with the full weight of the consequences

A violent crime conviction in Georgia can carry mandatory minimum sentences, loss of firearm rights, and in some cases designation as a serious violent offender under O.C.G.A. § 17-10-6.1, which eliminates parole eligibility for certain offenses. Effective representation requires an attorney who understands not just the charge, but the full range of consequences a conviction brings.

Violent crime charges require a defense attorney who is not afraid to fight, whether at the motion stage, at the negotiating table, or in front of a jury. Philip Kim Law brings the same relentless preparation and advocacy to every violent crime case we accept in Gwinnett County.

Frequently Asked Questions About Violent Crimes Charges in Georgia

View All FAQs

O.C.G.A. § 16-3-23.1 provides that a person in a place they have a right to be has no duty to retreat before using force in self-defense. If the circumstances of your case support a self-defense claim, you may be entitled to immunity from prosecution. We evaluate this in every applicable case.

Simple assault requires no physical contact, only an attempt or credible threat of injury. Aggravated assault involves a deadly weapon, intent to commit certain felonies, strangulation, or discharge of a firearm from a vehicle. Aggravated assault is a felony with mandatory minimum sentences.

No. The decision to prosecute belongs to the state, not the alleged victim. However, an uncooperative or recanting victim can significantly affect the strength of the state’s case.

A thorough investigation can uncover evidence supporting your account, including witness statements, surveillance footage, and documentation of prior threats. That evidence is presented to prosecutors and, if necessary, to a jury.

Yes. Felony convictions result in the permanent loss of firearm rights under both Georgia and federal law. Certain misdemeanor domestic violence convictions also trigger federal firearms prohibitions.

Remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and request an attorney before answering any questions. Anything said to law enforcement can be used against you. Contact Philip Kim Law as soon as possible.

Eyewitness misidentification is one of the leading causes of wrongful convictions. We examine lineup procedures, photo array administration, and in-court identifications carefully as part of every defense review.

We’re Ready to Defend Your Rights — Contact Our Georgia Violent Crimes Lawyers Today

When the charges are serious, so is the need for sound legal counsel. Attorney Philip Kim has defended clients across Lawrenceville and Gwinnett County facing violent crime charges of all kinds. At Philip Kim Law, we offer a free consultation and the earlier you reach out, the more options you have.

Contact us at (678) 273-3500 today to discuss your situation.

Call Now For a Free Consultation

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