Facing criminal charges can leave you unsure of who to trust or what to do next. With over 530 criminal cases resolved and a commitment to providing clear communication throughout your case, we have the experience needed to protect your rights. Contact your Norcross criminal defense lawyer from Gonzalez Torres Law to work with English and Spanish-speaking legal representatives who will stand up for you from day one.
What Prosecutors Must Prove to Secure a Conviction in Norcross
In Georgia, the burden of proof in a criminal case falls entirely on the prosecution. That means the state must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. This standard protects you, and it creates opportunities to challenge weak or incomplete evidence throughout the case.
Burden of Proof and How Evidence Is Presented
To convict you of a crime, prosecutors must present clear and credible evidence that satisfies every legal element of the charge. According to O.C.G.A. § 24-14-6, the burden of proof never shifts to the defendant, even if the case is complex or emotionally charged. That includes everything from eyewitness testimony to physical evidence, digital records, and statements made during or after an arrest.
Challenging Weak Testimony, Illegal Stops, and Incomplete Reports
Prosecutors often rely heavily on police reports and witness statements, but these are not always reliable. Witnesses may forget details, contradict earlier accounts, or be influenced by stress, bias, or outside pressure. Law enforcement may also leave out critical information or conduct an illegal stop that violates your rights.
If the stop was unlawful or if the report lacks key details, the court may throw out that evidence. Our team looks at every word, every file, and every action taken by police and prosecutors to find these weaknesses. When we identify errors in how the case was built, we use them to our advantage and fight to have charges reduced or dismissed.
Criminal Charges We Handle in Norcross Courts
Our team regularly defends people facing criminal charges in Norcross Municipal Court and Gwinnett County State Court. We know the local process, the prosecutors, and the common strategies used in these cases. Each charge requires a specific defense approach that reflects both the facts and what is at stake in your life. Some of the most common types of criminal cases we take on include:
- DUI
- Domestic Violence
- Drug Possession
- Reckless Driving and Speeding
- Driving Without a License
If you are facing charges for DUI, possession, domestic violence, or even a basic traffic ticket, your Norcross criminal defense attorney with Gonzalez Torres Law will be prepared to act fast and build a strategy around your goals. We focus on protecting your record, limiting your exposure, and giving you the support you need from start to finish.
How Criminal Charges Can Affect Your Record in Norcross
Criminal charges do not just affect your present. Even a minor offense can follow you for years, limiting your job options, housing opportunities, and professional licenses. Many people are surprised to learn that charges can remain on your record even if you were never convicted.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Classifications in Georgia
In Georgia, criminal offenses are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors may carry up to one year in jail, while felonies can lead to longer prison sentences, higher fines, and more severe long-term consequences. Under O.C.G.A. § 17-10-1, judges have broad discretion in sentencing, which makes the outcome of your case highly dependent on how it is handled from the start.
Record Sealing, Expungement, and Post-Conviction Relief
Once a charge or conviction appears on your record, it can be difficult to remove. In Georgia, even dismissed charges may still be visible in public background checks. That is why many people seek record sealing or restriction to limit who can see this information. Certain nonviolent misdemeanors may qualify for restriction if you meet specific criteria.
If you have already been convicted, you may still have options for post-conviction relief. This can include modifying a sentence, seeking early termination of probation, or applying for a pardon. Our team helps you understand what options may apply to your case and how to move forward with a clean slate.
Your Legal Rights and Protections as a Defendant in Georgia
If you are facing criminal charges in Norcross, you may not fully understand what the Constitution and Georgia law give you the right to expect. These protections are not optional. They apply to every person accused of a crime, no matter the charge. Knowing your rights is the first step in protecting your future and building a strong defense.
The Right to Remain Silent and Avoid Self-Incrimination
You do not have to speak to the police, answer questions, or testify in your case. Under O.C.G.A. § 24-5-506, you have the right to remain silent and avoid making statements that could be used against you. Our team helps you exercise that right from the moment your case begins.
The Right to a Fair Trial and Legal Representation
If you are charged with a crime, you have the right to a fair trial, access to the evidence against you, and legal representation throughout the process. This applies in every Georgia court, whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony. The protections available to you include:
- The right to be presumed innocent
- The right to a speedy and public trial
- The right to question witnesses
- The right to present your own evidence
- The right to appeal a conviction
- The right to effective legal representation
These rights exist to protect you, not to be waived or ignored under pressure. Our role is to make sure every one of them is honored in your case. From the first hearing to the final resolution, we are here to stand between you and a system that moves quickly and punishes harshly.
Get Legal Support From a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Norcross Today
Every criminal case deserves a defense built on precision, preparation, and a clear understanding of what matters most to you. Your criminal defense attorney in Norcross with Gonzalez Torres Law will review the facts, identify the strongest defense strategies, and advocate fiercely for your future. Call (770) 475-8186 today to schedule a confidential consultation and get the legal support you need.