Criminal Defense Attorneys in Chatham County

We Handle Cases in Chatham County State, Superior & Recorder's Court

Being charged with a crime can feel overwhelming. Whether you made a mistake, face false accusations, or have a justifiable reason for your actions, you need a legal team prepared to defend your rights and freedom. Schneider Lerch, LLC serves clients across Chatham County, including Pooler, Port Wentworth, Savannah, Tybee Island, Thunderbolt, Garden City, and Bloomingdale.

At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we have helped thousands of clients challenge criminal charges in Chatham County and surrounding communities. Our criminal defense attorneys in Chatham County bring together over four decades of combined experience developing strong defense strategies that have resulted in clients having charges reduced or dismissed. We have built a reputation for successfully handling jury trials and are committed to helping each client pursue the best possible outcome.

To work with a team that has a winning mindset, contact Schneider Lerch, LLC at (912) 417-5008 now. Your initial consultation with our criminal attorney in Chatham County is free. 

Criminal Cases We Defend in Chatham County

Our criminal defense lawyer has years of experience handling cases of all types. Whether you face a misdemeanor or a felony, you can trust our firm to build a reliable defense plan to fight your charges with strategic representation.

Cases we regularly handle include:

• Bond hearings
• BUI
• Drug charges
• DUI
• Federal crimes
• Felonies
• Fraud crimes
• Gun crimes
• Misdemeanors
• Obstruction
• Sex crimes
• Theft crimes
• Traffic offenses
• Violent crimes
• White collar crimes

Your Defense Process in Chatham County Courts

Every arrest in Chatham County triggers a specific legal process. After an officer detains a person, the case usually moves to the Chatham County Magistrate Court for an initial hearing, where the court may decide bond. Cases then go to the State Court or the Superior Court, depending on the charge. 

Our Chatham County criminal defense lawyer explains each step in detail, so you know what to expect from arraignment through the end of your case. Local judges and prosecutors in Savannah often use procedures unique to the area, which can affect scheduling and how hearings proceed. 

Because we appear regularly in Savannah-area courtrooms, we give clients current information about protocols and timing. We encourage questions about scheduling and procedure, as understanding the system can ease the process.

The pace of a criminal defense case in Savannah can depend on court schedules, case backlogs, and the availability of diversion or alternative sentencing programs. Our approach ensures you are prepared for realistic timelines and requirements as your criminal case moves forward in Chatham County.

What to Do When You’re Under Arrest

If police detain or arrest you, use your Constitutional right to remain silent and wait to speak to a criminal defense attorney in Chatham County. Even when you have nothing to hide, always wait for legal guidance before speaking to law enforcement. Anything you say may be used against you in court.

We have seen too many cases where someone speaks to police without a lawyer and their words are taken out of context or misunderstood. Law enforcement officers want to solve crimes, and sometimes use tactics that encourage people to admit to behavior they may not have committed. Rely on an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Chatham County to address police questions for you and protect your interests.

Most arrests in Chatham County involve booking at the Chatham County Detention Center in Savannah. If you are held in custody, you will usually see a magistrate or judge for an initial appearance within 48 hours. At that time, the court reviews bond and notifies you of your charges. Prompt legal intervention can make a difference by helping guard your rights from the start and holding law enforcement to proper procedures.

Why Early Intervention is Essential in Georgia

In Georgia, the period between arrest and the issuance of a formal accusation is crucial. Choosing a qualified Chatham County criminal defense lawyer who intervenes early can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Immediate Steps We Take

• Bond Hearing Representation: We immediately attend your first appearance and bond hearing, arguing aggressively for reasonable bail conditions to secure your release.
• Challenging the Arrest: We scrutinize the police investigation and file motions to suppress any illegally obtained evidence, including unlawful searches, seizures, or statements made before you were read your Miranda rights.
• Pre-Accusation Negotiation: Leveraging our insight as former prosecutors, we approach the State's Attorney's Office before the indictment to present mitigating evidence and argue against the filing of severe felony charges.
• Protecting Your Rights: We ensure you understand the importance of asserting your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and your right to counsel throughout the investigation.

In the Savannah court system, prosecutors and judges often resolve matters before trial, either through negotiation or by reviewing legal motions. Our deep experience with local prosecutors and the courts in Recorder's Court, State Court, and Superior Court guides how we approach each case. 

We monitor changes in Georgia criminal law and county procedures so that every decision we make reflects the latest developments. If your matter proceeds to trial, we use our knowledge of past case results in Chatham County courts to help you anticipate possible outcomes and plan a strategy.

Call Our Criminal Defense Attorneys in Chatham County Today

Working with our criminal defense attorneys in Chatham County can mean the difference between serving a lengthy sentence and seeing your case dismissed. We are committed to working tirelessly for a favorable outcome in every criminal case.

We offer prompt appointments and treat clients with care, whether your legal challenge begins in downtown Savannah or other communities like Pooler or Thunderbolt. Our team stays in communication, answers questions about court dates and filings, and makes sure you understand what to expect in Chatham County courts. People count on us for clear and practical advice from the first call forward.

Call (912) 417-5008 or reach out online now to discuss the right path forward with our criminal defense lawyers. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all criminal cases go to trial?

Most criminal cases in Chatham County resolve without a trial. Many conclude early through plea negotiations, or after prosecutors decide not to move forward due to insufficient evidence.

Deciding how to resolve a case can be challenging. With our team working for you, we provide clear information about your legal options. We have negotiated with local prosecutors to resolve many cases through plea agreements or dismissed charges. Sometimes, contesting the allegations in court is the right choice, and we stand ready for trial when necessary.

How does bail work for criminal cases in Chatham County?

After an arrest in Chatham County, a judge generally decides whether to grant bail at your initial court appearance. The court reviews your charges, community ties, and likelihood to appear before setting any bond conditions.

What types of diversion programs are available for first-time offenders?

Chatham County courts may let some first-time offenders enter programs such as pretrial diversion. These alternatives focus on treatment, education, and rehabilitation instead of traditional penalties like jail time.

Can I resolve my case without going to court in Chatham County?

Certain cases in Chatham County may end through negotiation, plea deals, or diversion programs without a trial. The result depends on your individual situation, the charges, and conversations with the prosecutor.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION