Healan Law Offices, P.C.

Got A DUI? Facing Criminal Charges? Call Me at 678-661-3318 Today.

Healan Law Offices, P.C.
678-661-3318

Your Legal Shield In DUI And Criminal Defense

North Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney Ready To Fight For You

At Healan Law Offices, P.C., I care deeply about your rights and protections under Georgia and federal law. I am highly experienced in Georgia criminal law, and have the tenacious litigation and negotiation skills needed to fight for your rights in cases involving even the most serious criminal accusations.

When you contact my law firm, you can expect to be not only treated with respect but also given the attention and care required to obtain the most favorable resolution for your situation. From the initial evaluation and investigation through negotiations and trial, I am committed to providing a powerful and compelling defense on your behalf.

Experience In Many Different Areas

Since 1975, Healan Law Offices, P.C., has been providing sound legal counsel and representation to clients charged with minor to severe state and federal crimes. I handle criminal cases involving:

My firm is known throughout Barrow County for integrating innovative defense strategies into my cases, often resulting in a reduction of charges or dismissal. Along with my effective negotiation tactics, I draw on the knowledge and expert advice of investigators, forensics and ballistics experts, medical specialists, psychologists and other professionals when applicable.

To learn more about how I have built a solid reputation as a dependable and dominant legal resource in Barrow County, visit my Cases and Accomplishments page.

Applying Georgia’s First Offender Act To Protect Your Future

Under the state’s First Offender Act, a judge can defer the finding of guilt for a first-time offender. Instead, they can place the defendant on probation or in confinement without entering an official conviction. The court must also restrict and seal their arrest and court records at the time of sentencing.

Once the defendant completes the sentence, the court will dismiss the charges and exonerate the individual. This program provides an excellent option for college students worried about career paths or first-time offenders facing felony allegations.

However, the state limits this program to a one-time use. Certain criminal charges are also not eligible, such as:

  • Driving under the influence (DUI)
  • Serious violent crimes
  • Sexual offenses

If someone resolved a past case without learning about this option, Georgia law also provides a retroactive petition process. If the prosecutor agrees, a judge can grant first-offender status retroactively to help resolve prior charges.

Defending Against The Harsher Penalties Of A Repeat Offense

While first-time options offer a path toward rehabilitation, Georgia imposes exceptionally harsh consequences on repeat offenders. For example, a second felony conviction forces a judge to sentence that offender to the maximum prison term allowed. A fourth felony requires the offender to serve that maximum term entirely without parole.

At Healan Law Offices, P.C., we believe that a prior record does not strip away a person’s right to a powerful, strategic defense. I strive to protect my clients by thoroughly dissecting the state’s evidence and uncovering any police errors. I use every available legal tool to stand between my clients and a maximum sentence.

Attorney Healan has defended hundreds of misdemeanor & felony criminal charges and cases. Read some of our recent results.

Guiding You Through The Georgia Criminal Process

Whether you are facing a misdemeanor charge or a serious felony allegation, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Clarity can help. As your criminal defense attorney, I will make sure you have a clear understanding of each step of the process:

  • Arrest and booking: During this initial phase, police officers take the individual into custody, record personal details, collect fingerprints and secure personal property.
  • Bail and arraignment: The defendant then appears before a judge to hear the formal charges and enter an initial plea. At this stage, I will advocate for reasonable bail and pretrial release.
  • Conducting pretrial negotiations: Once the case begins, I will carefully review the state’s evidence, identify constitutional violations and negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce or dismiss the charges.
  • Presenting the defense at trial: If the prosecution refuses a fair resolution, I will take the case to trial. I will work to present a strong defense and ask the jury for a favorable verdict.

I always strive to work through each stage with a defined plan. This allows me to protect my clients’ future rather than simply reacting to the next courtroom demand.

Protecting Constitutional Rights During An Arrest

The United States Constitution protects citizens from police overreach. Under the Fifth Amendment, every person has the absolute right to remain silent. No one must answer police questions that might look incriminating.

The law requires police officers to read Miranda warnings before questioning anyone in custody. If officers fail to give these warnings, a judge can block those statements at trial. To protect my clients’ legal rights during a police encounter, I advise them to follow these critical practices:

  • Requesting legal counsel immediately: You should clearly state, “I am invoking my right to silence and want a lawyer.” Asserting this right should halt all police questioning immediately.
  • Maintaining a calm and polite demeanor: Arguing or resisting officers can lead to separate criminal charges, even if the police made an unlawful arrest.
  • Declining voluntary searches: If officers ask to search a car or home, it is advisable to tell them that you do not consent to a search. This protects the right to challenge the search in court later.
  • Avoiding case discussions in jail: Prosecutors routinely monitor jail cellmates and recorded telephone lines. Discussing your case with others can pose risks to your defense.

Asserting these constitutional rights does not signal guilt. It protects the integrity of the entire defense.

Georgia Criminal Defense FAQ

Below are answers to common questions regarding Georgia criminal cases:

Can you self-represent against criminal charges in Georgia?

While the law allows self-representation, going to court alone carries a huge risk. Prosecutors understand court rules better. Judges do not grant special treatment to self-represented individuals. A minor mistake can result in active jail time. It’s advisable to work with a criminal defense lawyer. We know how to find flaws in the state’s evidence and negotiate to keep individuals out of jail.

Should a defendant accept a plea deal offered by Georgia prosecutors?

It is not advisable for a defendant to accept a plea bargain without an attorney’s review. Prosecutors often push quick deals to close files, but these offers rarely protect the defendant’s long-term future. As your attorney, I will evaluate the evidence, point out weaknesses in the state’s case and negotiate for much better terms, such as pretrial diversion programs for first-time offenders.

Contact My Office Today; I Can Help.

I invite you to contact Healan Law Offices, P.C., regarding your criminal charge. As an experienced Georgia DUI defense lawyer, I am ready to fight for your rights. Call me at 678-661-3318 or visit my contact form. Schedule a free initial consultation during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn about my fees and consultations. My law office is in downtown Winder, Georgia. I practice in both state and federal courts.