Getting arrested changes everything in an instant. One moment you’re going about your day, and the next you’re in handcuffs facing charges. Criminal charges bring fear, confusion, and a flood of questions. We’ve helped hundreds of people in Savannah navigate this exact situation, and we know what to do when facing criminal charges.
What Happens After an Arrest in Savannah
The booking process starts immediately after arrest. Police take your fingerprints, photograph you, and record your personal information. You’ll likely spend time in a holding cell while officers process paperwork and run background checks.
Within 72 hours, you’ll appear before a judge for your first appearance hearing. The judge reads the charges against you, informs you of your rights, and may set bail. Some people get released on their own recognizance. Others need to post bond or remain in custody.
Bail and Pretrial Release Options in Savannah
Cash bail requires paying the full amount set by the judge. You get this money back after your case concludes, minus any fees.
Bail bondsmen charge a non-refundable fee (usually 10-15% of bail) to post bond on your behalf. This costs less upfront, but you never get that fee back.
Property bonds let you use real estate as collateral. Release on recognizance means you promise to appear without posting money.
Plea Bargains vs. Trial: Which Path Is Right for You?
Prosecutors offer plea deals in most cases. These agreements typically involve pleading guilty to reduced charges or receiving a lighter sentence recommendation. Plea bargains provide certainty and often result in less severe penalties than a conviction at trial.
Trials carry more risk but also offer the possibility of complete vindication. If the evidence against you is weak or the police violated your rights, going to trial might be your best option. We analyze the strength of the prosecution’s case and help you weigh these options carefully.
Family and Employment Concerns During Criminal Proceedings
Criminal charges strain relationships. Family members worry. Children ask questions. We’ve seen marriages tested and friendships fade. Open communication with loved ones helps, but protecting your case comes first.
Many people lose their jobs after an arrest. Some employers fire workers facing charges. Others wait for conviction. Professional licenses may be at risk depending on your field and the charges involved.
Financial Considerations When Hiring a Defense Lawyer
Quality legal representation costs money. We’re honest about that. But the cost of a conviction often exceeds attorney fees many times over. Fines, lost wages, increased insurance rates, and reduced earning potential add up quickly.
We offer payment plans because we know most people don’t have thousands of dollars sitting around. Some clients use credit cards or borrow from family. The investment in your defense protects your future.
Timeline Expectations for Criminal Cases in Georgia
Misdemeanor cases often resolve within a few months. Felonies take longer, sometimes a year or more. Complex cases with multiple defendants or extensive evidence take even longer.
Court delays happen frequently. Judges have crowded dockets. Prosecutors need time to prepare. Defense attorneys file motions that require hearings. Patience becomes necessary, though we push your case forward as aggressively as possible.
Get Help Defending Your Rights
Criminal charges won’t disappear on their own. Every day you wait makes building a strong defense harder. Witnesses forget details. Evidence disappears. Opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s case slip away.
We offer free consultations to discuss your situation and explain your options. Contact Phillips Carson Phillips today by calling (912) 232-0081 for a free consultation. We’ll review the charges against you, answer your questions, and start protecting your rights immediately. Your future depends on the decisions you make right now.