First Offenders

First Offenders Criminal Defense Lawyer Thomas C. Nagel

Thomas C. Nagel, Attorney at Law has been representing First Offenders accused of Misdemeanor and Felony crimes for over two decades throughout the State of Georgia. If you have been charged with a crime in Georgia and you are a first offender, contact our office right away and discuss your case with an experienced Atlanta criminal defense lawyer.

Probation of First Offenders under O.C.G.A. § 42-8-60

The State of Georgia has specific provisions that deal with people who have come in contact with the criminal law system for the first time. After a guilty verdict has been reached or a plea has been entered in a criminal case, but before the judge has made a finding of guilt of a defendant who has not been previously convicted, the court can sentence the defendant to probation or jail. Should the defendant commit another crime or be found ineligible for a first offender sentence, the court can enter a finding of guilt. However, upon successful completion of the sentence or probation, the defendant is released from the court without a conviction. The charges are dismissed and the defendant is completely exonerated. All civil rights and liberties are unaffected and no criminal conviction exists. Several serious felonies and sexual offenses are exempt from first offender sentencing.

Probation of First Offenders

Effect of Dismissal Regarding Eligibility for Work or Holding Office Positions Under O.C.G.A. § 42-8-63

One of the benefits of being discharged under the First Offender’s statute is that there is no conviction of a crime in the State of Georgia and it can’t be used to disqualify you in any application for employment or appointment from office in the public or private sector. There are situations where discharge under the First Offender’s statute disqualifies individuals from employment in schools, nursing homes and law enforcement.

Furthermore, First Offender Probation is discretionary with the court. That means the judge does not have to accept a plea under the First Offender statute. Any conviction of the law prior to your plea can be used in consideration of the judge’s decision to accept a plea under the First Offender statute.

Attorney Thomas C. Nagel has represented Fist Offenders throughout the State of Georgia for over two decades. We regularly represent clients in Fulton County, Cobb County, DeKalb County and Gwinnett Counties as well as all cities in each county. We regularly appear in Sandy Springs Municipal Court, Roswell Municipal Court, Marietta Municipal Court, Atlanta Municipal Court, Dunwoody Municipal Court, Alpharetta Municipal Court and Smyrna Municipal Court.

Depending on the location of your arrest and the facts of each case, you typically have multiple options. My initial consultation will outline each of your options. If you are looking for straight talk and want to know your rights, call us now. We will help you resolve your legal problems as quickly as possible. Don’t wait any longer. You need to be well prepared for court.

In many cases we can get your charges reduced and even dismissed. That means avoiding harsh penalties, jail time and a criminal record.

Stop worrying and get answers to your questions . If you are interested in a private and confidential consultation, call us now to discuss your case. Attorney’s fees are competitive, major credit cards are accepted, and payment plans are available.

Regardless of how bad you think your case is, BEFORE you face the judge, call Attorney Thomas C. Nagel today at 404-255-1600 to arrange your free consultation.