Criminal Defense Attorneys in Dallas, GA

Aggressively Protecting Your Rights 

If you have been accused of or charged with a crime in Dallas, GA or anywhere in Paulding County, reach out to Perrotta, Lamb & Johnson, LLC right away. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys can immediately begin defending your rights and working to protect your future. 

With nearly 100 years of combined experience, our team is well-versed in both state and federal laws. We understand the criminal justice system and how to help you navigate the defense process. Regardless of whether you have been accused of a crime, are under investigation, or have already been arrested or charged with a criminal offense, we encourage you to get in touch with our team right away to learn how we can help.

Call (770) 637-7603 or contact us online to discuss your legal rights and options with one of our criminal defense attorneys in Dallas, GA. 

What Are Your Rights When You Are Arrested? 

If you are stopped by the police or arrested on suspicion of a crime, it is important that you know your rights. Knowing what to do—and what not to do—protects you now and in the future. 

Below are some of your most basic rights when you are arrested or charged with a crime: 

• The Right to Remain Silent: You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can and will be used against you in court. You may be required to identify yourself to the police, but you do not—and should not—say anything else, including answering any questions about what you are doing, where you are going, where you have been, or your citizenship status. 
• The Right to Be Free from Unreasonable Search and Seizure: You do not have to give law enforcement the right to search your personal belongings, home, or vehicle unless they have a signed search warrant. Note that the police may conduct a pat-down of your person if they have reason to suspect you may be carrying a weapon.
• The Right to an Attorney: You have the right to an attorney when you are arrested or charged with a crime. If you cannot afford a private practice criminal defense attorney, you have the right to be appointed a public defender by the court. We strongly encourage you to enact this right if you are accused of a crime in Georgia. 

To minimize risk to yourself during an arrest, you should always comply with law enforcement. After identifying yourself to the police, you should clearly state that you wish to enact your right to remain silent and avoid answering any questions or attempting to defend yourself. You should also clearly state that you do not consent to a search of your vehicle, home, and/or personal belongings. If law enforcement ignores your assertion, do not try to stop them from conducting a search. Instead, repeat your lack of consent. Any illegally obtained evidence will be inadmissible in court. 

You should also refrain from doing anything that may be construed as resisting arrest or obstructing justice. Do not lie to the police, and do not run if they attempt to detain you. Stay calm and keep your hands where the police can see them. If you are arrested, you have the right to make a local phone call. If you call a lawyer, the police cannot listen in; however, they can—and almost certainly will—listen in on any other phone call you make.