Misdemeanors

Misdemeanor Defense Lawyers in Lawrenceville, GA

Helping Clients Navigate Misdemeanor Convictions Throughout Georgia

“Misdemeanor” sounds like a small word. Maybe a bad night, a shoplifting mistake, or an argument that got out of hand. But in Georgia, a misdemeanor conviction can mean up to a year in jail, fines, probation, and a criminal record that shows up when you apply for a job or an apartment.

Dobbins Law, LLC represents individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses in Lawrenceville and throughout Gwinnett County. Bringing rich prosecutorial and judicial experience to the table, our team works collaboratively to protect your rights and reputation.

Our defense team brings deep local insight to misdemeanor cases, led by founding partner Kyle Dobbins —a former Georgia prosecutor with extensive felony and misdemeanor trial experience—and partner Kim Dobbins, who currently serves on the Gwinnett County Indigent Defense panel and has handled over 100 misdemeanor cases in 2025 alone.

By looking at your charge from every angle, our team knows where law enforcement often stumbles and how to leverage those weaknesses to pursue the best possible outcome for you.

Don't navigate the legal system alone. Contact Dobbins Law, LLC today to schedule your confidential consultation.

Kyle & Kim Dobbins: Your Trusted Misdemeanor Defense Attorneys

Kyle Dobbins brings years of invaluable courtroom insight from his time as an assistant district attorney in Newton and Houston counties, while Kim Dobbins maintains a high-volume misdemeanor practice through her active work on the Gwinnett County Indigent Defense panel.

Together, as members of the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, operating out of our office at 195 W Pike Street in downtown Lawrenceville, we bring unmatched firsthand experience in prosecution and defense to every case.

Small charges can raise big questions. We'll explain what your charge means, walk you through the process, and help you navigate your best options in plain, straightforward language.

What Is a Misdemeanor & What Are Common Misdemeanor Charges in Lawrenceville?

Misdemeanors sit below felonies, but the definition still carries real weight.

A misdemeanor is a crime with a maximum punishment of 12 months in jail. Fines are generally capped at $1,000, and a smaller group called misdemeanors of a high and aggravated nature can carry fines up to $5,000. Judges also have a lot of room in sentencing, and may order probation, community service, classes, restitution, or a mix of these.

The Gwinnett County Solicitor's Office, which prosecutes state misdemeanors, lists several types of cases as misdemeanors.

Here are the ones we see most:

Simple assault and simple battery
Family violence battery for a first offense
Stalking
Theft by taking and shoplifting, when the value falls below the felony thresholds
Criminal trespass
Criminal damage to property of lower value
Possession of one ounce of marijuana or less
DUI, reckless driving, hit and run, and other serious traffic offenses that may be charged as misdemeanors

Repeat offenses can change the picture. For example, a person with prior convictions can face a higher charge for the same conduct.

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What Sets Our Lawyers Apart?

Why Clients Trust Us

With over a decade of experience, our firm provides personalized, affordable representation in family law and criminal defense. We focus on lasting solutions and trusted advocacy to help clients navigate their legal challenges with confidence.

Client-Centered Service
Responsiveness and personal service are at the heart of everything we do. We believe in being there for our clients every step of the way, providing clear communication and compassionate guidance.
Experienced, Affordable Representation
With over a decade of combined legal experience, we offer skilled representation at a price you can afford.
Resolution-Focused Advocacy
We help clients resolve legal matters with the future in mind, prioritizing solutions that ease stress, ensure stability, and, when necessary, stand ready to fight for you in trial.
A Former Prosecutor On Your Side
As a former prosecutor, Kyle brings invaluable insight to the courtroom, using that experience to develop strong strategies for both criminal and family law cases.

Where Misdemeanor Cases Are Heard in Lawrenceville

Where your misdemeanor case is heard in Gwinnett County depends on which law enforcement agency issued the citation and the specific law involved:

Gwinnett County State Court (Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center – 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville) – Handles most state misdemeanor cases, which are prosecuted by the Solicitor's Office.
Gwinnett County Magistrate Court (75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville) – Located in the same building as the State Court, this court manages early proceedings like initial appearances, but does not conduct jury trials.
Lawrenceville Municipal Court (South Clayton Street, Lawrenceville) – Handles local city ordinance violations and select citations issued directly by Lawrenceville police officers.

How a Misdemeanor Case Works

Misdemeanor cases often move faster than felonies. Here's the usual sequence.

Citation, warrant, or arrest. Some people are taken into custody. Others get a citation or learn about a warrant later.
First appearance and bond. If you were arrested, a magistrate judge explains the charges and decides on bond.
Arraignment. You hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
Discovery and motions. Your lawyer reviews the State's evidence and can challenge it.
Resolution. The case may be dismissed, settled with a plea agreement, or tried by a judge or jury.

Faster doesn't mean you should rush. Pleading guilty at arraignment just to get it over with can lock in a record that's hard to undo.

Why a Misdemeanor Deserves Serious Attention

A misdemeanor can seem minor until you see everything it can touch. Possible consequences include:

Jail, with up to 12 months possible, even if many first-time cases end without it
Probation, which may include fees, classes, drug tests, and regular reporting, and which can lead to jail if violated
A criminal record that employers and landlords can see on background checks
Problems with professional licenses, school applications, and jobs such as nursing, teaching, or commercial driving
Immigration consequences for people who aren't U.S. citizens
Loss of firearm rights, since a misdemeanor domestic violence conviction triggers a federal ban on possessing guns

Ways a Misdemeanor Case May Be Resolved

Not every misdemeanor ends in a conviction. Depending on the facts, your history, and the prosecutor's position, the possible paths may include:

Dismissal, which can happen when the evidence is weak or when police violate someone's rights
A reduced charge, where a plea to a lesser offense may carry lighter penalties
Pre-trial diversion through the Gwinnett Solicitor's Office, which is open to eligible people with little to no prior criminal history. Finishing the program can lead to dismissed charges and a restricted record
The Georgia First Offender Act, which can apply to misdemeanors as well as felonies
Trial, where the State has to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt

Nobody can promise one outcome, but understanding the options early gives you more room to choose.

Clearing Your Record After a Misdemeanor

Many people ask what happens to the record once a case is over. Georgia has a record restriction process, which used to be called expungement. Some dismissed charges may qualify, and so may certain other cases, but many offenses are excluded. Restriction limits what most employers and the public can see, though courts and law enforcement may still have access. If you're wondering whether your record might qualify, ask us.

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Trusted Advocates for Life’s Toughest Challenges

We’re ready to stand by your side and fight for the resolution you deserve.

Misdemeanor Charges in Lawrenceville: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go to jail for a misdemeanor in Georgia?

Yes. A misdemeanor can carry up to 12 months in jail. Many first-time cases end with probation, fines, or classes instead, but jail is a legal possibility.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor?

It's worth having one. A conviction creates a criminal record and can affect work, housing, and licenses. A lawyer can review the evidence, look for legal problems with the case, and explain your options before you plead.

Will a misdemeanor show up on a background check?

A conviction usually will. Charges that were dismissed may still appear unless the record has been restricted. Georgia's record restriction process can limit what shows up in some situations.

What happens if I miss my court date?

A judge can issue a bench warrant for your arrest. Don't ignore it. Contact a lawyer as soon as you can, since there may be a way to address the warrant and reset the case.

Can a misdemeanor charge be dismissed?

Sometimes. Dismissals can come from weak evidence, constitutional problems with the stop or arrest, or completion of a program like pre-trial diversion. Whether it's possible depends on the facts of your case.

Talk With a Lawrenceville Misdemeanor Lawyer

Even a "minor" charge deserves a careful look. Call (229) 348-0176 to schedule a consultation. We'll talk through what happened and what could happen next.

This page offers general information about Georgia law and is not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different, and past results do not predict future outcomes.

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The Opinions That Matter Most

Our Clients Come First

At Dobbins Law, LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

"Mr. Dobbins is a great lawyer."
He really takes control of the room and fights on behalf of his clients tooth and nail. I was satisfied with this decision and will use him in the near future.

- Jay
"Kind, compassionate, and very intelligent."
Mr. Dobbins took on a case for me with very little preparation and immediately remembered all of the details, and did a terrific job representing me in court.

- Former Client
"We could not have done it without Kyle!"
Kyle was very knowledgeable and punctual with returning calls and emails. He was easy to work with and we are very pleased with the outcome.

- Rachel

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195 W. Pike Street Suite 108
Lawrenceville, GA 30046

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