Murder Charges in Georgia

When the State wants your life, you need someone who knows how to save it.

There is no charge more serious than murder. If you’re under investigation or have been arrested for murder, felony murder, or manslaughter in Georgia, the State is building a case designed to take everything from you: your freedom, your future, and in some cases, your life. This is not the time for hesitation, and not the time for a lawyer who pleads everything out.

I defend people charged with the most serious crimes imaginable—and I win. I’m a graduate of Emory Law School, one of the top 20 law schools in the country, and I’ve built my reputation in Douglas County and across Metro Atlanta as a criminal defense attorney who tries the cases other lawyers are afraid to touch. I prepare every murder case for trial from day one—because sometimes, that’s the only way out.

Types of Murder Charges in Georgia

Malice Murder – A conviction means life in prison or the death penalty. The State must prove you intended to kill—beyond a reasonable doubt.
Felony Murder – You didn’t intend to kill anyone, but someone died during the commission of a felony (like armed robbery or burglary). The penalty is the same: life or death.
Voluntary Manslaughter – A lesser charge, often used in crimes of passion or provocation, carrying up to 20 years in prison.
Involuntary Manslaughter – Death caused by reckless or criminal negligence. Still a felony. Still life-altering.

Prosecutors build these cases for months before they even file charges. By the time you’re arrested, they’ve already decided you’re guilty. I don’t let them get the last word.

Building a Murder Defense: Strategy Over Sympathy

In murder cases, sympathy won’t save you—strategy will. These cases often hinge on:

Weak or circumstantial evidence
Coerced or unreliable witness statements
Flawed forensic science
Incomplete investigations or tunnel vision by law enforcement
Self-defense or justification

I’ve cross-examined expert witnesses, dismantled sloppy investigations, and held prosecutors to their burden in front of juries. When everything is on the line, you need someone the jury trusts—and someone the DA would rather not see at counsel table.

The Best Defense Starts Now

If you’re being investigated for homicide, do not wait until you’re indicted. The earlier I get involved, the more time we have to gather evidence, protect your rights, and take control of the narrative. This is a fight for your life—and I know how to fight.

Charged with murder in Douglasville, Carrollton, Marietta, or anywhere in Georgia? Call today. Your freedom—and your future—deserve the strongest possible defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be charged with murder if I didn’t pull the trigger?

Yes. Under Georgia’s felony murder rule, you can be charged with murder if someone died during the commission of a felony—even if you didn’t cause the death or intend for anyone to get hurt. That means if you were present during a robbery, burglary, or drug deal that turned deadly, you could face the same penalties as the person who pulled the trigger.

Is self-defense a valid legal defense to murder in Georgia?

Absolutely. Georgia law recognizes the right to use reasonable force—including deadly force—if you reasonably believe it’s necessary to protect yourself or others from death or serious bodily harm. But prosecutors often try to downplay self-defense claims or twist the facts. That’s why it’s critical to have a defense attorney who can frame your actions clearly and credibly in front of a jury.

What’s the difference between murder, felony murder, and manslaughter?

Murder (also called malice murder) involves intent to kill.
Felony murder doesn’t require intent—it applies if someone dies during a felony you were part of.
Voluntary manslaughter is a killing in the heat of passion.
Involuntary manslaughter involves accidental death from reckless or criminal negligence.
The difference between these charges could be life in prison vs. 1–10 years—and your attorney’s strategy will be the deciding factor.

Should I talk to the police if I haven’t been charged yet?