Macon-Bibb County falls within the Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit, with criminal cases heard in Bibb County Superior Court (felonies) and Bibb County State Court (misdemeanors). A significant share of Macon’s criminal defense attorneys graduated from Mercer University’s Walter F. George School of Law and have deep familiarity with local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures. Former prosecutors turning to defense work is a common career path in Macon; Gregory Bushway served as Assistant District Attorney for the Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit before opening his private practice, and MacKenzie Miller at Hogue Griffin is also a former prosecutor.
Individuals arrested in Bibb County are typically held at the Bibb County Jail and appear for their first hearing the following morning. Quick legal representation is critical for bond hearings and evidence preservation. Prine Law Group’s office at 740 Mulberry Street sits within walking distance of the Bibb County Courthouse, jail, and District Attorney’s office. The firm has earned more than 85 five-star client reviews since 2007. DUI, drug offenses, violent crimes, and white-collar crimes represent the most common criminal case categories in the Macon area. Robins Air Force Base proximity means defense attorneys also handle cases involving military personnel facing civilian charges.
Top-Rated Criminal Defense Attorneys in Macon, Georgia
Prine Law Group
Adres: 740 Mulberry St, Macon, GA 31201
Website: prinelaw.com/criminal-defense/
Three attorneys with 38 combined years of experience have served Macon since 2007. Founding attorney Joseph Prine serves as Solicitor for Twiggs County Probate Court, giving the firm insider knowledge of how criminal cases move through Middle Georgia courts. They have earned over 85 five-star reviews on Google and FindLaw. Practice areas include DUI, drug crimes, violent offenses, and probation violations across Bibb, Twiggs, and Laurens counties.
Bushway Law Firm
Adres: 923 Washington Ave, Macon, GA 31201
Website: bushwaylawfirm.com
Gregory Bushway brings over 30 years of legal experience as a former Assistant District Attorney for the Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit. He has tried cases ranging from death penalty to DUI, argued before the Georgia Supreme Court, and litigated before the Georgia Court of Appeals. His prosecutorial background provides a strategic advantage in building defense strategies. The firm focuses on criminal defense, drug crimes, and violent offenses.
Hogue Griffin
Adres: Macon, GA
Website: hoguegriffin.com
A Macon-based criminal defense firm built around aggressive, trial-ready case preparation. Travis Griffin is known for meticulous preparation and courtroom confidence in high-stakes cases. MacKenzie Miller, a former prosecutor, uses her understanding of the prosecution’s playbook to stay a step ahead. Ryan Malone specializes in post-conviction relief and appeals. The firm handles DUI, drug charges, sex crimes, murder, and property forfeiture cases.
Criminal Defense Attorneys in Macon: Common Questions
How soon should I hire a lawyer after being arrested in Macon, GA?
Individuals booked at Bibb County Jail typically face their first hearing the next morning. Anything said to police can be used against you, making it critical to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after arrest. Most Macon firms offer 24/7 emergency consultation lines for urgent situations.
What are the penalties for a DUI conviction in Macon, GA?
A first DUI conviction in Georgia can result in 24 hours to 12 months in jail, $300 to $1,000 in fines, a 12-month license suspension, and 40 hours of community service. Penalties escalate significantly for second and subsequent offenses. DUI cases in Macon are handled in Bibb County State Court. Flaws in testing procedures or the traffic stop itself may form the basis of a defense strategy.
How does the criminal court process work in Macon’s Bibb County?
Felony cases are tried in Bibb County Superior Court while misdemeanors go to State Court. The timeline from arrest to indictment varies based on the nature of the charge. Prine Law Group and other local firms know Bibb County’s hearing schedule, bond procedures, and local indictment process in detail. Local courtroom experience is a meaningful factor in case outcomes.
How are criminal defense attorney fees structured in Macon, GA?
Criminal cases are typically billed as a flat fee or hourly rate, unlike personal injury cases which use contingency fees. Fees vary based on the seriousness of the charge, case complexity, and whether trial is likely. Many Macon firms offer free initial consultations. Contact firms directly for specific pricing information.
What happens if Robins Air Force Base personnel face civilian criminal charges in Macon?
Military personnel stationed at Robins AFB can be prosecuted in Georgia’s civilian courts for offenses committed off-base. Civilian charges like DUI, drug possession, or assault may carry both civilian and military consequences, including potential impact on security clearances and military career. Dozier Law and Hogue Griffin have experience representing military personnel in civilian criminal matters.