Felony Criminal Defense Attorney in Southwest Georgia
Felony charges are life-altering. A conviction can result in prison time, financial loss, and a permanent criminal record that limits your future. At Shingler Law, we defend individuals accused of serious crimes throughout Southwest Georgia — with the experience, strategy, and courtroom readiness these cases demand.Strategic Defense for Serious Charges
Attorney William M. Shingler Jr. has extensive experience handling felony charges in both trial and pre-trial settings. Our firm represents clients facing:- Drug trafficking and possession with intent
- Aggravated assault and violent crimes
- Armed robbery and burglary
- Firearms and weapons charges
- White collar crimes and fraud
- Homicide and manslaughter
“A felony charge isn’t just about guilt or innocence. It’s about what the government can prove, how they proved it, and whether your rights were protected from the start.” — William M. Shingler Jr.
Trial Preparation and Negotiation Strategy
Not every felony case goes to trial — but every serious defense requires trial-level preparation. We review every element of the case, from the legality of the search or arrest to the reliability of witness statements and forensic evidence. Our process includes:- Filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence
- Investigating law enforcement conduct and procedure
- Identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Engaging experts when appropriate
- Pursuing dismissals, charge reductions, or diversion when possible
“Prosecutors prepare their case from day one. So do we. And that’s how we put pressure on them to consider every weakness before court.” — Shingler Law
What to Know If You’re Facing Felony Charges
Georgia treats felony charges seriously. In most cases, your case will go before a grand jury for indictment and then move into Superior Court. Felony convictions often result in:- Mandatory minimum sentencing (for certain crimes)
- Multi-year prison terms
- Probation and fines
- Loss of gun rights and voting rights
- Lifetime criminal record
“Waiting to see what happens is not a defense strategy. The sooner you have counsel, the better your options usually are.” — Kendall “Michaelah” Gale.
Serving Clients Across Southwest Georgia
We defend felony cases throughout the region — and understand how these charges are handled differently from county to county:- Seminole County – Felony cases in Donalsonville are heard in Superior Court. View Seminole Services ›
- Early County – We represent clients facing charges in Blakely and surrounding towns. Explore Early County ›
- Decatur County – Legal defense for felony charges in Bainbridge and beyond. See Decatur County ›
- Grady County – Serving those charged in Cairo, Whigham, and rural areas. Grady County Legal Services ›
- Miller County – Felony defense in Colquitt and Boykin-area courts. Miller County Overview ›
- Mitchell County – Representing clients in Camilla, Pelham, and Baconton. Mitchell County Info ›
- Terrell County – Dawson-based court representation for serious offenses. Terrell County Page ›
- Randolph County – Defense for indictments out of Cuthbert and Shellman. Randolph County Legal Info ›
- Clay County – Felony representation for Fort Gaines and Bluffton. Clay County Overview ›
- Quitman County – Legal support in Georgetown for Superior Court cases. Quitman County Services ›
- Baker County – Defending felony matters across Newton and surrounding areas. Baker County Info ›
Request a Confidential Case Review
If you’re facing felony charges in Southwest Georgia, you don’t have time to wait. Contact Shingler Law today to schedule a confidential consultation and start building your defense. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. To discuss your situation, contact an attorney licensed to practice in Georgia.practice areas
Focused Legal Solutions
DUI DEFENSE
Charged with DUI? We protect your license, record, and future with experienced defense.
PERSONAL INJURY
Hurt in an accident? We pursue full compensation, and you don’t pay unless we win.
FELONY CASES
Accused of a felony? We fight serious charges with precision, urgency, and a strong defense strategy.
MISDEMEANOR & TRAFFIC
Cited or charged? We handle traffic and misdemeanor cases to protect your record.
WILLS & PROBATE
Planning ahead? We draft clear wills and guide families through probate with care and efficiency.
CIVIL / TORT
In a dispute or claim? We resolve civil matters with clarity, confidence, and skilled legal support.
ADOPTION
We guide families through adoption with clarity and care, ensuring every step is secure.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Answers to the legal questions we hear most.
What counts as a felony in Georgia?
A felony is any crime in Georgia that carries more than one year in prison. Common examples include aggravated assault, drug trafficking, burglary, and weapons charges.
What are the penalties for a felony conviction?
Felony penalties vary by charge but may include years of prison time, probation, fines, and loss of civil rights. Some crimes also carry mandatory minimum sentences.
Should I talk to police if I haven’t been charged yet?
No. If you believe you’re under investigation, speak to a defense lawyer before answering any questions. Anything you say can be used against you — even if you haven’t been arrested.
Can felony charges be reduced to misdemeanors?
Sometimes. Depending on the facts of the case, prior record, and the prosecutor’s position, a charge may be reduced through negotiation. Each situation is different.
Will I go to trial for a felony charge?
Not always. Many cases are resolved through dismissal, plea agreements, or diversion programs. That said, preparing for trial is essential to position your case for the best outcome.
What should I do if I’ve already been indicted?
Contact a defense attorney immediately. Once indicted, your case is set for Superior Court and the stakes rise quickly. Legal representation is crucial at this stage.
How does Shingler Law approach felony defense?
We build every case from the ground up — reviewing the stop, arrest, evidence, and witness statements. Whether it’s drug, assault, or firearm-related, we prepare as if trial is on the table.
START THE CONVERSATION
We’re here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.