Legal Knowledge. Courtroom Experience. Empathetic Advice.

Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Macon And Central Georgia

Last updated on August 12, 2026

When criminal charges disrupt your life, you need to take action immediately. Whether a misdemeanor or felony, you don’t want a conviction on your record.

At Fitzgerald Law in Macon, I defend people charged with a wide range of crimes in Georgia. With over 15 years of experience, I have represented thousands of people in state and federal courts, and I can help you, too. Learn more by speaking with me, attorney Keith Fitzgerald, in a free consultation.

Criminal Defense Attorney Protecting Your Rights In State Or Federal Court

Facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate the justice system alone. My practice delivers aggressive, strategic defense across a broad spectrum of state and federal offenses.

No matter how severe the allegations, I provide the focused representation you need to protect your rights, your freedom and your future. I can protect your rights from a wide array of criminal charges, including:

Violent crimes: Offenses involving the use of force, threats of force, or bodily harm against another person, these charges carry severe penalties and require immediate, strategic defense to counter the state’s evidence. Assault and battery, domestic violence, manslaughter, armed robbery, and homicide/murder.
Drug crimes: I defend charges related to the illegal possession, manufacture or distribution of controlled substances. Defense strategies often focus on challenging unlawful searches, seizures, and police procedures. Simple possession, possession with intent to distribute, drug trafficking, manufacturing, and prescription drug fraud.
Sex and child exploitation crimes: These highly sensitive allegations carry profound personal, social and legal consequences, including mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. I provide discreet and rigorous defense against these high-stakes charges. Sexual assault, statutory rape, possession or distribution of child pornography, and online solicitation.
DUI and traffic crimes: I fight accusations of offenses involving operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or severe moving violations. A DUI triggers an immediate administrative clock; you have a limited window to appeal the automatic suspension of your driver’s license before it takes effect. As a dedicated DUI defense attorney for my entire career, beginning with a victory in my very first jury trial, I have successfully handled hundreds of DUI and vehicular homicide cases, including felony DUI, reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, and vehicular manslaughter.
White collar crimes: These charges include offenses such as embezzlement, Medicare fraud and other types of government theft. Additional offenses include identity theft, embezzlement, money laundering and Ponzi schemes or other scams. While collar crimes cases may involve considerable investigation by state and federal agencies. You cannot defend yourself when so many resources are dedicated to prosecuting these cases. I can represent health care professionals, business owners, employees and others charged with a white collar crime.
Internet and cybercrimes: I help clients accused of illegal activities committed using a computer, network or the internet. These offenses frequently cross state lines, triggering complex federal investigations and strict federal sentencing guidelines, and include hacking, identity theft, phishing scams, cyberstalking, and credit card fraud.
Theft: This is a broad category of offenses that can include petty theft, shoplifting, car theft, burglary, trespassing, arson and vandalism. These crimes have stiff penalties, and a conviction can leave you with a criminal record that prevents you from getting a job, getting housing, qualifying for financial aid and more.

Make sure you don’t pay for one mistake for the rest of your life. Talk to me about your situation today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense

As a criminal defense attorney in Georgia, I receive many questions from clients who are navigating the criminal justice system. Here are answers to some common questions that help you understand what to expect in your case.

How can I get out of jail after being arrested?

After an arrest in Georgia, you generally have three options to secure release: cash bail, property bond or a surety bond through a bail bondsman. For minor offenses, you may be released on your own recognizance (a promise to appear in court). The bail amount depends on factors including the severity of the charges, your criminal history, community ties and flight risk. If you cannot afford bail, I can request a bail reduction hearing to argue for a lower amount or alternative conditions of release.

How long will my criminal case take?

The timeline for a criminal case in Georgia varies significantly based on several factors. Misdemeanor cases typically resolve more quickly than felonies, often within 3-6 months. Felony cases can take anywhere from 6 months to over a year, particularly if they involve complex evidence or multiple defendants. Cases that go to trial generally take longer than those resolved through plea agreements. Throughout your case, I will work to move proceedings along as efficiently as possible while still preparing your strongest defense.

What is the burden of proof in a criminal case in Georgia?

In all criminal cases in Georgia, the prosecution must prove every element of the alleged crime “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This is the highest standard of proof in our legal system, significantly more demanding than the “preponderance of evidence” standard used in civil cases. The burden of proof always remains with the prosecution; you are never required to prove your innocence. As your defense attorney, my job is to identify and expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that create reasonable doubt.

Can I get the charges against me dropped or reduced?

Yes, charges can be dropped or reduced in many circumstances. This might happen if there are problems with the evidence, such as an illegal search or seizure, improper handling of evidence or constitutional violations during your arrest. Charges may also be dismissed if witnesses are unavailable or if their statements are inconsistent. For first-time offenders, I can often negotiate for diversion programs that may lead to charges being dismissed upon completion.

You Can Trust In My Experience

As an experienced, skilled trial lawyer, I know how to protect my clients’ rights in state and federal criminal cases. Your career, reputation and freedom may be at stake, so act today by contacting me for a free, confidential consultation at 478-787-4480. You can also reach me via my online form if you prefer.