Atlanta Misdemeanor Defense Attorney

Protect Your Record Before It Follows You

Sturla Stefansson has defended misdemeanor charges in Georgia courts for over 14 years. He knows when charges can be reduced, diverted, or dismissed and how to get there.

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(404) 474-8880

  • 14+ Years

    Georgia Criminal and Traffic Defense

  • Up to 12 Months

    Jail time possible on a misdemeanor conviction in Georgia

  • Up to $1,000

    Maximum fine per misdemeanor conviction in Georgia

  • Permanent

    A conviction stays on your criminal record without restriction

What's at Risk

A Misdemeanor Is Not a Minor Problem

Most people assume a misdemeanor is a slap on the wrist. It is not. In Georgia, a misdemeanor conviction can mean up to 12 months in jail, fines up to $1,000, probation, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. That record shows up on employment background checks, professional license applications, housing applications, and more. And in most cases, it cannot be expunged or restricted without meeting strict eligibility requirements.

 

  • Your Job

    Most employers run background checks. A misdemeanor conviction, even for a first offense, can cost you a job offer or a promotion.

  • Your Professional License

    Nurses, teachers, contractors, and other licensed professionals can face license suspension or revocation following a misdemeanor conviction.

  • Your Housing

    Landlords routinely run background checks. A criminal record, even for a misdemeanor, can disqualify you from rental applications.

  • Your Future Charges

    A prior conviction affects how future charges are treated by prosecutors and judges. What is a first offense today becomes a repeat offense tomorrow.

Specialized Practice

How SFS Law Defends Misdemeanor Cases

The goal in every misdemeanor case is to keep the conviction off your record. That might mean getting the charge dismissed, negotiating a reduction, pursuing a diversion program, or taking the case to trial. Sturla evaluates every option available under Georgia law and builds a defense strategy around the outcome that protects you most.

 

  • Diversion Programs

    Georgia offers first-offender and pre-trial diversion programs that can result in charges being dismissed and your record kept clean. Sturla knows which programs apply to your situation.

  • Charge Reduction

    In many cases, charges can be negotiated down to a lesser offense with significantly lower consequences. This is often the difference between a permanent record and a clean one.

  • Dismissal and Suppression

    If the stop was unlawful, the evidence is weak, or the charge does not hold up, Sturla pursues dismissal. Every case starts with a review of whether the charge should exist at all.

  • Record Restriction

    If a conviction already exists, Georgia's record restriction laws may allow it to be restricted from public view. Sturla can advise on eligibility and handle the process.

The SFS Advantage

About Sturla Stefansson

Sturla has practiced criminal defense and traffic law in Georgia since 2012. He does not take personal injury, family law, or civil cases. Every case on his desk is a criminal defense or traffic matter, including CDL cases that most attorneys are not equipped to handle.

  • Georgia Bar Licensed Since 2012
  • GACDL Member
  • Certified DUI Defense: Cross-Examination of Police Officers
  • J.D. Western Michigan University | B.A. Emory University
  • Registered Civil Mediator, Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution
Sturla Stefensson

Sturla Stefansson Esq.

Speak to an Expert in CDL Defense

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Tell us what happened. We will review your situation and get back to you quickly. No obligation, no cost to talk.

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    (404) 474-8880

  • What Happens Next

     

    1. We Review Your Case
      Sturla will personally review the details you provide to understand your situation.

    2. We Contact You
      We will reach out via your preferred method to schedule a time to speak.

    3. Free Consultation
      A confidential discussion about your charges, your options, and how we can defend you.

  • Confidentiality Notice

    All information submitted through this form is strictly confidential and protected by attorney-client privilege, even if you do not hire SFS Law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Traffic Violations

Jurisdiction

Serving Metro Atlanta and the Surrounding Counties

If you've been charged in any of these Georgia counties, SFS Law can represent you. Call today to discuss your case.

  • DeKalb County

  • Fulton County

  • Gwinnett County

  • Cobb County

  • Douglas County

  • Forsyth County

  • Hall County

  • Clayton County

Service Metro Atlanta Area - SFS Law
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