Perry County felonies are heard at the Perry County courthouse in New Augusta before judges of the 12th Circuit Court District. This is the same judicial district that covers Forrest County, so the circuit judges and district attorney who handle cases in Hattiesburg also preside over Perry County felonies. Our office knows these judges intimately from our weekly appearances in Hattiesburg courts.
- Perry County shares the 12th Circuit Court District with Forrest County
- Perry County courthouse is located in New Augusta
- Same judges and DA's office handle both Hattiesburg and Perry County felonies
- First appearance required within 48 hours of arrest
- We serve New Augusta, Richton, Beaumont, and the Hwy 98 east corridor
Experienced Perry County Criminal Defense
Facing criminal charges in Perry County is serious, and you need a criminal defense attorney who understands both the law and the judges you'll encounter. Perry County is part of the 12th Circuit Court District, which it shares with Forrest County. This means the same circuit judges and district attorney who preside over cases at the courthouse in Hattiesburg also handle felonies at the Perry County courthouse in New Augusta.
That gives our firm an enormous advantage. We appear before these judges and prosecutors every week in Hattiesburg courts. We know their tendencies, how they rule on motions, and how to negotiate effectively with the district attorney's office. That insight translates directly to your Perry County defense, whether you're charged in New Augusta, Richton, Beaumont, or anywhere in the county.
How Criminal Defense Works in Perry County
Understanding the Perry County felony process helps you prepare for what lies ahead. Here is the typical timeline for a criminal case at the Perry County courthouse in New Augusta.
You are arrested and booked into custody. Law enforcement documents charges. Contact our office immediately, do not answer police questions without counsel present.
You must appear before a 12th Circuit judge at the Perry County courthouse within 48 hours of arrest. The judge informs you of charges, advises you of your rights, appoints counsel if needed, and sets bond.
Your attorney obtains the police report, witness statements, and evidence. We investigate independently and identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
In felony cases, the prosecution must prove probable cause. This hearing in justice court gives us an opportunity to cross-examine witnesses and challenge evidence before trial.
We negotiate with the district attorney for reduced charges or dismissal. We file motions to suppress unlawful evidence, challenge search warrants, and protect your constitutional rights.
If negotiation succeeds, we resolve the case. If not, we take your case to trial before a 12th Circuit judge at the Perry County courthouse, fully prepared to defend you.
The Courts That Serve Perry County
Perry County courthouse, New Augusta, MS. Handles all felony trials. Part of the 12th Circuit Court District (shared with Forrest County). The same judges who preside in Hattiesburg also hear Perry County felonies.
Perry County courthouse, New Augusta, MS. Handles misdemeanor prosecution, preliminary hearings in felony cases, and small civil claims. Justices of the Peace preside.
Perry County courthouse, New Augusta, MS. Handles family law (divorce, custody, support) and estates. Not involved in criminal cases.
Your Perry County Criminal Defense Team
Related Criminal Defense Services
Comprehensive criminal defense for felonies, misdemeanors, and appeals in state courts.
Aggressive DUI defense, breathalyzer challenges, and non-adjudication options.
Erase or seal criminal records to restore employment and housing opportunities.
Same 12th Circuit judges, same expert defense in Hattiesburg and beyond.
Criminal defense for Hattiesburg residents and the local community.
Experienced representation in the 10th Circuit Court District.
What Clients Say About Our Defense Team
Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 21 Google reviews • Avvo 5.0 for our lead criminal defense partner
“Armand Miri was my attorney and he was open, honest and straight to the point. He worked so hard for me. I was looking at life and I got 2yrs time served.”
Google Review
“Mr. Arman helped me with a serious felony case and was able to work out a favorable outcome for me and my family. I am grateful to him for his help and I think he is the best criminal defense attorney in Hattiesburg, MS.”
Avvo Review
“Mr. Miri represented me in a felony criminal matter and was able to get the case dismissed.”
Avvo Review
Reviews are from actual clients on Google and Avvo. Every case is different, prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Perry County Criminal Defense
Which court hears Perry County felony charges?
Perry County felonies are heard in the Perry County Circuit Court at the courthouse in New Augusta. Perry County is part of the 12th Circuit Court District, which it shares with Forrest County. This means the same circuit judges and district attorney who preside over Hattiesburg felonies also handle Perry County cases.
Why does a Hattiesburg law firm understand Perry County's judges and district attorney?
Because Perry County and Forrest County share the 12th Circuit Court District, the same circuit judges and district attorney's office appear in both counties. Our attorneys represent clients in Hattiesburg's 12th Circuit courts every week, so we know these judges, their preferences, and the DA's prosecution strategy intimately. That advantage translates directly to Perry County cases.
Where is the Perry County courthouse located?
The Perry County courthouse is located in New Augusta, the county seat. All Perry County felonies, misdemeanors, and justice court cases are handled there. Our office in Hattiesburg is about 30 miles away, putting you in direct reach of experienced 12th Circuit attorneys.
What is the felony timeline in Perry County?
In Perry County felony cases, you must appear before a judge within 48 hours of arrest. The district attorney files charges within 10 days of arrest. From there, preliminary hearing, discovery, motions, and plea negotiations follow. If your case goes to trial, the Perry County Circuit Court in New Augusta schedules trial dates based on the judge's docket.
What is bond in Perry County criminal cases?
Bond is money or a pledge to ensure you return for court appearances. At your first appearance in Perry County, the judge sets bond based on the charge, your ties to the community, and your criminal history. A higher bond amount may be challenged; an attorney can argue for reduction or release on your own recognizance.
What is Perry County Justice Court?
Perry County Justice Court handles misdemeanors and small civil claims under $100,000. Justices of the Peace preside. Misdemeanor convictions here can result in up to one year in county jail. Justice court cases are faster than circuit court but can still affect your employment and record.
Does Perry County share judges with Forrest County?
Yes. Both Perry County and Forrest County are part of the 12th Circuit Court District. The same circuit judges and district attorney serve both counties. This is a significant advantage: our Hattiesburg firm's deep familiarity with these judges and prosecutors translates immediately to your Perry County case.
What happens at first appearance in Perry County?
You must appear in Perry County within 48 hours of arrest under the Mississippi Rules of Criminal Procedure. At first appearance, the judge informs you of charges, advises you of your rights, sets bond, and appoints an attorney if you cannot afford one. This is your first opportunity to address bail and begin mounting a defense.
What areas near Perry County do you serve?
We serve New Augusta, Richton, Beaumont, and all of Perry County. Our office is located at 525 Corinne Street in Hattiesburg, about 30 miles from the Perry County courthouse in New Augusta, putting expert 12th Circuit criminal defense within easy reach for all Perry County residents.
What is expungement in Mississippi?
Expungement is a court order that erases or seals a criminal record so it does not appear on background checks. Under Mississippi Code § 99-19-71, you may be eligible to expunge certain misdemeanors and felonies depending on the offense and time elapsed. Expungement restores employment and housing opportunities.
Can I get a DUI expunged in Perry County?
A DUI or DWI conviction in Perry County can be expunged if you meet the statutory requirements under Mississippi Code § 63-11-30. Eligibility depends on whether the case resulted in adjudication and the time elapsed. An experienced Perry County criminal defense attorney can evaluate your eligibility and petition the circuit court.
What should I do if I'm arrested in Perry County?
Exercise your right to remain silent and do not answer police questions without an attorney present. Request legal representation immediately. Contact our office at (601) 582-5015 before your 48-hour first appearance at the Perry County courthouse in New Augusta. Early representation protects your rights and strengthens your defense.