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Keith Bernard Johnson

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Avvo Rating10
  • Augusta, GA
  • Licensed for 11 years
Keith Bernard Johnson
Keith Bernard Johnson
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About Keith

Protect your name with a former prosecutor with a proven record of success. Licensed in GA and SC

Keith has been named one of the Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys in the United States by the National Trial Lawyers Association. Keith was twice named to the Super Lawyers 2017 and 2018 Georgia Rising Stars List, an honor reserved for those lawyers who exhibit excellence in practice.  Only 2.5% in Georgia receive this distinction. In 2013, Keith was appointed to serve as an associate Juvenile Court Judge for the Augusta Judicial Circuit, while still maintaining his private practice.  Keith serves as president of the Augusta Bar Association for 2018  

He began his legal career at the District Attorney's Office and served in that capacity before joining entering private practice.  As a prosecutor, Keith litigated over twenty felony jury trial obtaining multiple life sentences for violent offenders. Since entering private practice, Keith has represented a wide spectrum of invididuals who have been accused of crimininal offenses in state and federal courts throughout Georgia and South Carolina.  

Prior to entering the legal profession, Keith earned a football scholarship to Furman University where he played cornerback on two Southern Conference Championship teams in 2001 and 2004. In 2008, Keith was awarded a Juris Doctor from Michigan State University. While in law school, Keith served as the Notes and Comments Editor of the Michigan State Journal of Gender Law and Received the Jurisprudence Award in Criminal Law.

 

 

Practice areas

Federal crimeWhite collar crimeDUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 50%

    12 years, 1,500 cases

  2. DUI and DWI: 20%

    12 years, 300 cases

  3. White collar crime: 20%

    12 years, 200 cases

  4. Federal crime: 10%

Languages spoken

English

Contact

Enterprise Mill
address map

Keith B. Johnson, LLC

Enterprise Mill
1450 Greene Street, Suite 226
Augusta, GA, 30901

Website
www.augusta-criminallawyer.com

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    SCGood Standing201401/31/2021
    GAActive Member in Good Standing 200902/18/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers14
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Rising StarSuper Lawyers Magazine2018
    Rising StarSuper Lawyers Magazine2017
    2015 Top LawyerGlobal Directory of Who's Who2015
    Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial LawyersThe National Trial Lawyers Association2014
    Top 40 Under 40The National Trial Lawyers Association2014
    Alumni ProfileFurman University--History Department2012
    Jurisprudence Award-Criminal LawMichigan State University College of Law2006
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    AttorneyTROTTER JONES, LLP2013 - Present
    JudgeJuvenile Court Augusta Judicial Circut2013 - Present
    Summer AssociateThe Weems Firm, P.C.2007 - 2009
    Law ClerkFulton County Superior Court2007 - 2008
    InternLegal Services, Greenville, SC2004 - 2005
    InternPublic Defender's Office Greenville, SC2003 - 2004
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    Augusta Bar AssociationPresident2018 - Present
    South Carolina Bar AssociationMember2014 - Present
    United States District Court, Southern District of GeorgiaAdvisory Committee, Special Invitee2014 - Present
    Council of Juvenile Court JudgesMember2013 - Present
    U.S. District Court, Southern District of GeorgiaMember2013 - Present
    State Bar of Georgia, Criminal Law SectionCommittee Member2013 - Present
    Young Lawyers, Augusta Bar AssociationExecutive Board2011 - Present
    Trial Lawyers of AmericaMember2010 - Present
    State Bar of GeorgiaMember2009 - Present
    Tabernacle Baptist ChurchMember2009 - Present
    American Bar AssociationMember2009 - Present
    Augusta Bar AssociationVice President2016 - 2017
    Georgia Defense Lawyers AssociationExecutive Committee Member2013 - 2014
    Michigan State Journal of Gender LawNotes and Comments Editor2007 - 2008
    Furman University Panel Against Domestic ViolencePresident2004 - 2005
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    Institute for Food Law and Regulation at MSUNational Uniformity in Food Regulation2007
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Michigan State University College of LawJD - Juris Doctor2008
    Furman UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts2005
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    Back to School ForumIntroduction to the Revised Juvenile Code2014
    Men Making a Difference, Inc.Anti-Bullying Campaign2012
    Burke County H.S. Football TeamAthletics and the Law2012
    Augusta Day Reporting CenterMaking the Most of Your Second Chance2011
    100 Black Men of Augusta, Inc.The Role of an Attorney in the Criminal Justice System2011
    Augusta Judicial Circuit Drug CourtAvoiding the Criminal Justice System2010
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    State of Georgia v. M.W.Not guilty
    State of Georgia v. D.S.Dismissal upon completion of pre-trial intervention program
    State of Georgia v. S.K.Accountability court, resulting in no DUI conviction
    State of Georgia v. A.H.Case dismissed upon proof of insurance
    State of Georgia v. C.R.Unsupervised probation. Allowed to remain in country
    State of Georgia v. A.A.Dismissal
    State of Georgia v. D.A.Dismissal
    State of Georgia v. C.B.Reduced to reckless driving
    State of Georgia v. J.B.Dismissal

    Reviews

    (93)
    5 Star
    		99%
    4 Star
    		0%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		0%
    1 Star
    		1%
    Review Keith Johnson

    CASE DISMISSED!

    Posted by

    Not only did Keith get my felony charge dropped, he got ALL 7 of them dismissed which would've put a stain on my record as well as affecting my future in all areas. I HIGHLY endorse Keith. He is smart, dedicated, and conscientious. He's an effective advocate because he truly cares about his clients. He was confident, calm, professional, and helpful throughout the entire process. He is truly a sincere, caring person who will put your fears to rest. He worked hard to get the best possible outcome for my case, and I highly recommend him! Thank you so much Keith!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Forever Indebted

    Posted by

    I was assessed with criminal charges requiring me to retain an attorney in December, 2019. I contacted Mr. Johnson and was given an appointment immediately. Mr. Johnson and his assistant Sheena were kind and compassionate. He did not make me feel guilty or feel like a criminal. When my case went to court he had my charges reduced and subsequent fines, probation, etc. appear manageable. I could not have gone through this alone, nor would I have wanted to go through it with any other attorney. I can not say enough about this man and what he did for me!!!! I would recommend him to anyone who needs his type of legal expertise.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Amazing

    Posted by

    Keith Johnson has done nothing but went above and beyond the entire time I needed his help. The case was resolved with great results that had I had someone else in my corner, it just wouldn't have been so. I can't say enough good things about this man, he checked with me and cared enough to boost me up when I really didn't deserve it. I would recommend Keith Johnson to anyone, anytime.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Best lawyer!!

    Posted by

    I can’t express enough how thankful I am for Mr.Johnson ! If you are looking for a great attorney you’ve definitely found him! Thank you thank you! It was all worth it !
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Great Attorney

    Posted by

    My son was in a lot of trouble, having been arrested with multiple serious felony charges. He faced the possibility of spending many years in prison. We spoke with Mr. Johnson and he was calm, reassuring, and caring. He didn’t make any promises, other than that he would do everything in his power to get the best possible outcome for our son. He was sincere and true to his word as he worked tirelessly through many difficulties including an escalation of some of the charges, and changes to the prosecutor working the case. He never stopped pushing to get a just outcome. In the end my son did not get any jail time, and the felony charges were all reduced to misdemeanors. Thanks to Mr. Johnson my son has the opportunity to continue moving forward without multiple felony convictions hanging over his head for the rest of his life. It is up to my son to put all of this behind him and make the most of the opportunity he has been given, but it was Mr. Johnson that never stopped believing in him and has given him that opportunity. We are forever grateful to Mr. Johnson. He is not loud or boisterous, but he knows how to get things done and sincerely cares. I can’t imagine there is a better criminal attorney in Augusta.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Satisfied Client and Would Highly Recommend

    Posted by

    If you are in needed of a Criminal Defense lawyer, this is the man to go too. Mr. Johnson helped me with a DUI case that came along with a few other serious charges than the DUI alone. Due to the charges that I was facing, we did hit some bumps in the road, but he worked hard at making sure things turned out on a good note. With a DUI charge, it did take some time for us to come to a resolution, but throughout it all he kept my best interest in hand. He was able to help me get a few charges dropped to lesser offenses, and one he was able to get dropped completely. There were times the ball was not fully in our court, yet he made a way for things to workout for me. He provided me with things that would help me through the process, and with me taking his advice and suggestions, lead to an extremely good sentencing for me. I am highly pleased at how things did work out in the end with his legal help, and I would highly recommend him to anyone that is needed. No matter the seriousness of the charges, he will put his best foot forward at getting you a fair and reasonable sentencing, with your best interest at heart. Hope this information will help you make the right decision by choosing him as your attorney and getting the best results for you.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Incredibly Pleased

    Posted by

    Mr. Johnson went above and beyond to ensure the oldest possible outcome for me and my case. So many lawyers will tell you what you want to hear but forget about you when you leave their office - but not Mr. Johnson. He genuinely cares about his clients and that is evident by the lengths he will go to in order to make sure their best interests are in mind. I would recommend Mr. Johnson to anyone who needs counsel.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    An Unusual Case

    Posted by

    Keith agreed to take on a very unusual case for us. He worked diligently until the case was satisfactorily resolved. Keith and his assistant showed understanding and compassion throughout the process. Many thanks to Keith for working for us.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    My Lawyer is the Best

    Posted by

    I love the kindness ,Real up front with you they didnt lie to me and just get my money Mr.Johnson is a Man of his word and i love him for that he cared about my son and want the best for him Mr.Johnson and his secretary are some Really Nice people they care The Best Lawyer Mr.Keith Johnson God bless you
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Miracle Worker

    Posted by

    Because of Keith, I’m able to write this review right now. I was facing a possible twenty years in prison and was able to close my case with probation instead. He is an amazing lawyer, and his secretary Sheena was a pleasure to work with. Keith kept me updated every step of the way, while simultaneously making sure I wasn’t anxious the entire length of the case. He also has a very professional appearance and demeanor, which is important to me and something I noticed a lot of lawyers in the area lack. I don’t plan on ever needing his services again, but I would recommend him to anybody without hesitation.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
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    Attorney endorsements

    (26)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Matt Andrews, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 29, 2018
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. He is a highly talented trial attorney who has extensive criminal law experience. He is a former prosecutor and well respected in the legal community. You can trust him to handle your criminal case.

    Sadeer Sabbak, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 15, 2018
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Attorney Johnson is one of the top criminal defense lawyers in the CSRA. He is well respected in the community, especially among prosecutors and judges. He is never afraid of trial and always fights hard for his clients. I fully endorse this lawyer.

    Laura Jordan

    I had the pleasure of working with Keith at the District Attorney's Office, where he was hard-working, professional, and dedicated to his work. Since going into private practice, Keith continues to exhibit those characteristics through zealous and highly effective representation of his clients. I fully endorse Keith.

    Muneer Awad, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 2, 2018
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    There a very few attorneys who walk into a courtroom and command attention. Mr. Johnson is one of those attorneys. His knowledge of the law and reputation in the courtroom gives his clients the comfort and confidence they deserve. I endorse this lawyer.

    Jared Williams, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 3, 2017
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Keith Johnson is the name people think of for Criminal Defense. As a former prosecutor, Keith has gained invaluable skills that help him today in the defense of his clients. He is a fighter, a fierce advocate, and a great attorney.

    Craig Morgan, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 18, 2016
    Relationship: Friend

    Keith is an excellent attorney. He is very intelligent and personable. I fully endorse this attorney and recommend him to the highest.

    Justin Jones, Criminal defense Attorney on May 18, 2015
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Keith is a fantastic lawyer. You will not find a better criminal defense lawyer in Augusta, Georgia.

    Jeremiah Van Dora, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 10, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Keith will advocate fiercely for his client while maintaining the utmost professionalism and ethics. I endorse him without hesitation.

    Mitchell Snyder, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 16, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Keith is a great attorney and will work very hard to effectively solve your legal problems.

    Blake Marcus, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jan 6, 2015
    Relationship: Other

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Jill Downey, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 31, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Keith is one of the most dedicated attorneys I have the pleasure of knowing. He works tirelessly for his clients, and goes above and beyond in his representation. I wholeheartedly endorse this attorney.

    Pittman Morris, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 12, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I wholeheartedly endorse Keith Johnson. I worked with him for two years in the DA's Office and saw firsthand his dedication to the practice of law, outstanding work ethic, and immense skill in the courtroom. Since that time, he has put those skills to use in private practice and become a highly respected attorney in all areas of his practice, but particularly in criminal defense and DUI defense. I would highly recommend Keith Johnson to anyone seeking an attorney in the Augusta area.

    Tiffini Duncan, Litigation Attorney on Jun 6, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    As a former ADA, Keith was always pleasant to work with. His experience at the D.A.'s office has made him an experienced, competent attorney in the areas of litigation and criminal defense.

    Michael Waddington, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 4, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse Keith. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community.

    Yendelela Anderson, White collar crime Attorney on May 30, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    As a practicing attorney, Keith Johnson is a zealous advocate for his clients. However, he understands that there are multiple intrepretations of the law. Accordingly, as a member of the bench, Keith Johnson will openly listen to both sides of the issue being presented and will make a fair and unbiased ruling.

    Kristen Louis, Criminal defense Attorney on May 29, 2014
    Relationship: Friend

    Keith and I were classmates in law school. He was one of the most conscientious, passionate and dedicated students I had the pleasure of knowing. Now that he is a practicing attorney, his attributes as a student have carried on to his work with clients. He is intelligent and a dedicated advocate, working hard to defend the interests of his clients.

    James Duncan, Criminal defense Attorney on May 28, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Keith is very thorough and fights hard for his clients. His experience in the District Attorney's office is a big help to him and his clients. I endorse this lawyer.

    Kimberly Easterling, Criminal defense Attorney on May 23, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    As a former prosecutor and current criminal defense attorney, Keith is well respected by his peers. He is always competent and well prepared for court hearings. He effectively communicates with and respects his clients. He is a great attorney. I endorse this lawyer.

    Philip Jacques, Criminal defense Attorney on May 22, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Having known Keith for a long time, I know that he is dedicated to providing his client's the best possible representation. He is a great attorney with strong litigation skills. I highly recommend him.

    Thomas Coke, Criminal defense Attorney on May 22, 2014
    Relationship: Friend

    Keith Johnson is one of the smartest, most confident people I know, and keeps the same traits in his legal career. He brings the tenacity and hard work from his football career to his professional life, and was always one of the best members of any law school class I had with him. At the same time Keith is a good person, with a high moral character. Most recently I saw Keith become an associate juvenile judge. I am proud to call Keith a friend and a colleague.