(770) 887 3720

About Us

Evan Watson dedicates his career to protecting individuals facing criminal charges. He is committed to providing a powerful defense and compassionate advocacy for every client.
Evan Watson

Meet Forsyth County's Defense Attorney Evan Watson

With over 18 years of experience, Evan Watson is respected by peers and clients for winning what seem unwinnable cases, even against insurmountable odds. From securing a dismissal, acquittal, or reduction of charges, Evan delivers the best possible outcome for those who depend on his skills, experience, and expertise.

 

Evan’s passion is defending everyday citizens in his community. Anyone can make a mistake.  Whether there’s an allegation of driving impaired, a theft crime, or a self defense situation gone wrong, Evan is ready to work with you and advance your best defense.

Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson

Client-Centered Defense

Evan Watson is committed to making clients feel protected, empowered, and supported throughout the legal process. Most clients sigh with relief after meeting with Evan because he uncovers evidence and strategies that they had never considered before, providing hope and reassurance that there is a way out to regain their freedom and dignity. Evan prioritizes being accessible, responsive, and transparent, ensuring clients know what to expect every step of the way.

“My commitment is to protect you, alleviate the stress of your pending legal matter, safeguard your constitutional rights, and secure the best possible outcome for your case.”

– Evan Watson

Evan Watson
Evan Watson

Why Evan Became a Defense Attorney

Evan’s passion for criminal defense was born from witnessing the broken justice system in Georgia. He saw firsthand how prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions at any cost, while overworked public defenders struggle to provide effective representation. He also observed inexperienced attorneys pushing clients into guilty pleas without putting up a fight. The result? Good people face life-altering consequences, including wrongful convictions and permanent criminal records. Determined to make a real difference, Evan founded his law firm with his partner Peter Zeliff to stand up for the innocent, the wrongfully accused, and those who deserve a second chance. Their mission is to convey their client’s side of the story, fight to challenge the charges against them, restore their freedom, reclaim their dignity, and ensure they don’t end up with a criminal record.

Professional Achievements and Background

Evan has been recognized as a Georgia Super Lawyer from 2019 to 2025, a testament to his dedication and success in criminal defense. He holds a B.S. in Business Administration from The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, where he earned Dean’s List and Commandant’s List honors while serving in the National Guard (11B MOS). Evan went on to earn his J.D. from the Charleston School of Law in 2008.  After working for Bubba Head’s firm, Head Thomas Webb & Willis, for several years, Evan teamed up with Peter Zeliff in 2011 to concentrate on defending citizens in Forsyth County and Metro Atlanta.

Trial Skills & Expertise

Evan began trying cases as soon as he was licensed to practice law, and he’s never stopped. In fact, Evan has secured a one or more jury trial acquittals every year he has been licensed to practice law.  Well, 2020 may have been an exception, but Evan secured one of Georgia’s first virtual acquittals by conducting the trial on MS Teams.  Evan firmly believes that prosecutors negotiate better deals with defense attorneys they know will go to trial … and are effective in trial.  When a prosecutor is apprehensive their case is a coin toss no matter how strong their evidence seems, YOU benefit.

Evan has a proven ability to leverage critical resources, such as accident reconstruction specialists and forensic medical examiners, while employing sharp, strategic cross-examinations to dismantle prosecution arguments.

Evan Watson’s record speaks for itself: meticulous preparation, relentless advocacy, and proven results. Clients trust him because he never stops fighting—no matter how complex the case may seem.

To meet Evan in-person, over the phone, or online, please use the form below to schedule a legal consultation.

SCHEDULE A FREE CASE EVALUATION
Evan Watson

Clients Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it. Our success is the trust we’ve earned from clients. Below are real stories from individuals whose lives were saved by our defense.

Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan is the lawyer you need!
“Evan was a great attorney; he was helpful from the first time we came in for a consultation. He was always there for me when I called or texted him. Made things a lot less stressful and easy for me to understand what’s going on and the situation I was in. He is very confident, knows what to do to help you out the best. Evan cares about you, and he will do his best to help you out as much as he can. I’m glad I chose him to be my attorney, he helped my case be dismissed. So before you call anyone else I’d give Evan a call, the best attorney there is in Cumming, Georgia.”
Ruben Aguilera
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan did wonderful job fighting for me!
“I was arrested for 11 different charges 2 of which were felonies if it weren’t for Evan I would probably still be in jail right now. With Evan fighting for me, I got all of my charges dropped except for 2, and those 2 were both misdemeanors. Evan did wonderful job fighting for me and not only that he listened to what I had to say and believed me when I told him what happened that night I got arrested instead of just looking at my charges and the police records and giving up on me. Thanks so much Evan I will be sure to tell my friends and anyone I know to call you if they ever need a lawyer!!”
Tanner Wilson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan made it easy and less stressful. I highly recommend him for a DUI.

“I am currently in my first semester of nursing school and right before I entered I got arrested for a DUI in Marietta, GA. I came across Evan Watson through this website and saw the great reviews and decided to take my chances and try him out with my case. I must say that was well worth the money (that I was forced to spend because of my poor decisions) on Evan. Being a college student and working for everything I have, he is very reasonable on “working with you” for fees, payments, etc. which was very helpful with my situation. Although I had a lot of criteria to do myself dealing with this case, Evan made the process a lot easier for me. He was also able to convince the prosecutor to reduce my charges down to reckless driving, and I was able to plea nolo contendere to prevent any points from showing up on my driving record for this case. My situation lasted only about four months, and even though getting a DUI can be one of the most stressful situations to ever get yourself into, Evan made it as easy and less stressful as possible for me. I would highly recommend him for a DUI case. He is well known throughout the court and is a very well respected man. Thank you, Evan!”

Anonymous
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
If you need a lawyer, you’ll be amazed by Evan Watson.
“I just wanted to tell everyone how amazing Evan was defending me in my DUI case. The man knows the laws about this kind of case, that’s for sure. I had this case on my mind for nine long months, and that took a toll on me. Well, Evan was there every time I had a question or concern and made me sleep better from his knowledge and confidence alone. Well, I was arrested by a GA. State Patrolman for my DUI and we all know they seem to get more credit anyway just for the there title. But that didn’t scare Evan at all. In my trial he pulled out the field sobriety law book on the officer and showed him where he messed up on all the field sobriety tests, he performed on me and made him admit to messing up on all of them. I was just amazed by how good Evan knew the laws I mean he could have been a policeman. Evan went above and beyond my expectations and I am still in shock at how professional and educated he handles himself in the courtroom. Heck, even the bailiff told me my lawyer did an excellent job at defending me. I mean really I have never had anyone in my life support me or stick up for me the way Evan did that dreadful day, he actually brought a tear to my eye several times the way he was standing up for me ,and I will be forever grateful for this man for the rest of my life. I am so glad I chose him, and he will be my lawyer from now on. This not guilty verdict saved my drivers license, my job, my life !!!! A million thanks to you, Evan, you’re the man! Anyone who is in need of a lawyer, I promise you will be as amazed as me if you choose Evan Watson.”
B.M.
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Mr. Watson’s dedication and experience set him apart.
“Mr. Watson has represented me on two occasions, and I would not consider any attorney other than Mr. Watson to represent me for any future incidences. Evan went well beyond the call of duty to assure that everything was handled in the most efficient manner and made an effort to establish a relationship with his clients outside of court to make me feel at ease and reassured that everything was going to be handled smoothly. He was always easy to contact and got back to me with any questions I had expediently. On both occasions that Mr. Watson represented me, we were successful in getting the outcomes that I wanted. Mr. Watson’s dedication to his clients, experience, and personality truly set him apart from every other lawyer I have ever previously hired, and these traits make him the exceptionally unique attorney that he is. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of representation.”
Anonymous
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson will fight for your best interests.
“Evan Watson is excellent!! This is someone that works hard for you, and I just don’t think that’s easy to find in an attorney. I never did tell Evan but I have been contemplating law school for about three years now and to see him represent me in the courtroom the way he did I am actually inspired to apply to school now! I trusted his judgment without question from the first moment I met him. I could tell he took his job seriously and had a passion for his cases. He gathered each and every fact he possibly could to represent me. His confidence, preparedness, and knowledge shows in the courtroom. Evan was so factual that it left no room for the opposing counsel to argue and he made such an impression on the remaining audience in court that someone asked for his business card after we left. I already knew that I hired the right person to represent me, but that was just icing on the cake to see someone stop us in the hall on the way out to request his business. Evan Watson is someone that will fight for you with your best interest at heart. Thank you, Evan!”
Anonymous
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Mr. Watson’s dedication and experience set him apart.
“Mr. Watson has represented me on two occasions, and I would not consider any attorney other than Mr. Watson to represent me for any future incidences. Evan went well beyond the call of duty to assure that everything was handled in the most efficient manner and made an effort to establish a relationship with his clients outside of court to make me feel at ease and reassured that everything was going to be handled smoothly. He was always easy to contact and got back to me with any questions I had expediently. On both occasions that Mr. Watson represented me, we were successful in getting the outcomes that I wanted. Mr. Watson’s dedication to his clients, experience, and personality truly set him apart from every other lawyer I have ever previously hired, and these traits make him the exceptionally unique attorney that he is. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of representation.”
Anonymous
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson will fight for your best interests.
“Evan Watson is excellent!! This is someone that works hard for you, and I just don’t think that’s easy to find in an attorney. I never did tell Evan but I have been contemplating law school for about three years now and to see him represent me in the courtroom the way he did I am actually inspired to apply to school now! I trusted his judgment without question from the first moment I met him. I could tell he took his job seriously and had a passion for his cases. He gathered each and every fact he possibly could to represent me. His confidence, preparedness, and knowledge shows in the courtroom. Evan was so factual that it left no room for the opposing counsel to argue and he made such an impression on the remaining audience in court that someone asked for his business card after we left. I already knew that I hired the right person to represent me, but that was just icing on the cake to see someone stop us in the hall on the way out to request his business. Evan Watson is someone that will fight for you with your best interest at heart. Thank you, Evan!”
Anonymous
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Mr. Watson’s dedication and experience set him apart.
“Mr. Watson has represented me on two occasions, and I would not consider any attorney other than Mr. Watson to represent me for any future incidences. Evan went well beyond the call of duty to assure that everything was handled in the most efficient manner and made an effort to establish a relationship with his clients outside of court to make me feel at ease and reassured that everything was going to be handled smoothly. He was always easy to contact and got back to me with any questions I had expediently. On both occasions that Mr. Watson represented me, we were successful in getting the outcomes that I wanted. Mr. Watson’s dedication to his clients, experience, and personality truly set him apart from every other lawyer I have ever previously hired, and these traits make him the exceptionally unique attorney that he is. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of representation.”
Anonymous
Evan Watson
Evan Watson
Evan Watson will fight for your best interests.
“Evan Watson is excellent!! This is someone that works hard for you, and I just don’t think that’s easy to find in an attorney. I never did tell Evan but I have been contemplating law school for about three years now and to see him represent me in the courtroom the way he did I am actually inspired to apply to school now! I trusted his judgment without question from the first moment I met him. I could tell he took his job seriously and had a passion for his cases. He gathered each and every fact he possibly could to represent me. His confidence, preparedness, and knowledge shows in the courtroom. Evan was so factual that it left no room for the opposing counsel to argue and he made such an impression on the remaining audience in court that someone asked for his business card after we left. I already knew that I hired the right person to represent me, but that was just icing on the cake to see someone stop us in the hall on the way out to request his business. Evan Watson is someone that will fight for you with your best interest at heart. Thank you, Evan!”
Anonymous

Hear From Those We've Helped

Our track record speaks for itself, but don’t just take our word for it. Evan Watson has earned over 100 glowing reviews by putting his clients first. Our collaborative approach ensures you are a partner in your defense, not just another case file. Hear their stories and see the difference for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

01What areas of criminal defense does Evan Watson specialize in?

Evan Watson has over 18 years of experience defending clients in a wide range of cases, including DUI and vehicular homicide, child abuse allegations, domestic violence, serious traffic offenses, assault and battery, drug possession and trafficking, sex crimes and online crimes, as well as self-defense cases. His strategic approach has secured dismissals, acquittals, and charge reductions even in high-stakes situations.

Evan is a Georgia “Super Lawyer” (2019–2025) with a reputation for winning unwinnable cases through meticulous preparation, relentless advocacy, and compassionate support. Clients appreciate his accessibility, transparency, and ability to uncover overlooked evidence, providing hope and the best possible outcomes. As a former Forsyth County Criminal Defense Bar President and GACDL member, he brings proven trial skills and leadership to every case.

Evan prioritizes making you feel protected, empowered, and informed throughout the process. He promises to safeguard your constitutional rights, alleviate stress, and collaborate with you as a partner—not just a case file. By leveraging resources like accident reconstruction specialists and forensic experts, he uncovers strategies you may not have considered, ensuring you know what to expect at every step.
Evan’s passion stems from witnessing flaws in Georgia’s justice system, where aggressive prosecutors and overburdened public defenders often lead to unfair outcomes for good people. Frustrated by wrongful convictions and rushed guilty pleas, he founded his firm with partner Peter Zeliff to fight for the innocent, challenge charges, restore freedom, and prevent permanent criminal records—proving clients’ stories and reclaiming their dignity.
Contact Evan Watson immediately to schedule a free initial consultation in-person, by phone, or online. The first step after any arrest is to exercise your right to remain silent and reach out for experienced representation. Evan will guide you through your options, from negotiation to trial preparation, to protect your freedoms and secure the best results. Use the consultation form on the site or call today.
(770) 887 3720
evan@zwdefense.com
351-A Dahlonega Street, Cumming