Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney
State-level crimes are classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
Misdemeanors
The Solicitor's Office prosecutes misdemeanors, which are formally charged through accusation. A misdemeanor offense is punishable by up to 12 months, usually to be served on probation, and is generally eligible for pre-trial diversion if it is a first offense. Pre-trial diversion requires the completion of certain conditions, including community service and any applicable counseling (such as anger management, drug/alcohol, shoplifting, etc.), and results in a dismissal of the charges and expungement of the arrest from the individual's record.
Examples of misdemeanors include:
- underage drinking
- criminal trespass
- DUI
- shoplifting-under $300
- theft-under $500
- simple assault
- simple battery
- domestic violence
- possession of marijuana under 1 oz
Felonies
The District Attorney's Office prosecutes felonies, which are formally charged through indictment and must be presented to a grand jury. Felony convictions can result in a sentence of anywhere from 1 year to life, either to be served on probation, in jail, or a combination of both. Additionally, a felony conviction results in the loss of certain rights, including the right to vote and the right to possess any weapons.
Some counties offer felony pre-trial diversion for first-time offenders, and the State of Georgia has enacted the First Offender Act which allows an individual to enter a dischargeable plea.
Examples of felonies include:
- any drug charges other than misdemeanor marijuana
- criminal damage to property
- criminal attempt, solicitation, and conspiracy
- all types of fraud
- forgery
- identity theft
- possession of child pornography
- shoplifting-over $300
- theft-over $500
- aggravated assault
- aggravated battery
Having a criminal defense attorney who is well-respected and experienced will make the difference in how your case is treated, and what the outcome will be. Call us today for a free consultation.
