There are many different kinds of crimes that people can face, including Fraud, Drug offenses, Boating and Assault and battery charges. In addition to the different kinds of crimes that individuals can be charged with, there are also the different types of penalties that can be imposed for these types of charges.
Misdemeanors vs felonies
If you are charged with a crime in Georgia, you should hire an experienced Criminal lawyer in Atlanta GA. There are two types of charges that are common in Georgia. Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, but they can still carry severe penalties.
Most misdemeanors are punished with a fine of up to $1,000, while felony crimes can result in a fine of up to $5,000. Depending on the facts of your case, you may end up serving time in county jail. However, you can also choose to serve your time on probation.
Some crimes in Georgia are only classified as misdemeanors, while others are classified as felonies. These are called wobbler crimes. Wobblers are often first-time offenses.
Underage DUI penalties
If you have been arrested for underage DUI, you have some options. In addition to possible jail time, you can be fined or have your license suspended.
The first offense for underage DUI in Georgia carries a fine between $300 and $1,000. It also includes at least 20 hours of community service. These are usually mandatory.
A second underage DUI can mean a longer suspension of your driver’s license. Additionally, you can be required to install an ignition interlock device. This will keep you from getting behind the wheel until the ignition is unlocked.
Underage DUI penalties can vary from state to state. Regardless of where you are from, though, you can expect to pay a heavy fine. You may also have to complete a program to help you overcome alcohol and drug dependency. To know more, visit DUI court in Fulton County
Boating crimes
There are many laws that apply to boating in Atlanta. In particular, you must be aware of “Implied Consent” laws and the law that prohibits the use of drugs on a boat.
The Georgia Boat Safety Act makes it illegal to operate any type of boat, including jet skis and sailboats, while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This is considered a misdemeanor, but it does carry some stiff penalties.
If you are charged with operating a boat while intoxicated, you may be arrested and face the potential of fines and jail time. Additionally, you may be required to take a safety course. A qualified attorney can help you understand how to defend yourself.
Assault & battery charges
Assault & battery charges in Atlanta are taken seriously. If you have been charged with this crime, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney. This type of case can affect you and your future. Having a defense attorney will help you get the best possible outcome.
Depending on the circumstances, assault and battery crimes can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony. In Georgia, the penalties are the same for both. Generally, a simple assault can lead to a one year prison sentence and a fine of up to $1,000. A felony charge can be as severe as 20 years in prison.
Drug offenses
Drug offenses in Georgia are a very serious crime, and are characterized by a broad range of penalties. While a first conviction for drug possession is a misdemeanor that requires only 6 months of probation and a driver’s license suspension, a second or subsequent conviction can result in a three-year license suspension and jail time.
Possession of Schedule I drugs is a felony and is punishable by a prison term of up to 15 years. A non-narcotic Schedule II drug carries a prison sentence of up to 5 to 30 years.
Drug crimes in Georgia can also involve trafficking and manufacturing. In the case of trafficking, charges will be based on the possession of a large amount of a controlled substance.
Fraud
Fraud is a crime involving dishonest means of getting something of value. It can be a misdemeanor or a felony. There are many different types of fraud, ranging from money laundering to embezzlement.
Identity fraud is one of the more common forms of fraud in Georgia. This involves the use of identifying information, such as a name or address, without permission. In some cases, it can involve using a deceased person’s identity, or targeting a fictitious individual. Depending on the circumstances, this type of offense can carry penalties ranging from a few hundred dollars to fifteen years in prison.
Another common form of fraud is credit card fraud. Using a debit card, or a bank card, to buy something you aren’t authorized to is a violation of Georgia law.