Misdemeanor Definition & Possible Penalties in Georgia
The broad definition of a misdemeanor in Georgia is a crime that is not a felony. Our state differs from many others in that with few exceptions, all misdemeanors are penalized in a like manner. Courts are permitted to alter sentencing but once it is set, no changes are allowed.
The general rules that monitor all misdemeanor convictions are:
• A fine of not more than $1000
• Incarceration in a county jail or correctional institution for up to 1 year
• Both a fine and incarceration as given above
• Board of Corrections confinement in a county, state or other correctional institution for 6-12 months
• A suspended sentence or probation
As the final sentencing for a misdemeanor conviction is determined by your judge, the dedication and knowledge of a criminal defense lawyer from our firm may greatly affect the final outcome of your case. At Zeliff | Watson, our 40 years of experience in criminal defense has resulted in hundreds of individuals receiving the favorable outcome needed in their cases. Attorney Zeliff learned his criminal defense skill as a lawyer for the DeKalb County Public Defender’s Office and since that time has been voted a Georgia “Super Lawyer” several times.
How Are Misdemeanors Prosecuted?
There are many factors which determine whether you will be charged with a misdemeanor or felony. Misdemeanor drug crimes rely on the type, amount and weight of drugs involved. Offenses such as indecent exposure, pimping and others are sex crimes that are normally prosecuted as misdemeanors. Other misdemeanors include theft crimes of $300 or less, certain violent crimes such as assault and stalking and various DUI or BUI offenses. Domestic violence crimes can also be misdemeanors but may easily be upgraded to a felony offense depending on who was involved and what was done.
It is a mistake to think of misdemeanor charges as unimportant or easily resolved. In addition to the penalties given above, other repercussions can be suspension of your driver’s license, loss of the right to possess a firearm, community service, suspension of your license plate, being stopped from obtaining certain jobs and loss of federal financial aid for education.
Let our experience work to your advantage when you or a loved one are faced with misdemeanor charges.
How Our Misdemeanor Defense Attorneys Can Help
When facing misdemeanor charges, it’s crucial to have a skilled and experienced legal team on your side. At Zeliff | Watson, our misdemeanor defense lawyers have a deep understanding of Georgia’s criminal laws and court procedures. We are dedicated to providing aggressive representation and personalized attention to each client, working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Here’s why you should choose Zeliff | Watson for your misdemeanor defense:
- Extensive experience in defending against a wide range of misdemeanor charges
- Proven track record of successful case outcomes and client satisfaction
- Personalized approach, treating each client with empathy and respect
- Thorough investigation and strategic defense planning for your case
- Transparent communication and guidance throughout the legal process
Don’t face misdemeanor charges alone. Contact Zeliff | Watson today for dedicated and effective legal representation.
Contact a misdemeanor defense attorney for a no-cost consultation on your misdemeanor charges and how they can be defended.
- Fulton County Superior and State Courts
- Atlanta Municipal Court
- Alpharetta Municipal Court
- Milton Municipal Court
- Johns Creek Municipal Court
- Sandy Springs Municipal Court
- Doraville Municipal Court (Dekalb County)
- Suwanee Municipal Court (Gwinnett County)
A Simple Process to Getting Started
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
Schedule a free, no-obligation, and confidential case consultation in person, online, or over the phone. This will help you understand how your case can be challenged, potentially leading to a reduction, dismissal, or acquittal of your charges. Click here to schedule your case evaluation.
Meet Our Defense Team and Conduct a Case Evaluation
During your free case evaluation, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, receive answers and legal guidance, and collaborate with our attorneys to better understand your side of the story, gather evidence, and devise a strategy to achieve the best possible outcome for your pending criminal charges.
Start Defending Your Case
After your free case evaluation, Zeliff & Watson will assist in preserving evidence and safeguarding your rights, ensuring your protection throughout the process. The defense team will also provide a proposed fee to represent your case, with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome.