Walton County Felony Lawyer
In Georgia, whether a crime is a felony is designated by the length of the possible sentence. With misdemeanor crimes, a 12-month sentence is the maximum probation or jail that can be imposed by a judge. Felony crimes, on the other hand, carry a minimum one year sentence and, for the most serious crimes, can extend all the way up to life imprisonment or even death in very rare circumstances. Felony convictions also come associated with the loss of various civil liberties, either temporarily or permanently, and can effect your record and life forever.
Typical Felony Charges in Georgia
Some crimes in Georgia could be a misdemeanor or felony, but are charged as one or the other based on the severity or on the accused’s criminal history. For example, a first-time family violence battery offense is always a misdemeanor. However, for a second family violence battery, the statute requires that the crime be charged as a felony with a sentence of one to five years. There are many other charges like this which can eventually be upgraded to a felony for repeat offenders, such as for DUI, shoplifting, and more. Similarly, a theft crime of less than $1500 will be charged as a misdemeanor, but a theft crime of more than $1500 is felony offense, according to statute. Despite these types of crimes that depend on circumstances, there are certain offenses that are always felonies, these include
- Murder
- Rape
- Kidnapping
- False Imprisonment
- Aggravated Assault
- Aggravated Battery
- Trafficking
- Sale of Illegal Drugs
- Violation of Controlled Substance Act
What to do if You Have Been Charged or Arrested for a Felony Offense?
If you or a loved one has been charged or arrested for a felony offense, it is crucial that you consult with a Georgia criminal defense attorney immediately. A felony conviction can permanently change a person’s life. It’s important that anyone charged with a felony explore all their possible defenses as well as resolutions to the case that may protect their record or not lead to a prison or a jail sentence. Contact us today for a free consultation!