Common Crimes Committed in Georgia

It is estimated that every 2 minutes and 35 seconds, a crime occurs in the state of Georgia. A criminal charge will require numerous court appearances, stripping you of both your time and money. The courts are rarely transparent during the process, causing many criminal defendants to feel overwhelmed each step of the way.

Our Georgia criminal defense lawyers understand the stigma that comes with a criminal record. Our legal team is dedicated to helping our clients avoid a conviction at all costs, working tirelessly to protect their rights.

Murder

A person has committed the offense of murder when the individual causes the death of another person with the intention to cause harm (malice aforethought). Malice may be express or implied. Express malice is the deliberate intention to kill another person, which can be demonstrated through the given circumstances. Implied malice, on the other hand, requires no provocation but rather that the offender shows indifference to human life, referred to under the law as an “abandoned and malignant heart.”

Georgia recognizes two tiers of murder: first-degree murder (simply called “murder” under the law) and second-degree murder. A murder conviction may result in the death penalty, life in prison without parole, or life in prison. A second-degree conviction may result in ten to 30 years in prison.

Rape

Under GA Code §16-6-1, a person commits rape if he or she has sexual intercourse with a (1) female against her will or (2) a female less than ten years old. Rape is punished severely under state law, with a conviction resulting in life in prison, life in prison without parole, or the death penalty. In some circumstances, a perpetrator may be granted a split sentence of 25 years or more, followed by lifetime probation.

Aggravated Assault

The crime of aggravated assault is associated with a person using a deadly weapon, object, device, or instrument with the intent to murder, rape, or rob the victim. The assault may cause serious bodily injury or strangulation or is likely to cause serious bodily injury or strangulation.

Under GA Code §16-5-21, aggravated assault is punishable by up to twenty years in jail. If the assault is committed on a police officer, firefighter, paramedic, or other public servant, then different sentencing terms will apply.

Burglary

An individual is guilty of burglary when he or she enters a dwelling, building, or other structure without permission to commit a felony or theft. First-degree burglary is punishable by one to 20 years in prison for a first or second offense and 25 years for a third offense.

DUI

Driving under the influence has become a growing concern in our country, with approximately one million DUI arrests made annually. In Georgia, you may be charged with a DUI if your blood alcohol level is 0.08 percent or greater.

Penalties will range based on prior offenses and if any aggravated circumstances exist. Even a first-time DUI offender faces one-year imprisonment, a maximum of $1,000 in fines, a one-year license suspension, 40 hours of community service, and a $210 license reinstatement fee. The punishment increases with each subsequent offense.

Skilled Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyers at Your Service

If you end up on the wrong side of the law, you need guidance that can only come from an experienced Georgia criminal defense lawyer. Our legal team is familiar with various facets of the law and will craft a defense strategy that best suits your needs. To get started, contact us online or by phone to schedule your initial consultation.