Law Blog
How Do You Know You are Tampering With Evidence?
Hindering the duties of law enforcement and other public safety officials is considered obstruction of evidence. One of the most common types of obstruction of evidence is tampering with evidence.
Can I Leave the State or Country While I am Out on Bond?
When many people get arrested, they tend to get out of jail by paying bond. A bond payment often comes with certain conditions, depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
Can I Get a Pre-Trial Diversion?
If you committed a crime and do not want to go to jail, you may be able to avoid doing so under certain circumstances. Many people who commit crimes in Georgia are eligible for a program called pre-trial diversion.
Do I Have to Take a Drug Test on Probation?
If you have been convicted of a crime, you may be able to avoid jail time if you go on probation. Probation is an alternative to jail time. You get to serve your sentence while living your life as usual.
What are the Consequences for Drug Trafficking?
When you think of drug crimes, possession, and trafficking are the ones that may come to mind. Drug possession refers to having illegal drugs in your possession, either for personal use or for distribution.
Theft Laws and Penalties in Georgia
Have you ever taken something that was not yours? Most people have, even if it was something insignificant. Maybe you stole a candy bar from the store.
Is Self-Defense a Violent Crime in GA?
When someone tries to harm us, we may worry about self-defense laws. Should you run away or stand your ground? Will you get arrested and charged with a crime?
What if I Refuse to Step Out of My Vehicle When Pulled Over?
Getting pulled over by police is a scary situation for most people. Nobody wants to deal with the consequences of a traffic stop. Very rarely does a police officer let someone go with just a warning.
How Can Being a First-Time Offender Affect Your Case and Penalties?
If you do not have any prior criminal convictions, your sentence will be lighter than if it is a repeat offense, and Georgia has a robust pretrial diversion program that enables defendants without prior convictions to complete their sentences without getting a conviction on their records.
Criminal Defense Lawyer vs. a Public Defender
All defendants in criminal cases have the right to representation by a professional attorney, but even if you qualify for representation by a public defender, it is almost always a better choice to hire a criminal defense lawyer.
Steps to Take Immediately Following an Arrest in GA
If there is ever a time when you wish you could rewind time so that you can do things differently, it is when you get arrested. It is not possible to rewind time, but you can mentally hit the pause button and give yourself time to think about what to do next.
When Can a Juvenile Be Charged in Adult Court?
For most intents and purposes, a person becomes an adult at age 18. However, when it comes to Georgia criminal law, a person can be tried as an adult even if they have not yet reached the age of 18.
How Will I Know if My Miranda Rights Were Violated?
Being arrested can be a scary situation. You may feel like you have no control over the situation. However, you should know that you do have rights.
What is the Role of a DUI Lawyer?
We all know that drinking and driving is illegal, but people make mistakes. When you have been accused of a DUI, another big mistake you can make is not getting a lawyer.
What if I Did Not Know a Bill Was Counterfeit?
You give the cashier at the grocery store a $100 bill, only for them to call the police and accuse you of using counterfeit money. You had no idea the money was fake. You have never forged money in your life. So, what happens next? Will you go to jail?
How Do I Find Out if I Have an Arrest Warrant?
Courts have a lot of authority and can issue certain actions. For example, they can issue search warrants and arrest warrants. An arrest warrant allows police to arrest a certain person without warning.
What are White Collar Crimes?
White collar crimes refer to non-violent schemes involving fraud and deception. These crimes are often committed by business professionals in an attempt to gain a personal or business advantage.
Is it OK to Talk to the Police if I am Innocent About Charges?
In many situations, honesty is the best policy. Being transparent, even with people you do not know well, shows that you are trustworthy and you have nothing to hide. In social situations, your evasiveness can prompt some people to ask even more intrusive questions, especially if those people are nosey.
Do the Police Need a Warrant to Make an Arrest?
The police do not have the right to arrest people unless there is compelling evidence that the person has committed a crime. The arrest must be in connection to a specific alleged crime; “he looks like trouble” is not a legally valid reason to arrest someone.
What is Shoplifting and What are the Penalties?
At first glance, shoplifting might seem like the perfect example of a minor crime; stealing merchandise from a store seems less malicious than stealing property from an individual. Shoplifting does not involve violence or identity theft, crimes where the harm caused goes beyond financial losses.
What Should I Do if I Miss My Court Date?
If you have been charged with a crime, you need to comply with the law. This means attending all court hearings. This is especially important.
What are the Penalties for Theft in GA?
There are many crimes that a person can be accused of, and one common one is theft. Theft is defined as the act of taking the property of another person without that person's permission or consent with the intent to deprive the owner.
What is a Warrant?
Warrants are used by law enforcement to gather evidence and apprehend suspects in criminal cases. However, they are also designed to provide important state and federal constitutional protections, preventing you from being the subject of an illegal search or seizure.
Should You Consent to a Vehicle Search if You are Pulled Over?
You are driving down the road when suddenly you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror. You are legally required to pull over n and provide certain types of information to police officers.
What is the Difference Between State and Federal Crimes?
Facing any type of criminal charges in Fulton County is a serious matter that requires experienced, professional legal representation. Depending on the type of crime you are accused of, you could face heavy penalties, including a permanent criminal record and a potentially lengthy jail sentence if convicted.
Why You Need an Experienced Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyer on Your Side
Honest, hard-working individuals who have never been involved in any type of trouble can unfortunately find themselves on the wrong side of the law in Atlanta.
What are the Penalties for Marijuana Possession?
Unlike some other states, marijuana is illegal in Georgia. Having it in your possession could result in serious criminal charges.
Are Misdemeanors and Felonies the Same Thing?
Typically, crimes are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. These crimes are not the same thing, so if you have been arrested and charged with a crime, you will want to understand the differences and how they will affect you and your future.
How Do I Fight Drug Charges So I Don’t Go to Jail?
Being accused of any type of drug crime in Georgia is a very serious matter. Depending on the type of drug, quantity, and other factors in your case, Atlanta drug charges carry harsh penalties.
Can I Be Charged for Having Prescription Medication?
Prescription drugs provide relief from a variety of serious health conditions. However, there are strict requirements on how they are administered and carried by users.
Do the Police Have the Right to Search Me?
When dealing with law enforcement, be aware of your rights. At Ghanayem & Rayasam, one of the most common questions we hear concerns police searches.
Why am I Being Charged With Intent To Distribute?
Being accused of or arrested for any type of drug offense in Atlanta is a serious matter and requires strong, experienced legal representation.
Do I Have the Right to Call My Lawyer Before Taking a Breath or Blood Test?
The law strictly limits the access that other people have to your property, information, and body without your consent. Consider that, if you go to the doctor, you must sign consent forms before undergoing any medical treatment, even if it is as simple as a blood test or a physical examination to test your lung function.
What is a Drug Charge Diversion Program?
Drug charges in Atlanta carry serious penalties. These include heavy fines and court costs, a potentially lengthy prison sentence, and a criminal record that follows you for the rest of your life.
Can I Be Charged With a Crime Without Being Arrested?
If you have a friend who has told you a story, from personal experience, about a wild night that got out of control, then you know that it is possible to get arrested without being charged with a crime.
How Should I Choose My Criminal Defense Attorney?
Criminal charges in Atlanta can arise in a variety of situations. Hardworking, otherwise honest people often find themselves on the wrong side of the law and facing serious criminal penalties.
What is Aggravated Stalking?
Most of the criminal offenses that carry the harshest penalties are the ones that cause serious bodily harm to victims. Physical injury is only one aspect of violence, though.
When is a Drug Crime in Georgia a Federal Offense?
Drug offenses are a serious matter in Georgia. Laws are strict when it comes to prohibiting drug-related activities and facing any type of criminal drug charges could result in harsh penalties, which include a lengthy prison sentence.
What Makes Theft a Felony in GA?
Theft charges in Georgia can vary from misdemeanor charges, resulting in fines and probation, to more serious felony offenses, resulting in a lengthy prison sentence.
What Happens if You Get Caught Stealing in GA?
If you are caught stealing in Georgia, the penalties you face have the potential to be severe. A conviction could result in heavy fines, a lengthy jail sentence, and a criminal record that follows you for the rest of your life.
What are the Kinds of Theft Someone Can Be Charged With?
If you are accused of committing any type of theft in Georgia, you need a strong legal defense. Among the most common types of crime, theft crimes have penalties that are potentially severe.
Ghanayem & Rayasam Fights for Rights of Business Owners Victimized By Theft
At Ghanayem & Rayasam, our Atlanta criminal defense lawyer provides the experienced legal representation needed when criminal charges threaten to impact your freedom, your family, and your financial well-being.
What Happens at My Arraignment for Drug Charges?
At an arraignment, the judge reads the charges against you, and you enter a guilty or not guilty plea; arraignments are also a deadline for filing pretrial motions.
What Does Obstruction of Justice Mean?
The term "obstruction of justice” refers to any effort to interfere with a criminal investigation or pending case through your actions toward police officers, judges, evidence, or witnesses.
Do the Police Need a Warrant to Arrest Me?
In most cases, police need a warrant to arrest you, but they can arrest you without a warrant if they clearly see you breaking the law.
Does a Person Have a Right to Walk Away From a Police Officer?
Unless you are under arrest or being detained, you have the right to walk away from a police officer; to be on the safe side, you should ask if you are free to go before you start walking away.
What is a No-Knock Warrant?
When a judge issues a no-knock warrant, police have the right to enter your house or break into it in order to find evidence of a crime or to catch you in the act.
What is an Illegal Search and Seizure?
Illegal search and seizure, which is when police search your residence and confiscate property to use against you in court, is a violation of the Fourth Amendment; a criminal defense lawyer can help you exclude illegally obtained evidence from your case.
What is the Difference Between a State and Federal Crime?
Most crimes that occur in Georgia are state crimes, but you can be charged with a federal crime if the alleged crime takes place on federal land, targets a federal employee, or involves interstate travel, transport, or communications.
What Happens if the Police Officer Forgets Miranda Warnings
If the police officer does not read you the Miranda warnings upon arresting you, it does not automatically mean that you are innocent, but it does mean that statements that you make before meeting with a criminal defense lawyer could be inadmissible in court.
What Evidence is Required for a Drug Trafficking Conviction?
Among the various types of drug offenses in Georgia, drug trafficking is one of the most serious. These could result in both state and federal penalties, which include heavy fines and potentially lengthy prison sentences.
What Happens If You Miss Your Court Date?
If you are facing criminal charges in Georgia, contact Ghanayem & Rayasam right away. We act as strong legal advocates on your side, protecting your rights.
Shoplifting Consequences in Georgia
Shoplifting is often viewed as a relatively minor criminal offense. In fact, it is one of the most common types of theft crimes. Businesses go to great lengths to apprehend offenders, and once they do, police and prosecutors work hard to make shoplifting charges stick.
What if the Police Illegally Search Your Vehicle?
If you get pulled over by law enforcement for a suspected traffic infraction, are stopped due to outstanding warrants, or if they appear at your home, where your car is parked, they may attempt to search your vehicle.
When is a Drug Crime a Felony in GA?
Being charged with any type of drug crime is a serious matter that requires immediate legal representation. Penalties upon conviction have the potential to be severe. This is particularly true with felony drug charges in Georgia.
What Does ‘Search and Seizure’ Mean?
Search and seizure is a standard practice in Georgia criminal matters and allows law enforcement agencies to obtain evidence and arrest people suspected of being involved in criminal activities.
What Happens When You are Booked in Jail?
Honest, law-abiding people can find themselves on the wrong side of the law. Unfortunately, any type of criminal charge in Georgia carries potentially harsh penalties.
Can You Refuse a Breathalyzer at a DUI Checkpoint in GA?
Getting a DUI in Georgia can have major impacts on every area of your life. The results of a breathalyzer can provide crucial evidence used in obtaining a conviction.
Can Charges Be Dropped Before You Attend Court?
Criminal charges in Georgia have the potential to ruin your life. People facing this type of situation often cling to the hope that their charges will be ‘dropped,’ avoiding the need to go to court.
What is the Difference Between Probable Cause and Reasonable Suspicion?
If you have been charged with any type of crime in Georgia, it is important to get legal help immediately.
What Evidence is Required for a Drug Trafficking Conviction?
Any type of drug crime in Georgia is a serious legal matter. Penalties are particularly harsh when it comes to drug trafficking
When Should the Police Read Your Miranda Rights to You?
When you first learn about the Bill of Rights in middle school social studies class, the Fifth Amendment seems like the most useless amendment.
What Do Police Need to Search Your Property?
Before the police can search private property, including residences backpacks, they need probable cause, plus either a search warrant, consent, a clear view of the evidence, or circumstances in which delaying the search for the time necessary to obtain the warrant would be a threat to public safety or the judicial process.
If I am Out on Bond, Can I Travel to Other States?
If you took out a bond to regain your freedom after being arrested, you might feel as though you are free to live life as usual.
Have You Been Accused of Shoplifting in Georgia?
If you face charges for shoplifting in Georgia, it is crucial to fight them. Just because you have been accused of shoplifting does not mean that you have to be convicted of shoplifting.
Domestic Violence from Self Defense
People often mistakenly believe that domestic violence is always a black-and-white issue.
When is a Drug Crime a Felony in Georgia?
If you are facing drug charges in Georgia, you may be concerned about the severity of the sentence that you are facing.
What to Know About Plea Deals in Georgia
Are you facing criminal charges in Georgia? If so, you may be feeling anxious about what comes next.
Consequences for Fraud in Georgia
Do you know what fraud means? Most people have some idea what the term “fraud” means, such as calling someone a fraud when they are misrepresenting their identity, skills, or credentials.
Shoplifting Penalties in Georgia
Shoplifting may seem like a victimless crime, but it is certainly not seen like that in the eyes of the law.
Can Body Cam Footage be Used in a Case?
You have heard about body cams, but do they come into play in court?
What Happens if I Refuse a Breathalyzer Test in Georgia?
DUIs are no joke. If you are pulled over on suspicion of DUI, chances are you will have a million thoughts racing through your head and it can be hard to know exactly what to say or do in the moment.
What is Drug Court and How Does it Work in Georgia?
If you are facing a felony drug charge in Georgia, you will want to know about drug court.
How is Bail Amount Determined?
If you have been charged with a crime in Georgia, you are likely motivated to get out of jail as quickly as possible.
When Can a Juvenile be Charged as an Adult in Court?
We generally think of the division between juveniles and adults as pretty black and white.
What is Extortion?
You have likely seen extortion feature prominently in thrilling movie plots, but it is far less entertaining when you are charged with having committed it.
What are the Penalties for Possession as a Minor in Georgia?
Has your child been charged with Minor in Possession of Alcohol (MIP) in Georgia? There are few things more stressful or frustrating than realizing that a single mistake could cost them a shot at college and throw off the trajectory of their life.
Can a Bench Warrant be Cleared Without Going to Jail?
A bench warrant is essentially a warrant that gives police permission to bring you to jail because you missed a court date (i.e., did not show up to the bench) or have something else to answer for.
What is a Plea Bargain?
If you have been charged with a crime, you may expect the next stop to be a trial where your fate is placed in the hands of a jury.
Can I Use Self-Defense to Protect Myself in Georgia?
Chances are that you hear the term “self-defense” used a lot in the course of normal conversation and in the media, but what does it really mean and when does it apply?
Parole vs. Expungement
When you have been convicted of a crime and served your time for it, your next question may be how you can get it removed from your record.
What Evidence is Required for a Drug Trafficking Conviction in Georgia?
How can a prosecutor convict a person of drug trafficking? What evidence is needed?
What if the Police Do Not Show Up to the Scene of My Accident?
There are a number of reasons law enforcement may not show up to the scene after you report an accident. A serious crime may have happened that they are investigating, or a major weather event, such as a hurricane, may make it impossible for police to get to the scene.
Can You Remove a DUI From Your Record in GA?
You got a DUI after celebrating your 21st birthday. Decades later, it is still on your criminal record
What is an Indictment?
All criminal offenses are taken very seriously in Georgia, but some are considered more serious than others. An indictment occurs at one of the highest, and therefore most severe, levels of the criminal justice system.
Can I Film a Police Officer if I am Pulled Over?
You are recording a police officer, but they object. What are your legal rights?
How Do I Get a Criminal Record Expunged in GA?
Certain criminal records can be sealed or hidden so that others cannot see them—this is called record restriction. For example, if you were arrested for a crime and then have the record restricted, employers and others would not be able to see the arrest record as part of your criminal background.
What if I Miss My Court Date?
Missing your court date is something that you should try very hard to avoid. If you do miss your court date, it is possible that a bench warrant for your arrest could be issued.
What is a Miranda Warning?
Throughout the criminal process, defendants have many legal rights that are protected by the U.S. Constitution, statutes, and case law. One right is the right to a Miranda Warning—sometimes referred to as Miranda Rights.
Why Do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney if I am Pulled Over With Drugs in the Car?
Most people get pulled over at some point in their life. It might be for something minor—such as a broken taillight—or something more serious, such as excessive speeding or suspicions of drunk driving.
What are the Different Types of Warrants in GA?
You are probably family with the term “warrant,” and likely know that in most cases, police need a warrant to make an arrest or conduct a search of your property. But did you know that there are different types of warrants?
What is Extortion?
While extortion is considered a white-collar crime in Georgia, it is taken very seriously and can be harshly penalized. If you are facing extortion charges, it is important that you understand your rights and hire an attorney as soon as possible.
How Do I Find Out if I Have an Arrest Warrant?
There are many reasons a warrant may be issued for your arrest. You may have failed to appear in court, or law enforcement may have laid charges against you, but they are unable to find you.
What is a Bench Warrant?
Bench warrants are documents issued by the court or a judge that allows law enforcement to arrest and detain any person that failed to appear in court.
What are the Consequences for Drug Trafficking in GA?
If you have been charged with drug trafficking, you may think the situation is hopeless. Drug trafficking charges are taken seriously by the state prosecution and law enforcement, and many people are held without a chance of bail or bond at first.
What is the Difference Between Drug Trafficking and Drug Distribution?
Drug trafficking charges only apply when the defendant transports controlled substances across county lines; distribution charges can apply simply because a search of the defendant’s property yielded a large quantity of illegal drugs.
What is the Penalty for Unlawful Possession of Prescription Drugs?
Under Georgia law, there are many different types of illegal drugs and they are divided into classifications known as schedules.
What are the Consequences for Violating Probation in GA?
When a judge sentences you to probation, it is easy to feel like you have dodged a bullet, especially when the other option was jail or prison.
Can a Warrant be Removed?
Bench warrants based on a failure to appear in court are handled differently depending on the jurisdiction that is handling your case.
Can First Time Offenses be Deferred?
Every year, thousands of people are arrested and many of them have never been in this situation before. Being arrested or charged with a crime is very scary and if it happens to you, it is normal to have concerns about your future.
Did the Pandemic Mess With Your Court Date?
Although in-person hearings and trials are back in session, the courts are still dealing with a backlog of cases, and the courts are constantly adapting to the changing COVID safety guidelines, so defendants must partner with their lawyers to cope with the unexpected and stand up for their rights.
Do Police Always Require a Warrant to Search Me or My Car?
If police have probable cause to search your car or clothing for weapons or other illegal items, they have the right to conduct certain types of searches without a warrant; if you get arrested because of a warrantless search, your lawyer may be able to get the charges dropped by proving that the police violated your rights.
Can Domestic Violence be a Form of Self Defense?
You cannot be convicted of a violent crime, including domestic violence, if you show evidence that you only committed the violent act to protect yourself or another person from an immediate threat of physical violence.
What Does it Mean to Tamper with Evidence?
You can get criminal charges if you intentionally destroy evidence that would help the prosecution or defense in a criminal case or if you plant evidence with the intention of making an innocent person appear guilty.
How is a Hit-and-Run Defined in GA?
Georgia law defines hit-and-run as leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident involving property damage or personal injuries without first identifying yourself to the other driver or to the police.
Felonies and the Second Amendment
Some constitutional rights, such as the First Amendment right to free speech and freedom of religion, affect our everyday lives; people rarely face criminal charges for controversial speech
New GA Law Makes it Possible for Residents on Probation to Receive Early Release
Georgia Senate Bill 105 would automatically make people who have completed three years of felony probation sentences and reached certain milestones eligible for an early termination of probation hearing.
Medical Marijuana Laws Looking to Expand With New Bill
The new law would allow 30 cannabis dispensaries in Georgia to distribute products containing up to 5% THC and would expand cannabis research at some universities in the state.
Street Racing Faces New Bill in GA
A new bill in Georgia proposes license suspensions and hefty fines for “reckless stunt driving,” but critics fear that it is just another excuse for the state to prey on Black and Latino men.
Second Chance Act: What is it and How Does it Help Me?
Being incarcerated is a traumatic experience, and being on probation is no fun, either. The punishment does not end after you finish your sentence, though. You can enjoy home cooking and your favorite restaurants after getting out of jail
Penalties for Underage Sexting
Teenagers who exchange sexually explicit images via mobile device can face misdemeanor or felony charges, but the penalties vary according to the ages of the parties involved and depend on issues of consent.
GA to Raise Juvenile Crime Age Limits
Beginning in 2023, 17-year-olds charged with most crimes will go through rehabilitative programs administered by the Department of Juvenile Justice, instead of being charged as adults.
Is Your Probation Eligible for Early Termination?
Everyone is broke; most people cannot afford a $400 emergency expense. Blame does not rest solely with the pandemic, low wages, or the high cost of healthcare and other necessities.
Citizen’s Arrest Law Abolished in GA
Gov. Kemp signed into law a bill abolishing citizen’s arrest, a practice which the men who pursued and killed Ahmaud Arbery will likely cite in their defense, and which criminal justice reform advocates say should have been abolished decades ago.
What is SB 288 and How Does it Affect My Record?
If you plead guilty to a crime and avoid jail time, you have avoided the worst-case scenario in the short term; you do not have to worry about bullying by fellow inmates or abuse by guards, and you do not have to wait until your sentence is over to eat home-cooked meals or your favorite convenience store snacks.
New Georgia Law Cracking Down on Street Racers
Until recently, driving at excessive speeds could only get you a traffic ticket, unless you caused an accident or injured someone.
What Changes Assault to Aggravated Assault?
Assault is an attempt to cause bodily harm; if the victim could have a reasonable fear that the defendant’s actions would kill the victim, such as if the defendant was using a deadly weapon, then the charges are for aggravated assault.
Is Tax Evasion a Felony or a Misdemeanor?
Whether tax evasion is a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the amount of money you would have owed if you had filed a correctly completed income tax return; you can get felony charges if the amount is more than $3,000.
The Difference Between Voluntary and Involuntary Manslaughter
Voluntary manslaughter means killing someone intentionally, although the killing was not premeditated
How Long Does it Take to Get a Criminal Record Expunged?
For arrests that happened after July 1, 2013, many criminal records automatically get restricted (formerly known as expungement) after anywhere from two to seven years.
What Does a White-Collar Crime Lawyer Do?
A white-collar crime lawyer helps you exercise your constitutional rights when you face criminal charges for insider trading, embezzlement, money laundering, identity fraud, or any other financial crime.
What is Defined as a White-Collar Crime?
White-collar crimes are financial crimes that often involve a detailed plan to deceive the victims; the penalties vary according to the complexity of the crime and the amount stolen.
Is CBD Oil Legal in GA?
According to Georgia law, you may possess up to 20 fluid ounces of CBD oil, but only if you have a qualifying medical condition, and only if the THC content of the oil is less than 0.3%.
Do People Get Jail Time for Tax Fraud?
It is possible to get jail time for tax fraud, even when it is charged as a misdemeanor, but in practice, most people sentenced to incarceration for tax-related crimes have been convicted of lying to the IRS about large sums of money.
Is it Obstruction Against a Police Officer or Obstruction of Justice?
For a while in Georgia, criminal cases were put on hold. The courts closed down, and any necessary actions were undertaken online - a process that was critiqued.
Georgia Jury Trials to Resume: How Is Your Case Affected?
For a while in Georgia, criminal cases were put on hold. The courts closed down, and any necessary actions were undertaken online - a process that was critiqued.
GA to Crack Down on COVID-19 Scams
The threat of being exposed to the coronavirus and contracting COVID-19 is very real. It is also scary; there have been nearly a million deaths from the disease worldwide and many of those who have contracted the disease and survived are still suffering complications.
State Troopers Sometimes Conduct Illegal Searches: Were You a Victim?
Making routine traffic stops when drivers are performing illegal maneuvers is part of a police officer’s job. As part of those routine stops, a police officer may have cause to conduct a vehicle search.
Georgia Law on Police and Deadly Force
Georgia law allows a person, including a police officer to use deadly force only if the officer reasonably believes that doing so is the only way to prevent death or serious injury to the officer or to third parties.
What is Georgia's Proposed Police Protection Bill HB 838?
The bill treats crimes targeting law enforcement officers for harassment and violence similarly to hate crimes, but some critics of the proposed legislation say that police already have enough legal protections.
Possession of Certain Types of Marijuana Products is a Felony in GA
Possession of any amount of a high-THC cannabis concentrate, such as hash or shatter, is a felony in Georgia, and so is possession of large quantities of marijuana flowers.
Do I Have the Legal Right to Defend Myself Against a Police Officer?
You have the right to defend yourself against physical attacks, but resisting arrest is a crime, so if a police officer threatens or bullies you, the place to defend yourself is in the courtroom, not with your fists.
What Will Happen if Georgia Repeals its Citizen’s Arrest Law?
Critics argue that the law violates the right to due process and that it has been used as a catch-all excuse for violence against Black people, but if Georgia’s citizen’s arrest law is repealed, you will still have the right to temporarily detain a person if you catch him or her in the act of stealing from your home, vehicle, or business.
Can I Get Charged for Overdosing in Georgia?
Georgia law protects you from criminal penalties if you seek medical help for a drug overdose. Opioid drug overdoses are reversible.
Will I be Reimbursed After a Canine Search if Nothing is Found?
Some plaintiffs have successfully sued police departments for damages after a destructive search that did not yield any illegal items, but these cases are hard to win unless you have a lawyer.
Reckless Conduct During COVID-19 is a Huge Crime
Georgia police have been using the “reckless conduct” charge in an increasing number of coronavirus-related incidents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Is it Illegal to Wear a Face Mask in Georgia During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Are you breaking the law by wearing a face mask during the COVID-19 pandemic? Is it actually illegal to appear in public wearing a face mask in Georgia? Up until recently, yes, it was actually against the law to wear a mask in public, though many were not aware of this.
Intentional Spread of COVID-19 Has Bumped to Terrorist Action
U.S. Department of Justice warned that individuals who intentionally spread COVID-19 or threaten to do so could face terrorism charges. CNN cited a DOJ memorandum, in which the department warned Americans against purposefully spreading the deadly virus or threatening to transmit the disease.
Domestic Abuse Victims at Risk During Virus Outbreak
Victims of domestic abuse have found themselves trapped at home with their abusers during Georgia’s shelter-in-place order. While domestic violence survivors are at a higher risk for re-assault during the COVID-19 pandemic, Georgia’s courts have dramatically reduced the number of restraining orders they are processing.
Is It a Crime to Infect Another Person With Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Countries around the globe are adopting harsh measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which has killed nearly 15,000 worldwide as of March 22.
Car Break-ins on the Rise in Atlanta: How are Offenders Punished?
Atlanta has seen a 22% increase in thefts from autos and car break-ins so far this year. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Atlanta Police Department is investigating about 200 cases of larceny from vehicles each week.
Access to Marijuana Conviction Records Limited
As an ongoing attempt to reform the criminal justice system, Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms announced at the end of December 2019 that she was going to start limiting access to records involving low level marijuana offenses.
No More Police Chases in Atlanta
Recently, Atlanta police chief Erika Shields announced that law enforcement officers in the city would no longer chase people if they drove away in a vehicle.
Non-Consensual Porn (NCP) Claims More Victims and Prompts Calls for Stricter Laws
Non-consensual porn (NCP), otherwise known as ‘revenge porn’, involves sharing intimate images online without the other party’s consent. In addition to causing major damage to the victim’s relationships and their professional reputation, the public humiliation and violation of their privacy can threaten their physical and emotional health. Unfortunately, once these images are online, they are impossible to completely erase.
Is Sex With an STD a Crime?
Since the HIV and AIDS epidemic erupted over 30 years ago, there has been a lot of controversy surrounding the virus and the disease. Many states have enacted laws that make it a crime for someone to transfer a sexually transmitted disease to another person, such as through sexual intercourse.
Were You a Victim of Extortion?
If you have been the victim of extortion, you have likely suddenly found yourself in a situation in which you never thought you would be. Our Atlanta criminal defense attorneys are here to help.
What is Going on with Lindsie Chrisley Case?
Todd Chrisley finds himself in another legal battle and this time, it is with his daughter, Lindsie Chrisley. Lindsie has attempted to bring charges against Todd and her brother, Chase, stating the two have attempted to extort her.
Another City May Follow Clarkston County’s Stance on Decriminalizing Marijuana
As many states around the country have started to relax their laws on marijuana as early as 2012, Georgia seemed to hold firm in its prohibition. However, over recent years, more and more counties within the state have started to also relax their laws.
Does Georgia have a “Plain Smell” Law?
While the Fourth Amendment protects all Americans from an unlawful search and seizure, there are instances in which law enforcement can search a person or vehicle without first obtaining a warrant.
Can I Fly With CBD Oil?
The legal status of marijuana varies from state to state. This creates confusion over what is legal and what is not. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a substance derived from the cannabis plant. It is hailed by medical professionals as being able to treat pain, inflammation, and other symptoms of potentially serious health conditions.
Georgia Law Enforcement Using Tag Readers to Catch Criminals
As Georgia’s crime rate continues to surge above national averages, law enforcement officials in Atlanta and throughout the state have gotten more aggressive in apprehending offenders. Police in Fulton County and other communities are increasingly relying on digital technology to supplement their own investigative efforts.
The Difference Between Human Trafficking and Prostitution
Prostitution is rampant in Georgia and throughout the United States. When it involves two consenting adults, the fact that it is a business transaction and money is exchanged between them makes prostitution illegal. Human trafficking is a more serious category of sex crime, as it forces and coerces women and children to engage in these activities against their will.
Do Criminal Charges Impact Your Driving Privileges?
For most people, having a valid driver's license plays a vital role in every area of life. It enables you to work, go to school, run important errands, and take care of family members and friends.
Are Hash Oils, Marijuana Oils, and Marijuana Edibles Illegal in Georgia?
More and more states are legalizing marijuana for medical use. A few have gone so far as to make it legal for recreational use, as well. However, Georgia has some of the strictest laws in the country when it comes to marijuana.
What is Marsy's Law?
As of 2018, there are more than 20 individual rights spelled out in the U.S. Constitution that protect criminals, while there are zero that protect the rights of crime victims and their family members. Every state constitution also defines protections to which criminals are entitled, while nearly a third still define zero rights for victims.
Here Cobb Criminal Lawyers Are Making A Difference
With an ever-growing crime rate, more and more people require the services of a lawyer these days. A good lawyer is essential when you are in the middle of a case where everything it is at stake.
How Atlanta Criminal Attorney Known as the Emblem of Victory?
Success or can say victory in any race comes when you put your best leg forward. This is exactly what Atlanta criminal attorney widely known in the society.
Ghanayem & Rayasam- Offers the Services of the Best Atlanta Criminal Lawyer
The world is witnessing an ever-growing crime rate and the law and order department is geared to take criminals off the road. But while doing so, many times innocent people get caught in the frenzy and get embroiled in a criminal case where they are not at all guilty.
Criminal Lawyer and Expungement Specialist in Atlanta
Atlanta, the capital city of Georgia, houses some of the best Criminal Lawyers.
Elect Expert Online Law firm in Atlanta to Save Time and Money
In this time and day, there are thousands of law firms which have adopted the technological way of settling disputes. The best part is, this technology is the gateway to a win-win situation.
Know Everything about A Cobb Criminal Attorney
Have you ever been accused of a crime? In Cobb County, people are accused, suspected or charged with different crimes every single day.
Services of Best Gwinnett Criminal Lawyer
A majority of the legal issues we face are not expected. Therefore, you need the best Atlanta criminal lawyer to solve it quickly.
Importance of Hiring a Shoplifting Lawyer or Trafficking Lawyer in Atlanta
Shoplifting offences can have grave consequences that affect someone for a very long time. That’s why you need to treat a shoplifting case with the aggression and seriousness that any other criminal offence desires.
How to Find and Hire Best Felony Lawyer Atlanta
Choosing a good felony lawyer for yourself or your family member can make a difference that changes your life forever. If you have been charged with felony Atlanta<
Why Should You Hire A Rape Lawyer In Atlanta?
In a case of rape there is always distress and alarm whether you are the victim or the accused. When you are accused of a crime that you have not committed then definitely you will be in distress.
Why You Should Defend Your Rights with an Expert Domestic Violence Lawyer Atlanta
Domestic violence is a grave issue that is not taken lightly in Atlanta. When someone files a domestic violence accusation, the police will be involved in most cases, and the culprit will be arrested.
Protecting Your Rights with a Clayton Criminal Lawyer
If accused of committing a crime, it is possible that you do not know your rights. A Clayton criminal lawyer can defend you and ensure protection of your rights as well during this harrowing time.
The Right Legal Support – Gwinnett Criminal Attorney
When you are facing a criminal charge, you need to seek the services of a Gwinnett criminal attorney. It really does not matter
Hiring a Fulton Criminal Lawyer for Your Case
When the police arrest you for a crime, you know that you are in trouble. Your freedom is in jeopardy because you are at risk of jail time. Criminal convictions end up with a criminal record meaning that this will affect your ability to find employment. You may also b
Hire Experienced Dekalb Criminal Lawyer in Your Budget
Finding a good criminal lawyer to represent you in Atlanta can be quite difficult and expensive as well. Criminal law is one of the many branches of legal practice. You can choose just any lawyer to represent you in court but it is quite obvious what the effects of th
Choose the Most Trusted Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyer
When you face a criminal charge, hiring an Atlanta criminal defense lawyer is of utmost importance. You need to have someone who knows his way around the system and is trustworthy. Unfortunately, there are attorneys who are unethical. Here are some of
Why Do You Need a Criminal Attorney?
If you are facing a criminal charge, you need a proper defense strategy. Criminal charges, no matter how minor they might seem, could severely tarnish your reputation. Certain criminal charges also carry a mandatory prison punishment and monetary fine. A little ignora