A felony conviction carries severe penalties, including imprisonment, probation, court fines and fees, restitution to the victim, and license suspension (for certain offenses). The punishment does not stop there, with a felony conviction making it difficult to find employment, rent an apartment, resulting in a loss of visitation rights, and even the right to own a gun. Being convicted of a violent crime in Georgia will most likely result in a felony on your record.
If you would like to learn more about the statutory penalties for common violent crimes, our Atlanta violent crimes defense attorneys are here to explain.
Types of Violent Crimes & Penalties in Atlanta, GA
Below are some common violent crimes and the penalties associated with each in the Peach State:
Murder
The Georgia legislature recognizes first- and second-degree murder. A person is guilty of murder in the first degree when he or she unlawfully causes the death of another person, with malice aforethought. Malice aforethought is the intentional decision to kill a person. Felony murder, which is the act of killing another person during the course of another felony, is also classified as first-degree murder.
Second-degree murder involves killing someone, without malice, while committing cruelty to children. First-degree murder can mean death or life in prison. Second-degree murder carries 10 to 30 years in prison.
Armed Robbery
An individual who takes the property of another by using an offensive weapon, a device, or a replica that looks like a weapon has committed armed robbery. G.A. Code §16-8-41 recognizes three types: Armed robbery, armed robbery by intimidation (if a replica or other device has the appearance of a weapon), and taking a controlled substance from a pharmacy in the course of committing armed robbery. If convicted of armed robbery, the defendant will be sentenced to 10 to 20 years in jail, with robbery by intimidation being charged as a lesser offense. If you are found guilty of taking a controlled substance from a pharmacist or druggist and, during the commission of the crime, you cause the individual harm, you may be sentenced to up to 15 years in jail.
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault happens if you violently injure someone or put them at risk of violent injury, and do any of the following:
- Using a deadly weapon or object offensively, which means in a way that is likely to or actually does cause serious bodily injury (major physical harm),
- Using an object, device, or instrument which is likely to or does cause strangulation (restricting someone's airway or blood flow), or
- Discharging (firing) a firearm from a motor vehicle or firing at a person, an occupied motor vehicle, or an occupied building after exiting a motor vehicle.
Georgia law punishes aggravated assault with up to 20 years in prison and a minimum of one year.
Collateral Consequences
A felony offense will remain with you for life, impeding your future. Employers are less likely to hire you. Landlords may not rent you an apartment once they see a felony conviction. If you are in a custody battle, the court may deem you unfit and deny you the right to see your children. Convicted felons in Georgia are prohibited from possessing or using a firearm. You may, however, be able to have your gun rights restored by applying for a pardon. Not part of your sentencing, but accompanies a felony conviction. Even if you get a probated sentence (where a judge sentences you to probation instead of jail time), these consequences will apply. While there may be ways to work around these challenges, you will likely face an uphill battle.
The Importance of Legal Counsel Against Violent Crime Charges
A violent crime conviction damages your professional, personal, and public reputation. Your best move is to work with an experienced defense lawyer. The Atlanta violent crime defense attorneys at Ghanayem & Rayasam are ready to take your case as soon as you are in custody.
At our initial meeting, we will review the facts of your case and address any questions or concerns you may have. We will guide you through every step of the legal process, helping you understand what to expect. If the prosecution offers you a plea bargain, we will break down the terms of the agreement and our recommendations on how to proceed.
Speak with Our Atlanta Violent Crime Attorneys
If you are currently under investigation for a violent criminal offense, Ghanayem & Rayasam is only a phone call away. Our legal team has nearly 30 years of combined experience. We are ready to provide you with skilled representation. Our innovative approach has helped achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. Many have been acquitted on the charges brought against them. With an Atlanta violent crime lawyer, feel free to reach out to us online or by phone at (404) 561-0202.