What to do if you are facing criminal charges in Georgia?

It is not unheard of that the otherwise stand-up members of society find themselves embroiled with law enforcement. It is natural for you or your loved one to feel overwhelmed and confused when faced with criminal charges. On such occasions, it is essential to remember that you need to protect yourself. Meaning, if you have been involved in or suspected of a misdemeanor or a felony in Atlanta, Georgia, you need to calmly and succinctly remember the information related to your case. Not having a clear picture of what happened can be very damaging to your legal defense.

Georgia’s New Hate Crime Legislation

Georgia recently passed a new Hate Crimes Bill. The new legislation imposes additional sentencing on a criminal defendant who commits a crime of hate based upon race, sex, sexual orientation, color, religion, national origin, physical or mental disability. Georgia had passed a hate crime bill back in 2004 that was stuck down as Unconstitutional for being too broad and vague.

The New Hate Crimes Bill increases the punishment for those convicted under the Statute. A criminal defendant convicted under the new law would face an additional six-to-twelve months in prison and a fine up to $5,000 for a variety of misdemeanor offenses. For a felony offense prison sentences are increased to at least two-years in jail.

Articles Tagged with Lawyer

What to do if you are facing criminal charges in Georgia?

Is Hate Crime Legislation Constitutional?

Georgia’s New Hate Crime Legislation