If you’re facing criminal charges in Columbus, you’ll probably want to know the criminal laws in Columbus. These laws include traffic violations, misdemeanors, and felony convictions. They also include the penalties for felony convictions. You’ll also find information on how to defend yourself.
Misdemeanors
Columbus, Georgia’s criminal laws have recently changed. The new law states that a person convicted of certain misdemeanors will no longer face jail time until a judge decides the case. Such crimes include shoplifting, possession of drugs or alcohol, and driving without insurance. In some cases, jail time is still an option, but in most cases, the sentence will be limited to probation. To determine your case, get help from a criminal attorney in Columbus.
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes than felonies, but they still carry harsh penalties. Depending on the circumstances, you can face as much as a year in jail or the county jail. Misdemeanor convictions may also carry community service, mandatory counseling, and fines. These charges may leave you with a criminal record, and they will be handled in the state court of the county you were arrested in.
Misdemeanors in criminal laws of Columbus, Georgia vary in severity. A felony conviction could carry a prison sentence of 20 years, but a misdemeanor crime can carry a prison sentence of up to five years. Some crimes may also result in forfeiture of property, proceeds, or driving privileges.
Felonies
Felonies are serious crimes involving a weapon or a substance. Depending on the offense, a felony charge can carry a sentence of one to five years. In Columbus, Georgia, felons can also face a mandatory minimum sentence of three years in prison. If you are accused of a felony, you must first appear before a grand jury. A grand jury will review the evidence presented by the prosecuting attorney and decide whether to indict someone.
Georgia has several types of felonies. Most are violent and serious, but there are also non-violent ones. Non-violent felonies, for example, include theft by taking or deception, and drug possession. Both can carry hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences.
Felony cases are filed with the county grand jury. The process can take months, depending on the case. Complex cases require more time, but simple ones can be resolved in much less time. Usually, felony cases are scheduled for court three to six months after an arrest.
Traffic Offenses
If you are arrested for a traffic violation, you will face court proceedings and a fine. The fine will depend on the crime, but in general, moving traffic violations are misdemeanors and can result in incarceration. However, the sentencing judge will determine if incarceration is appropriate in your case. Felonies, on the other hand, are more serious crimes that usually involve violence and serious injury to another person. Penalties for these crimes can include imprisonment for a year or more, fines over $1,000, community service, and probation.
In Georgia, reckless driving is considered a serious traffic offense. While it is often associated with DUI and speeding, this offense can also include weaving and failing to stop at stop signs. The law defines reckless driving as driving recklessly while disregarding other people, property, and the speed limit.
In Georgia, a person who kills someone while driving can be charged with vehicular homicide. In order to be considered a habitual violator, a person must have committed three serious traffic-related offenses in the past five years. This includes DUI, reckless driving, hit-and-run, and vehicular homicide. Habitual violators can be sentenced to prison terms of five to twenty years.
Penalties for Felony Convictions
Penalties for felony convictions in the Columbus, Georgia area can be very serious. In addition to jail time, you may lose your right to own a handgun or vote. You may also lose your license and be restricted from certain employment opportunities. Additionally, felony convictions can prevent you from receiving certain government assistance.
Penalties for felony convictions in the Columbus, Georgia area vary depending on the type of crime and whether or not the defendant has a previous record. For instance, a person accused of DUI may face one to five years in prison. Similarly, someone accused of bribery can face up to 20 years in prison. Additionally, the punishment for interfering with government property is one to five years. A person accused of reckless driving may also face up to a year in jail or fines.
While a felony conviction can result in jail time, prosecutors are often eager to make a plea deal. In Columbus, most criminal cases are settled through plea agreements. However, you should remember that a plea bargain can mean that you give up your rights and risk jail time.