What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Georgia?

The Georgian criminal justice system categorizes the seriousness of a crime. The two categories, aside from citations, are misdemeanors and felonies. Courts use these categories to determine penalties and how to administer them.

If you are charged with a criminal offense by state or local government, always direct your specific legal questions to a licensed Georgia criminal defense attorney. However, the information below is an excellent starting point for gathering information about your case.

Let’s take a closer look at the main differences between misdemeanor and crime in the state of Georgia:

What is an offence?
Misdemeanor convictions in Georgia are less severe than felonies. As a rule, no more than 12 months in prison are imposed for misdemeanors. Some defendants may have to pay a fine of up to $1,000.

About serious offenses in Georgia
Courts rarely impose maximum penalties for misdemeanors. Instead, judges reserve them for “aggravated” cases where the accused acted in gross violation of the law. Examples of scenarios that may result in increased fees are:

  • Attack on a vulnerable person
  • Reckless driving while drunk
  • Attack on partner family members

The only difference between the two is that an aggravated charge carries a maximum fine of $5,000. Judges reserve the right to suspend jail sentences and offer suspended sentences, depending on their ruling on the matter for either subclassification.

what is a crime
Crimes are the most serious types of crimes that a person can commit in the eyes of the federal and state justice systems. That means they also carry the highest penalties possible for a crime.

Prison sentences for crimes in Georgia range from a year in prison to the death penalty for the most heinous crimes. These types of charges are harder to convict. Therefore, in many cases, Georgian laws define sentencing guidelines for each crime separately.

Examples of criminal offenses and associated penalties are:

  • Assault and Battery: Up to 20 years in prison
  • Possession and/or distribution of marijuana: Up to 10 years and imprisonment plus a maximum fine of up to $10,000.
  • Rape: Minimum 25 years in prison with life probation.
  • Robbery: Up to 20 years in prison.

Although the list above is not exhaustive of crimes and associated penalties in Georgia, it can give you an idea of ​​how judges sentence specific criminal convictions.

Discuss your case with a Georgia criminal defense attorney
Remember, whether you face a felony or misdemeanor charge, you are innocent until proven guilty. You have constitutionally protected rights, including your right to legal counsel. Consider discussing pending charges with an attorney who will fight your case and go to court if necessary.

Consider working with Charlton & Glover, Attorneys at Law
At Charlton & Glover, Attorneys at Law, we understand how frightening it is to face charges of misdemeanor or felony. You can speak to one of our Georgia criminal attorneys about your case today. Please contact our office by phone at (770) 993-1005 or send us a quick message using our inquiry form.