Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Early Termination of Probation in Georgia
In 2021, Georgia lawmakers passed a new probation law that created a pathway for those on felony probation (who meet certain eligibility requirements) to have their sentences terminated after three years. To learn more about this option and whether you or a loved one could qualify for early termination of probation, please call our… Read More »
Defenses to a Georgia Shoplifting Charge
Shoplifting is one of the most commonly charged criminal offenses in Georgia, so it’s a good idea for residents to have a good understanding of what such a charge, or subsequent conviction entails. Fortunately, being charged with a criminal offense doesn’t mean that a person will be convicted. In fact, there are a number… Read More »
What to Know About Georgia’s Pretrial Diversion Program
Being convicted of a criminal offense in Georgia can come with severe penalties. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid the worst of these penalties, especially for first time offenders. One of these options is Georgia’s pretrial diversion program, which is an alternative to traditional criminal sentencing. Those who successfully complete the requirements of the… Read More »
Aggravating Factors in a Georgia DUI Case
Driving under the influence is a serious criminal offense in Georgia. Those who are convicted face significant penalties, including potential jail time, expensive fines, and the loss of their driving privileges. These penalties, however, can escalate even more when certain aggravating factors are present. Read on to learn more about these factors and how… Read More »
What are the Penalties for a Georgia DUI Conviction?
In Georgia, someone who is accused of driving under the influence could face either misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the circumstances. Criminal penalties for conviction could include everything from jail time and fines to probation and the suspension of the driver’s license. There are also some non-criminal penalties that accompany these kinds of… Read More »
I Was Charged with “Entering Auto” – What Does That Mean?
Although the official title of this criminal offense is “Entering Automobile or Other Motor Vehicle With Intent to Commit Theft or Felony”, in Georgia, most refer to it simply as “Entering Auto.” In recent years, the state has become increasingly harsh when it comes to who they charge with this offense and judges often… Read More »
What is a Probation Revocation Hearing?
In Georgia, those who are found guilty of a criminal offense are often given the chance to fulfill their sentence, but to avoid incarceration. This is known as probation and it requires individuals to comply with certain terms and special conditions for a specific period of time. If those terms are violated, then the… Read More »
What Evidence is Required to Convict Someone of Drug Trafficking in Georgia?
The term drug trafficking actually covers a wide range of criminal activities, including everything from manufacturing or transporting to selling and distributing a controlled substance. Even possession of certain amounts of a substance can result in charges of drug trafficking. However, to obtain a conviction, the state will need to present key pieces of… Read More »
Under 21 DUI Charges in Georgia
Driving under the influence is illegal in all 50 states. However, what qualifies as being “under the influence” can vary depending on the age of the driver or even the kind of license that he or she has. In Georgia, for example, it is unlawful for most motorists to drive with a blood alcohol… Read More »
Defenses to Georgia DUI Charges
To be convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in Georgia, a person must have been intoxicated and in control of a vehicle at the time of arrest. However, drivers who have been accused of driving under the influence can avoid conviction by casting doubt on either of these two elements, or even on… Read More »