Columbia County, Georgia Criminal attorney

Columbia County, Georgia Criminal attorney

A "civil infraction" is not a crime, but it is a charge filed by the state. The state must demonstrate that you are guilty of a civil infraction by a "preponderance of the evidence," which is to say, that it is more likely than not that you committed the violation. This is a much lesser standard than the "proof beyond a reasonable doubt" standard that is applicable in civil cases. A typical civil infraction will be decided by a magistrate, without a jury, in what is typically a short proceeding.

Some states have a class of "petty offenses," where the defendant can be tried without a jury before a magistrate. Generally, the only punishment for a "petty offense" is a fine. But, these offenses can be of a criminal nature.

A "misdemeanor" is a criminal offense, and conviction generally establishes a criminal record. Misdemeanors are technically less serious offenses, although the consequences of conviction can nonetheless be very severe. Possible punishments for misdemeanors include imprisonment, probation, fines, and some times driver's license suspensions. Certain misdemeanors are considered as "sex crimes" and mandate that a convicted person register as a "sex offender", and inform the police informed of his place of residence -- a requirement that may continue for life.

Felonies are the most serious crimes that can be charged. Many times, the difference between "felonies" and "misdemeanors" seems arbitrary. However, all of the most serious criminal offenses including murder, sexual assault, embezzlement, burglary, robbery, arson, and treason are felonies.

If you have been charged with a crime in Columbia County, Georgia , contact a criminal law firm.

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Augusta GA DUI Lawyer - Evans GA Criminal Defense Attorney - Richmond County GA DUI

The Augusta Legal Center of Hawk and Detchemendy - DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys - (706) 722-3500 - www.augusta-ga-dui.com

Attorneys Vic Hawk, Melissa Detchemendy, and Reid Sanders defend DUI cases and criminal cases in Georgia.