As an experienced Atlanta criminal defense attorney, Mr. Bixon has helped clients beat numerous cases. When it comes to felony cases, Mr. Bixon can help you fight to win! Mr. Bixon has handled numerous felony cases ranging from drug trafficking to murder in a number of counties throughout Georgia. Our results speak for themselves.
Understanding Felonies in Georgia
Felonies are the most serious category of criminal offenses, carrying severe penalties and life-altering consequences. If you’re facing a felony charge in Georgia, it’s imperative to understand the gravity of the situation and the potential impact on your life.
The Weight of a Felony Conviction
A felony conviction in Georgia can have a profound and lasting impact on your life. The loss of fundamental rights, such as the right to vote, possess firearms, or hold certain professional licenses, can significantly restrict your opportunities and limit your participation in society. Moreover, the social stigma associated with a felony conviction can make it challenging to secure employment, housing, or educational opportunities.
Felony Sentencing
All felonies are punishable by at least 1 year in prison. However, each individual statute will have its own maximum and minimum sentences. These will typically be accompanied by a fine of over $1,000. In most cases, but not all, the judge has the discretion as to sentence you to imprisonment (or probation in some cases), just to fine you, or both. However, some felonies require mandatory prison time.
Additionally, Georgia increases sentencing for individuals with multiple felony convictions, regardless of whether they were the same or different offenses. This is triggered if you are convicted of a felony after having previously been convicted of a felony in Georgia, or convicted of an offense in another state which would have been a felony if convicted in Georgia. In these circumstances, the judge is required to sentence you to the maximum prison time available for the subsequent offense. The judge has the discretion, however, to probate or suspend the sentence. If the felony in question is a “seriously violent felony”, the mandatory imprisonment term shifts to life without parole.
Beyond Sentencing: Collateral Consequences
The impact of a felony conviction extends far beyond the immediate penalties of imprisonment and fines. Collateral consequences, such as difficulty obtaining employment, housing, or professional licenses, can create significant obstacles to rebuilding your life after a felony conviction. It’s essential to consider these long-term implications when facing a felony charge and seek the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the legal system.
CONTACT BIXON LAW TODAY
If you have been charged with a crime and need the best Atlanta Criminal Defense Attorney, give Bixon Law a call today to speak to one of our experienced Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyers. We will vigorously defend your criminal defense rights, and advocate on your behalf to have your criminal case dismissed or your charges reduced. As experienced trial attorneys, we are not afraid to take your case to trial if necessary. We represent clients in Atlanta and throughout the state of Georgia. We are lawyers who are committed to helping people in difficult situations, and we invite you to call us at (404) 551-5684 for a free consultation on your case today.