Harris County, Georgia Criminal law firm

Harris County, Georgia Criminal law firm

A "civil infraction" is not a crime, but it is a charge filed by the state. The state should establish that you committed 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 lower standard unlike the "proof beyond a reasonable doubt" standard which is applicable in civil cases. A typical civil infraction will be decided by a judge, without a jury, in what is usually a short proceeding.
Some states have a class of "petty offenses," in which the defendant will be tried without a jury before a judge. Usually, the only penalty for a "petty offense" is a fine. But, these offenses may be of a criminal nature.

A "misdemeanor" is a criminal offense, and conviction generally ends in a criminal record. Misdemeanors are technically less serious offenses, although the consequences of conviction can nonetheless be quite severe. Likely punishments for misdemeanors include imprisonment, probation, fines, and at times driver's license sanctions. 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. Sometimes, the difference between "felonies" and "misdemeanors" seems arbitrary. However, every serious criminal offense including murder, sexual assault, embezzlement, burglary, robbery, arson, and treason are felonies.

If you have been charged with a crime in Harris County, Georgia , contact a criminal lawyer.

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