Muscogee County, GA Criminal attorney

Muscogee County, GA Criminal attorney

A "civil infraction" is not a crime, however it is a charge filed by the state. The state must establish 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 lower standard compared to the "proof beyond a reasonable doubt" standard that applies in civil cases. A typical civil infraction will be determined by a magistrate, without a jury, in what is often a short proceeding.

Certain states have a class of "petty offenses," where the defendant may be tried without a jury before a judge. Generally, the only penalty for a "petty offense" is a fine. However, these offenses may be of a criminal nature.

A "misdemeanor" is a criminal offense, and conviction often creates a criminal record. Misdemeanors are technically less serious offenses, however the impact of conviction can nevertheless be quite severe. Possible penalties for misdemeanors are imprisonment, probation, fines, and some times driver's license sanctions. Certain misdemeanors are treated as "sex crimes" and mandate that a convicted person register as a "sex offender", and notify 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. But, every serious criminal offense like murder, sexual assault, embezzlement, burglary, robbery, arson, and treason are felonies.

If you have been charged with a crime in Muscogee County, GA , contact a criminal lawyer.

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Columbus GA DUI Lawyer | Fort Benning Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney.

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