Felony Crimes

Felony crimes in Georgia represent the most serious category of criminal offenses, carrying the harshest penalties and long-term consequences for those convicted.

Per the Georgia Court Records website, "The Georgia legislature classifies felonies as the most serious crimes in the state. These crimes are punishable by a minimum of one year imprisonment as opposed to misdemeanors and infractions. In addition, most of the crimes under the "serious violent felony" category have the minimum penalty of 25 years imprisonment and a maximum penalty of a death sentence. Punishment may also include probation, fines not less than $1,000, or other mandatory sanctions imposed at the discretion of the judge GA Code § 17–10–6.1 (2018)."

Examples of Felony Offenses

Felonies in Georgia encompass a wide range of violent and non-violent crimes. Common examples include:

• ○ Murder
• ○ Rape
• ○ Kidnapping
• ○ Armed robbery
• ○ Aggravated assault
• ○ Aggravated battery
• ○ Burglary
• ○ Arson
• ○ Drug trafficking, distribution
• ○ Fraud, forgery, and embezzlement
• ○ Racketeering
• ○ Manslaughter
• ○ Treason and espionage

Some offenses, such as theft or drug possession, may be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies depending on the circumstances, prior convictions, or severity of the offense. Additionally, some State felony crimes may also be prosecuted as federal crimes.

Felony Classifications and Degrees

Georgia law specifies penalties on a crime-by-crime basis. Certain crimes may be classed by degree (i.e., first-degree or second-degree arson). Another classification is "capital crime" which carries potential life imprisonment or a death sentence.

Consequences and Penalties for Felony Convictions

Penalties for felony convictions in Georgia are severe and can include:

• ○ Prison sentences from a minimum of one year to life imprisonment
• ○ Possible death sentence for the highly egregios crimes
• ○ Substantial fines, from four to five figure amounts
• ○ Supervised Probation for many years
• ○ Mandatory minimum sentences for certain violent felonies
• ○ Possibly sentenced under Georgia's Three Strikes Law

Additional Consequences:

• ○ Loss of civil rights (voting, possess firearm, etc.)
• ○ Ineligibile for most professional licenses
• ○ Difficulty finding quality employment
• ○ Tarnished personal reputation

Get Legal Help Now

If you are being investigated for, or charged with, any type of felony charges we recommend calling our law office as soon as possible. We understand the urgency of the matter. Contact a top criminal defense lawyer. To get control of your situation call 678-880-9360 for a Confidential Consultation with a top defense attorney in Cherokee County.