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Making Sense of Georgia Criminal Codes

What’s the difference between battery and aggravated assault? What about burglary and larceny? Learning the meaning behind these crimes and the potential ramifications for arrest charges may be challenging, but it can also help in the event your loved one faces criminal trial.

Today, we’ll explore some of the most common arrest charges in the state. We’ll also take time to answer important questions that local Georgians really need to know. Let’s get started!

Common Arrest Charges

Criminal law changes every year. Sometimes changes seem insignificant, while others create a dynamic shift in how arrest charges affect our lives. It’s crucial to understand how these charges are defined and categorized. Below, we’ll explore some of the most frequently levied charges in the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below, we’ll answer some important questions that our experts hear from time to time. Keep in mind, it pays to consult a criminal defense attorney if you have questions following arrest charges!

Learn More About Your Options!

One of the most stressful aspect of facing arrest charges in Jefferson, GA is awaiting trial in lockup. If you or your loved one have been allowed bail, you have the opportunity to continue earning income at your job, spend time with family, and coordinate your defense. To get answers for frequently asked bail questions or to arrange your personal service, call the Double "O" Bonding team at (706) 353-6467!

Have You Been Charged With Disorderly Conduct?

A common and often misunderstood criminal charge is the disorderly conduct. Thanks to TV shows and movies, it can seem like people get arrested and charged for disorderly conduct all the time. When the reality is, few people are actually convicted of disorderly conduct. What is fairly common is the arrest for disturbing the peace or disorderly conduct. But what does is it mean to be arrested for disorderly conduct? Why would anyone be arrested for disturbing the peace? Do you need bail for a disorderly conduct charge? For the answers to any of these questions, contact Double "O" Bonding, 706-353-6467 about disorderly conduct in the Jefferson, GA area.

Disorderly Conduct vs. Disturbing the Peace

What is the definition of disorderly conduct? Disorderly conduct is often defined as unruly behavior that is criminally offensive or disruptive to a public activity. Generally speaking, disorderly conduct arrests have followed violent behavior or rather, behavior that could breach the peace or alarm others. It’s important here to point out that there is no real difference between disorderly conduct and another phrase commonly used here, disturbing the peace. In fact, in many definitions disorderly conduct and disturbing the peace are used interchangeably. Ultimately, though, the definition for disorderly conduct will vary slightly from state to state. Convictions and charges are to be determined by how each state defines criminal statutes.

In the criminal court, disorderly conduct is classified as a class C misdemeanor. With this decision, someone can see a penalty fine as well as possible jail time. And disorderly conduct as a misdemeanor is a standard decision handed down in Georgia courts.

Disorderly Conduct Examples

Disorderly conduct is considered a catch-all term and charge to prohibit actions, threats, or words that could threaten public peace. If that sounds vague, it’s because it is. The definition is broad to allow for interpretation by the arresting officers. An arrest for disorderly conduct can be the result of things like:

• Violating noise ordinances
• Loitering
• Disturbing the peace
• Displaying reckless behavior in a public place
• Public drunkenness
• Any behavior that threatens public safety

It’s incredibly important to note here that public drunkenness, or public intoxication, is a legally separate offense. To be charged with public intoxication, you must have failed a breathalyzer test or participated in a blood test that showed the blood alcohol content (BAC) was higher than .08%. But if a person appears to be intoxicated, i.e through reckless behavior, profane language, or by making loud noises, that person can be charged with public intoxication and have a disorderly conduct charge tacked on as well. Neither are ideal, but a disorderly conduct charge can be contested. If you are found to be a threat to public safety and are jailed for disorderly conduct in Jefferson, GA, contact Double "O" Bonding at 706-353-6467. We can help you pay the necessary fines to get you back on your feet and ready to defend yourself, should you choose to contest a disorderly conduct charge. And as your bail bonds company, we want to remind everyone to be mindful that disorderly conduct can happen anywhere, including the courtroom. Court Etiquette is very important and when someone doesn’t know the correct procedures, it can lead to disorderly conduct charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are examples of disorderly conduct?

Actions like public drunkenness, violating noise ordinances, and/or any behavior that threatens public safety.

Does disorderly conduct stay on your record?

If you are convicted of a disorderly conduct charge, it will stay on your record if an employer runs a search.

Is disorderly conduct serious?

Any arrest and charge should be taken seriously, so yes, a disorderly conduct charge is serious.

Does disorderly conduct affect background checks?

Both disorderly conduct arrests and charges can stay on your criminal record and be found during a background check.

Can you be charged with disorderly conduct in your own home?

You can be arrested for disorderly conduct on your property, but you cannot be charged for it because by definition, disorderly conduct must take place in a public place. Not private property.

The Bail Bonds Company on Your Side

When you are facing a disorderly conduct bond and charge we want to be there to help. Agents with Double "O" Bonding specialize in disorderly conduct bail for Jefferson, GA and the surrounding counties. We know that everyone makes mistakes, but more importantly, everyone deserves the chance to move past them. Everyone at Double "O" Bonding wants to help you have the opportunity to move forward. With our services, we can help you make bail so you can get back on your feet and back to your loved ones so together you can move on as well as learn from past mistakes. Double "O" Bonding is open all day and night, so we are available for service when you need us. Call Double "O" Bonding today at 706-353-6467 for bail for disorderly conduct in Jefferson, GA as well as the surrounding areas.

Undergoing an arrest can be a stressful matter for all who are involved, be it the person in question, a friend or family member. If it’s your first encounter, navigating through the legalities of the situation can be confusing with questions arising such as when can someone post bail? Time and compliance are usually of the essence for legal matters, so it’s important to know what you’re capable of doing in order to avoid extending the matter further. When you need to post bail in Jefferson, GA there are some things you should keep in mind.

When you or someone you know has been arrested, it’s important to know how to post bail.

How does it work when you post bail? and What happens after you post bail?

When you get arrested, you’ll find out your bail amount and have the option to pay on your own or offer up property with cash value. A bail or bail bond payment is insurance to the court that you will show up when assigned on your scheduled court day and time. Once you post your own bail you are released from jail with the expectation that you’ll comply to arrive in court. Once you do, the amount you paid will be returned back to you. Posting bail assists your case during court procedures depending on your charges (Misdemeanor bail in Pennsylvania.) However, if you fail to show up to court than your payment will be kept and a warrant for your arrest will be issued.

When you can’t pay the full bail amount, consider a bail bond to help you out!

With bail bonds, you’re enlisting the help of Bond services where you pay a premium percentage of the bail with an insurance company that posts that amount to the court. When you show up in court, the premium goes to the insurance company and you’re not required to pay the remaining bail amount. However, if you don’t show up to court then the full bail amount is expected of you from the insurance company and the premium would instead go to the court.

Can you post your own bail?

If you are financially able to be released on your own dime (recognizance) then you should try that option. Generally speaking, bail bonds are used when you are not financially able to post bail. However, bail may require that you only pay by money order or cash when circumstances are that you aren’t able to go out to withdraw an amount at present. However, there are some circumstances regarding your history that can allow you to pay or sign for your own bail. Some possibilities may include it being your first-time offense, having a good credit score, owning a home, having a stable job and having a long-term residence in the community. If your home holds equity equal to or greater than the bail amount than that can be used to get you out.

It’s essential to show up in court or you may risk more jail time & financial charges.

How long do you stay in jail if you can’t pay bail?

If you can’t pay bail that you must stay in jail until your assigned court date. The court date assigned to you can range as far as wait time depending on circumstance. However, if it’s established that you can’t pay bail than the judge must set up a court day within 30 days of the arrangement.

How to post bail for a friend:

If you find yourself in the situation where you’ve been asked to post bail for someone, here’s what you need to know. If you post the full amount of bail than your money will be kept as a deposit until your friend shows up in court in which then it would be returned back to you. This works similarly to when you use a bail bond. With bail bonds, you would sign a bail contract with a licensed bail bond company that states you’ve legally become an indemnitor and thereby assume responsibility to the court as well as to the bail agent that your friend will show up in court. You’d only pay a portion or premium amount of the bail at that time.

What happens if you bail someone out of jail and they run?

Although you won’t be criminally liable for the defendant’s actions, you will be civilly liable and would need to help the bondsman in getting the defendant back to court or jail or risk making the full bail payment or having the full payment you made kept.

Can you post bail for a felony?

A timely bail can help in avoiding a felony charge or getting it reduced down unless the crime committed is too severe. A bail bond would ensure that time is given for this reduction to happen.

If you find yourself, a family member or friend in need of posting bail then carefully consider your options before you make a full commitment. Remember, in the legal world actions have consequences as well as repercussions if terms are not met. Be responsible for your proceedings and ask questions or do your research if necessary.

If you need to post bail with bail bonds in Jefferson, GA call 706-353-6467 with Double "O" Bonding! With 29 years of bail bond experience, we’re your dependable option for help!

A Felony Conviction in Georgia Comes with a Minimum Sentence of One Year in Prison.

In Georgia, as in most states, crimes are divided into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes, such as petty theft or a first DUI, that come with relatively light punishments. Felonies are a different beast entirely, however. If you find yourself confronting a felony warrant, then you have some serious trouble on your hands. A felony represents the most serious of criminal charges, and will range in degree from third to first. First degree felonies include the most heinous and/or serious of crimes, including murder. Third degree felonies, on the other hand, can include a fourth DUI in a 10-year period, some arson charges, and violent robbery. Of course, charges and consequences depend on the specific nature of your crime, the attitude and position of the prosecuting attorney, the judge’s predisposition, or the decision of a jury.

What Is a Felony Charge?

According to law, felonies are the most severe of criminal offenses. They can exist as aggravated forms of less serious crimes, such as assault, along with the most serious of crimes, including murder and rape. As for sentencing, a key characteristic of a felony is the minimum one-year prison sentence in a state facility. Unlike misdemeanors, Georgia felonies will remain forever on a person’s criminal record, with no chance for expungement.

Types of Felony

Felonies cover a broad range of both violent and non-violent offenses. In some cases, a misdemeanor can evolve into a felony if it was a repeated offense, or involved violence. Misdemeanors that the court can elevate to a felony include:

• A Fourth DUI Conviction
• Aggravated Domestic Violence
• Armed Robbery
• Aggravated Assault
• Schedule I through IV Drug Possession (Any Drug Other Than Marijuana)

As for natural felonies, or crimes that always count as a felony, you can include the absolute worst of offenses, such as:

• Murder
• Kidnapping
• Treason
• Arson
• Forcible Rape

The Consequences of a Felony

If Charged with Felonies, You Will Need the Benefit of a Talented Defense Attorney.

Felonies come with a host of consequences that vary from state to state and according to the specifics of the crime. Of course, the chief consequence of a felony is the sentencing. Sentencing for felonies can range from one year in prison, to a death sentence or life imprisonment. Furthermore, Georgia has a “three strikes” law in regards to felonies. If someone suffers conviction of a third felony, regardless of its nature, they will spend the rest of their life in prison. In Georgia, felonies have a minimum sentence of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Of course, these periods can change dramatically with the specifics of the charge.

In Georgia, certain felonies come with mandatory sentencing defined in the state legal code. This means that, if convicted, you will be incarcerated for at least this minimum term, and perhaps more at the discretion of the court. For example, aggravated child molestation and rape both come with mandatory 25 year sentences. There exist other consequences that are universal for any felony conviction. Some of these, while not defined by law, represent the reality of a felony conviction on your criminal record. Others are actual, unavoidable legal consequences. If you suffer any felony conviction, whether for multiple DUIs or kidnapping, you can expect the following.

• Difficulty Finding Employment
• Difficulty Securing a Residential Rental Lease
• Lose the Right to Own a Firearm
• Lose the Right to Vote
• Lose the Right to Hold Public Office

Sometimes, a lenient judge may allow a felony defendant to serve all or part of their sentence on probation. Probation allows for an individual to continue their life in the free world, keep their job, and remain a productive citizen. However, felony probation typically comes with fees, community service requirements, and a host of other rules. If you ever find yourself on the wrong side of a probation requirement, you risk probation violation. The probation violation process usually puts the felon back before the judge, who will determine whether to extend probation, institute other requirements, or revoke probation entirely. If probation gets revoked, then the convicted felon must report to jail and serve the entirety of their original sentence.

Do Felonies Ever Go Away?

In Georgia, there exists no process to expunge a felony. A felony conviction is permanent, and will persist as a major stain on an individual’s criminal record. The permanence of felonies can have harsh consequences, such as difficulty finding a job or apartment, receiving credit, and, for sex crimes, the inability to live in certain areas.

Common Questions About Felonies

What Is an Example of a Felony?

Felonies include a wide range of crimes, including the most serious acts of violence, such as murder and kidnapping, and non-violent crimes like felony embezzlement or forgery. Some misdemeanors can elevate to felonies in the event of multiple convictions or the use of violent force.

Can Felony Charges Be Dropped?

Prior to conviction, any criminal charges can be dropped, including felonies. The two most common means for this include a victim’s decision to drop the charges, or the presentation of a highly convincing argument to the prosecuting attorney. Even if these conditions are met, the final decision rests in the hands of the judge. Sometimes, the court may also downgrade a felony to a related misdemeanor.

What Are the Different Levels of a Felony?

In Georgia, felonies are charged as first, second, or third degree crimes. First represents the most serious of felonies, including murder, while third degree crimes cover things like forgery or arson.

Do Felonies Ever Drop Off Your Record?

Unlike some misdemeanors, felonies never drop off a criminal record. Felonies are permanent in this regard, with no hope for expungement.

Do You Go to Jail Right After Trial?

Typically, yes. If convicted of any crime, including felonies, and sentenced to jail, the sentence usually begins right away. The decision to delay the sentence must come from the judge, and typically requires a compelling argument on the part of the defense attorney.

If you are in need of a bail bond for a felony in Jefferson, GA, call 706-353-6467 for the local bondsman leaders. At Double "O" Bonding, we specialize in fast, assured jail release. 

Bail Vs Bond–What’s the Difference? Learn About the Subtle Differences of Bail and Bonds.

We use bail and bond so interchangeably that we begin to think that they are the same thing. Both of them have the same purpose–to release someone from jail–but they are actually different in what they do. So in terms of bail vs bond, there are some differences. Bail is used to releasing someone from jail by paying an amount of money, or property, that has been set by a judge.  The caveat is that you pay the bail on the understanding that you will appear for your scheduled court date. By paying the specific bail amount, you can get out of jail pretty easily.

A bond, on the other hand, is used when you don’t have the necessary funds to bail yourself out of jail. For these types of circumstances, this is when you call a bail bonds company. They put up the money for your bond (you pay them 10% of the bail amount) on the condition you show up for your court date; if you don’t show up for your assigned court date, the bail bonds company pays the full amount. Find out more about the different types of bail bonds people can receive.

Types of Bail Bonds

• Citation Release: You aren’t in jail, but an officer will come and tell you when and where you need to go to court.
• Own Recognizance: Used when the person hasn’t had prior problems, they swear before the court they will appear at their court date and then are allowed to not pay bail.
• Surety Bond: This is when a bail bond company gets involved and pays the bail on behalf of the defendant.
• Cash Bond: A cash bond is when the accused is able to pay their bail on their own without a bond.

Whether you are posting bail for another person, it’s important to know the difference between bail and a bond. Find out about our bail process in Jefferson, GA by calling Double “O” Bonding at 706-353-6467.

Find Out the Different Kinds of Assault Charges.

Assault is defined as a physical attack, which can be a serious offense in the state of Georgia depending on the kind of assault that was committed. In Georgia, there are two types of assault crimes that you can commit, assault or battery. Out of those two crimes, they are split into two categories–simple and aggravated. Depending on what type of crime is committed will determine what type of charge will be handed down. If you want to learn more about the different kinds of assault and their charges, keep reading to learn more.

What Are the Different Kinds of Assault?

• Simple Assault: Simple assault is defined as threatening to violently hurt someone, put someone in harm’s way, or you are verbally attacking them. In this type of crime no weapon is used and the person harmed doesn’t have life-threatening injuries. If charged with simple assault, you can face up to one year in jail and pay fines from $1,000 to $5,000.
• Aggravated Assault: People who are charged with aggravated assault have threatened or tried to harm someone by murdering them, sexually assaulting them, or robbing them. This includes using a weapon to do bodily harm to them. This type of assault is a felony, with a penalty of up to one or 20 years in prison.
• Simple Battery: Where simple assault is where someone tries to hurt someone, a simple battery is when someone actually does make contact with another person and harms them. This type of assault is punishable with up to one year in jail, with $1,000 to $5,000 fines.
• Aggravated Battery: While aggravated assault is an attempt to hurt someone by murdering them or sexually assaulting them, aggravated battery is when someone does hurt someone and creates bodily harm. This is also a felony and can result in up to one year or 20 years in prison.

Whether you need information about process servers or need assault bail in Athens, GA, we are here to help you. Call Double “O” Bonding at (706) 353-6467 to learn more.

An arrest can take you by surprise, especially when it involves a loved one or a friend. You may be worried and wonder what has happened and where they have gone. At Double “O” Bonding, we know that this can be a stressful time. Gathering all the information you need on how best to help this person is bad enough, but then there is the matter of what you can actually do to help. First thing first, you need to know where they are being held so that you can act appropriately and contact the correct people to work on their release.

Jail Information

If Your Friend Is In Jail, Reach Out To The Station To Find Where They Are.

When a person has been arrested, there are many factors that play a role in where they end up being held, such as where the charge occurred and where they may have been at the time of arrest. All of this information may not be available to you at first, depending on what your friend or loved one has relayed. What can you do? Checking with local police departments and, depending on where they are in their case, inmate searches can allow you to find the person you are looking for. There are many different jailing locations and lockups in the area. When searching, it is important that you remain patient as some files and systems may not have been immediately updated. Remember that the person you are speaking with will provide you with the information you are in need of but may need a moment to pull the most up to date information. Also, remain polite, otherwise you may not only not receive the information you need, you may reflect poorly on your friend.

• Winder City Jail
• City of Auburn GA Jail
• Statham City Jail
• Franklin County GA Jail & Detention Center
• Franklin County, GA Royston
• Lavonia City Jail
• Franklin Springs
• Jackson County GA Jail
• City of Jefferson GA Police Lockup
• Town of Braselton Jail
• City of Commerce Jail
• Athens-Clarke County Police Lockup
• University of Georgia Police Jail

What Can You Do To Help?

Once you have identified where your loved one or friend is being held, there are a couple of things you can do to help with this situation. Contact their family to let them know of the location, allowing for more avenues of help for this individual. You can do some preliminary research on lawyers for them if you know what their charge is, reducing the field to a select few that may be the most beneficial to their case. Knowing their charge is important for this as you want to be sure to only look at lawyers that are familiar or specialize in this type of case. Finally, you can also help your friend by getting them bail or helping them get the bail they need. Getting bail bonds from a local bondsman can get them out from behind bars, allowing them to make the best case they can and prepare for their day in court. Double “O” Bonding is here to help with bail services and are happy to speak with you about your or your friend’s situation in Athens, GA and the surrounding area. Want to get started? Give us a call at 706-353-6467 today!

Your Lawyer Has an Important Responsibility, so Make Sure You Perform Due Diligence in Your Choice.

If you’ve been charged with a crime, you need to see to your legal defense. Even if you’re guilty and ready to accept punishment, you still need a lawyer to navigate the complexities of court and defend you from unjust treatment. Unfortunately, choosing a lawyer often presents a confusing and stressful process. With so much on the line, it helps to have some guidance on how to choose a lawyer. At the very least, you’ll want yours to possess these three qualities.

Relevant Experience

There are many different types of lawyers, and intense specialization is common throughout the legal world. To begin your search, you will first need to identify attorneys who specialize in your particular charge. This means that they will have previous experience working cases like yours, and know how to handle themselves and protect the interests of clients.

Good Reviews

Before you make a major purchase, you likely consult consumer reviews. As guidance in a decision, nothing beats the opinions of those who have gone before. The selection of a lawyer should prove no different. The reviews of previous clients can offer invaluable guidance in who you select, as they provide a good indicator of a lawyer’s skill.

Excellent Chemistry

Your lawyer is tasked with the preservation of your freedom. When you invest someone with such responsibility, its indispensable that you share a positive chemistry. Once you’ve found a lawyer who satisfies the conditions above, schedule a consultation to get a better feel for his or her personality. More than anything else, a face-to-face consultation will provide excellent guidance in how to choose a lawyer.

The next time you need a bail bond in Jefferson, GA, call 706-353-6467 for the experts at Double "O" Bonding. We’re always ready to help, and can arrange for quick, painless jail release.

When facing charges, you want to get started on your defense and case before your court date. In this situation, you may find yourself having to make many choices very fast. One of the biggest decisions people may find themselves struggling with is whether they should have a court-appointed public defender or if they should seek a private attorney for their case. The first thing you must do is remember that whichever you choose, both of these types of lawyers are professional with experience in the law field. They will both provide the service you need and work for you. Once you understand this, you can consider the way both work differently in order to make the best choice.

The Differences Between Public Vs. Private

While both are experienced in the law field and qualified to handle your case, there are some differences that you can consider. With a private attorney, the first big issue is that you yourself will have to do your research. There are many different kinds of lawyers out there, so you will want someone who has experience in your charges specifically. Choosing a private attorney also means that you will have to handle their expenses. However, as an added benefit, a private attorney will be able to meet with you regularly and take a hands-on approach to your case.

Public defenders, on the other hand, are directly assigned to you. While you do not have your choice of a defender, there is a big advantage to be had. This means they will more than likely have experience not only with your charges but the court and judge you are dealing with. They may even have worked with the prosecutor or opposing lawyer before, allowing for easier communication and plea agreements. These defenders, however, tend to have larger caseloads, which may mean they will have less time to meet with you to discuss the case.

When it comes to deciding which is best, the choice really comes down to your preferences. You will still get the defense you expect and need for your case. Remember, you have options. Need bail bonds to get out and start working with your lawyer? Double “O” Bonding provides bail bonds for your case. Call us today at (706) 353-6467 for bondsmen in the state of Georgia.

Depending on what type of drug a person is in possession of, distributing, or manufacturing, will determine what kind of charge the person will get. Below we will discuss how certain drugs are classified and charged in the state of Georgia.

Marijuana Classification and Charge

If you have less than one ounce of marijuana on you, then it is considered a misdemeanor, which is a year or more in jail and a $1,000 fine. If it’s more than one ounce, you are looking at one to 10 years in prison. Marijuana is considered a schedule I, which means it is a high category drug.

Cocaine Classification and Charge

Cocaine is classified as a schedule II drug. When someone has cocaine on their person, it doesn’t matter doesn’t matter the amount, it is considered a felony. Depending on possession, distribution, or manufacturing will depend on how much time someone will serve, but prison time is inevitable.

Heroin Classification and Charge

Heroin drugs are classified and charged a lot like cocaine; no matter if you are in possession, distributing, or manufacturing, a person will do prison time. Heroin, is considered a Schedule I drug, so therefore prison time is a lot longer. A first offense can be up to 15 years in prison, and someone who has been charged for the second time can face up to life in prison.

At Double O Bonding, we want to help people who have been arrested for a drug charge and need drug charge bail in Athens, GA, so give us a call at (706) 353-6467. We are open 24/7, so you can reach us day and night for our assistance.