Georgia Violent Crime Defense Attorneys
Crimes Against the Person
Acts listed under Georgia law, Title 16, Chapter 5 are classified as ‘Crimes Against the Person’. Many of these crimes are violent in nature or involve putting others in harm’s way. As such, anyone facing these charges may find themselves feeling ashamed and unsure of how to proceed. At The Berry Law Group, we specialize in defending clients accused of even the most serious violent crimes. We understand the fear you are experiencing and have the knowledge to guide you through the process and help you make the best decisions for your future.
Homicide
Under Georgia law regarding crimes against the person, homicide and related crimes are stated under Article 1. These crimes include murder, malice murder, felony murder, murder in the second degree, voluntary manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter and assisted suicide. A guilty verdict for these charges will result in 10 years to life in prison. Additionally, the death sentence can be applied to the most serious of convictions.
Assault & Battery
According to GA Code § 16-5-23.1 (2019), “ A person commits the offense of battery when he or she intentionally causes substantial physical harm or visible bodily harm to another.” The crime of assault is less serious and involves the attempt to harm or placing another person in the way of harm. Many factors play into the penalties for a conviction of assault or battery such as prior convictions and the seriousness of the victim’s injuries.
Kidnapping & False Imprisonment
The crime of kidnapping involve abducting or stealing away another person without lawful authority or warrant and holding that person against his or her will. False imprisonment occurs when a person arrests, confines, or detains another person without legal authority. Both are considered separate crimes and can be charged individually or in tandem.
Reckless Conduct
Georgia law defines reckless conduct in several ways. GA Code § 16-5-60 (2019) (b) states: A person who causes bodily harm to or endangers the bodily safety of another person by consciously disregarding a substantial and unjustifiable risk that his act or omission will cause harm or endanger the safety of the other person. These charges can be more serious in situations involving HIV transmission or police and prison workers.
Cruelty to Children
A parent or caregiver can be charged with Cruelty to Children if they are found to have jeopardized a child’s wellbeing. The charges become more serious if the child is exposed to “cruel or excessive physical or mental pain” or if they expose a child to violence or battery. Child Abandonment is also classified under Cruelty to Children law. Additionally, Georgia has specific laws pertaining to tattooing and piercing child under the age of 18.
Stalking
Under Georgia law, GA Code § 16-5-90 (2019), a person can be charged with Stalking “when he or she follows, places under surveillance, or contacts another person at or about a place or places without the consent of the other person for the purpose of harassing and intimidating the other person.” Stalking can also be charged when a person violates a protective or restraining order or a condition of parole.