Savannah, Georgia Criminal law firm
A “civil infraction” is not a crime, however it is a charge filed by the state. The state should 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 lesser standard than the “proof beyond a reasonable doubt” standard which applies in civil cases. A typical civil infraction will be determined by a judge, without a jury, in what is generally a short proceeding.
Some states have a class of “petty offenses,” in which the defendant will be tried without a jury before a magistrate. Typically, the only punishment for a “petty offense” is a fine. But, these offenses can be of a criminal nature.
A “misdemeanor” is a criminal offense, and conviction ordinarily ends in a criminal record. Misdemeanors are technically less serious crimes, although the consequences of conviction can nevertheless be very severe. Likely punishments for misdemeanors include imprisonment, probation, fines, and some times driver’s license suspensions. Certain misdemeanors are considered as “sex crimes” and require 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 offenses that can be charged. Sometimes, the distinction between “felonies” and “misdemeanors” seems arbitrary. However, all of the most serious criminal offenses like murder, sexual assault, embezzlement, burglary, robbery, arson, and treason are felonies.
If you have been charged with a crime in Savannah, Georgia , contact a criminal attorney.
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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer – Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney
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