What's the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

Felonies are more serious than misdemeanors, but the biggest difference between a felony and a misdemeanor is the amount of time in jail you could be facing. A crime with a potential sentence of less than a year is a misdemeanor and more than a year is a felony.

Misdemeanors in Georgia

Misdemeanors have a maximum fine of $1,000 and a maximum of 12 months in jail. However, misdemeanors that are identified as a “high and aggravated misdemeanor” can have a higher fine of up to $5,000 but not more jail time.

Examples of Crimes that may be considered Misdemeanors in Georgia:

• Simple Assault
• Simple Battery
• DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
• Probation Violations
• Drug Charges
• Perjury

Examples of Misdemeanors of a High and Aggravated Nature:

• the defendant has prior convictions for the same crime, or
• the defendant committed the crime against a vulnerable or protected victim, such as an elderly adult, a family or household member, a hospital employee, a school employee, or a police officer.

Felonies in Georgia

Felonies carry a sentence of a year or more in prison.  In Georgia, more serious felonies can be punishable by life in prison or even the death penalty.

Examples of Felonies in Georgia:

• Murder
• Aggravated Assault
• Aggravated Battery
• Most types of Manslaughter
• Rape
• Arson
• Kidnapping
• False Imprisonment

Do I need to hire an attorney if I'm charged with a crime?

You should hire an attorney if you are charged with any crime be it a misdemeanor or felony. It may seem like there is more on the line with felony charges, but both misdemeanor and felony charges can leave you with a criminal record. A criminal record in Georgia can make it more challenging for you to get a job, go to school, rent an apartment, and more. Contact Brian Cathey Law today to have a dedicated criminal defense attorney on your side.