In Georgia, fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on how serious the situation is. A misdemeanor fleeing charge usually applies when a driver simply refuses to stop after a lawful signal from law enforcement and there are no major aggravating factors. This offense is treated as a high and aggravated misdemeanor, meaning a conviction can result in fines generally ranging from about $500 up to $5,000 and possible jail time of 10 days to 12 months, though judges have discretion to probate or suspend part of the sentence beyond required minimums. Penalties increase for repeat misdemeanor offenses within a ten-year period, including higher fines and mandatory minimum jail time, but the charge still remains a misdemeanor. By contrast, felony fleeing applies when the conduct is more dangerous or severe, such as fleeing at very high speeds, driving recklessly in a way that endangers others, striking another vehicle or person, leaving the state while fleeing, or when the driver has multiple prior fleeing convictions. Felony fleeing carries much harsher consequences, including fines between $5,000 and $10,000 and a prison sentence of at least one year and up to ten years. Unlike misdemeanor cases, felony fleeing sentences generally cannot be probated, suspended, or served concurrently, making the punishment significantly more severe.

 

If you’re ever accused of fleeing from a police officer, either a felony or a misdemeanor, contact our office and speak with one of our experienced attorneys today.