When a prospective client calls our office, they are usually understandably overwhelmed by the judicial system. The judicial system is complicated, and it is often taken for granted that many individuals do not have any experience navigating the complex system. In this article, I will break down each step in the process when you […]
The Karen Read murder case has captivated the nation, not only for its shocking allegations but also for its tangled web of investigative flaws, alleged conspiracies, and the broader implications for the criminal justice system. At our criminal defense firm, we aim to shed light on cases like Karen Read’s, which exemplify the critical role […]
Criminal Penalties: If you’re involved in a crash but it’s only property damage (like hitting a parked car), you might get charged with a misdemeanor. This could mean up to a year in jail, a fine up to $1,000, and a suspended driver’s license. If there’s an injury or someone dies, though, things get way […]
When a prospective client calls our office, they are usually understandably overwhelmed by the judicial system. The judicial system is complicated, and it is often taken for granted that many individuals do not have any experience navigating the complex system. In this article, I will break down each step in the process when you are […]
If you’ve been charged with drug trafficking through Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, you’re likely overwhelmed with questions and concerns. The Atlanta Police Department’s (APD) Airport Drug Interdiction Unit (ADIU) has specific strategies and procedures in place to monitor and intercept narcotics at the airport. Understanding how this unit operates can shed light on your situation—and […]
The First Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees the right to assemble peacefully, a fundamental freedom that allows individuals to associate with whomever they choose. However, in Georgia, the broad application of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-15-4) has raised serious concerns about the criminalization of lawful association when the […]
In Hall County, driving under the influence (DUI) of marijuana is illegal and is treated similarly to a DUI involving alcohol. Marijuana DUI laws are outlined in O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391, which makes it unlawful to drive or be in actual physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of any drug, including marijuana, that […]
The Cobb County Diversion program is a program offered in Cobb County to offer an alternative to the traditional prosecution process. The Cobb County diversion program’s purpose is to deter future criminal behavior, monitor offenders from arrest through final case disposition, minimize loss to victims through payment of restitution by offenders, and to reduce the […]
At W. Scott Smith P.C., we understand the immense stress and challenges faced by individuals charged with drug-related offenses or victims of property forfeiture. In Georgia, these cases often hinge on complex legal interpretations, and the state must meet stringent burdens of proof to justify its actions. A recent victory in the Patel v. State […]
When people hear the terms “jail” and “prison,” they often use them interchangeably. However, these two institutions serve distinct functions within the criminal justice system. Understanding the differences between jail and prison is crucial, especially for those facing criminal charges or advocating for reform. Furthermore, the increasing privatization of both jails and prisons has raised […]
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