Interacting with police officers can be a stressful and unsettling experience. Many individuals, both in Clayton County and across the country, often feel confused when questioned by police. This uncertainty arises from a lack of knowledge about your personal rights during encounters with law enforcement. Citizens are protected by the Fourth Amendment against unlawful searches […]
Child Molestation is a serious crime in the State of Georgia. If you are arrested in Douglas County for child molestation, please do not make any statements to the police. It is imperative that you retain a qualified attorney immediately if you are being accused of child molestation. The Douglas County District Attorney’s Office has […]
On March 4, 2025, the Supreme Court of Georgia issued a significant opinion in Harris v. State (S24A0910), reversing Emmanuel Harris’s conviction for the malice murder of his girlfriend, Jordan Gooch. This decision not only impacts the specific facts of the case but also provides a detailed analysis of how Georgia courts interpret and apply […]
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 […]
In Forsyth 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 […]
In Cherokee 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 […]
A new bill introduced in Georgia’s statehouse aims to protect artistic expression in the courtroom, specifically targeting rap music and other forms of creative work. House Bill 237, introduced during the 2025-2026 legislative session, seeks to prevent rap lyrics—or any other artistic expression such as music, dance, performance art, poetry, literature, film, and visual art—from […]
As a criminal defense attorney, one of the most common and dangerous misconceptions I encounter is the belief that innocent people should have no problem talking to the police. The idea is simple: “If you have nothing to hide, why not just explain yourself?” Unfortunately, this mindset has led countless individuals—many of them completely innocent—into […]
At W. Scott Smith, P.C., we understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. Our experienced team is here to defend your rights, navigate complex legal issues, and provide the representation you need. Below, we’ve summarized several recent important Georgia Court of Appeals cases to illustrate the range of issues that can arise in criminal […]
Commercial drivers are vital to the economy and keep society moving. However, the Department of Driver Services holds them to a very high standard when it comes to operating safely. Certain offenses can suspend your commercial drivers license. These suspensions can range from a temporary 60-day suspension all the way up to a lifetime suspension. […]
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