Common Sentencing Conditions for Family Violence Battery Cases- Cobb County:

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Below are common conditions that may be imposed as part of a sentence:

  1. Jail or Prison Time:
    • In cases of misdemeanor battery, the defendant may face up to one year in jail, but this is uncommon. We usually do not see additional custody time in a sentencing, unless there are aggravating factors, such as prior convictions, a use of a weapon, or severe injuries to the victim.
  2. Probation:
    • In some cases, the defendant may be sentenced to probation instead of, or in addition to, jail time.
    • Probation typically lasts for a set period , usually for 1 year, and include regular meetings  with a probation officer.
  3. Domestic Violence Education or Counseling:
    • Georgia requires defendants convicted of family violence to attend mandatory counseling or a domestic violence intervention program. This is called “FVIP” or Family Violence Intervention program and usually lasts for 24 weeks.
  4. Anger Management Classes:
    • Anger management may be a condition of probation or sentencing to address emotional regulation issues.
  5. Restraining Orders/Protective Orders:
    • A restraining or protective order may be issued, prohibiting the defendant from contacting or going near the victim. Violating such orders can result in additional criminal charges. There are usually two different orders: no contact and no violent contact. No contact means you cannot contact the victim either physically, online, over the phone, through the mail, from across the street, etc.
  6. Community Service:
    • You may be required to perform community service.
  7. Fine or Restitution:
    • You may be ordered to pay a fine as part of the sentence, and may also be required to pay restitution to the victim for medical bills, lost wages, or property damage.
  8. Alcohol/Drug Testing and Treatment:
    • If alcohol or substance abuse is found to be a factor in the offense, the court may require the defendant to undergo alcohol or drug testing and possibly attend rehabilitation after undergoing a substance abuse evaluation.
  1. Firearm Restrictions:
  • You may lose the right to possess firearms, either permanently or for a set period of time.

 

It is important to understand potential consequences if you’re convicted of a crime. We’re here to help 24/7. Call us today.