Why You Should Take Misdemeanor Charges Seriously

Facing multiple DUI charges in Georgia carries severe consequences, but understanding your legal options can make a significant difference. This article explores the escalating penalties for repeat offenders and outlines potential defense strategies to help mitigate these charges.

Learn about the different degrees of murder charges in Georgia and how they are defined under state law. Explore the distinctions between malice murder, felony murder, and voluntary and involuntary manslaughter in Georgia criminal cases.

If you or your loved one has been charged with a DUI in Georgia it is imperative that you retain a skilled and knowledgeable Savannah DUI attorney early in the process to protect your rights and avoid the suspension of your privilege to drive through the Administrative License Suspension process. Kurtis began his legal career as a prosecutor, during that time Kurtis prosecuted nearly a thousand DUI cases at all levels from municipal court up to the Georgia Court of Appeals, and knows exactly what evidence is required for a conviction. Consequently, Kurtis will bring a unique perspective to your defense team. More importantly, through his experience as a prosecutor Kurtis has an intimate knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of a DUI case, which he will bring to bear in your case. Below Kurtis outlines the most common evidence in a DUI case. Contact us today for a free consultation. How can you challenge a DUI? The best way to attack a DUI charge is to attack the evidence. Remember, the State carries the burden of proof throughout a criminal case, in other words, the State has to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. DUI cases, specifically, are highly technical, consequently it is imperative that you have a highly skilled and knowledgeable Savannah DUI Attorney handle your case to ensure that you receive the best result possible. Below Kurtis outlines the common evidence found in a typical DUI case. A DUI almost always starts with a traffic stop, usually for a minor traffic offense, such as failure to maintain lane, or improper turn signal. In order to stop a vehicle for a traffic offense the officer MUST have probable cause for the stop, otherwise any evidence collected after that stop will be suppressed. Following the traffic stop, the officer must have reasonable suspicion to believe you are under the influence of some substance, making you “Field Sobriety” or “Roadside DUI tests”: Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST’s) consists of a battery of 3 tests: Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus – a scientific test that measures for an involuntary jerking or bouncing of the eyeball that occurs when there is a disturbance of the vestibular (inner ear) system or the oculomotor control of the eye, which has been correlated, through scientific studies to be associated with alcohol impairment, amongst other causes. Walk and Turn – a physically demanding and divided attention task, intended to detect physical manifestations of intoxication. One Leg Stand - a physically demanding and divided attention task, intended to detect physical manifestations of intoxication. The key to Standardized Field Sobriety Testing is in the name itself, “Standardized.” The law requires that the officer conduct the SFST’s in a manner within substantial compliance with his/her training and the accepted practices set forth by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). There may also be some environmental issues, as well as physical or medical conditions that people may have that may invalidate the results of these tests. Other common roadside tests include the Portable Breath Test (PBT). The PBT is a “roadside breathalyzer,” the numerical results of which are not admissible in court; however, whether or not the results of the PBT are “positive or negative for the presence of alcohol” is admissible in court. After the completion of the SFST’s and the PBT, the officer will tell you that you are under arrest, and will read the Implied Consent Notice. The final sentence of the Implied Consent Notice is a question that you are required to give a “Yes,” or “No” answer to. If you fail to give a clear response the officer will consider your response a “No” or a refusal to submit to the state administered test.  This brief overview of the common evidence in a DUI case is just a thumbnail sketch of the complexity of a DUI. For a thorough review of the evidence in your case contact us and we will schedule a free consultation with Kurtis.

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is a serious offense that can have significant legal implications, especially in Savannah, Georgia. Known for its picturesque rivers and coastal views, Savannah attracts both locals and tourists eager to enjoy recreational boating. However, with such enjoyment comes the responsibility of understanding boating laws and the consequences of operating watercraft under the influence. We aim to provide you with essential information about BUI testing procedures and available defense options should you face these charges. Understanding BUI Laws in Georgia: Georgia law treats Boating Under the Influence similarly to Driving Under the Influence (DUI), but with some key differences pertinent to aquatic environments. In Georgia, it is illegal for individuals to operate any watercraft if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher for those over 21 years old, or 0.02% or higher for underage boaters. Unlike DUI checkpoints on roads, law enforcement officers often conduct random checks on waterways to ensure safety and compliance with state regulations. BUI Testing Procedures: When stopped by law enforcement while boating in Savannah's waters, officers may employ a variety of tests to determine sobriety levels. Commonly utilized methods include field sobriety tests adapted for maritime conditions—such as balancing tasks that account for boat movement—and breathalyzer tests that measure BAC levels directly. It is important to know your rights during these interactions; while refusing a breathalyzer test could result in penalties like suspension of boating privileges, understanding these nuances can play a pivotal role in building an effective defense strategy. Potential Consequences of a BUI Conviction: A BUI conviction carries substantial penalties that extend beyond fines and potential jail time. Individuals may face suspension of their boating license alongside mandatory completion of substance abuse programs or community service hours. Repeat offenders might endure heightened legal consequences impacting personal freedoms significantly more than first-time violators would experience. Why Legal Representation Matters: Proceeding through Georgia's judicial system without skilled representation can be daunting, especially in niche cases like BUIs, where marine laws intersect with general criminal statutes. These cases require specialized knowledge of the unique jurisdictional parameters in the counties surrounding Savannah's waterfronts. Expertise in this area is crucial for securing favorable outcomes, which may be unattainable through self-representation or inexperienced counsel lacking the necessary knowledge. The importance of hiring qualified professionals cannot be overstated, as it provides peace of mind knowing your case is in capable hands. We handle each step of your journey to justice effectively and efficiently. Facing a Boating Under the Influence charge can feel overwhelming with the intricacies of Georgia’s legal system. Understanding the laws, procedures, and potential consequences is the first step toward resolving such charges. At The Law Office of Kurtis C. Bronston, LLC, we are committed to providing comprehensive legal support to ensure the best possible outcome. With our experience and dedication, you can trust us to skillfully advocate on your behalf. Whether it's your first encounter with the law or a repeat offense, having seasoned legal representation is crucial in protecting your rights and future. Let us help you navigate these turbulent waters with clarity.

Assault charges can be life-altering, with implications that extend beyond the courtroom. For residents of Savannah, Georgia, understanding the nuances between aggravated and simple assault is crucial for personal knowledge and for traversing any of these charges should you find yourself or a loved one entangled in legal proceedings. At The Law Office of Kurtis C. Bronston, LLC, we believe in empowering our community with information and resources to better understand their rights and responsibilities under Georgia law. We will delve into the distinctions between aggravated and simple assault charges in Georgia courts, the potential consequences of each, and how proper legal representation can make all the difference. 1. Defining Assault Under Georgia Law: In Georgia, assault is generally defined as an attempt to commit a violent injury on another person or placing someone in reasonable apprehension of immediately receiving a violent injury. This definition encompasses both physical harm attempts and threats that make someone reasonably fear they might be harmed imminently. Savannah residents need to grasp this basic definition because it forms the bedrock upon which more complex interpretations like 'aggravated' or 'simple' are built. 2. What Constitutes Simple Assault? Simple assault is considered a misdemeanor offense under Georgia law. It typically involves minor injuries or perceived threats without weapons or severe bodily harm involved. An example could be threatening someone during an argument without actually touching them or causing injury. Because it’s classified as a misdemeanor, penalties might include up to one year in jail, fines up to $1,000, probation, community service, and mandatory anger management classes. While less severe than aggravated assault charges, even misdemeanors can significantly impact one's personal and professional life. 3. Understanding Aggravated Assault: Aggravated assault is a more serious charge that involves an intent to murder, rape, or rob, using a deadly weapon, or discharging a firearm from within a vehicle towards people outside it (commonly known as drive-by shooting). This felony offense often carries harsher penalties, including significant prison time ranging from one to twenty years depending on circumstances like victim identity (e.g., police officers), prior criminal record of the offender, and whether firearms were involved. 4. Legal Consequences and Social Impact: The repercussions of being charged with either simple or aggravated assault go beyond immediate legal penalties—there are social ramifications too. A conviction can affect employment opportunities since many employers conduct background checks; it can strain personal relationships due to stigma; and complicate matters related to housing if landlords refuse tenants with criminal records. Understanding these charges helps individuals make informed choices about defense strategies through knowledgeable attorneys like those at The Law Office of Kurtis C. Bronston.  Understanding the difference between aggravated and simple assault charges is important for anyone living in Savannah—or anywhere else in Georgia—to protect their rights effectively when faced with such allegations. Whether you're seeking preliminary advice exploring defensive options or actively engaged in ongoing cases, contact us today at The Law Office Kurtis C Bronston LLC. Together, we can collaborate and decide the best pathways forward. You will have peace of mind that there are seasoned professionals committed to your case.

Theft can vary in severity and legal consequences, so it’s crucial to understand the distinctions between different types of theft under Georgia law. Whether you’re a Savannah resident trying to navigate local laws or someone seeking clarity on how theft charges are classified, understanding the difference between shoplifting and felony theft is the first step. At The Law Office of Kurtis C. Bronston, LLC, we prioritize educating our community about these legal nuances to help you better protect your rights and make informed decisions. 1. Defining Shoplifting in Georgia Shoplifting is one of the more common theft-related offenses in Georgia and involves taking merchandise from a retail establishment with the intent to steal. This act can include concealing items on your person, altering price tags, or transferring goods from one container to another to avoid payment. In Georgia, shoplifting charges are typically classified as misdemeanors if the value of stolen goods is less than $500. However, repeat offenders or individuals caught stealing higher-value items may face enhanced charges that could result in significant fines or jail time. 2. Felony Theft: When Does It Apply? Felony theft represents a more severe classification under Georgia law and generally applies when the value of stolen property exceeds $1,500 or involves specific circumstances such as theft by deception or conversion of public funds. Unlike shoplifting, felony theft carries heavier penalties including longer prison sentences and substantial fines. Additionally, certain types of property—such as firearms or vehicles—automatically escalate a theft charge to a felony regardless of their monetary worth. 3. Legal Consequences and Long-Term Implications Regardless of whether an individual faces charges for shoplifting or felony theft, both come with serious legal repercussions that can affect one's future prospects. A misdemeanor conviction might lead to probation and community service but having any form of criminal record can hinder opportunities for employment, housing, and educational loans for years to come. Felony convictions pose even steeper challenges due to longer imprisonment periods and harsher social stigmas attached post-release. 4. Strategies for Defense Against Theft Charges If you find yourself accused of shoplifting or facing felony theft accusations in Savannah, it’s imperative to seek experienced legal representation immediately. An adept attorney like those at The Law Office of Kurtis C. Bronston understands how pivotal evidence examination is—whether it's scrutinizing surveillance footage for inconsistencies or challenging witness testimonies—to build a robust defense strategy tailored specifically for your situation. 5. Preventive Measures and Community Awareness Educating oneself about lawful conduct within retail settings can be an effective preventive measure against unintended wrongdoing leading to shoplifting charges inadvertently incurred through misunderstandings rather than malicious intent—a situation surprisingly common among first-time offenders young adults who might not fully grasp all aspects surrounding what constitutes punishable behavior under existing statutes currently enforced statewide today. Understanding the distinctions between shoplifting and felony theft in Georgia is crucial for anyone proceeding through the state's legal landscape. Both offenses have serious consequences and can impact an individual's life, affecting future job prospects, housing opportunities, and more. It's vital to be informed about what constitutes these types of theft and to be aware of the potential legal pitfalls. Should you ever find yourself facing theft charges, seeking knowledgeable legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At The Law Office of Kurtis C. Bronston, LLC, we are committed to helping you comprehend your rights and craft a strong defense, ensuring that you are not unfairly penalized under Georgia law. By fostering community awareness and promoting legal education, we hope to prevent unnecessary legal ordeals and help individuals lead lawful lives.

Defending against dUI charges with a top dui defense attorney