When you need help securing your release after a conviction for a crime in Atlanta, Georgia, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. With an Atlanta Parole Attorney, you can rest assured that your case is in good hands. Whether you are facing a felony charge or a misdemeanor, you will be able to find the answers you need.
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Drug Charges
If you’ve been arrested for drug possession, you may be overwhelmed by the pending charges. However, there are ways to reduce your penalties and protect your rights. The first step is to speak with a drug defense lawyer.
Drug possession charges can include anything from a misdemeanor to a felony. A misdemeanor is less serious than a felony, but can still cause a person to lose their driving privileges, be required to attend drug and alcohol treatment programs, and pay a fine. In some cases, defendants may even have the chance to participate in a drug court.
A felony conviction can have many consequences, ranging from a fine to a prison term. It can also add to a permanent record, as well as increase your chances of being deported.
Theft Charges
If you have been charged with theft in Atlanta, Georgia, you should consult with an experienced theft attorney to understand your rights and possible consequences. There are many types of theft crimes, from shoplifting to armed robbery. The resulting penalties can vary from a fine to a long prison sentence.
First time shoplifters may qualify for a plea bargain or a diversion program. Second and third offenses will likely result in a minimum of thirty days in jail. Regardless of the severity of your charges, a criminal record will have a negative impact on your future.
Conviction of a crime can have long-lasting ramifications on your employment, education, and housing. Moreover, a criminal conviction can prevent you from applying to certain career fields and professional licensure.
Other Crimes That Qualify for Parole in Georgia
Parole in Georgia is a discretionary, multi-step process. The Georgia Parole Board makes decisions on thousands of cases annually. Typically, parole is not considered until a person has served 90% of their incarceration sentence. However, there are some circumstances in which a parole decision can be made before a person has served all of their sentence.
For example, a defendant with a Crime Severity Level V or higher may be considered for parole before a full one-third of their sentence has been served. This is a relatively rare exception, but the Parole Board may decide to consider such cases before the parole eligibility date.
The Georgia Parole Board focuses on the rehabilitation of inmates. In particular, they are concerned with the safety of the offender in society. They also look into the offender’s ability to successfully maintain a job and a home.
Preparation for a Parole Review
If you’re incarcerated and want to ask for a parole review, there are several things you can do to prepare yourself. Your parole officer can help you with this process. In addition, you can visit the Southern Center for Human Rights in Atlanta. These organizations are both dedicated to providing legal assistance for inmates.
Parole reviews take place at least once every eight years, and the Board will make decisions on thousands of parole cases each year. The board can change its decision at any time.
The Parole Decision Guidelines system considers weighted factors, including the severity of the crime, the offender’s criminal history, and the risk that the offender will reoffend. This information is used to make consistent decisions.
There are also some programs the Parole Board requires its parolees to complete. Examples of these are family violence counseling and drug abuse programs.
Securing a Pardon
If you are considering getting a pardon in Atlanta, it’s essential to get the help of an attorney who knows the law. A lawyer who specializes in parole matters can help you navigate the process and secure a favorable outcome.
Paroles are a form of discretionary release from prison. However, there are strict conditions attached. The parolee must follow all instructions from his or her parole officer, agree to any requirements outlined on his or her parole certificate, and refrain from committing any crimes.
When an individual is convicted of a felony in Georgia, his or her right to possess firearms is terminated. Additionally, a conviction of a felony in Georgia removes a person from a state’s sex offender registry.
Fortunately, Georgia law allows people to request pardons after they have completed their sentence. Generally, a person must have lived a law-abiding life and have paid all fines and fees for a period of at least five years before applying.