Criminal Law
Accused of a Crime? Need assistance navigating the complex criminal proceedings facing you? Our lawyers will help ensure that you receive the best possible results. In cases where evidence of criminal misconduct is strong, the best outcome may be a significantly reduced jail sentence or probation instead of jail time, while in cases where evidence of culpability is questionable, the dropping of the case or a not guilty verdict is the expected outcome.
Criminal offenses and proceedings fall into two broad categories: federal offenses and proceedings and state offenses and proceedings. Federal criminal procedure applies to all 50 states, whereas state criminal procedure varies by state. Seeking private legal counsel remains the best way to ensure that your case receives the attention that it deserves and results in the best possible outcome.
Resources for Georgia Criminal Law:
Differences between Civil and Criminal Law in the US
Because of famous criminal trials and television dramas, criminal law is better known than civil law. As a result, people commonly misapply principles of criminal law to civil law. The link above presents an essay that elucidates the differences between criminal and civil law.
The Federal Rules of Evidence typically govern U.S. civil and criminal proceedings and bankruptcy proceedings that occur before U.S. judges and magistrates. Upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court and occasionally amended by Congress, the rules have the power of statute.
Crimes and Criminal Procedures, Title 18 – United States Code
This link contains the body of statutes and laws that define conduct which is legally prohibited because it harms or endangers the safety and welfare of the public. In addition to defining criminal conduct, the document establishes punishment guidelines for those who act criminally.
Federal Sentencing Guidelines Manuals
The United States Sentencing Commission is an independent judicial agency that establishes sentencing policies for the federal courts. In addition to setting punishment guidelines for federal offenders, the commission assists Congress and the Executive Branch in developing effective crime policy, and distributes information on federal crime to serve as a resource for Congress, the Executive Branch, the Court system, criminal justice practitioners, academia and the public.
Office for Victims of Crime (OVC)
The Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) established the Office for Victims of Crime in 1984. Overseeing multiple programs that aid crime victims, the OVC provides significant funding for victim assistance and victim compensation programs.
National Center for Victims of Crime
The National Center for Victims of Crime works to ensure that crime victims receive the assistance that they need to pursue justice and begin the healing process. The center offers a variety of nationwide and state specific resources.
