Zimmerman and Associates Blog Articles
How are White-Collar Crimes Classified in GA?
Georgia law classifies most criminal cases according to the severity of the actus reus (criminal act). For example, simple assault is usually a misdemeanor, and aggravated assault is usually a felony.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Basic Dos and Don'ts of Contract Drafting
Poorly drafted contracts are legally valid if they meet the basic requirements. However, poorly drafted contracts are often unenforceable. Or, more properly, poorly drafted contracts are subject to interpretation.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
Top Three Crimes Involved in Civil Cases
Sometimes, civil and criminal matters are separate and distinct. Other times, civil and criminal matters are like John Lennon and Paul McCartney. The Beatles would not have existed without both.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Subsequent DUIs in Georgia: A Closer Look
Some jurisdictions permit DUI defendants to quickly put past mistakes behind them and move on with their lives. But Georgia has a ten-year lookback period.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Happens if You Skip Bail?
In most cases, if you skip bail, the court issues a bench warrant, which is basically an arrest warrant on steroids. Bench warrants combine court orders and standard arrest warrants.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is Invasion of Privacy?
Georgia law prohibits the unauthorized viewing of financial and other similar personal records. Basically, O.C.G.A. § 16-9-93 is the criminal version of a data breach. Frequently, invasion of privacy and the tort of data breach overlap.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Constitutes Stalking in GA?
The offense of stalking, as outlined in O.C.G.A. § 16-5-90(a)(1) of the Georgia Code, has three basic elements. Subsection (a)(2), which has a much more lenient intent requirement, is violating a restraining or other protective order.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is the Difference Between White-Collar Crime and Blue-Collar Crime?
White-collar and blue-collar crimes have some similarities and differences. In this article our Norcross criminal defense attorneys explain both types of crime in depth as well as the penalties.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What to Do if You are Accused of Credit Card Fraud
Modern payment methods have all but eliminated some kinds of credit card fraud, such as skimming. Fraudsters installed illegal skimmers on magnetic swipers to steal credit card information.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Do You Get Your License Taken Away if You Get a DUI in GA?
Like most other jurisdictions, Georgia is an implied consent state. Drivers agree to provide chemical samples upon demand when they sign their licenses. If they refuse, or if the test shows a level above the legal limit, the state will suspend their license.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Holiday DUIs By the Numbers
Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years are times of considerable celebration for many people. They are also times of considerable pain for many people. As a result, it’s unsurprising that 25% of adults admit they consume too much alcohol during the winter holidays.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What are Fraud Disputes?
Fraud, intentionally misstating a current material fact to produce unlawful gain, violates civil and criminal laws in Georgia. The primary difference between these disputes, aside from the burden of proof, is the role of the alleged fraud victim.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
When You Have Debt in a Marriage, are Both Spouses Responsible?
Mortgage debt, credit card debt, and student loans constitute almost all the $17 trillion in household debt. During the marriage, the spouse listed as the debtor is technically responsible for debt repayment. Most spouses disperse these funds from a joint checking account.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Can You Still Vote in GA with a Criminal Record?
Over four million Georgians, or roughly 40% of the adult population, have criminal records. These criminal records include everything from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Are There Different Levels of Drug Crimes?
The severity of penalties for drug crimes depends on the type and quantity of the controlled substance involved, whether you have prior criminal convictions, and whether there is evidence that you intended to convey the drug to other people.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What are the Consequences in GA for Disturbing the Peace?
Being annoying is not a crime. If you could be charged criminally just for being noisy and rambunctious, then we would all have served time in jail before reaching adulthood.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Constitutes Vandalism?
Vandalism, which is the intentional damage to, or destruction of, another person’s property, can be charged as criminal trespass, which is a misdemeanor, or criminal damage to property, which is a felony.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Was it Domestic Violence or Self Defense?
Family violence incidents are among the most common types of calls that police officers receive. You spend a lot of time at home with your family, and they are the ones who see you at your worst, so the chances that you will get into a heated argument that turns physical are greater with your close family members than with anyone else.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
I Have Been Accused of a Cybercrime, Now What?
These days, people use computers in all aspects of life. In fact, you have probably recently used a computer to comply with a law; perhaps you filed your taxes online or used the Internet to pay a traffic ticket or renew your driver’s license.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Why are NDAs Important?
Non-disclosure agreements enable businesses to pursue their goals by sharing information freely among decision-makers within the organization while ensuring that the employees who are party to this confidential information do not share it with others.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
Can I Get My Record Expunged?
Many of us have experiences in our past that we would love to erase. More people than you realize are probably keeping painful secrets about long-ago mistakes that they are afraid to talk about, and you probably have no way of finding out.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What are Common Fraud Disputes?
Accusations of fraud can involve falsification of business records, deceptive business practices, or online scams that target vulnerable people.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
I Have Been Accused of Forgery, What Should I Do?
If you are facing criminal charges for forgery, you should meet with a criminal defense lawyer to discuss defenses that might apply to your case.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Is There a Way Around Non-Competes?
In Georgia, non-compete agreements are only applicable to certain categories of employees, but if you are one of those types of employees, then the non-compete agreement you signed is probably legally enforceable.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
What are the Laws Surrounding Breach of Contracts in GA?
If you can prove that you signed a legally valid contract and the other party did not fulfill its contractual obligations, you can sue for damages equal to the amount of money you lost as a result of the breach.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
I Have Been Accused of Credit Card Fraud: What Should I Do?
You may be able to defend yourself against charges of credit card fraud by arguing that you were not the one who made the fraudulent transaction or stole the credit card information or by arguing that the cardholder gave you permission to make the transaction.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is the Difference Between an NDA and a Non-Compete?
A non-disclosure agreement prohibits you from revealing confidential information about your work during or after your term of employment, whereas a non-compete agreement places restrictions on the employment you may seek in the first year or two after your current job ends.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
What is Identity Theft?
Identity theft is possessing another person’s identifying information without the victim’s consent or using someone else’s identifying information for your own financial gain or to defraud a third party.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What if I am Accused of Using Counterfeit Money?
Possessing or spending counterfeit money is a felony, punishable by a prison sentence, but you may be able to argue that you did not know that the money was fake or that you did not intend to spend it for fraudulent purposes.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is Cyber Stalking?
Most people do things online, including stalking other people, that they would never do in person. Therefore, cyber stalking is not only common, it is also often worse than live stalking.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Breathalyzer results, which are based on ancient technology, are often inadmissible.
Some people think that if they fail a chemical test, they are automatically guilty of DUI. Indeed, the conviction rate in test cases is significantly higher than the conviction rate in non-test cases.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in CriminalLaw
What Happens to My Retirement Account After a Divorce?
Since they are marital assets, retirement accounts in Georgia are subject to equitable division upon divorce. Only the increase during the marriage is marital property.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
What is a Non-Disclosure Agreement?
In a nutshell, companies use non-disclosure agreements, which are also known as confidentiality agreements, to protect their intellectual property, mostly trade secrets and customer lists. Freelancers and remote workers almost always sign NDAs, since they have unsupervised access to the company’s trade secrets.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
What Does a Business Litigation Attorney Do?
In Georgia, almost anyone can file a lawsuit against almost any business, whether that action is meritorious. So, about 90% of the small businesses in Norcross County face at least one lawsuit sometime during their operation.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
Where Does Money Laundering Happen Most?
International authorities have cracked down on money laundering since 9/11. However, the practice, which is basically converting stolen or otherwise illicit funds into legitimate funds, is still common in a few far-flung and or/chaotic countries, such as Mozambique, Laos, Myanmar, Afghanistan, Liberia, and Haiti.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Happens to Minors if They are Charged with Forgery?
The same criminal laws apply in juvenile court and adult court. Additionally, forgery has the same collateral consequences in juvenile and adult court.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Juvenile Defense
Who Can Be Prosecuted for Tax Evasion?
In recent years, the tax gap (difference between federal income taxes owed and federal income taxes paid) has swollen to about $600 billion per year.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Is it Worth Fighting a DUI Charge?
We usually hear this question if the defendant provided a breath or blood sample. Georgia, like most other states, has a per se DUI law.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Should You Speak With the Police When You Are Detained?
There are two schools of thought on this question. Each one has a good point.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in riminal Law
What is Healthcare Fraud and How is it Committed?
Almost any kind of fraud, which is basically a material misstatement made for the purposes of obtaining a pecuniary gain (lying for money), is a crime in Georgia.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is Fraud?
Under Georgia law, fraud is basically a misrepresentation of a material fact that is made with the intent to obtain an unlawful financial gain.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony in Georgia?
As outlined below, the biggest difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is the range of punishment. As importantly, many people view misdemeanors and felonies differently.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What are the Penalties for Getting a DUI in Georgia?
According to one recent survey, Georgia has the second-toughest DUI laws in the country. There are some questions about whether these laws are effective.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is Forgery?
Under Georgia law, forgery is basically altering a document to obtain a financial benefit. Non-check forgery is usually a first or second-degree felony, regardless of the amount at issue.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Three Most Common Kinds of Credit Card Fraud
In the e-commerce era, bank card fraud has increased significantly. In fact, 65% of Americans have been the victims of credit or debit card fraud at one time or another. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Crininal Law
What is Tax Evasion?
From a legal perspective, there is a big difference between “nonpayment” and “evasion.” Tax nonpayment simply means the taxpayer did not pay the full amount owed by the deadline.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Happens if I Get Arrested for a Restraining Order Violation?
Arrests for restraining order violations are on the rise in Gwinnett County, mostly because judges issued more restraining orders during pandemic lockdowns.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Defending Charges of Driving Under the Influence as a Minor in GA
Underage DUIs are more difficult to defend in Georgia than other DUIs, mostly because the BAC requirement, .02, is much lower. 0.02 is the Breathalyzer’s margin of error, assuming the gadget is properly calibrated.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Juvenile Defense
Are the Police Allowed to Search My Vehicle?
Not unless they have a valid search warrant, or a narrow search warrant exception applies. The Fourth Amendment guarantees the right to be free from unreasonable law enforcement searches.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What are the Rules of Probation?
In the United States, the first rules of probation emerged in Boston in the 1870s. Beginning in the 1830s, John Augustus, a local philanthropist, convinced Beantown judges to release criminal offenders, mostly “drunkards,” into his custody, so he could help them pull things together.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
I Was Not Read My Miranda Rights: Was My Arrest Legal?
Until 2010, the answer to this question was a resounding “no.” Then, the Supreme Court decided Berghuis v. Thompkins. Police officers in Southfield, a Detroit suburb, picked up Van Chester Thompkins on suspicion of murder.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How Long Does Alcohol Stay on Your Breath?
Generally, alcohol particles remain in the breath for longer than it takes the body to process and remove three or four drinks, which is between 12 and 24 hours.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Grand Theft Auto Consequences and Penalties in Georgia
Felony auto theft is one of the most common crimes in Georgia. These offenses could be misdemeanors or felonies, mostly depending on the vehicle’s value.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Goes Into Determining the Bail Amount?
Bail amount determinations have changed significantly over the past few years, as the number of unsentenced inmates in county jails has increased significantly, as well. Georgia has one of the highest percentages of unsentenced inmates in the country.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How Often Do Parole Hearings Occur?
Usually, after inmates serve a third of their sentences, the Parole Board considers individual cases at least once a year.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Five Crimes Commonly Caused by Alcohol Drug Abuse
Regardless of the level of substance abuse from drugs or alcohol, a Norcross criminal defense attorney can often successfully resolve these five common charges.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
When Can a Juvenile Be Charged in Adult Court?
When determining which court a young person will face charges in, 13 and 17 are the two key ages in this area. As a matter of law in Georgia, children under 13 cannot form criminal intent in their minds.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Juvenile Defense
What is the Difference Between a Criminal Defense Lawyer and a Public Defender?
In many ways and in many situations, there is not much difference between a private criminal defense lawyer and a public defender.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Can the Police Arrest You for at a Protest?
One thing that police cannot arrest protestors for, at least under current law, is filming police officers with a cell phone or other camera.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is Drug Court and How Does it Work in GA?
If you thought the War on Drugs was over, think again. That is especially true for drug possession offenses.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How Can Being a First-Time Offender Affect Your Case and Penalties?
By itself, first-time offender status means little. For the most part, these defendants get no special treatment.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What if I am Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence?
Usually, a false accusation means one of two things. The alleged victim fabricated the allegations, or there is not enough evidence to convict the defendant. Alleged victims very rarely fabricate domestic violence allegations.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Consequences for Marijuana Possession in GA
Except in cities where it is decriminalized or if you have a medical cannabis card, possession of less than an ounce of marijuana is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, and possession of greater amounts is a felony.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How Common Are DUI Checkpoints in GA?
When a police officer pulls you over for a traffic stop, your emotions may range from annoyance to fear.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Charges for Battery Against a Police Officer
Battery against a police officer is a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature, and the penalties for a conviction include up to a year in jail.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is a No-Knock Warrant?
Home is where people feel the safest. One of the scariest things that a lot of people can imagine is someone breaking into your house while you are home, especially if you are asleep.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Alternatives to Jail Time for Drug Charges in Georgia
Jail is not the only alternative following a drug conviction. Our Norcross drug charge defense lawyers at Zimmerman Associates, Attorneys at Law explain the alternatives.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Can Body Cam Footage Be Used Against You in a Criminal Case?
Prosecutors can use body cam footage during a criminal case if the defendant waived certain constitutional rights and the gadget was working properly at the time.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Most Common Criminal Traffic Offenses in Georgia?
Non-moving and moving traffic violations in Georgia could mean high fines, driver’s license suspension, and higher insurance rates. Some of the most common include the following.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Happens if I Receive a DUI in a Different State?
A prior foreign conviction may raise a first DUI to a second, a second to a third, and so on. Aggressive prosecutors usually use a prior conviction to enhance charges.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Are There License Suspensions for Refusing a Blood, Breath or Urine Test in GA?
If you are arrested for DUI, the state may suspend your driver’s license if you refuse to provide a chemical sample of your blood, breath, or urine.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Driving Under the Influence in GA
In Georgia, any motorist who has a blood alcohol content (BAC) level higher than what is allowed under the law, can be charged with driving under the influence if they operate or have control of a vehicle.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Can DUI Convictions Change in GA?
If you have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI), it is imperative that you work with a Georgia criminal defense lawyer from the very beginning of your case.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What are the Penalties for Having Drugs in Your Car in GA?
The State of Georgia takes drug crimes very seriously. The penalties individuals face upon conviction vary depending on the nature of the crime, the type of drug, and the amount the person possessed at the time.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What are the Penalties for Public Intoxication in Georgia?
Having one too many drinks can happen while engaging in your favorite recreational activities, enjoying an evening out with friends, or attending celebrations.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Can Ex-Felons Vote in Georgia?
Felony offenses are the most serious types of crimes in Georgia. A conviction carries severe penalties, including heavy fines and a potentially lengthy prison sentence.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Happens to Students Who are Arrested for Possession of Prescription Drugs?
Possession of prescription drugs carries serious penalties for students.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Juvenile Defense
How Do I Get a Police Report After a Car Accident in Atlanta?
The best way to get a police report after a car accident is to contact the police department in the city or county where the accident occurred.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury
Do I Still Have to Pay Alimony if I am Unemployed?
If you have been laid off or unfairly fired from your job, or if you have stopped working because you became disabled, you can petition the court to modify your alimony order so that you can reduce the alimony amount or terminate your alimony obligations early.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
The Legal Rights of Adoptive Parents After Divorce
If you and your ex-spouse legally adopted children together during your marriage, you have the right to spend time with them pursuant to a parenting plan after you get divorced.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
What Constitutes a Breach of Contract in GA?
According to Georgia law, you can sue someone for breach of contract if you signed a legally valid contract with them and they did not abide by the terms of the contract.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
Why Do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney?
Whether you have been charged with assault, impaired driving, or another crime, you are likely very worried about your future[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Criminal Actions are Considered White Collar Crimes?
Some of the most common white-collar crimes in Georgia include wire fraud, mail fraud, identity theft, money laundering, embezzlement, and insider trading.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Steps to Take After a Credit Card Fraud Charge in Atlanta
If someone makes a fraudulent charge on your credit card, you should file a police report and notify the credit card company and the credit reporting agencies; if you are being accused of making fraudulent credit card transactions, you should contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Is There a Way to Tell if There is a Warrant Out for My Arrest in GA?
The procedures for requesting information about search warrants vary from one county to another, but the way to find out if there is a warrant out for your arrest is to contact the sheriff’s department in the county or counties where you believe that you are being suspected of committing a crime. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Defense
What is Forgery? What are the Consequences of Forgery in GA?
Forgery involves committing some type of fraud either against a person, group, or institution. It includes falsifying important documents, personal identification, or works of art, and illegally copying and using someone’s signature.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What to Do if Accused of a Crime
Our Gwinnett County criminal defense attorney explains what you need to know if you are accused of a crime in Georgia.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Importance of Police Reports in an Accident
Car accidents in Gwinnett County can leave you suffering potentially devastating personal injuries [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury
What is Money Laundering?
Our Gwinnett County criminal defense attorneys explain more about money laundering and the serious penalties you could face if charged with this type of crime. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Should I Do If I am a Crime Witness?
To protect yourself against threats or having criminal charges filed against you, contact our Gwinnett County criminal defense attorney right away if you are a witness to a crime. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is Overcriminalization and is it a Problem?
Our Gwinnett County criminal defense attorneys explain how overcriminalization impacts individual rights, and rather than protecting public safety, makes everyone a criminal. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How to Get Parental Rights as a Father if You are Not Married to the Child’s Mother
If you were not married to the child’s mother when the child was born, you must legally legitimate the child before you can have any right to parenting time or decision making authority about the child’s upbringing. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Most Common Juvenile Crimes Committed in Georgia
More than half of juvenile criminal cases in Georgia involve either property crimes, such as theft or vandalism, or violent crimes, such as assault. Georgia is one of the toughest states when it comes to criminal cases where the defendants are minors.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Juvenile Defense
Is Credit Card Fraud Protected by Federal Law?
Money is tight for everyone these days, so it only makes sense to review your credit card statements and the transaction records on your bank accounts frequently to make sure that no vendors have overcharged you for purchases that you made and to check for unauthorized transactions. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Is a White Collar Crime Criminal or Civil?
In some situations, threatening to call the police and having someone arrested is a credible threat, but in others, it makes more sense to threaten to sue them. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How Much Money is Considered Money Laundering?
Money laundering is more about the intent than the amount of money, but you will likely be investigated for money laundering if you bring more than $10,000 in cash into or out of the United States, deposit $10,000 or more in cash into a bank account, or if you spend more than $300,000 in cash on a real estate purchase. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Damages You Can Claim in a Slip and Fall Case
Slip and fall accidents get played for laughs in cartoons, but in real life, it is possible to sustain life-changing injuries if you fall on a slippery or poorly maintained floor or walkway. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury Law
What Should I Do if I am Accused of Identity Theft?
Georgia Code 121 defines the crime of identity theft as the use or possession of another person’s identifying information, with the intent to fraudulently use that without that person’s consent. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is the Difference Between Tax Fraud and Tax Evasion?
Math and unexpected financial losses are two things that most people dread, so filing income tax returns fill most of us with trepidation. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
What to Do if Someone Breaches a Contract
Contracts are an essential part of doing business. Since incorporating your business, you have probably signed contracts with business partners, vendors, landlords, clients, and employees. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
How Often Does Credit Card Fraud Occur and What are the Signs it Has Happened to You?
The good news is that credit card companies go out of their way to prevent credit card fraud because no business can survive without trustworthiness, and they do not want a reputation for causing customers financial hardship by leaving them vulnerable to credit card fraud. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What are the Consequences for Forgery in Georgia?
A note home from the teacher about classroom misbehavior or a poor grade on an assignment has stricken fear in the heart of many an elementary school student, especially the part at the bottom where the student’s parent must sign the note before the student returns it to the teacher.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
If a Crime Takes Place in More Than One State, Can Each State Prosecute?
If you are accused of committing the same crime in more than one state, you can be charged, tried, convicted, and sentenced in each of those states.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Why Does Credit Card Fraud Happen So Often?
Credit card fraud, which means using a credit card without the card holder's consent, is common because it is hard to detect with online transactions. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What are the Most Common White Collar Crimes Committed?
Being accused of a financial crime has serious consequences. If you are facing criminal charges for a white collar crime, it is essential to have an experienced attorney by your side. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How are Hit and Run Accidents Defined in GA?
Georgia law defines hit and run as leaving the scene of an accident without first providing your name, address, and vehicle information to the other driver and ensuring that people injured in the accident receive medical attention.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is the Difference Between White Collar and Blue-Collar Crime?
The terms “white collar” and “blue-collar” originally referred to different types of jobs. White collar jobs are office jobs, where the workers wear business suits, and blue-collar jobs are manual labor jobs, where the workers wear dark colored uniforms that do not easily show the dirt.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
Does GA Have a Second Chance Act?
As of 2021, Georgia’s Second Chance Act enables you to restrict and seal the records of most types of misdemeanor convictions, as long as four years have passed since you completed your sentence, and you have not gotten any new convictions during that time.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Medical Marijuana Laws Could Expand Under New Bill
In Georgia, the demand for legal cannabis has vastly outpaced the supply. The problem is not just that Georgia has yet to decriminalize cannabis possession at the state level.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is Computer Trespass in GA?
The most valuable things that most of us own are not things; they are pieces of information stored in cyberspace or on computer hard drives.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Can I Expunge My Record Under SB 288?
The way that arrests show up on your record every time you apply for a job or an apartment lease almost defeats the purpose of the presumption of innocence.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
New GA Law Helps End Probation Early
People who have served three years of a probation sentence without new arrests or probation violations and kept up with fees will be eligible to have the court review their cases for termination of probation.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How a Lawyer Can Help in Setting Up Your New Business
When you have a great idea for a business, you are understandably eager to get started marketing your products or services.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
Georgia Repeals Citizen’s Arrest Law
In order to prevent crimes like the one that claimed the life of Ahmaud Arbery, Georgia has enacted a new law that prevents citizen’s arrest, except in the case of store employees who have witnessed shoplifting and restaurant employees who have witnessed “dine and dash” incidents.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
GA Fights Street Racing with New Law
House Bill 534, which was signed into law on May 3, 2021, enables the State of Georgia to suspend the drivers’ licenses and seize the vehicles of people convicted of “reckless stunt driving,” with prison time possible for repeat offenses.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Is Tax Evasion a Felony or Misdemeanor?
While tax evasion and other forms of tax fraud are white-collar crimes, they still carry serious penalties, including jail time. If you have been charged with tax evasion for failing to file tax returns, understating your income, or any other unlawful activity, you need to contact a Norcross white-collar crime attorney to protect your reputation, rights, and freedom.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
How Does Georgia Define a White-Collar Crime?
White-collar crimes are non-violent financial crimes usually committed in commercial situations for financial gain. Even though victims of white-collar crimes are not physically injured[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How Can Divorce Affect My 401k?
Going through a divorce is never easy. Even if both you and your spouse agree to end the marriage and are on relatively amicable terms, matters dealt with in Gwinnett County divorce proceedings have the potential to impact you for years into the future [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
How and Why Does Battery Against a Police Officer Differ?
Disagreements with others can quickly devolve into physical altercations. Regardless of the circumstances or the extent of the harm done, you could find yourself facing serious criminal charges as a result [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How Does Credit Card Debt Complicate a Divorce?
When getting a divorce in Gwinnett County, issues pertaining to money and property have the potential to impact your ability to recover financially in the aftermath [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
How Long Do I Have to Pay Alimony in GA?
In addition to the stress of going through a divorce in Georgia and the impact it has on your family, orders issued in these proceedings can jeopardize your financial security for years afterward [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
What Can a Criminal Lawyer Do That I Can't Do?
Both misdemeanor and felony crimes are a serious matter in Georgia. If convicted, you could be facing heavy fines, court costs, and a potentially lengthy jail sentence [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is Felony Disenfranchisement?
Criminal charges for felony crimes in Georgia are a serious matter. They involve heavy fines and court costs, a potentially lengthy prison sentence, and a criminal record that follows you the rest of your life, impacting your ability to obtain housing, jobs, and an education. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Fraudulent Loan Applications for Pandemic Disaster Relief Funds
While fraud is often considered a so-called ‘white collar crime,’ it is a serious matter that could result in criminal charges, both in Georgia and on a federal level. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What is Parental Alienation?
Child custody cases are among the most controversial and hotly contested cases in the Georgia Courts [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Supreme Court Weighs Ruling That Could Make Cyber Crime Charges More Common
Most of us end up spending a considerable portion of our days online. Between cell phones, tablets, and computers you use at work, it is easy for the lines between personal and professional use to become blurred. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How Does Custody Work When a Child is Adopted?
For divorcing parents and those who are unmarried but living apart, child custody proceedings in Norcross can generate a lot of fear. In addition to ensuring your child’s health and safety, you want to be sure your rights as a parent and your relationship with them are protected. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
You can Still Vote in GA with a Criminal Record
Driving through any neighborhood in Atlanta or the surrounding areas, you are bound to see signs promoting political candidates who are running in upcoming local, state, and national elections. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Have You Been Mistaken for a Criminal with a Digital Fingerprint?
Most of us spend large amounts of time online. Whether we use a cellphone, tablet, or a desktop computer, every time we go on the internet we leave a trail behind that acts as a digital fingerprint. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Have You Been Affected by a No-Knock Warrant?
A no-knock warrant is a type of search warrant that is used against people facing potential criminal charges. It allows the police to enter a suspect’s home without knocking and announcing themselves or their intent to enter first. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Will GA be Affected by Congress Vote on Marijuana?
Marijuana reform laws are sweeping the nation, but the country continues to be a patchwork concerning where the drug is or is not allowed.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Crime on the Rise with No End in Sight for COVID-19
Ongoing concern over the COVID-19 pandemic is wreaking havoc on communities in a variety of ways. In addition to financial concerns due to job losses, there are increased mental health issues due to being isolated and the fears associated with contracting the virus. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
GA to Crack Down on COVID-19 Scams
COVID-19 remains a topic of concern for residents in Georgia and across the United States. Case counts are soaring, and the pandemic continues to create problems. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Earn Rewards for Not Driving Distracted
Despite changes in state laws and increased public awareness, distracted driving continues to be one of the leading causes of car accidents. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury
How Will Voluntary Homeschooling be Affected with New Proposed Law?
Prior to concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, plenty of people opted for homeschooling in Georgia.[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Family Law & Unilateral Relocation
At Zimmerman & Associates, we help to protect your rights as a parent in child custody proceedings. To request a consultation, contact our Norcross family law attorneys today. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Does GA Have Common Law Marriage?
Common law marriages from other states are recognized in GA. In the event a couple in this situation decides to part ways, they will need an experienced Gwinnett County family law attorney to iron out any disputes that may arise. [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Changes to Child Support Due to Covid-19
As a result of business closures and stay-at-home orders due to COVID-19, many people have either gotten laid-off from their jobs, been furloughed, or suffered significant financial losses[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Can Asset Division in a Divorce be Affected by Receiving a Stimulus Check?
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted every area of life for residents of Gwinnett County. In addition to the health concerns associated with COVID-19, there are the financial ramifications of business closures due to stay-at-home orders[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
How is the Virus Outbreak Affecting Domestic Abuse Victims?
Stay-at-home orders and business closures due to the coronavirus pandemic have left many people feeling fearful and frustrated. For some, the risk of infection is not the only danger they face[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
The Threat of COVID-19 on Child Custody
COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, has dramatically affected every aspect of day to day life in Gwinnett County, and throughout the state of Georgia[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Concerns for Employers During COVID-19 Shutdown
Businesses are facing massive disruptions as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Efforts to ‘flatten the curve’ and reduce the potential for community spread has caused many companies to shut down, either due to government orders or dramatic downturns in business[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
What Employers Should Know About the COVID-19 Outbreak
The coronavirus has dramatically changed daily life in Georgia and across the United States. As schools, businesses, and government agencies close in response to state mandates and the urging of public health officials, lawmakers have focused on allocating funds to where they are most needed [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Corporate Law
Estate Planning More Important Now With COVID-19
Schools and many businesses in Gwinnett County are closed now in an effort to reduce community spread of COVID-19, otherwise known as the coronavirus [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
How Will the Senate Stimulus Package Affect Businesses and Unemployment?
The coronavirus has dramatically changed daily life in Georgia and across the United States. As schools, businesses, and government agencies close in response to state mandates and the urging of public health officials, lawmakers have focused on allocating funds to where they are most needed [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury
Damages You Can Claim for a Slip and Fall Case
Slips and falls are one of the most common types of accidents. Personal injuries you sustain as a result can leave you facing serious damages, which include being unable to work while facing a mountain of medical expenses[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury
Controversial Gang-Crime Bill May Charge Teens as Adults
Gang-related crimes have become an increasingly common problem in Gwinnett County and throughout the state of Georgia. These often involve juvenile offenders, who face pressure from their peers to join gangs and to engage in illegal activity[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Defining Theft Burglary & Robbery in GA
Due to the fact that people often consider theft, burglary, and robbery as all theft crimes, many people think that they legally mean the same thing and use the terms interchangeably. However, there are some distinct differences[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Atlanta Police Chief Announces No More Police Chases
Atlanta has a crime problem, and police chief Erika Shields thinks she has the answer. She has decided that her police department will no longer be chasing criminals when they use a vehicle to flee from the police[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Should You Approach a Witness After an Accident?
Accidents often happen in the midst of performing your normal, everyday tasks. One chance encounter could leave you suffering serious personal injuries as a result. Provided you can show that others involved were at fault in some way, you may be entitled to compensation for the losses you suffer in a claim[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury
Importance of Police Reports in an Accident
Car accidents and crashes involving bicyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists, or other road users are unexpected and traumatic events. You are likely to be stunned or even in a state of shock in the aftermath[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How Common are DUI Checkpoints?
Because there is a nationwide need to crack down on drinking and driving, many states are instituting programs to reduce the number of DUI drivers. However, in some cases, these practices can violate your rights and privacy[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Can I Get a DUI if I Drive High?
Georgia follows the same laws as other states in that DUI charges are not solely limited to driving under the influence of alcohol. You could be charged with a DUI if you have traces of drugs in your system [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How are Illegal Pot Operations Affecting Georgia’s Wildlife and Water?
Except under limited circumstances, marijuana remains illegal in Georgia. Still, many people want to sell and distribute it to make a profit and so, one of the only ways to do that is to grow their own [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
How Young is Too Young to Leave a Child at Home?
Many parents find that being able to leave a child at home alone is convenient, and a big change from having to take them along wherever they go[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
What Happens to Debt Accrued During a Marriage in a Divorce?
Generally, debts which either party acquired before the marriage or by assignment are nonmarital debts. Anything else is marital debt. That division seems straightforward, but it is actually quite complex in many cases [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Teenage Texts are Not Always PG
For parents today, discussing issues concerning sex with your children is complicated. Due to the amount of information available online and the sexually explicit nature of certain movies, television shows, or even commercials, they likely already know more than you suspect [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Juvenile Law
Divorce with Pets
Pets play an important role in people’s lives, to the point that they are often considered to be family members. When a marriage breaks up and spouses opt to separate, questions concerning their care and who will retain custody can get quite heated [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Can a Paternity Test Cause a Father to Lose Custody and Visitation?
When parents are no longer living together or chose to file for divorce, matters pertaining to children can be hotly contested. For fathers in this situation, paternity is a central issue[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Sex by a person with an STD can be a Crime
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) continue to be a serious public health risk. Not disclosing the fact that you are infected allows STDs to spread more easily and could actually result in criminal charges[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Can a Medical Marijuana Card Protect You in a State Where the Drug is Not Legal?
As more becomes known about the medicinal uses of marijuana, the legal landscape is changing accordingly [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
What Factors can Help or Hurt Spousal Support?
In the aftermath of a divorce, spousal support often plays an important role in the recovery process. Otherwise known as alimony in Georgia, it can help maintain your financial security and the standard of living you enjoyed during your marriage [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Steps to Take After an Accident
If you were injured in an auto accident due to someone else’s negligence, what you do after the accident can have an impact on how successful your injury claim is[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury
Why it is Not Smart to Talk About an Accident on Social Media
There is no escaping the fact that we live in a digital age. We share much of our lives and activities on various social media sites to stay connected with family and friends [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury
Benefits of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
Accidents resulting in personal injuries are a common occurrence. They can happen in a variety of settings and can have a significant impact on every area of your life [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury
How Long do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?
Even minor mishaps can result in potentially serious injuries. Unfortunately, in the aftermath of an accident, the full extent of your symptoms, or any ongoing issues you are likely to suffer, may not be apparent for weeks or even months after it occurs [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Personal Injury
Can Criminal Charges Affect Visitation Rights?
When parents are divorced or are otherwise no longer living together, child custody and visitation is likely to be a major issue. Children tend to do better when both parents are actively involved in their lives and each parent has the right to spend the time needed with their child in order to form a close and loving relationship. However, the primary concern of the court in child custody cases is ensuring that the safety and well-being of the child is protected[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Do Stepparents Have Rights During a Divorce?
Considering the high rates of both divorce and remarriage, blended families are more common today than they were decades ago. Today, stepparents and stepchildren often share a relationship that is just as close as if they were related by blood [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Georgia?
It is every driver’s worst fear to see flashing blue lights in their rearview mirror. It is an even bigger problem if you have had several alcoholic beverages prior to getting behind the wheel or are under the influence of any other type of substance, including prescription medication. Being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious matter in Georgia that involves potentially severe penalties [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Can Divorce Later in Life Affect Retirement?
When making plans for retirement, you are likely to consider the benefits of being able to indulge in your favorite hobbies or pursuits, to travel more frequently, and to spend more time visiting family members and friends. In these scenarios, your spouse is likely to be by your side[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Six Important Steps to Getting a Divorce
Contemplating the end of your marriage is a stressful and emotional time. Even in the most amicable of situations, it represents a significant loss[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Can a Domestic Violence Charge Affect My Child Custody Agreement in GA?
Child custody matters are among the most heated proceedings dealt with in the Georgia family courts. While personal issues between the parties involved often complicate matters when making child custody and visitation arrangements, the fact is that each parent has certain rights when it comes to their role as a parent. Domestic violence accusations do impact these rights, but even parents facing these types of charges may still be entitled to spend time with their children [...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
What are the Grounds for Divorce in Georgia?
The end of a marriage is never easy. However, it is one thing when spouses simply grow apart over the years and decide to separate, as opposed to when one of them is engaged in hurtful or potentially dangerous conduct[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
Does it Matter Who Files for Divorce First?
Going through the breakup of a marriage is never easy, nor is making the decision to file for divorce. While you may want to take every opportunity to work out the problems you and your spouse are facing, the fact is that there can be disadvantages to waiting too long to initiate the required paperwork[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Family Law
DUI in Georgia but Live in Another State?
Being charged with a DUI is almost always an upsetting and stressful experience and may result in serious legal consequences. What can make things more complicated and overwhelming, though, is getting an out-of-state DUI[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Will Criminal Charges Affect My Driver’s License?
Depending on the charge you are facing, your criminal charge can certainly affect your driver’s license – and not in a good way. Certain convictions can result in a driver’s license suspension while others can result in a revocation, which is similar, but not the same[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law
Can you Refuse a Breath or Blood Test During a DUI Stop?
Georgia, like every other state, has an implied consent law. This means that when you are a registered Georgia driver, you consent to any future requests for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) samples you receive from law enforcement. An officer may request a breath sample, a blood sample, or a urine sample[...] Continue Reading
Posted in Criminal Law