Articles Posted in Criminal Defense

Few civil filings move as fast – or carry as much criminal exposure – as a Georgia temporary protective order. One sworn petition, signed by a Superior Court judge after an ex parte hearing, can force a respondent out of the family residence, suspend firearm rights, dictate child custody and visitation, and create a paper…

What Is an Insanity Defense? An insanity defense is an affirmative defense. The defendant admits to committing the act but argues they lacked mental capacity. They claim they could not understand what they did or tell right from wrong. Because of this mental incapacity, the defendant argues they should not face criminal responsibility. This defense…

What Is a Motion in Limine? A motion in limine is a pretrial request asking a judge to rule on whether specific evidence may be presented at trial. If the judge grants the motion, the jury never hears the excluded evidence. The term comes from Latin. "In limine" means "at the threshold" or "at the…

What Is a Terroristic Threat in Georgia? A terroristic threat is a felony offense. It occurs when a person threatens to commit a violent crime, release a hazardous substance, or burn or damage property. The threat must be made to terrorize another person, cause a building evacuation, or create serious public inconvenience. Georgia law treats…

What Is a Motion to Vacate or Modify an Order of Protection? A motion to vacate or modify an order of protection is a formal written request to a Georgia court. The request asks the court to either cancel a protective order entirely or change its specific terms. If you were just served and the…

What Counts as a First-Time Drug Offense in Georgia? A first-time drug offense is any drug-related charge, most commonly possession of a controlled substance. Drug crimes in Georgia range from misdemeanor marijuana possession to felony trafficking. It applies to people with no prior drug convictions. Georgia treats drug charges under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act.…

By Larry Kohn, Georgia Gambling Lawyer Since 1998 – Over 600 AVVO 5-Star Client Reviews Despite many attempts by lawmakers over the years to legalize gambling in Georgia most gambling is still illegal, with only a few exceptions. Georgia defines gambling as betting on sports games or contests. or playing cards, dice, or other casino-style…

By Atlanta Criminal Defense Attorney Larry Kohn, With Over 28 Years of Courtroom Experience and Over 600 5-Star AVVO Reviews Georgia criminal law in 2026 recognizes four degrees of forgery, each carrying different penalties: First Degree Forgery: Involves making, altering, or possessing any forged writing (except checks) and uttering or delivering it. Second Degree Forgery:…

By Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyer Larry Kohn – Super Lawyer 9 Years In a Row With Over 28 Years As a Top Atlanta Attorney The Georgia First Offender Act is a sentencing option that allows certain first-time misdemeanor and felony offenders to avoid a permanent mark on their criminal record. Under this act, eligible individuals…

By Atlanta Traffic Ticket Lawyer Larry Kohn With Over 28 Years of Criminal Law Experience Failure to come to a complete stop at a stop sign in Georgia is a serious traffic offense mainly because of the points that get added to your license or driving record. A conviction for this violation adds 3 points…