If your teenager has been charged with simple battery in Smyrna, Georgia, you’re probably worried about their future and whether they could face time behind bars. The potential consequences of a criminal conviction are serious, but the outcome of your child’s case will depend on several key factors.
Here’s what you need to know about simple battery charges for teens in Smyrna and how an experienced criminal and juvenile defense attorney can help.
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-23), simple battery is defined as either:
This means that even a push, shove, or slap could lead to a simple battery charge if the contact was intentional and offensive. Simple battery is typically a misdemeanor offense, but it can be charged as a “high and aggravated” misdemeanor or even a felony if certain aggravating factors are present, such as the victim being a pregnant woman or an elderly person.
For teenagers under 17 accused of simple battery in Smyrna, their case will likely be handled in juvenile court. The juvenile justice system prioritizes rehabilitation and treatment over punishment. For a juvenile with no prior history, incarceration is not an option for the judge as part of an initial sentence. However, if the youth is put on probation in a way that does not set them up for success, they could be incarcerated for a violation of probation.
On the other hand, 17-year-olds charged with simple battery in Georgia are considered adults in the criminal justice system. This means they could face the same penalties as any other adult defendant, including potential jail time. This is generally determined by the seriousness of the situation and any prior legal history the youth may have.
Whether your child’s case is in juvenile or adult court, having an experienced defense attorney is crucial. A skilled lawyer who focuses on defending teens can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate with the prosecutor’s office for reduced charges or alternative sentencing, and advocate for your child’s future.
For those 17 years old or older, simple battery cases in Smyrna are prosecuted in Cobb County State Court. Potential penalties in State Court include:
However, an arrest and charge don’t necessarily mean a conviction will follow. There may be strong defenses in your child’s case, such as acting in self-defense, lack of evidence, or violations of their constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation. An experienced Smyrna criminal defense attorney can assess the unique facts of your child’s case and build a compelling defense strategy.
If your child is under 17 and charged with simple battery in Smyrna, their case will generally be adjudicated in Cobb County Juvenile Court. The court process differs from adult criminal court in several ways:
Potential outcomes in juvenile court may include:
Our juvenile defense lawyers can guide your family through the complex and emotionally challenging court process while fighting for the best possible outcome. In many cases, an attorney can help your child secure a resolution that focuses on addressing underlying issues and putting them on a better path forward.
For those 17 and older, a simple battery conviction can have lasting impacts on your teenager’s life. A criminal record can affect college admissions, scholarship eligibility, employment opportunities, professional licensing, and more.
That’s why it’s so important to proactively defend against these charges and seek to avoid a conviction whenever possible. If your child’s case has already been adjudicated, an experienced attorney can explore post-conviction relief options such as record restriction or sealing to minimize the long-term damage.
No parent wants to see their child faced with a criminal charge, but it’s important not to lose hope. With skilled legal representation and a customized defense strategy, your child can overcome this situation and move forward with their life.
At Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm, we have years of experience defending people in their teens and twenties against simple battery and other criminal charges in Smyrna and throughout Cobb County and surrounding areas. We understand what’s at stake for your child’s future and are committed to providing the highest quality legal representation.
When you choose our firm, every step we take will be guided by your family’s goals. If we work together, we will develop a strategy that is in alignment with your goals, which may include having our team:
If your teenager is facing a simple battery charge in Smyrna, don’t wait to get the legal help they need. Contact us to request a consultation with our team.
Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm
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