Recent Blog Posts
Atlanta DUI Arrest Timeline: What Happens in the First 72 Hours
An arrest for driving under the influence in Atlanta begins a legal process that unfolds quickly. The first seventy two hours after an arrest often determine how the case will proceed and what options a defendant may have. Anyone facing these charges should understand the early timeline and seek advice from experienced Atlanta DUI… Read More »
Parking Lot Hit-and-Run Confusion in Georgia: Leaving the Scene on Private Property
Many drivers assume that Georgia hit-and-run laws apply only to accidents on public roads. However, collisions that occur in parking lots, shopping centers, or other private property areas may still trigger legal obligations. Georgia hit-and-run laws, outlined in O.C.G.A. §40-6-270, generally require drivers involved in accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage to… Read More »
Fleeing and Eluding a Police Officer in Georgia: What the State Must Prove
Fleeing and eluding a police officer is a serious criminal offense under Georgia law. Governed by O.C.G.A. §40-6-395, the offense may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances. In general terms, a driver may be charged if they willfully fail or refuse to stop their vehicle after a law… Read More »
Felony Murder vs Manslaughter in Georgia: How Charges Can Change Based on the Underlying Felony
Georgia’s homicide laws contain several categories of criminal charges, each with different elements and penalties. One of the most complex distinctions involves felony murder and manslaughter. These charges often arise from the same incident but carry dramatically different legal consequences. Under this rule, as outlined in O.C.G.A. §16-5-1, a person may be charged with… Read More »
Internet Sting Operations in Georgia: What to Know About Online Decoy Investigations
Law enforcement agencies across Georgia increasingly rely on internet sting operations to investigate alleged online sexual offenses. These investigations often involve officers posing as minors or guardians in chat rooms, social media platforms, or dating applications. The goal is to identify individuals who attempt to engage in illegal communication or arrange meetings with someone… Read More »
Federal Fraud Sentencing in the Atlanta Area: What Recent Press Releases Reveal About Penalties
Federal fraud cases in the Atlanta area have resulted in increasingly severe penalties in recent years. Press releases from the U.S. Department of Justice highlight a pattern of significant prison sentences and restitution orders for individuals convicted of fraud-related offenses. These cases often involve wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy charges under statutes such… Read More »
Internal Workplace Investigations and Embezzlement Allegations: What to Do Before Speaking to HR
Internal workplace investigations into embezzlement or financial misconduct can escalate quickly. Employers often initiate these investigations after noticing irregularities in financial records or receiving internal complaints. While these investigations may seem informal, they can lead to criminal charges. Statements made during internal interviews may later be used in court. Our Atlanta criminal defense attorneys… Read More »
Money Laundering in Atlanta: Red Flags That Trigger Federal Investigations
Money laundering involves disguising the origins of illegally obtained funds to make them appear legitimate. Federal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 1956 prohibit financial transactions designed to conceal the source of criminal proceeds. In Atlanta, financial institutions and regulatory agencies closely monitor transactions for suspicious activity. When irregularities are detected, investigations can begin… Read More »
Business Email Compromise Scams: When Victims Become Suspects in Georgia Fraud Investigations
Business email compromise schemes have become one of the most prevalent forms of financial fraud in the United States. These scams typically involve unauthorized access to a company’s email system, allowing bad actors to impersonate executives or vendors and request fraudulent wire transfers. According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, business email compromise… Read More »
When a Theft Charge Follows You to a Background Check
For many people in Georgia, a theft charge is not just about what happens in court. It is about what happens after. At The Spizman Firm, our Atlanta Theft Defense Attorneys regularly hear from individuals who are worried about how a theft accusation or conviction could show up on a background check and affect… Read More »