During a traffic stop, the police might want to search your vehicle. This can give anyone pause for many reasons. Understanding when officers can search your car helps protect your rights. Probable cause for a search Police officers generally need probable cause to...
3 punishable but little-known Georgia driving laws
Receiving multiple traffic citations in Georgia can lead to massive fines, mandatory driver’s education course attendance, higher insurance rates and points on your license. While you may know about obvious traffic violations associated with running a red light or...
What is involved with a mandated DUI course in Georgia?
Georgia law requires that anyone convicted of a DUI must take a DUI Risk Reduction course. According to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, these courses include two parts: an assessment component and an intervention component. You must complete both to finish...
How do I challenge a speeding ticket in Georgia if I live out of state?
Whether passing through or taking a short stay in Georgia, a speeding ticket can significantly affect your driving record long-term. In some cases, your ticket may become a permanent part of your driving record or you may return to your state of residence only to have...
3 tips for handling a traffic stop
A police officer pulling you over may induce fear. Regardless of what you think the reason is, there are some steps that you must go through to get the stop cleared and continue on your way. Traffic stops are common. Understanding how to handle one may make a...
Can a host be responsible for an invitee’s DUI?
Intoxicated individuals might leave a bar or party after consuming too much alcohol and be involved in crashes that result in serious injury or fatalities. Almost all states have enacted some form of vicarious liability laws for restaurants, bars and private party...
New technology may help identify perpetrators
Historically, the criminal justice system has used the accounts of eye-witnesses and police sketch renderings to get a picture of an unidentified criminal. Even when actual photographs of a perpetrator are available, sometimes throw the police off. To keep these...
Recognize defenses to drug offenses
Georgia law enforcement officers are trained to make arrests when they encounter illegal substances under the control of individuals. The drug offenses that can result when these encounters are made can impose serious penalties on the lives of those affected. However,...
Drones used to drop drugs into prisons
The number of drones on the market has quickly increased as their capabilities have become more and more apparent. Amazon experimented with the technology to make deliveries. The construction industry has used drones to survey sites for potential dangers. But, one use...
The status of marijuana in Georgia
Over the course of the last year, several states have made the news for decriminalizing the possession of small quantities of marijuana for personal use. That means that individuals in those states who are searched by law enforcement officials may not be arrested if...