In the state of Georgia, the First Offender Act provides certain individuals facing criminal charges the chance to avoid having a permanent conviction on their record. It is not an automatic right but rather a privilege that must be requested and approved by the court. What It Means If someone qualifies and successfully completes the terms of their sentence under First Offender status, they will be legally exonerated of guilt. This means that, while they must still serve thei

Facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time in the legal system. In the state of Georgia, many counties offer something called a Pre-Trial Diversion Program (in some counties it is referred to as criminal diversion). These programs are designed to give eligible people a second chance by focusing on rehabilitation instead of punishment. At Sara Stewart Law, our attorneys have experience with Pre-Trial Diversion in many counties in Georgia

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Georgia, you may receive notice that your case is scheduled for a calendar call. This can sound intimidating, but in reality, a calendar call is simply a routine step in the court process. Understanding what it is—and what happens during it—can help you feel more prepared and less anxious. What Is a Calendar Call? A calendar call is a hearing where the judge checks on the status of cases that are scheduled for trial. Think of it as a rol