Was Your Child Charged With Underage DUI?

Few people are aware that DUI laws are different for drivers under the age of 21. While .08 is the legal limit for an adult age 21 or older, the limit for someone under age 21 is .02. A single can of beer or mixed drink can put a young driver over the legal limit.

At Salata Law, in Alpharetta, Georgia, our lawyers defend people of all ages against drunk driving charges in north Fulton County.

Keeping Your Child’s Record As Clear As Possible

While drivers under the age of 21 are subject to a lower blood alcohol content limit, this does not mean the penalties they face are less than those of an older driver. If convicted, your child could end up with a permanent criminal record that cannot be expunged. Your child could face consequences at school and later in life.

Today, it’s common for employers, landlords, colleges and others to conduct criminal background checks on applicants. If your child has a criminal conviction for drunk driving, he or she could be treated differently as a result.

To keep a one-time mistake from having lifelong consequences, it’s important to seek the help of an experienced DUI defense lawyer. We will do everything we can to protect your child’s future from the stigma of a drunk driving conviction.

Your Administrative DUI License Hearing

When you are arrested on suspicion of drunk driving in Georgia, you face two legal proceedings. The first is an administrative driver’s license suspension. The second is the criminal charge of driving under the influence (DUI).

At Salata Law, in Alpharetta, Georgia, our lawyers defend people accused of drunk driving in north Fulton County. When you hire us to defend you in your criminal DUI case, we will also defend you at your suspension hearing.

You have only 10 days from your DUI arrest to request a hearing to challenge suspension of your driver’s license. To protect your rights, call 770-408-7004 as soon as possible.

What Happens To My Driver’s License When I Am Accused Of Drunk Driving?

When you are arrested on suspicion of drunk driving in Georgia, the police officer will take away your driver’s license before you are convicted of anything. The officer should give you a DS-1205 – ALS Suspension Notification & Chemical Test Report, which you can use as a temporary driving permit for 30 days.

After 30 days, your driver’s license will be suspended automatically unless you exercise your right to a hearing before the Georgia Department of Driver Services. You have only 10 days following your arrest to request a hearing.

Our lawyers can represent you at your hearing. Even if we are unable to restore your driving privileges at the hearing, we can cross-examine the police officer who arrested you. This can give us information to use in your defense against the criminal DUI charges. We can also help you apply for a hardship license so you can continue to drive to and from work after your driver’s license is suspended.

DUI driver’s license suspension is one of the few cases where you can face state sanctions before you are convicted of a crime. Our lawyers will do everything we can to defend you from both civil and criminal penalties.

Are You Facing Drug Charges In Georgia?

If you have been charged with a drug-related offense in Georgia, you need quality representation to help you navigate your case. At Salata Law, in Alpharetta, our lawyers defend people charged with drug crimes in north Fulton County.

The following are examples of the types of drug cases we handle:

• Possession of marijuana
• Possession of methamphetamine (meth or crystal)
• Possession of heroin
• Possession of cocaine, LSD or ecstasy
• Possession of certain prescription medications without a prescription
• Drug manufacturing or sales

We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case: Call 770-408-7004 for a free telephone consultation.

How Hiring An Attorney Can Help

Hiring a defense lawyer from the get-go is in your best interest and that of your case. As your attorney, we can guide you through every step of the legal process and explain your rights and any related drug laws in a way you understand. J Thomas Salata has years of experience as an attorney in Fulton County working with clients on drug-related charges and can work with you to expedite your criminal case, too.

Understanding the details of Georgia drug laws can be confusing, but hiring the right attorney can make the process simpler. We will walk you through all the stages of your criminal defense, which typically include booking and bail, arraignment (and plea bargaining, if necessary), preliminary hearings and trial. Once sentencing has been handed down, we will continue to work with you to weigh your options, which sometimes include filing an appeal.

Defending You Against Prescription Drug Charges

It’s easy for a person who has never been in trouble with the law before to be arrested on a prescription drug charge. Simply having in your possession a prescription drug that belongs to a family member can lead to an arrest.

At Salata Law, in Alpharetta, Georgia, our lawyers defend people facing drug charges, including illegal possession or sales of a prescription drug. To talk to an experienced defense lawyer about your case, call 770-408-7004. Your initial consultation is free.

Why Was I Charged With A Crime?

Abuse of prescription medication is widespread in the United States. Some of the most commonly abused drugs are Percocet and Vicodin. People commonly become addicted to these and other opioid drugs after they are prescribed them for treatment of pain conditions. Once the prescription runs out, the patient may turn to other highly addictive sources. Possession of stimulants such as Adderall or Ritalin without a prescription can also lead to criminal charges.

Having a drug conviction can affect your life in many ways. Employers may not hire you after learning about your conviction. You could find it difficult to rent an apartment. You may be ineligible for student loans and other government programs.

If you do not have a criminal record, it may be possible to resolve the charges without a conviction.

Facing Drug Distribution, Possession or Manufacturing Charges in Atlanta?

Have charges been levied against you by the district attorney for the distribution, manufacturing or trafficking of drugs? J Thomas Salata is an Fulton County criminal defense attorney with years of experience defending clients against alleged Georgia drug law violations … let us know how we can help your case.

Manufacturing and/or distribution charges are taken very seriously in the state of Georgia, so it is important that you work with a competent criminal defense lawyer from the start. J Thomas Salata’s expertise in drug defense means we work tirelessly to minimize your sentencing and fines. It is crucial to our office that you fully understand your charges, rights and Georgia drug laws. Call 770-408-7004 for a free telephone consultation.

J Thomas Salata has been successful in fighting for lesser sentencing and fines for many of his clients who have faced felony drug or possession charges. Asking the right questions, pleading correctly, and covering all related details are all part of a good defense when the court hears your case.

Our offices have experience handling drug possession, distribution and manufacturing charges with regard to the following:

• Marijuana
• Meth (a.k.a. methamphetamine)
• Amphetamine
• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Morphine
• Opiates
• Other illegal or controlled substances

Your Atlanta Drug Charges

It is important to remember that each and every drug possession case is unique. In some instances, prosecutors have been known to levy charges without ever catching the defendant in the act or even when trace amounts of drugs have been found in a urine or blood sample.

J Thomas Salata has worked with clients facing a variety of charges like drug smuggling, counterfeiting drugs and even wholesaling. You must know your rights when it comes to the laws of drug possession and distribution in Georgia, which is why a criminal defense attorney may be helpful. Whether you are facing drug possession accusations or if you have been accused of manufacturing a substance yourself, you need an attorney to vigorously defend your rights.

J Thomas Salata is a Fulton County criminal trial lawyer who works with clients facing drug charges all over Atlanta. If you need guidance concerning your manufacturing or possession charges, give our offices a call today: 770-408-7004.

Defending You Against Accusations Of Domestic Violence

Facing a domestic violence charge in Georgia is serious. It could lead to fines, custody challenges, loss of gun rights and even jail time. The lawyers at Salata Law are experienced at defending against domestic violence charges in Alpharetta, Roswell and other communities in north Fulton County.

To talk to an experienced defense lawyer about domestic violence charges or a restraining order, call 770-408-7004. Your initial consultation is free.

What Is Considered Domestic Violence?

In criminal cases, “domestic violence” is defined as battery, assault, stalking, trespass, property damage, threatening, or other physical or emotional abuse offenses against a current or former spouse, a family member, or a person who lives in your household or did in the past.

Most domestic violence accusations are related to past or present spouses, domestic partners or romantic partners, children, and the elderly. It is possible to be charged with domestic violence regardless of your relationship with your accuser.

What Happens If I Am Convicted?

You could face several consequences depending on the severity of your charge. A Fulton County criminal defense attorney like Thomas Salata can help you weigh your options and work toward moving past your domestic violence charge.

You may also be required to complete an intervention program designed to rehabilitate domestic violence offenders. In severe cases, the court may order you to spend time in a correctional facility, but a knowledgeable criminal attorney can help you keep your sentence to a minimum.

Defense Against Family Violence Protection Orders

If you are accused of domestic violence in Georgia, a court may issue a protective or restraining order that puts forth limitations in regard to your relationship with your accuser. For example, you may be barred from contacting the alleged victim or from coming within 500 feet of his or her residence—even if you also live there. It is important to comply with these restrictions, as noncompliance may mean further consequences and even jail time.

At Salata Law, in Alpharetta, Georgia, our lawyers represent people in family violence protection order hearings. We also defend people accused of violating protection orders. To discuss your case with an experienced attorney, call 770-408-7004.

My Ex Obtained A Temporary Protection Order Against Me. What Should I Do?

In Georgia, a judge can issue a temporary protection order against you based on nothing more than the word of the accuser. The temporary order is usually effective for approximately two weeks. The judge will schedule a hearing to determine if the order should remain in effect longer.

It is important to have a lawyer represent you at this hearing. A protection order can affect your life in many ways.

• You may be kicked out of your home or apartment.
• You may be barred from possessing firearms.
• You may be fired from your job.
• You could lose custody of your children.
• If you violate the order, you could be jailed and charged with a crime.

It’s extremely important not to contact the accuser while you are subject to a restraining order. Instead, let us speak for you. We can negotiate with the other side and the court and try to work out a favorable resolution.

Defending You Against Burglary And Theft Charges

If you have been accused of burglary or theft, the lawyers at Salata Law are here to defend you. For a free initial consultation about the charges you face, call 770-408-7004. We represent clients in Alpharetta, Roswell and other communities in north Fulton County.

Expert advice from the advocates at our firm may help you negotiate reduced charges, depending on the particulars of your case. Whether you have been charged with criminal trespass, simple burglary or even aggravated stalking, we have the know-how to handle your case.

What Is Burglary In Georgia?

Burglary charges can be either misdemeanors or felonies — both can have serious consequences. By the criminal laws of Georgia, burglary can occur in a home, office, boat, vehicle or even a storage facility.

Trespassing charges often accompany burglary charges and occur when you are caught entering a facility without permission with the intention of committing a crime. The state must prove that intention, however, which is why having an experienced attorney like J Thomas Salata by your side can help you defend your rights successfully.

Other charges commonly added onto burglary charges include restraining order violations, particularly in cases of spousal disagreements. It is important to note that the circumstances of the robbery, including whether weapons were used, may greatly affect the outcome of your sentencing. Serial offenders face stiffer consequences when charged with burglary, so age and an arrest record play a large role in how well your case can be defended.

Talk To Our Lawyers Today

Fulton County criminal defense attorney J Thomas Salata offers expert legal representation against burglary and theft charges. We know how to present your case and argue on your behalf to ensure that your rights are preserved. Call us today to schedule a free initial consultation: 770-408-7004. You can also contact us online.

Defending You Against Serious Traffic Tickets

Some traffic tickets are more serious than others. While a simple speeding ticket may not have a lasting impact on your life, a reckless driving conviction could.

At Salata Law, in Alpharetta, Georgia, our lawyers defend people accused of misdemeanor and felony traffic offenses. When you hire us to defend you, our lawyers will do everything we can to get the ticket dismissed or reduced to a less serious offense. We defend motorists in Alpharetta, Roswell and other communities in north Fulton County.

Avoid A Criminal Traffic Conviction

If you plead guilty to a misdemeanor or felony traffic offense, you will be left with a permanent criminal record. This could affect you in many ways even if you avoid jail time or suspension of your driver’ license. You may be unable to work for a company where you are required to drive a company car, since your employer’s insurance company may not cover you. If you have a commercial driver’s license, you may be unemployable.

The following are examples of serious traffic offenses that could result in a criminal record if you are convicted:

• Excessive speeding
• Reckless driving
• Driving under the influence
• Refusing a breath, blood or urine test
• Hit and run
• Leaving the scene of an accident
• Vehicular assault
• Vehicular homicide
• Commercial vehicle violations such as logbook violations and weight violations

Before your pay a traffic ticket, talk to our attorneys about the possible consequences and defenses.

Don’t Let A Traffic Violation Become A Criminal Record

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony traffic ticket in north Fulton County, we are here to defend you. Call 770-408-7004 or contact us online for a free initial consultation.