What Is the Sentence for Aggravated Assault in Atlanta?

The sentence for aggravated assault is quite severe. Charged as a felony, a conviction for aggravated assault comes with a potential prison sentence of one to 20 years. The exact sentence depends on the facts, including whether a weapon was used, intent, and the victim’s status. If the assault involves family violence, a firearm, or certain protected individuals, penalties can increase and may include mandatory minimums. Judges may also consider your previous criminal history during sentencing.

What Is the Minimum Jail Time for Aggravated Assault?

In Georgia, there’s typically no mandatory minimum jail time for aggravated assault charges. While a conviction is punishable by a potential prison sentence of one to 20 years, judges have a lot of discretion. Cases involving firearms, domestic violence, and protected victims carry stricter punishments and have a practical minimum incarceration period, which could be set by judges or plea deals.

What Is the Lowest Charge for Assault?

The lowest level assault charge is typically simple assault, which is a misdemeanor offense. This charge does not require serious injury and can involve threatening behavior or minor unwanted contact that causes someone to fear immediate harm. In some situations, related behaviors could be charged as disorderly conduct or simple battery, depending on the facts. Penalties are less severe than felony assault, and can include fines, probation, community service, and short jail sentences.

Do Most Simple Assault Charges Get Dropped?

It’s hard to say how often simple assault charges are dropped. Outcomes depend on evidence, witness cooperation, and the prosecutor’s discretion. Some cases are dismissed if the alleged victim refuses to testify, the evidence is weak, or claims of self-defense are credible. Others are resolved through plea deals. First-time offenders may sometimes qualify for diversion programs. Many cases still proceed to trial, so keep in mind that dismissal is not the default outcome in these cases.

Charged For Underage Drinking in Atlanta During the World Cup

By Lawrence J. Zimmerman

Criminal Defense

Last Modified on May 05, 2026

Georgia takes underage drinking seriously. It is illegal for minors in the state of Georgia to purchase, attempt to purchase, or knowingly possess alcohol. If your child is charged with underage drinking in Atlanta during the World Cup, it is important to act quickly to protect their rights and secure a positive outcome for your case. It is highly recommended that you hire an underage drinking lawyer to represent you.

Underage Drinking Penalties in Atlanta

Underage drinking is known as Minor in Possession (MIP) under Georgia law. You can expect to be charged with a misdemeanor and may face the following underage drinking penalties:

Community service
Driver’s license suspension
Fines
Time in jail

If you are navigating an underage drinking case after an incident at the World Cup, hire an Atlanta underage drinking lawyer to help you through your case.

It is estimated that more than 150 children in Georgia die every year from alcohol-related causes. According to the 2024 State Report on Underage Drinking Prevention and Enforcement in Georgia, 15.1 percent of individuals between the ages of 12 and 20 used alcohol within the past month. Alcohol can disrupt normal brain development and health, especially in young people. It also leads to increased risk of injuries and fatalities.

What to Do If Your Child Is Charged for Underage Drinking in Atlanta During the World Cup

It is important to act quickly in the wake of an underage drinking charge. Being arrested at the World Cup is likely going to be chaotic, so it is critical to have a plan in place. Every situation is different, but it is generally a good idea to follow these steps:

Ensure your child knows their rights
Contact an Atlanta criminal defense attorney
Do not share information with anyone other than your lawyer
Research pre-trial diversion (PTD) programs
Understand justice procedures through the Georgia Juvenile Court System

Protect Your Child and Hire an Underage Drinking Lawyer in Atlanta

The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has been representing Georgians through complex fraud cases for over 25 years. We have earned a stellar reputation for our years of service to our clients throughout the greater Atlanta, GA area. In addition to earning many 5-star reviews from our satisfied clients, we are:

Peer-rated as AV-Preeminent® on the Martindale-Hubbell Directory
Rated by Super Lawyers®
Avvo’s Client’s Choice Award winners*

We are also a part of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers, the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Our attorneys are proficient at handling legal matters ranging from pre-trial diversion (PTD) programs to litigation in state and federal courtrooms.

Our local law firm is recognized by clients, peers, and media alike. Attorney Zimmerman is also a legal analyst for several news stations in Atlanta. You may have seen us appear on CNN, Good Morning America, CBS Morning News, and CourtTV.

If you are ready to learn more about how we can help with your case, reach out to schedule a consultation with a member of our team today.

*Industry awards and accolades do not guarantee the results of future defense cases. Criteria and requirements vary from organization to organization.

About the author: Lawrence J. Zimmerman

Founder of The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman

Lawrence Zimmerman is the founder of The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman in Marietta, Georgia. A criminal defense attorney with over 26 years of experience, he has represented clients in complex state and federal matters since his admission to the State Bar of Georgia in 1998. Mr. Zimmerman earned his J.D. from Roger Williams University School of Law. He served as president of the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and has been recognized by Super Lawyers (2019–2026).

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