Legal Question in Criminal Law in Georgia

Adjudication Witheld

I was charged w/ shoplifting while traveling through the state of GA. I was arreested and released on bail. I had no priors. I contacted a lawyer from GA to handle the case. I appeared in court, the lawyer went to the judge's chambers and made some kind of pre-trial deal. I was told, '' stay out of trouble for 6 months and the charges will be dismissed.'' I need to know if this is considered witholding adjudication for employment purposes.


Asked on 6/08/04, 6:29 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jim Hough Thomas J. Hough, Jr., P.C.

Re: Adjudication Witheld

Without knowing all the details of what you did and what your lawyer did at the hearing, it is difficult to say exactly what happenned, but in Georgia there is no withholding adjucation type disposition as there is in other states.

It sounds like there may have been some agreement to enter a nolle prosequi which, after six months, becomes effectively a dismissal of the the case. Anytime prior to the passage of six months from the entry of the nolle prosequi, the state can elect to prosecute you on the original charge and any new charges which may have occurred in the meantime.

Then again, it may be some informal diversion which your attorney and the court agreed on. Speak to your attorney to have him explain it to you.

Good luck.

Jim Hough

770-607-5300

Read more
Answered on 6/09/04, 9:19 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in Georgia