As summer winds down in Georgia, families and friends often try to make the most of the final weeks of warm weather. From lake weekends and backyard gatherings to concerts, festivals, and road trips, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate.

But the end of summer can also invite an increase in situations that result in police involvement. Alcohol related driving offenses, disorderly conduct, drug charges, and other incidents can quickly turn a fun weekend into a serious, long lasting legal matter.

Knowing when to walk away from certain situations, and understanding what to do if you are arrested, can help you navigate the end of summer responsibly.

End of Summer Parties and Alcohol

Many Georgians mark the end of summer with cookouts, pool parties, and gatherings with friends. But, when alcohol is involved, seemingly minor disagreements can escalate.

Arguments can lead to allegations to some of the common offenses below:

• Simple battery: According to O.C.G.A. § 16-5-23, a person commits simple battery when he or she: (1) intentionally makes physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of another; or (2) intentionally causes physical harm to another.
• Battery: Under O.C.G.A. § 16-5-23.1, a person must intentionally cause substantial physical harm or visible bodily harm to another. This physical harm must be perceptible by another person (other than the victim) and may include a black eye, swollen lip, or substantial bruising. It is not, however, limited to these injuries. Additionally, the damage need not be permanent.
• Aggravated battery: Under O.C.G.A § 16-5-24, a person commits an Aggravated Battery when he or she “maliciously causes bodily harm to another by depriving him/her of a member of his/her body, by rendering a member of his/her body useless, or by seriously disfiguring his/her body or a member thereof.”

If a discussion leads to rising tensions, walk away rather than engage .

Holiday Weekends and DUI Enforcement

Labor Day weekend traditionally marks the unofficial end of summer, and law enforcement agencies throughout Georgia may increase traffic enforcement during busy holiday periods.

A DUI arrest can have consequences that extend well beyond the initial traffic stop. These consequences can include:

• 24 hours to 12 months of jail time
• 12 months of probation
• A fine of $300 to $1,000 (plus surcharges and court costs)
• 40 hours of community service at a non-profit organization
• DUI alcohol or drug use risk reduction program
• Clinical evaluation and treatment
• License suspension

If you’re planning to drink at a barbecue or Labor Day cookout, make arrangements for a sober driver driver, rideshare, taxi, or another safe way to get home.

Don’t Let One Summer Night Follow You Into Fall

For most Georgians, the end of summer is a time to look ahead to the new school year, football season, cooler weather, and the holidays ahead. A criminal charge can make that transition considerably more stressful.

If you have been arrested or charged with a crime after a summer gathering, it’s best to act quickly to protect your rights. An experienced Georgia criminal defense attorney can review the circumstances of the case, explain the potential consequences, and help you understand your options. If you need help, give me a call today.