Fines and Court Fees for Crimes in Georgia

Fines and Court Fees for Crimes in Georgia

If you or someone you know gets charged with a crime in Georgia, you’ll probably have to pay fines and court fees. This article explains how they work so you know what to expect. We’ll go over the basics in simple language, so don’t worry if you don’t have a law degree!

What are fines and fees?

Fines are money you pay as punishment for breaking the law. Fees are extra charges to cover court costs. Judges decide fines based on the crime. Fees are set by law.

Fines go up with more serious crimes. For misdemeanors, fines max out at $1,000. For high/aggravated misdemeanors, it’s $5,000. Felonies top out at $100,000.

On top of fines, you pay fees too. There’s a bunch of them – to fund the courts, help victims, etc. Total fees often add 50% extra to your fine.

How do judges decide fines?

Judges have a lot of say on fines. The law gives them ranges they can use. They look at stuff like:

• What crime you did
• If you took a plea deal
• What the law says you can be fined

They try to make the punishment fit the crime. Stealing a candy bar isn’t treated the same as robbing a bank!

What fees do I have to pay?

There’s a bunch of fees added to fines in Georgia. Here’s some common ones:

• Felony Supervision Fee – $50
• Drug Abuse Treatment Fund – 50% of fine (drug crimes only)
• Jail Construction Fee – 10% of fine
• Victim Assistance Fund – 5% of fine
• DUI Victims Fund – $26 (DUI only)
• Brain and Spinal Injury Fund – 10% of fine

Yeah, it’s a lot. Fees can really add up. For a $500 fine you might pay $750 total with fees.

Are there options if I can’t pay?

If you can’t pay, you might be able to:

• Do community service instead, usually at $10/hour
• Get on a payment plan
• Ask if any fees can be waived

Talk to your lawyer about options. Don’t just ignore fines and fees – there can be serious consequences if you don’t pay.

How do fines and fees impact minorities and the poor?

Fines and fees hit poor and minority groups the hardest. Black and Hispanic Georgians often face higher fines and probation rates. And they have a harder time paying. It keeps them stuck in the criminal justice system.

Some cities even use fines for revenue instead of raising taxes. So they target poor minorities with more fines. It’s an unfair system.

Key Takeaways

• Fines are punishment, fees cover court costs
• Judges decide fines based on the crime
• Fees add 50% or more to your total fine
• Options exist if you can’t pay, talk to your lawyer
• The system unfairly impacts minorities and the poor

Having to pay fines and fees sucks. But knowing how they work makes it less confusing. Good luck and stay out of trouble!