Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.5.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Rafus Law - Criminal Defense - Rafus Law - Criminal Defense ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://rafuslaw.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/) - [SB 105: The Illusion of Probation Reform](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/sb-105-the-illusion-of-probation-reform/) - Georgia Senate Bill (SB 105) was signed into law by Governor Kemp, receiving much publicity for the Governor as probation reform. The Bill goes into effect on July 1, 2021. The Bill is said to simplify the process for early termination for people who have served at least three years on probation and have met other requirements. The - [Civil Forfeiture: Another Police Weapon to Attack the Presumed Innocent](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/civil-forfeiture-another-police-weapon-to-attack-the-presumed-innocent/) - Bob takes out $20,000 from the bank in Georgia so he can go buy a car he wants in Florida. Bob is driving down I-75 when he is stopped for speeding. The officer asks Bob for consent to search his vehicle; Bob consents because he has “nothing to hide.” The officer finds the $20,000 and believes it to be - [Consistency: Is It Something to Be Proud Of?](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/consistency-is-it-something-to-be-proud-of/) - On December 20, 2021, a truck driver in Colorado was sentenced to 110 years in prison. The crimes for which the truck driver was convicted are not the ones that come to mind first based on the sentence. The truck driver was convicted of vehicular homicide, sixteen first-degree assaults, and attempted first-degree assault charges, among other things. In 2019, the - [First Time Offender in Georgia](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/first-time-offender-in-georgia/) - Georgia’s First Offender Act allows a person to have a conviction off their record even after pleading guilty to certain crimes. First offender status can only be used once in your life. Generally, after one pleads, the First Offender Act delays the formal finding of guilt as long as you complete certain conditions. Translating the legal mumbo - [Degrees of Murder](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/degrees-of-murder/) - Felony murder is the crutch that state prosecutors lean on when seeking a conviction for murder. That is because it does not require any intent. Malice murder, on the other hand, requires the prosecutor to prove there was malice and intent. In Georgia, there does not even need to be premeditation for malice murder. What makes felony - [Delta-8 THC: Legal Status, Key Differences, and Legal Challenges in Georgia](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/delta-8-thc-legal-status-key-differences-and-legal-challenges-in-georgia/) - With the growing popularity of Delta-8 and CBD, Governor Kemp signed the “Hemp Farming Act” into law in May 2019. This legislation legalized hemp shortly after the federal government removed hemp from being classified as a controlled substance with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. Since the bill went into effect, the prosecution of Delta-8 products should have stopped, but - [Effect of Kemp Signing For Hemp](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/effect-of-kemp-signing-for-hemp/) - Governor Kemp signed the “Hemp Farming Act” into law in May 2019. This legislation made it legal – under certain conditions – to grow and sell hemp. Since the bill went into effect, the prosecution of marijuana cases has become difficult to say the least. There are many counties in Georgia that elected to stop - [Halloween – Do Not Drink and Drive](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/halloween-do-not-drink-and-drive/) - Frightening costumes and terrifying haunted houses are not the only things that are scary when it comes to Halloween; drunk driving can also lead to a horrific evening. Nationally, Halloween is a deadly night due to the high number of drunk drivers. This is especially concerning when children prepare for a fun night of walking across streets - [Questions During Traffic Stops](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/questions-during-traffic-stops/) - Everyone has been stopped for a traffic violation at some point in their lives. During that stop, we can all recall the police officer walking up to the window and asking for our driver’s license, registration, and insurance. During the traffic stop, some of us can even remember a time when the police officer asked if there - [SB 288: Second Chances in Georgia](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/sb-288-second-chances-in-georgia/) - Georgia has something else to be proud of with regard to restorative justice – another second chance for its citizens. Georgia prides itself on its First Offender Act, which allows a person to wipe a conviction from their record even after pleading guilty to certain crimes. With SB 288, Georgia citizens will now have another avenue for - [The Stingray](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/the-stingray/) - In this day and age, our cell phones hold a plethora of private information on them. We keep our cell phones on us at all times because of the private information on it and because everything we need is at the tip of our fingertips. Being able to have all of that information in the - [Understanding Bail](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/understanding-bail/) - The most obvious thing anyone wants to do when they are taken to jail is to get out of jail. So how does one get out of jail while their case is pending? The answer is to bail or bond out. The terms “bond” and “bail” are usually used interchangeably, but technically bail is money given to the court as ## Pages - [Home](https://rafuslaw.com/) - [Early Termination of Probation in Atlanta](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-expungement-lawyer/early-termination-of-probation/) - If you are currently serving probation, you may feel restricted by its conditions and uncertain about when you can make decisions freely. Early termination of probation in Atlanta offers a way to regain control of your time, finances, and personal opportunities. With the right legal approach, you may be able to secure relief before your - [Second-Offense DUI in Atlanta](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-dui-lawyer/second-offense/) - A second DUI charge changes the situation immediately. What may have been manageable the first time becomes more structured, more scrutinized, and far less flexible. The court is not just looking at the incident; it is looking at the pattern. An Atlanta second-offense DUI requires a different level of attention from the outset. At this - [About Us](https://rafuslaw.com/about-us/) - [Atlanta DUI Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-dui-lawyer/) - Driving while drinking or taking drugs can impair your ability to drive your car and lead to serious criminal charges. You could even lose your driving privileges if you are arrested or convicted of a DUI, restricting your freedom and your ability to work as you normally would. If you do face DUI charges, you - [News](https://rafuslaw.com/news/) - [DUI Manslaughter in Atlanta](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-dui-lawyer/manslaughter/) - A fatal collision tied to impaired driving can expose you to years in prison and lasting damage to your reputation. If you are charged with vehicular homicide by DUI in Atlanta, you are facing one of the most serious felony offenses under state law. A conviction may affect your freedom, your professional standing, and your - [Atlanta Underage DUI Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-dui-lawyer/underage/) - Underage driving under the influence (DUI) laws impose strict penalties and leave you little room for error. Even a small amount of alcohol in your system could lead to an arrest, a license suspension, and a criminal record that follows you into adulthood. When your future is on the line, you need a DUI attorney - [Atlanta Traffic Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-traffic-lawyer/) - When a traffic stop results in a ticket or more serious consequences, the situation can quickly escalate. You may face fines, license suspension, or jail time, and your driving record and livelihood may be at risk. Working with an Atlanta traffic lawyer could provide the legal support you need to address these issues with clarity - [Atlanta Homicide Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-homicide-lawyer/) - Facing murder charges? An Atlanta homicide lawyer at Rafus Law challenges evidence and fights for your rights. Call now. - [Atlanta Manslaughter Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-manslaughter-lawyer/) - After a manslaughter arrest, speaking with an Atlanta manslaughter lawyer can clarify your options. Contact our office. - [Atlanta Drug Trafficking Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/trafficking/) - A drug trafficking charge carries potentially life-altering consequences. You need a legal advocate who is passionate about protecting your rights and preserving your freedom. Contact an Atlanta drug trafficking lawyer at Rafus Law. Our dedicated defense lawyers can develop an effective, personalized defense for a complex drug trafficking case. Drug Trafficking Laws Are Broad Limiting - [Disclaimer](https://rafuslaw.com/disclaimer/) - The information contained in this website is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. - [Atlanta Gun Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-gun-lawyer/) - The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution protects your right to own firearms, but these rights are not unlimited. State and local governments can regulate firearm sales and possession. Although the state has favorable gun laws, violations still result in severe penalties. If you have been charged with a firearm offense, now is the - [Second-Degree Assault in Atlanta](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-assault-lawyer/second-degree/) - You may hear people refer to "second-degree" assault when discussing the severity of a criminal charge. In Atlanta, assault is divided into two categories: simple and aggravated. When someone uses the term "second-degree," they are likely referring to simple assault, which is generally charged as a misdemeanor and carries less severe penalties than aggravated assault, - [First-Degree Assault in Atlanta](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-assault-lawyer/first-degree/) - People may refer to assault as first-degree when it is charged as a felony, the most serious level of offense. In Atlanta, assault charges are divided into two categories: simple and aggravated. If someone refers to an assault charge as "first-degree," they likely mean that it is an aggravated assault charge, which carries felony status - [Atlanta Felony DUI Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-dui-lawyer/felony/) - A felony DUI in Atlanta can have profound effects on your freedom, criminal record, and career. You might be dealing with previous DUI charges or even involved in a serious accident—or both. At the same time, you could be trying to protect a business, your professional license, or your family, who depend on you. Going - [Atlanta Bribery Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-bribery-lawyer/) - A bribery investigation in Atlanta can begin quietly, with questions about payments, contracts, or favors tied to a public office. Very quickly, that investigation can escalate into a felony case that raises questions about your integrity, your business, and your relationship with government decision-makers. The risk includes a permanent felony record, confinement, and long-term damage - [Atlanta Aggravated DUI Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-dui-lawyer/aggravated/) - Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is always a serious offense, but aggravating factors may escalate the penalties. Receiving an aggravated DUI charge can have severe consequences, and choosing the right legal counsel to represent you is important. An experienced Atlanta aggravated DUI lawyer at Rafus Law can review your case and - [Atlanta Aggravated Battery Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-battery-lawyer/aggravated/) - Aggravated battery is an extremely serious crime. Convictions can come with significant consequences. If you face aggravated battery charges, you should fight them vigorously to try to avoid penalties and keep from getting a criminal record. Hiring an Atlanta aggravated battery lawyer from Rafus Law could really help you. Our experienced battery attorney understands the - [Atlanta Gang Crime Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-gang-crime-lawyer/) - Gang-related criminal charges are taken seriously, especially in Georgia. You may feel like the odds are against you if you are charged with a crime in Atlanta because Georgia's anti-gang laws are among the toughest in the country. Law enforcement pursues these cases aggressively. A knowledgeable and experienced Atlanta gang crime lawyer can be your - [Atlanta Kidnapping Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/home/atlanta-kidnapping-lawyer/) - Georgia treats kidnapping as a serious criminal offense. Under state law, kidnapping involves the unlawful abduction or restraint of another person with the intent to confine them against their will. Facing kidnapping charges requires a strategic legal approach, and an experienced Atlanta kidnapping lawyer can assist in developing a strong defense. Without the legal resources - [Thank You](https://rafuslaw.com/thank-you/) - Thank you for your submission. Someone from our office will be contacting you shortly.Should you require immediate assistance, please call our office at (678) 573-4899 - [Atlanta RICO Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-rico-lawyer/) - There is a long history of the federal government pursuing organized crime rings through something known as the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (“RICO”) Act. While the name might give most people visions of the mafia, in recent years, prosecutors have applied the RICO Act to a wide range of situations. Investigations under this act - [Atlanta Rape Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-sex-crimes-lawyer/rape) - If you or somebody close to you is facing rape charges in Atlanta, acting quickly to retain strong legal counsel is crucial. A conviction for rape in our state carries severe penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences, lifetime sex offender registration, and serious social consequences. This can be a lot to deal with for anybody. - [Assault Investigations in Atlanta](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-assault-lawyer/investigations) - Assault charges are serious offenses with the potential for substantial penalties upon conviction. Assault investigations in Atlanta typically examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and evaluate whether charges are appropriate. Individuals facing potential assault allegations should consult an experienced assault attorney early in the process to help ensure a thorough investigation and to develop a - [Felony Assault in Atlanta](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-assault-lawyer/felony) - If police arrested you for felony assault in Atlanta, you face the potential for serious penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Speaking with a knowledgeable assault attorney early in the investigation process could help preserve key opportunities for defense and a possible reduction in penalties. What is a Felony Assault? State law recognizes two categories of - [Assault With Serious Bodily Injury in Atlanta](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-assault-lawyer/serious-bodily-injury) - Assault with serious bodily injury is a felony offense that can lead to a lengthy prison sentence. The charge typically arises when the state alleges that you attacked another person with the intent to cause serious harm, inflict severe injuries, or use a deadly weapon during the assault. If you are under investigation or face - [Assault with a Deadly Weapon in Atlanta](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-assault-lawyer/deadly-weapon) - The state prosecutor takes any offense related to assault seriously, and that is particularly true when weapons are involved. If you are facing such charges, you need a solid defense strategy to respond to those charges and achieve the best possible outcome. At Rafus Law, our experienced assault attorneys are skilled in handling charges of - [Atlanta Aggravated Assault Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-assault-lawyer/aggravated/) - Aggravated assault is a violent felony. A conviction could put you in prison for many years. Facing such harsh consequences can be daunting. The experienced assault attorneys at Rafus Law are available to provide information and support. Contact a dedicated Atlanta aggravated assault lawyer at Rafus Law with a passionate commitment to protecting your rights - [Atlanta Assault Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-assault-lawyer/) - Assault is a serious criminal charge that can sometimes arise out of seemingly trivial events. If you are facing an assault charge, you need an attorney committed to uncovering the truth and reducing any potential consequences. Contact an Atlanta assault lawyer at Rafus Law. Our dedicated criminal defense attorneys are passionate about protecting your rights - [Atlanta Murder Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-murder-lawyer/) - Legal Defense for Serious Violent Felonies in Georgia Facing charges for a serious violent felony is one of the most overwhelming things a person can encounter. In Georgia, violent felonies—including murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and armed robbery—carry devastating consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, such as life imprisonment. If you or a loved one is facing such serious - [Atlanta Child Molestation Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/home/atlanta-sex-crimes-lawyer/child-molestation/) - One of the most serious criminal offenses recognized under state law is child molestation. These accusations can negatively impact your life long before you ever enter a courtroom. Thankfully, there are ways to protect yourself in this situation with the help of a seasoned Atlanta child molestation lawyer. If you have been accused of child - [Atlanta Sexual Battery Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/home/atlanta-sex-crimes-lawyer/sexual-battery/) - Sexual encounters can be positive experiences for all involved, but a lack of clear consent can lead to criminal charges. Physical contact with another person can turn into an accusation of sexual battery, based on touching without consent. An Atlanta sexual battery lawyer can help you defend against criminal charges by representing your interests and - [Atlanta Sex Crimes Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-sex-crimes-lawyer/) - Allegations of sex crimes carry severe legal consequences. A conviction can result in significant prison time, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and lasting damage to an individual's reputation. If you are facing these charges, you should rely on an Atlanta sex crimes lawyer during this difficult time. A sex crimes lawyer not only advocates for - [Atlanta Armed Robbery Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/home/atlanta-theft-lawyer/robbery/armed/) - When a person commits armed robbery, they take someone’s property using an offensive weapon or something that appears to be an offensive weapon, such as a toy gun. This is a more serious offense than standard robbery crimes, and a conviction can have life-changing consequences, with up to life imprisonment and steep fines. The judgment - [Atlanta Robbery Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-theft-lawyer/robbery/) - Robbery is a crime involving taking property from another or in the immediate presence of another. The crime must be committed by sudden snatching, intimidation or fear of receiving immediate bodily injury, or use of force. This could involve threatening words or actions or by wielding a weapon. These serious charges can lead to life-altering - [Atlanta Theft Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-theft-lawyer/) - If you have been accused of theft, you can face more than just damage to your personal reputation. A criminal conviction can lead to steep fines, jail time, and other consequences that follow you for years. Instead of taking the risk of defending yourself in court, let a dedicated criminal defense attorney assist you with - [Atlanta Drug Lawyer](https://rafuslaw.com/atlanta-drug-lawyer/) - If you are facing drug-related charges, you need a seasoned criminal defense attorney who is not afraid to fight for your rights—both in the courtroom and through aggressive motions practice. At Rafus Law, our Atlanta drug lawyer takes a bold, hands-on approach to defending clients against all types of drug crimes, including possession, trafficking, distribution, - [Thank you](https://rafuslaw.com/thank-you-form/) - Thank you for your submission. 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An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided ## NAP - [Lawrenceville](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/location/lawrenceville/) - [Atlanta](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/location/georgia/) ## Testimonials - [J Doye](https://rafuslaw.com/testimonial/j-doye/) - Attorney Rafus is very knowledgeable on criminal law and you can tell that he is passionate about going to trial for his clients. Many firms are very quick to suggest the first plea deal but not Mr. Rafus, he makes sure to put his clients in the best scenario possible. I highly recommend for anyone - [Janoblie](https://rafuslaw.com/testimonial/janoblie/) - Mr. Rafus was very professional in representing me as a defense attorney. As soon as he was hired, he went straight to work the same day and made the whole process fast and easy. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking top tier representation and who will care for your case. He was able to - [Charles Cullen](https://rafuslaw.com/testimonial/charles-cullen/) - Devin Rafus is truly a relentless advocate for his clients. Having seen his work in court and in negotiations with the state, I can say he fights hard and he fights smart. - [Cameron Johnson](https://rafuslaw.com/testimonial/cameron-johnson/) - If I could leave 10 stars I would. Devin Rafus is a phenomenal attorney who is knowledgeable, professional, and great at what he does. He was able to get my case dismissed without me ever having to appear in court. I highly recommend him for any of your legal needs. ## Team - [Samantha Harding](https://rafuslaw.com/team/samantha-harding/) - With almost a decade of paralegal experience spanning multiple areas of law, Samantha brings both depth of knowledge and adaptability to her role as a criminal defense paralegal at Rafus Law. Her diverse background allows her to approach each case with a well-rounded perspective, supporting attorneys and clients alike with precision, efficiency, and a steadfast - [Devin Rafus](https://rafuslaw.com/team/devin-rafus/) - Devin handles a range of cases in state and federal court, including murder, gang cases, drug trafficking, conspiracy charges, and sex offenses. Devin successfully got his client acquitted on his first trial out of law school. He also has gotten murder charges dismissed and clients released the same day. Devin has written federal sentencing memos ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://rafuslaw.com/blog/category/uncategorized/)