Atlanta, GA Civil Litigation Attorney News Archive (Page 14)

The Georgia Public Service Commission has unanimously approved a freeze on Georgia Power rates for the next three years. This decision comes after a series of increases that have burdened both residents and businesses throughout the state.

Georgia Power CEO Kim Greene stressed the significance of this agreement for stakeholders, while also noting the possibility of future costs arising from Hurricane Helene.

Critics, including attorney Bob Sherrier from the Southern Environmental Law Center, voiced their concerns about the lack of rigorous review typically seen in rate-setting processes. They raised questions about the potential long-term effects on civil litigation and real estate law in the region.

Commissioner Bubba McDonald also expressed unease, particularly regarding the current profit margins of Georgia Power. His remarks reflect ongoing discussions within Georgia's business and corporate environment.

As these discussions evolve, the implications of the rate freeze will be closely watched by both consumers and corporate entities across Georgia.

Starting Tuesday, the Floyd County Police Department will open the doors to its newly renovated headquarters at 1 Police Plaza. This transformation of the former Glenwood Primary School into a center for public service marks a significant upgrade for the community.

Captain Ron Hunton highlighted the importance of this relocation, emphasizing that it addresses space limitations while also supporting the judicial system's growing needs through effective civil litigation resolution.

This project represents a strategic partnership between law enforcement and local officials. It was made possible by the Floyd County Board of Education's property transfer in May 2023, showcasing a successful model for business and corporate collaboration in Georgia.

The renovated facility boasts updated office spaces and enhanced amenities, underscoring the positive impact of innovative real estate law practices on community development.

This opening is a crucial milestone, aimed at improving public safety and service not only in Floyd County but also in neighboring regions.

The Savannah Police Department is diligently following leads in connection with the tragic shooting at Oglethorpe Mall, which resulted in the death of Olislene “Tina” Smith and injuries to three others. Mayor Van Johnson has underscored the urgent need to identify those responsible for the violence, as the community grapples with the aftermath of this civil unrest.

At this time, no arrests have been made. The Chatham County District Attorney's office is currently assessing potential criminal charges related to this serious incident. The local business community is feeling the impact, particularly a gym associated with the mall, as residents and officials seek clarity on when normal operations can resume.

Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about the shooting, which is believed to have originated between two groups inside a store called Elevate, to step forward and assist in the investigation. This call for help highlights the community’s collective desire for safety and resolution.

Virginia's Attorney General, Jason Miyares, has launched a criminal investigation into the mysterious disappearance of two baby giraffes from the Natural Bridge Zoo. This case is further complicated by ongoing civil litigation regarding animal rights.

During a recent court session, Circuit Judge Christopher Russell found former zoo owner Karl Mogensen and his daughter, Gretchen, in contempt for obstructing court orders related to the transfer of adult giraffes. These adult giraffes were awarded to the state following an animal cruelty trial.

The key legal issue now revolves around the ownership of the missing giraffe calves. Assistant Attorney General Michelle Welch argues that state law grants the government rights to the offspring, based on established animal law precedents. This investigation follows a contentious hearing, which has intensified scrutiny of the Mogensens’ actions and their lawyer, John Lichenstein’s, claims about property rights associated with future giraffes.

With additional hearings on the horizon, the case raises important questions about real estate law as it pertains to animal custody. The dramatic developments in this ongoing legal battle are being closely watched in Rockbridge County, Virginia.

A shooting incident at Oglethorpe Mall in Savannah, Georgia, left at least three people injured, including one juvenile. The Savannah Police Department attributes the shooting to a confrontation between two groups. Local officials, including Savannah's Chief of Police, have confirmed there is no ongoing threat, as they work to identify the suspects involved in the incident.

Following the shooting, authorities quickly evacuated the mall to ensure the safety of all patrons. Responders from the International Association of Firefighters were on the scene to assist those affected by the violence.

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr expressed his deep concern regarding the incident, stating that his office is maintaining close communication with local law enforcement to offer support as needed. In light of the unfolding situation, the community is considering its implications for civil litigation and criminal defense, highlighting the importance of strengthening personal injury law protections in the area.

Local and state leaders, including Savannah Mayor Van Johnson and Attorney General Chris Carr, have strongly condemned the recent shooting at Oglethorpe Mall, which left three people injured. The incident has sparked significant concern among residents and officials alike.

Police Chief Lenny Gunther reassured the community that the investigation is ongoing and reaffirmed their commitment to holding those responsible accountable. His statements aim to restore confidence in public safety efforts.

U.S. Representative Buddy Carter and State Senator Derek Mallow expressed their support for justice and healing, emphasizing the urgent need for proactive measures to combat gun violence. Their voices reflect a shared determination to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Alderman Nick Palumbo called for unity and reflection, insisting that Savannah must prioritize becoming a safer environment for its residents. As the community addresses the aftermath of this incident, the collaboration among law enforcement and government officials is crucial in tackling the pressing issues of violence and public safety in Georgia.

Bryan County, Georgia, is under increasing scrutiny regarding the use of drones by the Sheriff’s Office for traffic enforcement. This initiative has sparked concerns about privacy rights and potential civil litigation.

Sheriff Mark Crowe has defended the use of drones, stating they are primarily focused on monitoring seatbelt violations and distracted driving. He reassures the public that the program is in line with legal guidance provided by State Court Solicitor General Don Montgomery.

While the technology has been effective, allowing operators to oversee traffic from the air, some critics believe this approach could infringe upon personal freedoms. The Sheriff's Department counters these claims by emphasizing that any data collected is minimal and is deleted after investigations conclude.

As drone usage continues to expand nationwide, law enforcement in Georgia faces the challenge of balancing advancements in technology with the complexities of real estate law, privacy issues, and public safety regulations.

Chatham County District Attorney Shalena Cook Jones recently shared a comprehensive analysis of police body camera footage related to a controversial arrest in Savannah, Georgia. She focused on the Savannah Police Department’s adherence to regulations concerning the use of force.

In her presentation, Jones highlighted the events that led to 22-year-old Robinson's arrest, emphasizing his refusal to comply with lawful commands and his attempts to flee the scene. She argued that such behavior increased risks for both officers and the public. Importantly, Jones noted that officers had multiple warrants against Robinson before they approached him, setting this incident apart from other notable cases.

After a thorough review of the video footage, Jones concluded that the force employed during Robinson's arrest was justified and did not reflect any misconduct. Her commitment to transparency illustrates ongoing efforts to promote accountability in law enforcement and address civil litigation issues within the Savannah community.

In a concerning incident of corporate misconduct, 45-year-old Gary Adam Cook was arrested for allegedly embezzling $90,000 from APEX/MANCO/S&M, situated at 701 Broad Street, Suite 200 in Rome, Georgia. Cook is accused of making over 200 unauthorized cash advance withdrawals using the company's financial card between July 2023 and August 2024. He now faces serious charges of felony theft by taking, raising alarm over the necessity for stronger civil litigation strategies in addressing such business-related crimes.

This arrest comes on the heels of a prior indictment involving 51-year-old Patricia Ann Morabito, who hails from nearby Shannon. Morabito is accused of stealing $200,000 while working at the same company. With law enforcement focusing on enhancing criminal defense measures, this case underscores the critical need for businesses in Georgia to implement robust safeguards for their assets.

Floyd County Public Works has announced the temporary closure of Little Texas Valley Road and the iron bridge over Armuchee Creek. This decision comes due to concerns over the compromised integrity of the bridge deck, which poses a potential risk for motorists.

The closure will affect traffic from the fire station located at 90 Little Texas Valley Road to Scenic Road. Residents are advised to take a detour via Scenic Road, which connects to Highway 27 North.

Local officials are highlighting the importance of civil litigation in addressing safety concerns related to infrastructure. Additionally, business and corporate interests in the area are encouraged to stay informed about developments that might impact real estate law and community accessibility in Georgia.

Sanitation workers represented by Teamsters Local 728 in Cumming, Georgia, are grappling with hazardous working conditions and insufficient pay, leading to the possibility of a strike that could impact waste collection in metro Atlanta. The nearly 400 Republic Services drivers are demanding a 7% salary increase along with improved safety measures. Chuck Stiles, the union's waste division director, emphasizes the need for better employment terms as summer heat exacerbates existing challenges.

With the threat of accumulated trash in residential areas like Alpharetta, community concerns over civil litigation and corporate responsibility for employee welfare grow. Industry veteran Charles David highlights the financial difficulties faced by workers, pointing out that stagnant wages do not keep up with rising living costs.

Although Republic's director, Roman Blahoski, insists that the company is committed to a fair negotiation process, the urgent demand for enhanced protections and benefits for these essential workers remains a critical issue.

A construction site worker is currently in the intensive care unit at Northeast Georgia Medical Center following a serious electrocution incident at Chestatee Academy on June 25. This troubling situation highlights significant concerns regarding safety regulations in the construction industry, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to employment practices.

Local civil litigation attorney, Jonathan Smith, believes that negligence claims are likely to emerge as the injured worker seeks compensation for their injuries. In addition, personal injury law experts are predicting a rise in cases associated with worksite accidents, prompting calls for a thorough review of safety standards in Georgia.

This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the risks laborers face in the Georgia construction sector and the urgency for legislative action to enhance safety protocols.

Casey Herron, a 36-year-old from Calhoun, Georgia, has been arrested and charged with making terroristic threats after he allegedly threatened to shoot Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) agents. His apprehension followed a call he made to the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency on June 22, 2025.

In response to Herron's threats, local law enforcement, including the Calhoun Police Department and GBI, acted swiftly. The next day, authorities executed a search warrant at Herron’s home on Jolly Road NW, leading to his arrest without incident.

The GBI expressed gratitude towards the Calhoun Police for their cooperation in handling this criminal defense case. As the investigation is still ongoing, once completed, the findings will be sent to the Gordon County District Attorney's Office for prosecution. This situation underscores the important connection between civil litigation and public safety in the area.

A recent incident at Lumina Coffee in Rome, Georgia, has brought to light the challenges of civil litigation when a con artist posing as a police lieutenant swindled the coffee shop out of $1,500. The incident occurred when an employee, misled by the fake officer, completed three non-refundable transactions believing they were addressing a counterfeit money issue.

Local officials are stressing the need for heightened awareness to help prevent similar scams, particularly in employment environments where employees can be more susceptible to fraud. The Rome Police Department is currently investigating the case and is urging business owners in the area to stay vigilant against such criminal tactics.

This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of verifying identities before responding to financial requests, especially for small businesses across Georgia.

In West Rome, 38-year-old Miguel Luis Andres was arrested for felony second-degree criminal damage after allegedly driving his vehicle through the entrance of a store on Shorter Avenue, resulting in damages estimated at $11,500.

Meanwhile, 26-year-old Marley Abbagail Digsby was charged with theft by shoplifting for taking $38 worth of merchandise from Walmart. Upon her arrest, authorities found her in possession of methamphetamine and related paraphernalia.

These incidents underscore the persistent issues surrounding criminal defense and civil litigation within Georgia's legal landscape. Local attorneys are preparing for potential lawsuits related to property damage, as well as gearing up to defend clients against drug charges.

This week’s events also highlight the complexities of personal injury law, as communities in Georgia deal with the ramifications of these incidents.

As the deadline approaches for the Chatham Area Transit board's overhaul mandated by a new Georgia law, legal representatives, including Allen Lightcap from Mayer & Harper, are gearing up to argue in Superior Court against this controversial measure. The law aims to dissolve current board members before the end of their terms, a move that has stirred considerable opposition.

Elected officials, spearheaded by state Rep. Edna Jackson and receiving support from both Republicans and Democrats, enacted this law in response to concerns about dysfunction within the board. However, the plaintiffs, which include board members and Chatham County Commissioners Bobby Lockett and Anthony "Wayne" Noha, have filed a civil litigation claim citing constitutional violations. They argue that the law infringes on the county’s governance rights and disrupts local authority.

With Chatham County's operating budget nearing $30 million, this lawsuit highlights deeper tensions surrounding regional transportation management. Some local business leaders have voiced their concerns, suggesting that these issues have not been adequately addressed. A hearing before Judge Timothy Walmsley is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. today at the Chatham County Superior Court in Savannah.

Cleveland actor Derek Dixon is making headlines with a lawsuit against entertainment mogul Tyler Perry, accusing him of sexual harassment and abuse during the filming of *The Oval*. Dixon is seeking damages of at least $260 million, claiming that Perry used his power as a producer to foster a toxic work environment.

According to the lawsuit, Dixon describes a pattern of intimidation tactics and threats aimed at silencing his objections. He alleges that Perry's unwanted advances escalated as Dixon's roles in Perry's productions increased in significance.

In response to the allegations, Perry’s spokesperson firmly denied any wrongdoing, asserting confidence that the claims are baseless and part of a “scam.” This high-profile case has substantial implications for employment practices and civil litigation within the entertainment industry, drawing attention to critical issues surrounding power dynamics and accountability in Hollywood.

In a major move against drug-related crimes, the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office has successfully dismantled a meth lab located on Tara Drive in Calhoun, Georgia. During an extensive search of a private residence, sheriff’s detectives, alongside Probation and Parole officers, uncovered significant quantities of both solid and liquid methamphetamine.

The investigation was focused on the manufacturing and distribution of meth, resulting in the arrest of 62-year-old Tracy Van McEntyre. He now faces multiple charges, including production and trafficking of methamphetamine.

This operation emphasizes the persistent fight against drug offenses in Georgia and points to larger issues concerning civil litigation and criminal defense as the legal system prepares for McEntyre’s upcoming prosecution. Local officials are also advocating for strengthened law enforcement efforts to tackle narcotics and employment challenges linked to drug abuse in the community.

The Savannah City Council has made a significant decision by unanimously passing an ordinance that makes urban camping illegal. This move has sparked intense discussions regarding its implications for the city's vulnerable unhoused population.

Mayor Van Johnson II highlighted the importance of a 90-day evaluation period to assess the ordinance's effectiveness in managing homelessness. City Manager Jay Melder will be responsible for reviewing the outcomes during this period.

Critics, including pastor Matthew Henning, have voiced concerns that the measure may further criminalize homelessness instead of providing essential resources. Meanwhile, council members such as Alderwoman Linda Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Kurtis Purtee emphasized the need for a balance between public safety and support for those in need.

Savannah, located in Chatham County, reflects a broader trend across Georgia, showcasing the ongoing tensions between civil legislation and social responsibility. This decision also raises important questions about real estate and affordable housing solutions, highlighting the complexities of civil litigation in addressing homelessness in urban areas.

In a pivotal virtual hearing lasting nearly 10 hours, Porsha Williams has triumphed in her divorce from Simon Guobadia, securing a substantial alimony payment of $40,000 per month for a duration of up to 15 months. The Cleveland court upheld their prenuptial agreement, which mandates that Simon must cover all of Porsha's legal expenses and permits her to keep a Rolls-Royce he previously gifted her.

Moreover, Porsha has the option to retain their shared $7 million home, provided she successfully refinances it and buys out Simon's equity before 2027. This intricate case has encountered additional delays, particularly following Simon's recent deportation to Nigeria, which has complicated the ongoing civil litigation.

As Porsha looks forward to a new chapter in her life, attention now turns to whether Simon will challenge this ruling or accept the consequences of their corporate and family legal disputes.