Marietta, GA Business and Corporate Attorney News Archive

During a passionate meeting of the Oakwood City Council on February 9, 2026, local residents expressed strong opposition to a proposed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility that would convert a nearby warehouse. The suggestion of establishing a detention center has sparked significant worries among the community, especially concerning its potential effects on Oakwood, Georgia's business landscape and real estate values.

City Council member Lisa Fleisher and other local officials were present, listening closely as community members shared their concerns. Many speakers highlighted the possible implications for families living in the area and emphasized the danger such a project could pose to corporate stability.

Legal experts specializing in immigration and real estate law also attended the meeting to discuss the potential legal ramifications if the facility is built. Their insights underscored the negative impact it could have on the community's overall climate.

As tensions continue to rise, the future of the ICE facility remains uncertain, with community voices increasingly pushing back against federal initiatives in Oakwood and the surrounding areas.

As the New Year begins, Georgia is rolling out important new laws designed to enhance business operations, protect real estate rights, and improve professional services.

One of the standout pieces of legislation is House Bill 148, led by Rep. John Carson from Marietta. This bill aims to modernize accounting practices to attract much-needed talent in the industry, addressing a current shortage of professionals.

In another significant development, Rep. Katie Dempsey from Rome is advocating for advances in teledentistry through House Bill 567. This legislation will enable dentists to practice online, ensuring that residents continue to have access to essential oral health services.

On the real estate side, Sen. Larry Walker, III from Perry is working to strengthen homeowner protections by doubling the notice periods for insurance nonrenewals.

Collectively, these legislative efforts exemplify a proactive strategy to bolster Georgia's businesses and support citizens in the areas of real property and professional ethics.

ATLANTA — Georgia is set to make significant changes in business and corporate regulations, employment standards, and real estate law with new legislation introduced during the 2025 General Assembly.

One of the key measures is House Bill 148, sponsored by Rep. John Carson of Marietta. This bill aims to address the growing shortage of professional accountants in the state.

Additionally, Senate Bill 35, introduced by Sen. Larry Walker, III of Perry, seeks to enhance the notice periods for homeowner insurance, providing residents with better protection and clarity regarding their policies.

In another noteworthy initiative, Rep. Katie Dempsey of Rome has introduced House Bill 567, which facilitates teledentistry services to improve access to dental care for Georgians.

Other important bills are streamlining vehicle licensing processes and updating campaign finance regulations, ensuring politicians are held to consistent accountability standards.

These legislative developments are poised to reshape business practices and homeowner rights throughout Georgia, making a lasting impact on the state's economy and community health.

Georgia lawmakers have taken significant action to combat fraud in the temporary car tag industry by enacting strict regulations targeting unscrupulous used car dealers and shell companies. Led by State Rep. Todd Jones from Marietta, this new law aims to close loopholes that have cost the state millions and facilitated criminal activities.

According to John Corbett, chair of the House Motor Vehicle Committee, the legislation introduces tighter controls on e-commerce dealers and mandates that all temporary tags issued must correspond with legitimate sales. These measures are designed to preserve state revenue and protect consumers from fraudulent practices.

Richard Barber of the Chamblee Police emphasized the urgent need for oversight, pointing out the current lack of consequences for fraudulent activities. As Georgia addresses the impacts of civil litigation in the real estate law sector alongside these industry changes, these new rules mark an essential step towards improving business integrity and restoring public trust.

Billy Jo Cagle, a resident of Cartersville, was arrested on October 20 at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport after allegedly making terroristic threats. The Atlanta Police Department reacted promptly to a "person armed" alert, which led to a search that found a rifle in Cagle's vehicle.

Cagle now faces multiple charges, including Terroristic Threats and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. This case has sparked significant discussion regarding criminal defense strategies within Georgia.

Fortunately, the airport returned to normal operations quickly, showcasing the efficiency of local law enforcement in ensuring public safety. As the investigation unfolds, legal experts expect that complex civil litigation may arise, given the details that are likely to surface in the coming days.

On August 29, 2025, the Cartersville Police Department responded to a reported employee dispute at the Qcells North America facility, leading to increased security measures at the site. While there were initial concerns about the situation, officials assured that there was no active threat to either the workers or the surrounding community.

This incident sheds light on ongoing challenges within corporate environments, igniting conversations about workplace relations and the potential for civil litigation. Local authorities are actively encouraging anyone with information to contact the Cartersville Police’s Criminal Investigations Division at 770-387-5690.

As the investigation progresses in this Georgia town, it highlights the importance of addressing employment issues within the business sector.

A tragic hit-and-run incident early Wednesday morning claimed the life of 36-year-old Terrell Lowdermilk, a truck driver from Chattanooga. The accident occurred on I-75N near South Marietta Parkway, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

The Marietta Police Department is actively investigating the incident, focusing on a suspect vehicle identified as a Chevrolet Silverado produced between 2019 and 2022. Reports indicate that Lowdermilk had exited his vehicle after a minor collision with another semitruck, only to be struck fatally moments later.

Legal experts familiar with personal injury law believe that Lowdermilk's family might have grounds for civil litigation against the unidentified driver. As the investigation unfolds, local officials have extended their condolences and are urging anyone with information to reach out to Officer D. Lester at the Marietta Police Department.

Connie Taylor, the clerk of Cobb County Superior Court, is in hot water after being indicted for allegedly destroying public records. This follows a public records request from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. A grand jury has charged Taylor with two counts of document destruction and two counts of violating her oath of office, after an extensive investigation conducted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Attorney General’s office.

Elected in 2020, Taylor's tenure has been marred by scrutiny regarding her handling of over $425,000 in passport fees collected from residents. This has prompted state Senator Kay Kirkpatrick to take legislative action addressing the concerns surrounding these funds.

GBI Director Chris Hosey highlighted the importance of government transparency in the wake of these charges. Attorney General Chris Carr echoed this sentiment, stating, "Georgians deserve honesty and transparency from their elected officials." As this case progresses, it underscores significant issues within the realms of business practices and civil litigation related to real estate law in Georgia.

In Floyd County, Georgia, a substantial turnout at the county administration building signaled strong community interest in the first of three public hearings on the proposed millage rate, which is set to reach a maximum of 9.5 mills for 2025. Residents expressed significant opposition to a proposed 6.1% increase, with local resident Ken Wright underscoring their collective demand for affordability in light of rising inflation.

Floyd County Manager Jamie McCord addressed the fiscal hurdles impacting public safety salaries and healthcare costs. He also conveyed hope for potential tax relief through House Bill 581. This legislation, if passed during the upcoming November ballot, could transition from property tax to an additional sales tax, potentially leading to lower millage rates for property owners.

Under Georgia law, these public hearings are crucial, as they ensure due process by informing and involving the community before any final decisions are made regarding the tax rate.