Abt Law Firm Secures Major Victory in Landmark YSL RICO Trial

At The Abt Law Firm, LLC, we are proud to announce a historic victory that underscores our unwavering commitment to justice and our reputation as one of Georgia's top criminal defense firms. Our team successfully achieved a not guilty verdict in the longest-running RICO and murder trial in Georgia's history, a case that drew significant media attention and involved high-profile defendants, including members of Atlanta’s music industry.

A Case That Captivated the Nation

The YSL RICO trial, centered around allegations of gang activity and a high-stakes murder charge, was one of the most closely watched cases in Georgia. With prominent figures in Atlanta's music industry at the heart of the case, it captured national headlines for its complexity and high-profile nature. Our defense strategy was put to the test in one of the most challenging and scrutinized legal battles in recent history.

The stakes couldn’t have been higher. The charges under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act carried the potential for life-altering consequences for those involved. Despite the immense pressure and seemingly insurmountable odds, The Abt Law Firm rose to the occasion, carefully constructing a defense that not only challenged the prosecution’s narrative but dismantled it in court.

Strategic Defense That Made History

Behind every victory lies preparation, precision, and persistence. We approached this case with the same rigor and strategic expertise that have defined our firm’s approach for decades. From analyzing evidence to challenging questionable prosecutorial tactics, our team left no stone unturned.

Our hard work paid off. The not guilty verdict marked not only a win for our client but also sent a powerful message about the importance of due process and the need for an aggressive and ethical defense in the pursuit of justice.

Recognized by Rolling Stone

This landmark win has not gone unnoticed. The Abt Law Firm’s role in the YSL RICO trial was recently highlighted in Rolling Stone, one of the world’s most respected media publications. Being quoted in Rolling Stone underscores the national significance of this case and the pivotal role we played in it. It reflects our firm’s ability to handle high-profile cases that require both legal mastery and a deep understanding of public scrutiny.

Why This Victory Matters

This case is more than just a legal triumph—it’s a testament to our firm’s dedication to standing up for our clients, no matter the challenges. A not guilty verdict in a case of this magnitude speaks to the proficiency and fearlessness of our legal team. It’s a reminder of why The Abt Law Firm is a trusted name in defending against the most serious charges.

For nearly three decades, we’ve built a reputation for handling complex criminal cases, from RICO allegations to white collar crimes and beyond. Whether the courtroom spotlight shines bright or the case involves quiet but critical legal battles, our clients can trust that we bring the same level of commitment and skill every time.

Trust a Team With Proven Success

The Abt Law Firm’s success in the YSL RICO trial isn’t just a proud moment for our team—it’s a testament to the values we bring to every case. Dedication. Diligence. A deep commitment to justice. These principles guide our work, ensuring every client’s rights are protected and their voice is heard.

If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges, trust the firm with the proven track record to back it up. Contact us today to learn how we can help defend your future with the same determination and mastery of law that delivered a historic verdict in Georgia’s longest-running RICO trial.

The courtroom is where we fight. Justice is what we deliver.

Who is Required to Register as a Sex Offender in Georgia?

Being convicted of sex crimes can mean that a person will be forced to register as a sex offender. The type of crime, and severity of the conviction, can make all the difference when it comes to being labeled as a sex offender.

Contact our Georgia Sex Crime Lawyers!

Are you facing a sex crime charge? At The Abt Law Firm, LLC we will work our hardest for the best possible outcome of your case. Contact us today to see how we can help!

What is a Sex Offender?

A sex offender is someone who has been found guilty of a crime that involved a juvenile or was a dangerous sexual offense. Those offenses can include:

Rape;
Sexual battery;
Child molestation;
Sex with or exploitation of minors; and,
Child pornography.

If someone is deemed a sex offender, it does not matter what state the offense happened in — the sex offender will be required to register their home, work, and other personal information for a certain amount of time.

Who Is Required to Register?

In Georgia, people who are required to register as a sex offender include:

Those who were found guilty of a dangerous sexual offense on or after July 1, 1996;
Those who were previously found guilty of a criminal offense involving a minor and now may be on parole or probation on or after July 1, 1996;
Those who were previously convicted of a sexually violent or dangerous offense and placed on parole or probation on or after July 1, 1996;
Those who are either Georgia residents and were convicted in the state or a non-resident who is moving to Georgia and is required to register by law.

Who Does Not Have to Register?

Those who are convicted of misdemeanor offenses or were charged in juvenile court usually do not have to register on the sex offender registry.

How Long Does Someone Stay on the Registry?

Depending on their conviction and in the state the crime happened in determines how long someone stays on the sex offender registry. The amount of time on the registry varies state by state; however, even if someone has essentially completed their required sentence of being on the registry, information can be found well after someone is technically off the registry as details are published online.

The national sex offender registry website can be found here.

No one wants their name on the sex offender registry. If you are facing sex crime charges you need a criminal defense team representing you. With more than 29 years of experience, the attorneys at The Abt Law Firm, LLC will fight for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.

If a Crime Happens in More Than One State, Can Each State Prosecute?

Criminal offenses that happen in more than one state could result in the accused finding themselves in more than one courtroom. That’s because each state has the right to prosecute someone where a crime is committed. Furthermore, if the crime is such a serious offense that it rises to federal charges, someone could be tried in a federal court too.

Additionally, just because a crime is committed in two states does not mean prosecutors in both states will choose to pursue charges. After a conviction in one state, a prosecutor in another state may decide that the punishment is sufficient and choose not to seek additional charges. An example of this is when someone is given a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole — it could be seen as a waste of taxpayer dollars.

Double Jeopardy

Double jeopardy only comes into play if a person is charged for the same crime twice in the same jurisdiction. That means if a crime is committed in one state, and then the crime continues into another state, each state (or jurisdiction) has the opportunity to prosecute an individual for the offense without it being a case of double jeopardy.

Double jeopardy can be dated back to ancient Greece but is also guaranteed by the Fifth Amendment. While it wasn’t the first case to address the dual sovereignty doctrine, in 1985, the U.S. Supreme Court decision Heath v. Alabama clarified the law. The case involved two men who were hired by the defendant to kidnap and kill the defendant’s wife. The men committed the crime in Alabama but the woman’s body was found in Georgia. Those men were given life sentences.

The defendant, on the other hand, agreed to a deal in Georgia where he pleaded guilty for the death of his wife in exchange for a life sentence. However, Alabama prosecutors decided also to file charges for the murder connected to the kidnapping, and the defendant was sentenced to death.

Prior to his death, the defendant had argued that he was being charged with double jeopardy. The case went to the Supreme Court where it was ruled that under the dual sovereignty principle, two states can separately pursue charges against someone for the same crime without violating the Fifth Amendment.

Multiple Charges in Different States

It can be difficult for prosecutors to pursue charges in both states as it can be a long process. Prosecutors in both states will have to remain abreast with the proceedings of each pending case to see if one state’s case will affect the other. As previously stated too, this can not only be time-consuming but costly if a prosecutor’s office chooses to file charges in their state additionally.

Additionally, depending on the specific charges an individual could be facing in each state, some evidence may be applicable for one case but not the other. This is the same for witnesses as well.

Conflicts with Sentencing

Sentencing conflicts could also arise if someone is facing similar charges in two states. In the Supreme Court case mentioned above, the defendant was later executed by the state of Alabama in 1992, although he first received a life sentence in Georgia. Because Georgia sentenced the defendant first, they had primary jurisdiction and sentencing priority. However, state officials ceded to Alabama so that the state’s sentence could be carried out.

If an individual is sentenced for the same crime in different jurisdictions, the punishments can either be carried out concurrently or consecutively at the discretion of the courts.

When to Contact The Abt Law Firm, LLC

If you are facing charges in two different states, you need a defense attorney who not only knows the laws of multiple states but what rights are available to you. Don’t get stuck facing more serious charges because you don’t have the right person fighting for you — contact the team at The Abt Law Firm, LLC and get started with a free consultation.

Georgia's Cell Phone & Texting Laws

In today’s technological age, the issue of cell phones, texting, and driver distraction are significant concerns for lawmakers, enforcers, and Georgia drivers. In recent years, the law has changed a great deal regarding the use of mobile devices while operating a vehicle. Many states across the nation have implemented strict guidelines for use of these devices, and equally as strict penalties for violating the law. Georgia is among the states that have specific guidelines in place for mobile device use by motorists.

Georgia Law and Mobile Devices

Atlanta has been identified as one of the least-courteous cities in the United States, with research indicating that as many as 35 percent of Atlanta drivers text or use a cell phone while operating a vehicle. The primary danger of cell phone use or texting is distraction that can result in an automobile accident. Equally as damaging to an individual’s record and wallet is the possibility of criminal citations, charges, and penalties.

Here are some of the basics of what Georgia law has to say about cell phones and texting while operating a vehicle:

Cell Phone Use – Cell phone use is defined as any handheld device, such as a mobile phone, tablet, or GPS device. Georgia motorists who are over 21 years old are restricted from using any handheld device unless he or she also wears a hands free device, such as a headset or bluetooth. Motorists who are under 21 years old are restricted from using any mobile device, hands free or otherwise.
Texting – Georgia law mandates that all motorists be prohibited from texting while operating a vehicle. This law includes any mobile device, such as a laptop, cell phone, tablet, or other electronic item. The only exception to this law is for emergency responders and law enforcement that are parked or are responding to emergencies.
Bus Drivers – All bus drivers in Georgia are prohibited from using mobile devices or texting while operating a bus. This law includes hands free devices.

How is Georgia Law Enforced?

Municipal, county, and state law enforcement officers enforce Georgia’s cell phone and texting laws. Because cell phone and texting laws are considered “primary laws,” law enforcement officers have the right to initiate a traffic stop based on witnessing an individual violating the cell phone and texting laws, even if no other violation is in progress. Such law enforcement interactions may result in a citation. Georgia law enforcement officers can also issue a citation if it is observed that an individual who committed another offense was using a cell phone or texting at the time.

The primary penalties for violating Georgia’s cell phone and texting laws include fines of up to $150 and one point added to the individual’s driving record. These penalties are subject to increase if it is discovered that other laws were being violated simultaneously, or if there are mitigating circumstances, such as injury or death to another person caused by the use of a mobile device.

If you want to avoid the consequences of a citation or criminal charge of using your cell phone or texting, including the possibility of losing your driver’s license, call Abt Law Firm, LLC right now. Let our experienced Atlanta Criminal Defense Attorney be your guide as you fight cell phone or texting charges, or any charges including these offenses. Call our office 24/7 at (770) 977-6105 to set up a free consultation. We are happy to schedule a telephone consultation, or meet you in our office or at the jail where you are being held.