Four Cases Decided in Peachtree Corners Municipal Court

On Thursday four defendants came before Judge Charles Barrett in Peachtree Corners Municipal Court on various city ordinance violations.

First up was a gentleman who was in court for an illegal sign. He entered a guilty plea and the judge fined him $1,000 and a 180-day probation period. The probation period will be reduced when all fines are paid.

The second case involved a violation for failure to pay excise taxes. (A restaurant that serves alcoholic beverages pays a 3 percent tax on every drink sold.) The defendant chose to enter a plea of no lo contendere and was fined $100. (In this type of plea the defendant accepts the conviction but does not admit guilt.)

Judge Bennett's third case involved a property owner who was charged with a property maintenance violation. The homeowner had an inoperative vehicle parked in his front yard. The defendant entered a plea of no lo contendere and paid a $1,000 fine.

And the last case involved a building contractor who was charged with improper rubbage disposal. He was found dumping building waste illegally. He also entered a plea of no lo contendere and paid a fine of $500.

Before the judge made his decisions, the defendants were given a chance to meet with the solicitor (City Attorney Bill Riley) before appearing in court. When a case is ready to come before the judge, the solicitor and code enforcement officer go over the case. The defendant then has an opportunity to talk to the solicitor who may decide to reduce the fine.

Prior to a court appearance, code violators are given ample opportunity to correct the violation said Brandon Branham, the Court of Clerk. In the case with the automobile parked in the front yard, Branham said the city had been working with the resident since February. 

For questions, contact Peachtree Corners Municipal Court's Clerk of Court Brandon Branham at 770-609-8818.