It can be a misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and $1000.00 fine, or it can be a felony and carry up to ten years in prison. The penalties can increase two and threefold if it is a repeat offense. It becomes a felony in several ways, usually when violence is involved. See O.C.G.A 16-12-1. There is no such thing as a class A misdemeanor in GA.
You definitely need an attorney. Depending on the facts of the case, the attorney should be able to work with the prosecutor and attempt to negotiate a favorable resolution. That charge can encompass many different types of alleged behavior. You can view the Georgia Code at http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/gacode/ and review the elements of the charge at section 16-12-1.
I recommend contacting an attorney as soon as possible to discuss the case.
Jamie Hernan
Hernan Law Firm
Criminal Defense
Telephone: (678) 275-4000
Free initial consultations