Choice A is the correct answer. Distribute both sides, then collect like terms.

1. Distribute left: $8x - 12 \geq 5x + 5$
2. Subtract 5x: $3x - 12 \geq 5$
3. Add 12: $3x \geq 17$
4. Divide by 3: $x \geq \frac{17}{3}$

?�� Strategic Tip: When both sides have parentheses, distribute each side completely before combining.

Choice B is incorrect because it reverses the inequality without justification. Choice C is incorrect because it uses 7 instead of $\frac{17}{3} \approx 5.67$. Choice D is incorrect because it combines wrong value and wrong direction.