Criminal Defense

Domestic violence charges in Alabama are taken very seriously and can result in significant penalties, including jail time, fines, loss of firearms rights, and mandatory counseling. Alabama Code §§ 13A-6-130 through 13A-6-132 define domestic violence in the first, second, and third degree, each carrying different consequences.

These charges can arise from a wide range of circumstances, and accusations do not always reflect the full picture. If you have been charged with domestic violence, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to understand your rights and the options available to you.

• Domestic violence in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd degree
• Assault, harassment, and menacing charges in domestic contexts
• Violations of existing domestic violence orders

A Protection from Abuse (PFA) order — sometimes called a restraining order — can be filed quickly and may significantly impact your daily life, your ability to see your children, and your living situation. In Alabama, these orders are governed by the Protection from Abuse Act (Alabama Code §§ 30-5-1 through 30-5-11).

If a PFA has been filed against you, or if you have been served with an emergency protective order, it is critical to act quickly. We can help you understand the order, prepare for any required hearings, and present your side of the situation before the court.

• Emergency and final PFA hearings
• Responding to and contesting protection orders
• Violation of protection order charges
• Custody and visitation implications of a PFA

In Alabama, a DUI conviction can result in license suspension, fines, mandatory ignition interlock devices, increased insurance rates, and potential jail time — even for a first offense. Alabama Code § 32-5A-191 sets out the state's DUI laws, which apply to alcohol, controlled substances, and other impairing substances.

If you have been arrested for DUI, it is important to understand that an arrest is not a conviction. There may be issues with the traffic stop, the field sobriety testing, or the breath or chemical test results that can be raised in your defense.

• First, second, and subsequent DUI offenses
• DUI involving controlled substances or prescription medication
• Underage DUI
• Felony DUI (resulting in serious injury or death)
• License suspension and administrative hearings (ALEA)

Alabama imposes serious penalties for drug-related offenses. Charges can range from simple possession to trafficking, each carrying its own set of consequences. If you are facing drug charges, understanding the specific nature of the charge — and the evidence the prosecution intends to use — is an essential first step.

We handle a wide range of drug-related offenses, including:

• Marijuana possession — simple possession of marijuana remains a criminal offense in Alabama and can result in fines and incarceration
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (UPOCS) — possession of a Schedule I–V controlled substance without a valid prescription under Alabama Code § 13A-12-212
• Possession with intent to distribute — charges based on the quantity of a substance, packaging, or other factors suggesting distribution, which carry significantly harsher penalties
• Drug trafficking — charges based on large quantities of controlled substances under Alabama Code § 13A-12-231
• Illegal possession of prescription drugs

We examine all aspects of your case, including whether law enforcement had lawful authority to conduct a search, whether your rights were respected during the investigation, and whether the evidence against you was properly obtained.