Buzzed Driving is Still Drunk Driving We all know there is a legal limit for blood alcohol, when it comes to drunk driving laws. But many people do not realize that, even if your blood alcohol level is below the legal limit of .08%, you could still be charged with a DUI in Alabama. An […]
First degree manufacturing of a controlled substance in Alabama
Domestic Violence In Alabama
Understanding the Law in Alabama Regarding Domestic Violence In Alabama, depending on the severity of the alleged action, domestic violence charges are generally misdemeanor charges. Regardless, Alabama courts take domestic violence charges seriously and a conviction can have a substantial impact. In most cases, evidence surrounding a domestic violence charge will come from the victim […]
Entrapment
When Does an Entrapment Defense Apply? Entrapment is a term used frequently in movies and crime novels, but what does it really mean and how can it be used as a defense to a crime? Entrapment is a real defense that can be raised in criminal cases where the suspect alleges he was persuaded by […]
When a Judge’s Articulated Personal Bias Leads to Resentencing
As a vital component of the criminal trial process, sentencing requires fairness, impartiality and sound reasoning by the judge who imposes the sentence. When that process is impeded by personal bias, the result is often unsettling. As one recent case demonstrates, a judge’s apparent personal bias may require resentencing, even when the sentence falls within […]
Immigration Status and An Arrest
How an Immigration Hold may Affect your Criminal Case The number of criminal defense matters that now involve some type of immigration issue have seen an increase in recent years. If you have a criminal matter and need legal assistance, and you also anticipate immigration issues arising as well, it is important to discuss those […]
Police Searching Cell Phones: Legal or Not?
Before a police officer can search a suspect’s cell phone, they typically need a search warrant or probable cause. Since most people use their phones to document and communicate various aspects of their daily activities, and their lives in general, privacy becomes an issue. A common legal issue that arises, especially when someone is suspected […]
Alabama’s Criminal Sentencing Guidelines
Alabama made some significant changes to its criminal sentencing guidelines a few years ago, in an effort to address the overpopulated prison system. For one thing, Alabama’s habitual offender laws, which historically led to long sentences after two or more prior felonies, will no longer mean nonviolent offenders will automatically spend decades in prison. The […]
Trafficking vs. Distribution
Is There a Difference Between Trafficking and Distribution? A common question clients have is what is the difference between drug trafficking and drug distribution? Basically, drug distribution refers to the selling, delivering, or providing of a controlled substances illegally. This charge is often used if someone tries to sell drugs to an undercover officer. Drug […]
Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (UPOCS)
It is basically understood that owning or possessing a controlled substance without justification or permission, can be a crime in Alabama – specifically, unlawful possession of a controlled substance. This crime is typically when an individual is found with marijuana cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycontin or other narcotics. What some people forget is that prescription medications can also […]
Do I Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer In order to have a balanced and fair justice system, defense attorneys are a necessity. Their goal is to aid in keeping innocent people from going to jail, but more importantly, to safeguard the constitutional protections of the accused, making sure that due process of the law is […]