What is Criminal Defense Law? You know the rule: “innocent until proven guilty.” Essentially, this means that everyone is entitled to certain legal protections, even those who have been accused of committing a crime. Law enforcement certainly has substantial resources at its disposal, as do criminal prosecutors. Likewise, every individual who is charged with a […]
First degree manufacturing of a controlled substance in Alabama
UPOCS (Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance)
What is a controlled substance? In 2013, 82.3% of all drug arrests were for UPOCS. That equates to more than 1.2 million arrests in that year. There are several Alabama laws, included in the Criminal Code, that relate to the prohibitions against the unauthorized possession or distribution of controlled substances. So, which drugs are considered […]
Alabama Expungement Law
How Does Expungement Work in Alabama? Alabama residents, charged with a non-violent crime but not convicted, may be able to have that charge expunged, meaning erased from their criminal record and from the public record, as well. Alabama’s expungement law is relatively new, only becoming effective a year ago, but understanding some of the benefits […]
Possession of Marijuana in Alabama
What is the Penalty for Criminal Possession of Marijuana in Alabama? If you are facing a marijuana charge for possession, it is important to know the possible penalties in Alabama. Criminal charges for, not only marijuana possession, but also for the sale and distribution of marijuana, are established by both state and federal law, […]
Ketcham Law- “Testimony in a DUI Case”
The penalties for a DUI, or driving under the influence, can be very serious. In Alabama, the penalties depend on how many offenses you have. The penalty for a first offense is a fine between $600 and $2,100 and a 90-day suspension of your license. With each subsequent offense, the fines are stiffer and the […]
Former Birmingham Postal Worker Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud
Mail fraud has been a federal crime in the United States since 1872. This crime is defined as any fraudulent scheme to intentionally deprive another of property or honest services via the mail. In Florence, one former postal pleaded guilty earlier this week to the crime of mail fraud for re-directing packages to his accomplice. […]
A Look at DUI laws Nationwide
This chart identifies certain DUI-related criminal and administrative penalties used in each state: State Administrative License Suspension/ Revocation (1st/ 2nd/ 3rd Offense) Mandatory Alcohol Education and Treatment Vehicle Confiscation Possible? Ignition Interlock Device Possible? AL 90d/ 1y/ 3ys Both No No AK 90d/ 1y/ 3ys Both 2nd offense Yes AZ 90d/ 90d/ 90 d Both […]
Alabama DUI Consequences
Alabama became the latest state to enact DUI legislation that included the use of ignition interlock devices, also known as IID’s, in 2011. First time offenders with a blood alcohol level (BAC) 0.15 or higher are required to have an IID installed on their vehicle. An IID is a device that is connected to the vehicle’s […]