Many people warn others to avoid actions that might lead to traffic stops. But, very few people know what to do when pulled over by the police. Here are a few answers to questions you may have about traffic stops: 1. Why would the police stop my vehicle? The police...
Seeking Solutions As Diverse And Unique As Our Clients
Criminal Defense
Can someone be convicted of a crime just for being present?
What’s it take to make someone an accomplice to a crime in the eyes of the law? Is merely being present when a crime is committed enough to make someone legally accountable for another party’s actions? Nearly every state has some law that holds accomplices – anybody...
Can the police legally obtain evidence from my trash?
The idea of the police entering your home or property to conduct a search can be frightening. However, the police can gather evidence for an ongoing investigation from just about anywhere, including your trash. But can the police legally search through your garbage?...
Can you be charged with felony theft for shoplifting in Alabama?
Shoplifting is an offense that all states take very seriously -- some more than others. In Alabama, a conviction can result in serious legal consequences, including jail time and hefty fines, not to mention the resulting criminal record. The potential sentence will...
What are the consequences of a second DUI conviction in Alabama?
A DUI conviction is scary, especially if it's your second within 10 years. You'll no doubt be worried about how it might impact your finances, relationships and career. It can be frightening to have to accept that you could lose your driver's license and possibly...
When can an officer legally stop and search you?
Most people have a general awareness that they have a constitutional protection against “unreasonable” searches and seizures by law enforcement officers – especially when they’re in their homes. However, things can get a little fuzzy when a person is out walking...
Fleeing from the police could soon be a felony in Alabama
What do you do when a police officer either calls out for you to stop moving or pulls up behind your vehicle and flashes its lights? Most people probably will stop – but not everybody. Some people panic and run or drive off for no clear reason at all, probably simply...
Understanding how plea bargains work
Many criminal cases do not end up going to trial. Instead, a fairly common resolution is the plea bargain. Here, the person facing criminal charges (the defendant) reaches a deal with the prosecution to plead guilty to some or all of the charges against them in return...
When is evidence legally considered to be in “plain view?”
The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects people from “unreasonable” search and seizure. In most cases, unless they’re given permission to enter, law enforcement officers need a search warrant to look around and take potential evidence from a person’s...
How serious are theft crimes in Alabama?
All states look harshly at theft crimes, but Alabama has some of the strictest theft laws in the country. Defendants face penalties ranging from a few hundred dollars in fines to years or decades in jail. Those arrested for theft crimes need to take their situation...