1. The Law Offices of Segal & Segal, LLC
Focus Area: Criminal defense with former prosecutors and North Alabama coverage
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, domestic violence, robbery, rape, child abuse, firearms offenses
Background: At Law Offices Of Segal & Segal, the criminal defense lawyers in Huntsville, Alabama, will stand up for you. They are your voice in the courtroom. The attorneys are former prosecutors who are seasoned veterans of the criminal courts in North Alabama. They understand the criminal process and have a wide range of experience with different charges. They’re there to fight for you. The firm is proud to represent clients throughout the Huntsville-Decatur area, including Madison County, Morgan County, Marshall County, Limestone County and Jackson County. The areas of practice include drug crimes, domestic violence, assault, theft, robbery, rape, child abuse, firearms offenses, and more. Additionally, the firm is proud to counsel clients through all their options. If you’re accused of a drug-related crime, you may be eligible for drug court.
Location: Huntsville, Alabama (serves Madison, Morgan, Marshall, Limestone, Jackson Counties)
Contact: (256) 533-4529 | https://www.huntsvilledefenselawyer.com/
Consultation: Free and confidential consultation available
2. The Moore Firm, LLC
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 40+ years combined experience and North Alabama focus
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, theft, assault and battery, domestic violence, felonies, misdemeanors
Background: The Moore Firm, LLC is a tenacious law firm committed to client success in Criminal Defense, DUI, Family Law, and Personal Injury cases. Based in Huntsville, Alabama, they are known as fierce litigators in the courts throughout all of the Northern Alabama region. The attorneys have the necessary persistence to help you prevail in your legal conflict. They are experienced and determined to win. The Moore Firm, LLC knows how to interpret Alabama law to your advantage. The lawyers are passionate about their work and fearlessly strive for the results you require in a variety of practice areas. Facing criminal charges is an overwhelming and stressful experience. If you have been arrested, you need a zealous and tenacious criminal defense attorney to fight for your rights. The firm has more than 40 years of combined experience. When you retain the services of The Moore Firm, LLC, you can be assured that your attorney will pursue your case with zeal.
Location: Huntsville, Alabama (serves Northern Alabama)
Contact: (256) 551-0670 | https://www.huntsvillealabamaattorneys.com/
Consultation: Consultation available
3. Ferguson & Ferguson
Focus Area: Criminal defense with decades of combined experience and personalized strategies
Practice Areas: DUI, drug offenses, assault, theft, domestic violence, sex crimes, federal crimes
Background: The firm’s attorneys exhibit a deep understanding of Alabama’s criminal laws, showcasing mastery and finesse in their field. They approach each case with a personalized strategy, be it involving DUI, drug offenses, assault, or any criminal charge, ensuring a thorough and effective defense tailored to the unique circumstances of each client. By choosing Ferguson & Ferguson, individuals avail themselves of dedicated advocates who leave no stone unturned in their relentless pursuit of justice on their behalf. At Ferguson & Ferguson, the criminal defense attorneys possess extensive experience in handling a wide range of criminal cases. They understand that there are innocent individuals currently languishing in Alabama jails due to the lack of expertise in criminal trial tactics of their defense lawyers. That’s why they are committed to utilizing their deep knowledge and experience to your advantage. The team of seasoned attorneys will leave no stone unturned in seeking the reduction, dismissal, or dropping of your charges.
Location: 303 Williams Avenue SW, Suite 321, Huntsville, AL 35801 (also Decatur office at 211 Oak Street NE)
Contact: Available through website | https://fergusonferguson.com/
Consultation: Available for consultation
4. McDaniel and McDaniel, L.L.C.
Focus Area: Criminal defense since 1976 with meticulous preparation and expert witnesses
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, domestic violence, sex crimes, violent crimes, expungements, appeals
Background: If you have been charged with a crime in Alabama, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. Since 1976, the attorneys at McDaniel and McDaniel, L.L.C. have been fighting to defend the rights of their clients. They have built their reputation on getting results. They are intimately familiar with all facets of the Alabama criminal justice system, and have the knowledge and skill to make sure you understand your legal options and to guide you through the legal process. Since 1976, they have represented clients in state and federal courts on charges ranging from minor offenses to serious felonies. When you have charges on your record that you want eliminated, they can help you get those charges sealed or expunged, or represent you in appellate court. At McDaniel and McDaniel, L.L.C., they go the extra mile to ensure that you get the justice you deserve. Through meticulous preparation and a firm attention to detail, their efforts are always focused on achieving that goal. They personally speak with witnesses, comb through police records and thoroughly examine the alleged crime scene, if necessary.
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Contact: (256) 534-3018 | https://www.mcdanielandmcdaniel.net/
Consultation: Available for consultation
5. Robin Wolfe, Attorney at Law
Focus Area: Full-service criminal defense with comprehensive case management
Practice Areas: Criminal defense, investigation, witness preparation, trial litigation, mitigation, expungements, appeals
Background: The firm is unique in that they provide a full range of services covering the initial investigations; witness location, interview and preparation; crime scene investigation and documentation; client assessment and referrals for alternative programs; client consultation and evidence review; motion practice and advocacy; trial preparation and litigation; mitigation and sentencing preparation; assistance with probation compliance; motions to reconsider and/or appeals; and expungements. The defense team is experienced and dedicated to achieving results for the clients they assist, whether appointed or retained. There is no difference in designation of files or difference in services provided. They treat every client and family with fairness and respect. If you’re looking for a compassionate, fair, and nonjudgmental criminal defense in the Huntsville, Alabama area, you’ve come to the right place.
Location: P.O. Box 10109, Huntsville, AL 35801
Contact: (256) 539-4441 | https://www.rwolfelaw.com/
Consultation: Available for consultation
Criminal Defense Laws in Alabama
Felony Classifications
Alabama classifies felonies into four classes:
Class A Felony: Includes murder, first-degree kidnapping, and first-degree rape. Penalty is 10 years to life imprisonment.
Class B Felony: Includes first-degree robbery, first-degree burglary, and trafficking in controlled substances. Penalty is 2-20 years imprisonment.
Class C Felony: Includes second-degree assault, second-degree burglary, and theft of property over $2,500. Penalty is 1-10 years imprisonment.
Class D Felony: Added in 2015, includes certain property crimes. Penalty is 1-5 years imprisonment.
Misdemeanor Classifications
Class A Misdemeanor: Includes third-degree assault, menacing, and harassment. Maximum 1 year in jail and $6,000 fine.
Class B Misdemeanor: Includes disorderly conduct and criminal trespass in the third degree. Maximum 6 months in jail and $3,000 fine.
Class C Misdemeanor: Includes loitering and public intoxication. Maximum 3 months in jail and $500 fine.
Expungement
Alabama allows expungement of certain criminal records under the Alabama Expungement Law:
Eligible Records: Non-convictions (dismissals, acquittals, no true bills), certain non-violent offenses, and some violations.
Waiting Periods: Generally no waiting period for non-convictions; varies for convictions depending on offense type.
Effect: Record is sealed from public view but may still be accessible to law enforcement.
DUI Laws
Alabama DUI applies to driving with BAC of .08% or higher (.04% commercial, .02% under 21). First offense carries up to 1 year jail, $600-$2,100 fine, and 90-day license suspension. Second offense within 5 years carries 5 days to 1 year jail, $1,100-$5,100 fine, and 1-year license revocation. Third offense within 5 years is a Class A misdemeanor with 60 days to 1 year jail, $2,100-$10,100 fine, and 3-year license revocation. Fourth offense within 5 years is a Class C felony with 1-10 years prison.
Frequently Asked Questions
What courts handle criminal cases in Huntsville?
Criminal cases in Huntsville are handled by multiple courts depending on the offense. Huntsville Municipal Court handles city ordinance violations and some misdemeanors. Madison County District Court handles misdemeanors and felony preliminary hearings. Madison County Circuit Court handles felony trials. The 23rd Judicial Circuit serves Madison County. Federal criminal cases are handled by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, which has a division in Huntsville. Having a Huntsville criminal defense attorney familiar with local judges and prosecutors in Madison County provides an advantage in navigating your case.
What are the penalties for drug possession in Alabama?
Alabama has strict drug laws. Possession of marijuana (personal use, first offense) is a Class A misdemeanor with up to 1 year jail. Possession of marijuana (second or subsequent offense) is a Class C felony with 1-10 years prison. Possession of controlled substances (cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine) is a Class C felony with 1-10 years prison. Possession with intent to distribute carries enhanced penalties. Drug trafficking carries mandatory minimum sentences. Alabama does not have medical or recreational marijuana legalization. A Huntsville criminal defense attorney can evaluate defenses and negotiate for drug court or treatment alternatives.
What is Drug Court in Madison County?
Madison County Drug Court is a treatment-based alternative for qualifying drug offenders. Drug Court provides intensive supervision, regular drug testing, treatment services, and court appearances. Participants must plead guilty but sentencing is deferred. Successful completion can result in reduced charges or dismissal. Eligibility is generally limited to non-violent drug offenders. The program typically lasts 12-18 months. Drug Court is an alternative to traditional prosecution and incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation. A Huntsville criminal defense attorney can evaluate eligibility and advocate for Drug Court placement.
What happens if I am charged with DUI in Madison County?
A DUI charge in Madison County carries serious consequences. First offense carries up to 1 year jail, $600-$2,100 fine, 90-day license suspension, and possible ignition interlock device. Second offense within 5 years carries 5 days to 1 year jail, $1,100-$5,100 fine, 1-year license revocation, and mandatory ignition interlock. Third offense is a Class A misdemeanor with 60 days to 1 year jail, $2,100-$10,100 fine, and 3-year license revocation. Fourth offense is a Class C felony with 1-10 years prison. Alabama has an implied consent law, and refusing a chemical test results in automatic license suspension. A Huntsville criminal defense attorney can challenge the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical test results.
Can I get my Alabama criminal record expunged?
Alabama allows expungement of certain criminal records under the Alabama Expungement Law. Eligible records include non-convictions (dismissals, acquittals, no true bills), certain non-violent misdemeanors and felonies, and violations. Some offenses are not eligible, including violent crimes, sex offenses, and offenses involving children. The effect of expungement is that the record is sealed from public view. Filing fees apply, and the process involves petitioning the court. Recent legislation has expanded expungement eligibility in Alabama. A Huntsville criminal defense attorney can evaluate eligibility and file the appropriate petition.