CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY IN TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA
Introduction – Protecting Your Future with a Tuscaloosa Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing criminal charges in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, the stakes are high. An arrest can affect your freedom, your job, your reputation, and your future. That’s why you need an experienced criminal defense attorney in Tuscaloosa who knows Alabama law and who will fight aggressively for your rights.
At the Ford Firm, attorney Randal S. Ford has successfully defended clients across West Alabama against misdemeanor and felony charges, including DUI, drug possession, theft, harassment, assault, domestic violence, resisting arrest, public intoxication, minor in possession of alcohol, and more.
Whether you searched for criminal defense attorney Tuscaloosa AL, criminal lawyers in Tuscaloosa Alabama, or Tuscaloosa criminal defense attorney, you are in the right place. Choosing the right criminal attorney Tuscaloosa AL can make the difference between jail time and walking free.
COMMON CRIMINAL CHARGES IN ALABAMA
Below are the most common criminal charges in Alabama, with details, statutes, voice queries, and answers.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) – §32-5A-191, Alabama Code
“Is a DUI in Alabama a misdemeanor or felony?”
- A first-time DUI is generally a misdemeanor, but multiple DUIs within 10 years or DUIs involving injuries can lead to felony charges.
“What is the penalty for a first DUI in Alabama?”
- A first DUI conviction in Alabama can include fines up to $2,100, up to one year in jail, driver’s license suspension, probation, mandatory classes, and ignition interlock installation.
If you have been arrested for DUI in Tuscaloosa, call a criminal defense attorney Tuscaloosa immediately. DUI charges are serious— even a first offense can carry jail time, license suspension, and thousands in costs. Repeat DUI offenses can result in felony convictions, which follow you for life.
At the Ford Firm, attorney Randal S. Ford, an experienced Tuscaloosa criminal defense attorney, has fought DUI cases by challenging the traffic stop, the breathalyzer machine, and the officer’s procedures. Many DUI arrests involve unlawful searches, lack of probable cause, or unreliable testing methods.
If you’re searching for the best DUI criminal defense attorney Tuscaloosa AL, call the Ford Firm at 205-454-7500 today.
- Public Intoxication – §13A-11-10
“Is public intoxication a crime in Alabama?”
Yes. Under Alabama Code §13A-11-10, public intoxication is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by fines and possible jail.
Many people are surprised to learn that being intoxicated in public can lead to arrest in Alabama. If your behavior is deemed disruptive or dangerous, you can be charged. If you’ve been arrested for public intoxication in Tuscaloosa, you need a criminal attorney Tuscaloosa AL who can help you avoid a criminal record.
Contact Randal S. Ford, a trusted Tuscaloosa criminal defense attorney, to protect your record.
- Possession of Marijuana – §13A-12-214
“Is marijuana possession still illegal in Alabama?”
Yes. Marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in Alabama.
“Is possession of marijuana a felony in Alabama?”
Possession for personal use only is a Class A misdemeanor. Possession for anything beyond personal use is a Class C felony.
Even a small amount of marijuana can lead to a criminal conviction in Alabama. A conviction can affect employment, student loans, and your reputation. A Tuscaloosa criminal defense attorney like Randal S. Ford can fight to keep this off your record.
- Possession of Controlled Substances – §13A-12-212
“What happens if you are caught with drugs in Alabama?”
Possession of controlled substances like cocaine, meth, heroin, or prescription drugs without a prescription is a felony in Alabama.
Drug possession charges are among the most serious criminal charges in Alabama. A conviction means prison, fines, and permanent consequences. If you’ve been charged, you need a criminal defense attorney Tuscaloosa AL who understands how to challenge evidence, lab testing, and police procedures.
- Theft of Property – §13A-8-2
“What is the punishment for theft in Alabama?”
Punishment depends on the value stolen. Theft under $500 is Theft 4th Degree (misdemeanor), while theft over $2,500 is Theft 1st Degree (felony).
Shoplifting, employee theft, and property theft cases are common in Tuscaloosa. These charges can result in both jail time and civil lawsuits. If you’re accused, contact Randal S. Ford, a leading criminal lawyer in Tuscaloosa Alabama, to fight for your rights.
- Harassment – §13A-11-8
“Is harassment a misdemeanor in Alabama?”
Yes, harassment is a Class C misdemeanor.
Harassment charges often arise from misunderstandings, arguments, or false allegations. A Tuscaloosa criminal defense attorney can investigate and defend you against unfair accusations.
- Domestic Violence – §13A-6-130 through §13A-6-132
“Is domestic violence a felony in Alabama?”
Depending on the degree, domestic violence can be either a misdemeanor or a felony.
Domestic violence charges carry severe penalties, including loss of gun rights and permanent criminal records. Many cases involve false or exaggerated claims. If you’ve been accused, you need a criminal attorney Tuscaloosa AL with experience handling these sensitive cases.
- Assault – §13A-6-20 through §13A-6-22
“What is the punishment for assault in Alabama?”
Assault 3rd Degree is a misdemeanor, while Assault 1st and 2nd Degree are felonies that can bring prison sentences.
Assault charges are often based on self-defense situations. An experienced criminal defense attorney Tuscaloosa can fight to prove your side of the story.
- Resisting Arrest – §13A-10-41
“Can you resist an unlawful arrest in Alabama?”
No. Even if the arrest is unlawful, resisting can result in additional charges.
Many resisting arrest charges come from confusion during a police encounter. A Tuscaloosa criminal defense attorney can fight to reduce or dismiss these charges.
10. “What happens if you get caught with alcohol under 21 in Alabama?”
It is illegal for anyone under 21 to possess alcohol. A conviction can lead to fines, community service, and driver’s license suspension.
Tuscaloosa police frequently charge students with minor in possession (MIP). An experienced criminal lawyer in Tuscaloosa Alabama can help protect your future and keep your record clean.
- Disorderly Conduct – §13A-11-7
“Is disorderly conduct serious in Alabama?”
Yes, disorderly conduct is a Class C misdemeanor and can result in fines, probation, and jail.
Disorderly conduct charges often arise from bar fights, loud behavior, or protests. These charges may seem minor but can affect your record. A Tuscaloosa criminal defense attorney can fight to have them dismissedMinor in Possession of Alcohol – §28-1-5
- Trespassing – §13A-7-2 through §13A-7-4
“Is trespassing a misdemeanor in Alabama?”
Yes, but aggravated trespass can be elevated depending on circumstances.
Trespassing charges can arise from being on private property without permission. They may seem small, but they can impact jobs and housing. Randal S. Ford, a criminal defense attorney Tuscaloosa AL, can fight for your rights.
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without a Permit – §13A-11-50
“Do you need a permit to carry a gun in Alabama?”
Alabama now allows permitless carry, but concealed weapon charges still apply in some circumstances.
Weapons charges are serious and can result in felony records. A Tuscaloosa criminal defense attorney can protect your Second Amendment rights.
CONTACT THE FORD FIRM – CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY TUSCALOOSA
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, don’t wait. Call Randal S. Ford, a trusted Tuscaloosa criminal defense attorney, at 205-454-7500.
Whether you searched for criminal defense attorney Tuscaloosa, criminal defense attorney Tuscaloosa AL, criminal lawyers in Tuscaloosa Alabama, or criminal attorney Tuscaloosa AL, you’ve found the lawyer who will fight for your future.
