
Violent Crime Attorneys in Birmingham
Experienced & Successful Criminal Defense
Violent offenses in Alabama can mean serious penalties for those convicted. Class A felonies such as murder, first-degree domestic violence, and armed robbery are punishable by 10 years to life in prison – and in the case of capital murder, the prosecution can seek the death penalty. Even misdemeanor simple assault can mean up to a year of incarceration. In addition, violent crime convictions often limit professional and social opportunities, and even accusations can lead to public stigma. Those accused of these serious crimes need a Birmingham criminal defense attorney who understands the law’s complexities and will fight on their behalf.
At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we have decades of courtroom experience and will aggressively advocate for your rights. When you choose our firm, you get an entire team that will immediately commit to getting the best possible outcome for your case. We are the only law firm in the country to get three death row inmates exonerated through new trials, and you can count on us for your defense.
Domestic violence carries very harsh penalties. If you are facing these charges, schedule a case evaluation today to discuss your discuss options.
Vigorous Defense against Violent Crime Charges
We know your reputation, future, and potentially your life are on the line. Our team will thoroughly investigate your case, including evidence, witness testimony, police procedure, and mitigating circumstances to build the best possible defense. Our firm has a history of successful defenses for those accused of or charged with violent crimes.
Our successful cases have included:
- Assault and battery
- Domestic violence
- Armed robbery
- Sexual assault
- Reckless endangerment
- Kidnapping
- Carjacking
- Homicide (murder, capital murder, manslaughter)
State of Alabama vs. Demetrius Watson
The case of State of Alabama vs. Watson speaks to our past work. Mr. Watson was charged with murder even though it was clear he had acted in self-defense. We filed a Motion to Dismiss and were granted a “Stand Your Ground” hearing where we successfully presented evidence to demonstrate Mr. Watson was justified in his actions. After the Motion to Dismiss was granted, the state appealed the decision to the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals and then to the Alabama Supreme Court.
Birmingham Domestic Violence Lawyer
Our Birmingham criminal defense attorneys represented Mr. Watson throughout the process, and both appeals courts eventually upheld the trial court’s decision. We provide this type of nuanced and dedicated defense to every client, and you can depend on our counsel in this difficult time. No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
Contact Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. today at (205) 900-7714 to schedule a free in-person case evaluation with an experienced criminal defense attorney you can trust.

Client Successes
See Our Recent Victories-
Potential Reckless Murder
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Death Penalty
Notice of Order- 01-CC-1983-003916.00
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Murder
State v. F.P.
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White-Collar Crime & Elder Financial Abuse
State v. L.A.
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Distribution of a Controlled Substance
State v. R.G.

Meet the Team
Legal Advocates That Fight Fearlessly For You
Clients Share Their Experiences
Read How We Have Helped Others-
I can honestly say, things wouldn't have gone so well had we not walked into your office.
“As the meetings went on and the court sessions came and went, with your encouragement and your knowledge and your transparency you gave us hope and gave us peace during a very stressful time.”
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Mr. Brown made me feel relaxed and calm.
“Mr. Brown is an amazing lawyer, I was in an unfortunate situation and he made me feel relaxed and calm. He was quick to work and always updated me as he would receive the information. Thank you so much!”
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This firm is the ultimate in legal representation.
“This firm is the ultimate in legal representation. Michael Hanle was my attorney in a recent case; his professionalism, knowledge, attentiveness to detail and mental support could have not been surpassed. I offer my greatest appreciation for a most ethical and successful experience.”