
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 a Birmingham criminal 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 am very grateful for Mr. Hanle.
“I am very appreciative of Mr. Hanle and I know he will do what’s best for [my family member]. When I first saw him, I knew he was like the old-school lawyers – well-dressed, well-groomed, good at what he does, but still modest. I am very grateful for him.”
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If you need legal defense help, you should contact this firm.
“I feel fortunate that Mr Hanle represented me on a DUI case. The professionalism, knowledge, and persistence of he and mr Knight were exemplary, which resulted in the best possible outcome for my case.”
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I cannot thank him enough.
“When I met Richard Jaffe, it was the worst time in my life. I was being accused of a crime that I didn't commit and I didn't know how to prove it. When I came in, he listened to me, believed me, and fought for me. He was there for both trials, and if it was not for his expertise I'd be sitting on death row right now. I cannot thank him enough.”