Understanding Abortion Laws in Alabama

Abortion law in Alabama has changed significantly in recent years. What was once a matter of medical regulation has now become a possible criminal issue that can carry severe penalties. Since the state’s Human Life Protection Act took effect in 2022, three years after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, almost all abortions are […]

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5 Surprising Facts About Alabama DUI Charges

Many drivers assume DUI laws are simple: exceed the legal limit, get arrested, face a fine. In reality, Alabama DUI charges are far more complex and often more serious than people expect. Misunderstandings about blood alcohol limits, first-time offenses, and license suspensions can leave drivers unprepared for the consequences.  Below are five surprising facts about […]

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How Long Does Alcohol Stay on Your Breath?

Breath alcohol testing plays a central role in many DUI investigations. In Alabama, law enforcement commonly relies on breathalyzer results to estimate a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and determine whether a legal violation has occurred.  While breath testing is widely used, many drivers are unaware of how long alcohol can actually be detected on […]

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What Happens When an Alleged Victim in a Stand Your Ground Case Wants to Drop the Charges? 

When emotions run high and self-defense becomes a factor in a criminal case, the legal process can become complicated quickly. A recent Alabama case highlights these complexities: an alleged victim has asked the court to drop the charges in question, yet the teenager accused of the shooting remains behind bars. Situations like this often center […]

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Is a DUI a Felony in Alabama?

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Alabama. In our state, a DUI can be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the number of prior offenses, the presence of aggravating circumstances, and whether the offense resulted in injury or death.  The sections below define DUI and explain when such […]

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Everything You Need to Know About House Arrest

House arrest is an alternative to jail that Alabama courts sometimes use for certain defendants. While it may sound simple on the surface, the rules can be strict, and a violation can quickly result in a person being sent to jail. Before deciding on house arrest, you should understand how the system works and its […]

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Major Signs That a Person May Be a Sexual Predator

The term sexual predator is one of the most emotionally charged labels any defendant can face, carrying a heavy social and legal impact. Prosecutors, the media, and even those making allegations often use this phrase to influence how others see the accused.  For someone under investigation or already charged, understanding what actions and patterns may […]

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Attorney Richard S. Jaffe Co-Authors Nationally Published Article on Exculpatory Evidence

Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. is proud to share that our founding and senior partner, Attorney Richard S. Jaffe, has co-authored a nationally published article on the critical issue of exculpatory evidence in criminal defense.  The piece, titled “Brady Wrapped in Jencks Packaging: How Categories of Exculpatory Evidence Can Be Conflated to Delay Production, […]

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How Long Can the Police Detain You Without a Charge in Alabama?

An encounter with law enforcement can feel intimidating in any circumstance, but being held in custody can make things all the more stressful. In Alabama, like in every state, the law sets clear boundaries on how long police officers can detain someone without bringing formal charges.  Knowing these rules can help you protect yourself and […]

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10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Attorney in Birmingham, AL

When you’re arrested for a criminal offense or face an investigation, the first thing a defendant should do is reach out for legal help. You could face serious consequences, and trying to handle conversations with the police alone or figure out what steps to take next is never a good idea.  So, how do you […]

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