Facing criminal charges in Montgomery, Alabama, is overwhelming. The stakes are high, with your freedom, finances, and reputation on the line. The good news is you don’t have to navigate this alone. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we’ve been defending clients like you for over 100 years. That’s a century of combined experience, dedication, and results.
We’re here to help you take control of your situation. Contact us today at (205) 930-9800 to schedule a free consultation with a Montgomery criminal defense lawyer. We’ll explore your options and start building your defense.
How Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. Can Help If You’re Arrested
When you hire us, you’re not just getting one attorney–you’re getting an entire team of seasoned legal professionals. Every attorney at our firm is recognized for excellence in criminal and white-collar defense. Our accolades include:
- Super Lawyers® recognition: An honor based on rigorous research and peer reviews. Some of our attorneys have been listed for over 12 consecutive years.
- Avvo Ratings of 10.0 “Superb”: the highest score available.
- National Trial Lawyers Top 100 membership: An invitation-only distinction for the best trial lawyers in the country.
We understand how much is at stake. Here’s how we can help:
- We’ll conduct a thorough investigation: Every case starts with understanding the facts. We’ll examine the circumstances of your arrest, review police reports, and gather evidence to build a clear picture of what happened. If witnesses are involved, we’ll interview them to uncover information that could strengthen your case. Our goal is to leave no stone unturned.
- We’ll ensure your rights are protected: From the moment of your arrest, you have constitutional rights that must be upheld. Did the police follow proper procedures? Were you read your Miranda rights? If there’s any indication that your rights were violated, we’ll use that to your advantage.
- If possible, we’ll challenge the validity of the evidence: Evidence is critical to any prosecution, but not all evidence is admissible. If law enforcement obtained evidence illegally – whether through an unlawful search or improper interrogation tactics – we’ll fight to have it excluded from the case. This could significantly weaken the prosecution’s position.
- We’ll negotiate with prosecutors: Not every case goes to trial. If a resolution outside the courtroom is in your best interest, we’ll negotiate directly with the prosecution to seek reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even a dismissal. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who know how to advocate for your needs while keeping your future in mind.
- We’ll represent you aggressively in court: If your case goes to trial, we’ll develop a compelling defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case. From selecting a jury to cross-examining witnesses, our experienced trial attorneys will fight tirelessly to protect your interests. With our firm, you’ll have a legal team that knows how to stand strong in the courtroom.
Every client’s case is unique, and we approach each one with the care and attention it deserves. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we’re committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome, whether that means securing an acquittal, reducing penalties, or finding alternative solutions to protect your future.
Contact us today to discuss your case with a Montgomery criminal defense attorney and learn how we can help.
Overview of Criminal Issues in Montgomery, Alabama
Montgomery sees a wide range of criminal cases, but some charges are more common than others. If you’ve been arrested for any of the following, we’re ready to help:
- DUI or drug-related offenses: Alabama has strict penalties for driving under the influence or possession of controlled substances.
- Assault or violent crimes: Charges can range from misdemeanor assault to felony-level offenses like aggravated assault.
- Theft and property crimes: This includes shoplifting, burglary, and vandalism.
- White-collar crimes: This includes crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, or identity theft.
Every case is unique, which is why we take the time to understand the details of your situation. Whether this is your first offense or you have a criminal history, we’ll tailor our approach to your needs.
What Are the Penalties for Crimes in Alabama?
Alabama’s penalties for criminal convictions vary widely depending on the charges and circumstances. Here’s an overview of potential consequences for common offenses:
- DUI: First-time offenders may face fines up to $1,200, license suspension, and mandatory substance abuse programs. Repeat offenses can lead to jail time and felony charges.
- Drug possession: A misdemeanor conviction can result in fines, probation, or up to a year in jail. Felony charges bring harsher penalties, including extended prison sentences.
- Theft: Penalties depend on the value of the stolen property. A misdemeanor theft charge might result in fines, while theft over $2,500 could mean up to 20 years in prison.
It’s important to remember that these penalties aren’t set in stone. With the right defense strategy, it’s possible to reduce or even avoid these consequences.
Possible Defenses for Criminal Charges in Alabama
Defending against criminal charges requires a personalized approach because no two cases are exactly alike. The defense strategy we use will depend on the specific charges, the facts of your case, and the evidence presented by the prosecution.
Here are some of the most common defenses we may use to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome:
- Challenging the evidence: Evidence forms the backbone of the prosecution’s case, but it’s not always collected or handled properly. For example, was a search conducted without a valid warrant? Did the police violate your rights during your arrest or interrogation? If evidence was obtained illegally or is unreliable, we can argue to have it suppressed, meaning the court won’t allow it to be used against you. Without key evidence, the prosecution’s case can weaken significantly.
- Proving a lack of intent: Many crimes require the prosecution to prove intent, meaning that you knowingly or willfully committed the offense. For example, if you’re charged with theft, the prosecution must show that you intended to take something that didn’t belong to you. If we can show that your actions were accidental or misunderstood, we can argue that the intent necessary to convict you wasn’t present.
- Demonstrating self-defense: In cases involving assault or other violent crimes, self-defense is a powerful argument. If you acted to protect yourself or someone else from immediate harm, your actions may be legally justified. We’ll work to establish that you faced a credible threat and that your response was reasonable, given the circumstances.
- Presenting an alibi defense: An alibi defense involves proving that you couldn’t have committed the crime because you were somewhere else at the time. This often requires corroborating evidence, such as witness testimony, video footage, or receipts showing your location. We’ll gather and present this evidence to show that the charges against you simply don’t hold up.
- Arguing lack of knowledge or awareness: In some cases, we may be able to demonstrate that you weren’t aware of your involvement in a crime. For example, if you’re charged with drug possession after unknowingly borrowing a vehicle that contained illegal substances, we can argue that you didn’t have knowledge of the contraband.
Our team evaluates every aspect of your case to determine the strongest possible defense. We’ll examine police reports, evidence, witness statements, and any other relevant details to craft a strategy designed to protect your future. The legal process can feel overwhelming, but with Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. on your side, you’ll have an experienced team dedicated to standing up for your rights.
Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help build your defense.
Additional Information About Criminal Charges in Montgomery
Did you know that Alabama has some of the toughest repeat-offender laws in the country? The Habitual Felony Offender Act imposes harsher penalties for individuals with prior felony convictions, including mandatory minimum sentences. This makes it especially important to fight any charge aggressively.
Fortunately, not all criminal cases in Montgomery result in jail time. Courts may offer alternative sentencing programs for eligible individuals. Examples include:
- Pretrial diversion programs: If you qualify, you may be able to participate in a program that focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment. This could involve completing community service, attending counseling sessions, or meeting other requirements in exchange for having your charges dismissed or reduced.
- Probation instead of jail time: In some cases, courts may sentence you to probation rather than incarceration. Probation allows you to remain in the community while following certain conditions, such as regularly checking in with a probation officer or attending mandatory programs.
These alternatives can be life-changing. They not only keep you out of jail but can also protect your future by minimizing the long-term consequences of an arrest or conviction. However, eligibility for these programs varies, and participation is often at the discretion of the court.
At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we understand how important it is to explore every possible option for our clients. Whether it’s fighting to have charges dropped or helping you qualify for an alternative sentencing program, we’re committed to finding the best resolution for your case.
Contact our Montgomery Criminal Defense Lawyers For a Consultation
When you’re facing criminal charges in Montgomery, Alabama, you need a defense team you can trust. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we bring unmatched experience, recognition, and dedication to every case. We don’t just defend clients; we fight for their futures. Take the first step toward protecting your rights. Call us today at (205) 930-9800 to schedule a free consultation with our Montgomery criminal defense lawyers.