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Do I need a criminal defense attorney?
January 8, 2021 at 7:00 AM
Do I need a criminal defense attorney?

No matter what you or a loved one is facing, criminal charges are serious. A criminal defense attorney can help you fight the charges that have been levied against you. The legal team at Maxwell Tillman has extensive experience in fighting all misdemeanor and felony charges. Are you still unsure if you need a defense attorney? If you’re facing any of the charges below, our team will serve as your representation.

Assault and battery charges

While assault and battery are charges that are typically exacted together, each is its own charge and can be levied individually. A person can commit an assault without battery and vice versa. Let’s establish what each charge is on its own.

Assault is when a person acts with intent to cause harm or violence against another person. While assault can be committed without any physical contact occurring, there must be intent as well as the ability to follow through with a threat. Someone can shout, “I’ll knock you out!” and be charged with assault without actually making it to the point of punching you.

In contrast, battery is the actual act of physically applying force to another person with the intent to cause harm. To continue the example above, our person would be charged with battery if they actually followed through with the threat.

Domestic violence charges

Domestic violence is similar to standard assault and battery charges as outlined above, but the people involved in the incident are either parent and child, husband and wife, or couples who are or were dating or engaged. The state of Alabama identifies domestic violence in three degrees, which match first-, second-, and third-degree assault. However, domestic violence in the first degree also includes aggravated stalking.

Drug charges

There are a number of ways that you or a loved one can face drug charges. Whether it’s distribution, trafficking, cultivating, or possession of drugs or related paraphernalia, all are included in drug charges and a conviction can carry stiff penalties in Alabama. Drugs like methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and marijuana carry penalties that include steep fines and mandatory incarceration.

White-collar crimes charges

It’s important to remember that not all crimes are committed in the streets or at home. Fraud, embezzlement, corporate fraud, extortion, and money laundering are all examples of what is referred to as white-collar crimes. These crimes are typically non-violent and are committed in a professional environment. White-collar crimes are committed all across America in professional settings that include major corporations, restaurants, non-profit organizations, and many others.

DUI charges

Whether it’s your first, second, third DUI charge, or beyond, you need representation to help fight your case. It is considered a DUI if you’re driving under the influence of alcohol or impaired by drugs. This includes illicit or prescription drugs that change or inhibit your ability to operate your vehicle. A first DUI charge comes with a maximum penalty of one year in jail or a fine up to $2,100 or both. Refusing a breath test or an alcohol breath test of .15 or higher can lead to an arrest.

Theft charges

Theft comes in a number of levels with the lowest being fourth-degree theft to first-degree theft. The level is determined by the value of property stolen.

  • First degree: Property value is more than $2,500 and is a Class B felony.
  • Second degree: Property value is more than $1,500 but less than $2,500 and is a Class C felony.
  • Third degree: Property value is more than $500 but less than $1,500 and is a Class D felony. This can also include theft of livestock, a controlled substance, or a firearm of any value.
  • Fourth degree: Property value up to $500 and is a Class A misdemeanor.

Contact Maxwell Tillman

If you’re facing criminal charges, the team at Maxwell Tillman will fight for you. We’ll serve as your criminal defense attorney with your best interests at heart. Give us a call or send us a message to schedule your free consultation. We’ll help you take action in your case immediately.