Understanding Alabama’s New Class “D” Felony

What It Means for Criminal Sentencing and Your Future

By Paul A. Seckel, Attorney at Law
Posted February 1, 2016 – Updated for 2025

Alabama’s Criminal Sentencing System Expands

Historically, Alabama classified felony offenses into three categories: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Each class represented varying levels of seriousness, with Class A felonies (such as murder or first-degree robbery) being the most severe, and Class C felonies (such as third-degree burglary) being less serious.

However, in 2016, as part of a statewide prison reform initiative, Alabama lawmakers introduced a new classification — the Class “D” felony. This change was designed to reduce prison overcrowding, focus incarceration on violent offenders, and provide alternative sentencing options for lower-level crimes.

The Class D felony classification became effective on January 30, 2016, under the Alabama Prison Reform Bill (Act 2015-185).

What Is a Class “D” Felony in Alabama?

A Class D felony covers certain non-violent, low-level offenses — crimes considered too serious to be misdemeanors but not severe enough for lengthy prison sentences.

Examples may include:

• Certain drug possession charges (such as possession of a controlled substance)

• Property crimes like theft or receiving stolen property of lesser value

• Forgery or fraud under specific thresholds

These crimes are now punished less harshly than traditional felonies, though they still carry significant legal and personal consequences.

Class D Felony Sentencing and Fines

According to Code of Alabama § 13A-5-6, a Class D felony carries:

• Imprisonment: Between 1 year and 1 day up to 5 years,

• Fines: Up to $7,500, per § 13A-5-11(a)(4),

• And must comply with split sentencing provisions outlined in § 15-18-8(b).

Split sentencing allows the court to impose a shorter term of incarceration followed by supervised probation, encouraging rehabilitation and reducing recidivism.

Comparison of Alabama Felony Classes

Why the Class D Felony Matters

This reform was a major shift in Alabama’s criminal justice system. The introduction of Class D felonies aimed to:

• Reduce overcrowded prisons by diverting low-level offenders to community supervision,

• Reserve prison space for violent and repeat offenders,

• Promote rehabilitation through alternative sentencing and treatment programs,

• Lower the cost of incarceration to the state, and

• Provide courts more flexibility when handling non-violent cases.

However, despite these benefits, a Class D felony conviction still leaves you with a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and civil rights.

Understanding Alabama’s Contributory Felony Laws

A conviction for a Class D felony can still impact your voting rights, gun ownership eligibility, and professional licensing. In some cases, you may qualify for record expungement, but this depends on the nature of the offense, your criminal history, and the completion of all sentencing requirements.

If you are facing a Class D felony charge, having an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential to protect your rights and minimize long-term consequences.

How Guntersville Law, LLC Can Help

At Guntersville Law, LLC, we have extensive experience defending clients across Marshall County and North Alabama against felony and misdemeanor charges.

Attorney Paul A. Seckel has successfully represented clients charged with Class D felonies, drug offenses, and property crimes, helping them navigate Alabama’s complex sentencing laws and achieve favorable outcomes — including dismissals, plea reductions, and alternative sentencing programs.

We will:

• Evaluate your charges and evidence in detail,

• Explain your options clearly, including eligibility for diversion or expungement,

• Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced or dismissed charges,

• Defend you aggressively in court, and

• Protect your record and future opportunities.

📞 Call 256-571-1529 today for a $100, 30-minute consultation with an experienced Alabama criminal defense lawyer.