What Is a Misdemeanor in Alabama?
In Alabama, a misdemeanor is a criminal offense punishable by up to one year in jail and fines of up to $6,000. While less serious than a felony, a misdemeanor conviction can still create long-term problems — including a criminal record, loss of employment opportunities, and damage to your personal and professional reputation.
Common misdemeanors in Alabama include:
DUI and reckless driving
Possession of marijuana (2nd degree)
Domestic violence (3rd degree)
Theft, shoplifting, or criminal mischief
Harassment and disorderly conduct
Trespassing and public intoxication
Resisting arrest
Minor assault or menacing
No matter how “minor” the charge seems, it’s vital to take it seriously. Even a misdemeanor conviction can carry lasting consequences that affect your future.
Don’t Speak to the Police Without Legal Counsel
If you are being investigated, questioned, or have been arrested, your first step should be to remain silent and contact a defense attorney immediately.
Law enforcement officers are trained to gather statements that can later be used against you — even if you’re innocent or just trying to explain your side.
At Guntersville Law, LLC, we take over communication with police and prosecutors right away. We make sure your rights are fully protected from the start and that your defense begins before mistakes are made.
📞 Call 256-571-1529 before speaking to law enforcement.
Protect your rights. Protect your future.
Our Approach to Misdemeanor Defense
We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Every case — and every client — is different. When you hire our firm, you’ll work directly with attorney Paul Seckel, who will personally handle your case from beginning to end.
Our process typically includes:
Initial Consultation: We review your case, explain the charges, and outline your legal options.
Investigation: We gather evidence, review police reports, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Negotiation: We use our experience with local prosecutors and judges to pursue charge reductions, diversions, or dismissals.
Trial Preparation: If your case goes to trial, we build a powerful defense and advocate aggressively in court.
Post-Case Options: When possible, we help clients pursue expungement or record sealing to protect their future.
Local Experience That Matters
Criminal defense isn’t just about knowing the law — it’s about understanding the local court system.
We regularly handle cases in Marshall County District Court, Guntersville Municipal Court, and nearby jurisdictions. Our familiarity with local prosecutors, judges, and court procedures gives us a distinct edge in protecting our clients.
We fight for:
Dismissals of unfounded charges
Reduced penalties or probation instead of jail
Deferred prosecution or diversion programs
Alternative sentencing options
When your rights, freedom, and record are on the line, you deserve a lawyer who knows how to win where it matters most — right here in North Alabama.
Why Choose Guntersville Law, LLC?
You have many choices when hiring a defense attorney. Here’s what sets our firm apart:
Local Knowledge: We’ve built strong working relationships with judges and prosecutors throughout Marshall County.
Personal Attention: You’ll always work directly with your attorney — not be passed off to staff.
Honest Guidance: We give straightforward advice so you always understand what’s happening.
Proven Results: Hundreds of misdemeanor cases resolved successfully, from negotiations to trial wins.
Accessible & Responsive: We respond quickly, because we know criminal charges don’t wait.
We treat every case like it’s the most important one we’ve ever handled — because to you, it is.
The Real Cost of a Misdemeanor Conviction
Many people underestimate how serious a misdemeanor can be.
A conviction can mean:
Jail time up to one year
Substantial fines and court costs
Driver’s license suspension (for DUI or traffic cases)
Mandatory classes or community service
Loss of employment or professional licensing
Permanent criminal record
The good news is that with skilled representation, many of these consequences can be avoided or minimized. Our job is to protect your future — in and out of the courtroom.
Can a Misdemeanor Be Expunged in Alabama?
In some cases, yes. Alabama law allows expungement of certain misdemeanor charges that have been dismissed, no-billed by a grand jury, or where you were found not guilty. We help clients determine whether they qualify for expungement and handle the paperwork to clear their record.
If your case qualifies, we’ll work to restore your clean record and peace of mind.
Schedule Your Confidential Consultation
If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor in Guntersville, Albertville, Arab, Boaz, or anywhere in Marshall County, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The sooner you act, the stronger your defense can be.
Contact Guntersville Law, LLC today to schedule a confidential $100 consultation with attorney Paul Seckel. We’ll explain your rights, review your case, and help you take control of your situation.
📞 Call 256-571-1529 or request a consultation online
Serving Guntersville, Albertville, Arab, Boaz, Marshall County, and all of North Alabama.
FAQ: Misdemeanor Defense in Alabama
What happens after I’m arrested for a misdemeanor?
You’ll typically be booked, given a court date for arraignment, and required to enter a plea. It’s best to contact an attorney immediately before that first hearing.
Can I go to jail for a first-time misdemeanor?
Yes — Alabama law allows up to one year in county jail, depending on the charge. However, many first-time offenders are eligible for probation, deferred adjudication, or dismissal through negotiation.
Will a misdemeanor stay on my record?
Unless expunged, yes. A conviction becomes part of your permanent record. That’s why it’s critical to hire a lawyer who can work to avoid a conviction in the first place.
Do I really need an attorney for a misdemeanor?
Absolutely. Even a misdemeanor conviction can affect your job, your license, and your future. An experienced defense lawyer can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and often prevent long-term damage.