Understanding the Gravity of a Felony Charge

In Alabama, a felony is the most serious category of crime you can be charged with. A felony conviction can fundamentally alter the course of your life, resulting in a prison sentence of more than a year and, in the most extreme cases, life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Beyond incarceration, a felony on your record creates a lifetime of obstacles. It can strip you of your right to vote, your right to own a firearm, and can make it nearly impossible to find meaningful employment, secure safe housing, or obtain a professional license. When you are facing a felony charge, you are facing a fight for your future.

You cannot afford to face the power and resources of the state’s prosecution alone. You need an experienced and aggressive Birmingham felony defense attorney who will stand up for your rights and fight back. At Mark Bishop Turner Attorney At Law, we have a deep understanding of the high-stakes nature of felony cases. We are committed to providing a powerful, strategic defense for clients facing all types of felony charges, from drug trafficking and assault to robbery and murder.

Felony Classifications and Penalties in Alabama
Alabama law classifies felonies into four categories, each with a specific range of potential prison sentences:

• Class A Felony: The most serious category.
  • Examples: Murder, Rape in the First Degree, Robbery in the First Degree, Drug Trafficking (large quantities).
  • Penalties: 10 to 99 years or life in prison. For Capital Felonies, the penalty is death or life without parole.
• Class B Felony: A very serious category of crime.
  • Examples: Manslaughter, Assault in the First Degree, Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, Burglary in the Second Degree.
  • Penalties: 2 to 20 years in prison.
• Class C Felony: A significant charge with serious consequences.
  • Examples: Assault in the Second Degree, Robbery in the Third Degree, Theft of Property in the First Degree (over $2,500), Possession of a Forged Instrument.
  • Penalties: 1 year and 1 day to 10 years in prison.
• Class D Felony: The lowest level of felony, but still very serious.

Examples: Possession of a Controlled Substance (e.g., cocaine, meth), Theft of Property in the Second Degree (
1,500−1,500-1,500−

• 2,500), Possession of Marijuana for a second or subsequent offense.
• Penalties: 1 year and 1 day to 5 years in prison.

Alabama also has a Habitual Felony Offender Act, which means that if you have prior felony convictions, the potential sentence for a new felony conviction can be dramatically increased.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Felony Defense
Defending a felony charge requires a proactive, meticulous, and relentless approach. From the moment you hire us, we get to work building your defense.

1. Thorough Case Investigation: We don’t take the police report or the prosecutor’s claims at face value. We conduct our own independent investigation, which includes reviewing all discovery, interviewing witnesses, examining the crime scene, and identifying any inconsistencies or weaknesses in the state’s case.
2. Protecting Your Constitutional Rights: We scrutinize every action taken by law enforcement. Was the traffic stop legal? Was the search of your home or vehicle backed by a valid warrant or probable cause? Were you properly read your Miranda rights before being interrogated? If any of your rights were violated, we will file aggressive pre-trial motions to have the evidence suppressed, which can lead to a dismissal of the charges.
3. Strategic Negotiations: We are experienced negotiators who can effectively communicate with the prosecutor. If it is in your best interest, we will work to get the charges reduced to a lesser felony or even a misdemeanor, or negotiate for a more favorable sentence. We will always provide you with a clear assessment of any plea offer so you can make an informed decision.
4. Trial-Ready Representation: While many cases are resolved before trial, we prepare every case as if it will be presented to a jury. We are skilled trial lawyers who know how to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, effectively cross-examine witnesses, and present a compelling narrative to the jury. Our reputation for being ready and willing to go to trial often puts us in a stronger negotiating position.

Don’t Let a Felony Charge Define Your Life
The moments after being arrested for a felony are critical. What you do—and who you choose to defend you—can have a profound impact on the outcome. Mark Bishop Turner has the experience, knowledge, and dedication to guide you through this difficult process and fight for the best possible result. We understand what is at stake, and we are prepared to be the powerful advocate you need.

If you or a loved one is facing any felony charge in Birmingham or the surrounding areas, contact Mark Bishop Turner Attorney At Law immediately for a free and confidential consultation.