Sheffield Gun Crime Lawyer

Gun Crime Attorney In Sheffield, AL

Alabama has more lenient gun laws than some other states, but you can still be charged with a gun crime. Whether you had a run-in with the police or there was a misunderstanding that led to a firearm violation, you need a skilled Sheffield gun crime lawyer to help you through the process from beginning to end. Don’t try to face these serious charges alone. Make sure you have someone on your side who knows the law.

About Us

The Law Office of Brad Phillips, LLC has years of experience in criminal defense, including gun crimes. Before Brad became a lawyer, he worked for the Tuscaloosa Police Department, which gives him an edge in your case. As a former officer and experienced Sheffield criminal defense lawyer, he knows how the police work and what strategies can help with your gun crime charges. His former clients comment on his honesty and confidence. Gun crimes can result in steep fines and penalties. Hire a gun crime lawyer you can trust.

Gun Deaths in the U.S. and Alabama

According to data collected by the Centers for Disease Control in 2023, there were about 48,000 people killed by guns in the United States. Alabama ranked third with 25.6 deaths per 100,000 residents—just behind Mississippi and Louisiana. Some of these deaths were related to a violent crime, but others were due to suicide or unfortunate accidents.

Gun Crime Laws in Alabama

The gun crime laws are detailed in the Alabama Criminal Code, Chapter 11, Article 3, Offenses Relating to Firearms and Weapons. They can be put into four categories.

• Illegal possession of a firearm. People who have been charged with certain violent crimes, like domestic violence, cannot own a gun in Alabama.
• Owning certain kinds of weapons. You can’t have a pistol concealed in a walking cane or devices that can convert a pistol into a machine gun.
• Altering the gun manufacturer’s information. You can’t remove the model number or any other identifying marks on a gun. It is also illegal to own a gun whose model number is missing or altered.
• Unlawful concealed carry. Even though Alabama allows adults to carry a gun without a permit, there are certain places where they aren’t allowed to take them, such as:
  • Courthouses
  • Prisons
  • Police Stations
  • Mental health facilities

Gun Crime Penalties in Alabama

The penalties for gun crimes can range from a $50 fine to over 20 years in prison. You can be charged with a misdemeanor or a higher-class felony. Each crime carries different circumstances. Here are some examples of penalties you could face with a gun crime charge:

• Up to 180 days in jail for illegal concealed carry
• Up to five years in prison for providing false documents to purchase a gun
• Up to 10 years in prison for using a gun during a violent crime
• Up to 10 years in prison for intending to harm people at a school with a weapon
• Up to 20 years for shooting into an occupied home or other building

To avoid a more severe punishment, you need a capable gun crimes attorney to build you a defense based on your situation.

Possible Defense Strategies for Gun Crimes in Sheffield

There are a few strategies to defend against gun crime charges:

• Self-defense. Alabama has a Stand Your Ground law, meaning you can use physical force to defend yourself.
• Unlawful search and seizure. The Sheffield Police may have conducted their search improperly, which could result in your charges being dismissed.
• Proving intent. With most crimes, intent has to be proved to make the charges stand. The prosecution must argue that you used a deadly weapon with the intention of harming someone. If they can’t, the sentence could be reduced or dismissed.

FAQs

Can I Carry a Gun in Alabama Without a Permit?

If you are 19 or older, you can carry a gun without a permit. You can apply for a permit at the Colbert County Sheriff’s Office in Tuscumbia if you choose to have a permit. Some people are unable to obtain a concealed carry permit, like those who have been convicted of a felony or aren’t of sound mind to possess a firearm. Alabama honors concealed carry permits from many other states.

Will a Gun Crime Charge Go on My Criminal Record?

If you are convicted of a gun crime, it goes on your criminal record, which can affect your employment. It can also impact your ability to purchase other weapons in the future. You need a Sheffield gun crime attorney in your corner to get your charges dismissed or reduced. Having a knowledgeable lawyer can make all the difference in your case.

Can I Have My Pistol in My Car in Alabama?

Yes, you can have your pistol in your car in Alabama, and you don’t need a permit to do so. If you are pulled over by the police, you must immediately indicate that you have a loaded gun in the car. You cannot touch it during a traffic stop. If you do, you could face a Class A misdemeanor under Section 13A-11-96 of Alabama’s criminal code.

What Is the New Gun Law in Alabama?

A new gun law came out in 2025 that affected some gun crime penalties. If you’ve been charged with a felony in the past and are found in possession of a firearm, you can face a Class C felony, which comes with a longer sentence of up to a decade in prison and a fine of $15,000. This charge usually involves a gun being used during a violent crime or during a new crime by an individual on bail.

Hire a Gun Crime Lawyer in Sheffield

At The Law Office of Brad Phillips, LLC, we use a personalized approach to address your specific gun crime case. We offer compassionate and professional representation to develop a plan to get you an acceptable outcome. Being arrested and accused can be overwhelming and stressful. Let us guide you through developing a defense. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your situation and how we can advocate on your behalf.