Criminal Law Update

When someone is charged with a crime, one of the most important distinctions is whether the case will be prosecuted in state court or federal court. While both systems enforce criminal laws, they operate under entirely different sets of rules, procedures, and penalties—and knowing the difference can be critical to your defense.

State crimes are prosecuted under Alabama law and handled in municipal, district, or circuit courts. These include charges like DUI, drug possession, assault, domestic violence, theft, and most homicide cases. State prosecutors are typically elected officials who represent the county or district where the alleged offense occurred.

Federal crimes, however, are violations of U.S. law and are prosecuted by United States Attorneys in federal court. These often involve drug trafficking, wire fraud, mail fraud, firearms violations, internet crimes, tax evasion, and cases that cross state lines or involve federal agencies. Federal sentences are usually more severe, and the system’s guidelines give prosecutors and judges far less flexibility than state courts.

At Keith Rodgers & Associates, our attorneys handle both Alabama state and federal criminal cases, providing experienced, strategic representation in every courtroom. Whether you’re facing an indictment from a grand jury or a misdemeanor in municipal court, having the right defense early on can make the difference between conviction and freedom. Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is unique—if you need legal advice regarding your situation, contact an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.