Alabama District Attorneys
By Lisa Burden, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq. | Last reviewed November 12, 2023
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Alabama's district courts handle criminal misdemeanors and preliminary hearings in felony prosecutions. They also handle cases where the dollar amount is more than $3,000 (small claims) but less than $10,000 (circuit court).
The Alabama District Attorney's Office prosecutes those who violate the criminal laws of the State of Alabama. The District Attorney (DA) files criminal charges. Some states use other terms, such as "State's Attorney" or "County Attorney." They're also often referred to simply as "prosecutors."
Alabama has 41 judicial districts, each representing one or up to five counties. The DA often handles more than one county.
Legal aid is available for those with low incomes facing criminal law violations. Public defenders represent those charged with criminal offenses who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. Public defenders are attorneys. They are members of the Alabama state bar. The judge appoints a public defender. There are income standards. According to Alabama law, you can qualify for a court-appointed lawyer if:
- You are living below or close to the poverty level; and
- You can prove that hiring a private attorney would be a substantial financial hardship
In some instances, such as a case conflict, a private attorney from a law firm will be appointed.
The federal criminal justice system also has a public defender for those who cannot afford legal counsel. This means there is a public defender for those charged with federal offenses.
Legal Services Alabama (LSA) handles civil cases for those who cannot afford a lawyer. They handle domestic violence, child support, and child custody cases, among many others.
When facing criminal charges, self-help, such as representing yourself, is not advised.
Learn about Alabama's district attorneys, the district attorney's office, the role of the Attorney General, and more in the following sections.
Alabama Attorney General's Office
The state Attorney General is the top prosecutor and law enforcement official in the state. They are responsible for the entire state. The district attorneys each represent a limited region within the state. The Alabama Attorney General's office handles legal matters of state litigation and files lawsuits on behalf of state residents.
Directory of Alabama District Attorneys
The state of Alabama is divided into 41 judicial districts (42 if you include the split 10th District). To learn more about your local district attorney or contact their office, click on the corresponding link below.
Note: Although we strive to provide the most current contact and website information available for the DA offices in this state, this information is subject to change.
Get Professional Legal Help With Your Alabama Criminal Case
When the Alabama District Attorney decides to file charges against you, it means they've built a case and have people working to get a conviction. That's why it's so crucial to ensure that you also have legal counsel. It is your constitutional right. Don't leave your legal matters up to guesswork; contact an experienced Alabama criminal defense attorney near you for legal advice and legal services.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
