news & articles
Criminal Appeals
2025-05-23Can Prison Sentence Reductions Cross State Lines
Discover whether prison sentence reductions can transfer across state lines. Learn about a key 2025 Alabama case that clarifies how correctional incentives apply when inmates move between states.
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2025-05-21When is evidence sufficient to revoke probation?
Learn when evidence is sufficient to revoke probation, based on a key 2025 Alabama court ruling. Understand the role of hearsay, probation violations, and legal standards in probation revocation cases.
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2025-05-19Restitution and Evidence: When Is There Enough Evidence For Restitution
Learn when restitution orders are legally valid under Alabama law. Discover why evidence and a proper hearing are essential before courts can require repayment to victims in criminal cases.
read articleFederal Crimes
2025-05-16Understanding Cybercrime Charges and Digital Defense Strategies
Facing cybercrime allegations? Learn the types of cybercrime charges, potential penalties, and how Joe Ingram Law LLC builds strong digital defense strategies. Summary Description: Explore how Joe Ingram Law LLC defends against cybercrime allegations with expert knowledge of digital forensics, hacking laws, identity theft, and data breaches.
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2025-05-16The Interplay Between Plea Agreements and Aggravating Factors
Attorney Teresa Darwin Phillips pleaded guilty to theft, deception, and elder exploitation in Alabama. Learn how her failure to pay restitution impacted her sentencing and why the court upheld late notice of aggravating factors.
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2025-05-15Running From The Cops: When is it 3rd Degree Felony Escape?
Facing charges for running from the police? Learn when fleeing becomes third-degree felony escape in Alabama and how recent court rulings may affect your case.
read articleFederal Crimes
2025-05-14HB49’s Deadly Challenge Against the Supreme Court
Alabama’s HB49 challenges Supreme Court precedent by proposing the death penalty for child rape. Learn how this controversial bill could reshape capital punishment law nationwide.
read articleFamily Law
2025-05-13Default Judgment Divorce in Alabama: How Can You Avoid It?
Learn how a default judgment in divorce can leave you with nothing if you don’t respond to legal filings. Discover how one Alabama court reversed such a judgment—and why immediate legal action is critical to protect your rights.
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2025-05-09Appellate Courts: Arbiters of Justice
Explore how the justice system safeguards fairness through appellate review in United States v. Gregory, a federal drug trafficking case that reveals key protections for defendants and the power of appeals in correcting trial court errors.
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2025-05-08David Eugene Files and the Interplay of Ethics and Jurisdiction
In a case that made its way to the highest level of the state court system, the Alabama Supreme Court recently presided over an appeal beginning in Walker County. This case, Ex parte David Eugene Files, centers around a Rule 32 petition for postconviction relief. Files’ petition was dismissed by the Walker circuit court, with the dismissal being affirmed by the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals.
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2025-05-07Sufficiency of Evidence: Reviewing the Admissibility and Application of Evidence Through US v. Mapson
In a decision that affirms the admissibility and sufficiency of several distinct types of evidence, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit recently presided over an appeal that found its roots in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama.
read articleFamily Law
2025-03-27Are Courts Always Free to Divide Property in a Divorce?
How courts divide real property in a divorce. Learn more from Ingram Law, LLC.
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Can Prison Sentence Reductions Cross State Lines
Discover whether prison sentence reductions can transfer across state lines. Learn about a key 2025 Alabama case that clarifies how correctional incentives apply when inmates move between states.
read articles
When is evidence sufficient to revoke probation?
Learn when evidence is sufficient to revoke probation, based on a key 2025 Alabama court ruling. Understand the role of hearsay, probation violations, and legal standards in probation revocation cases.
read articles
Restitution and Evidence: When Is There Enough Evidence For Restitution
Learn when restitution orders are legally valid under Alabama law. Discover why evidence and a proper hearing are essential before courts can require repayment to victims in criminal cases.
read articles
Understanding Cybercrime Charges and Digital Defense Strategies
Facing cybercrime allegations? Learn the types of cybercrime charges, potential penalties, and how Joe Ingram Law LLC builds strong digital defense strategies. Summary Description: Explore how Joe Ingram Law LLC defends against cybercrime allegations with expert knowledge of digital forensics, hacking laws, identity theft, and data breaches.
read articles
The Interplay Between Plea Agreements and Aggravating Factors
Attorney Teresa Darwin Phillips pleaded guilty to theft, deception, and elder exploitation in Alabama. Learn how her failure to pay restitution impacted her sentencing and why the court upheld late notice of aggravating factors.
read articles
Running From The Cops: When is it 3rd Degree Felony Escape?
Facing charges for running from the police? Learn when fleeing becomes third-degree felony escape in Alabama and how recent court rulings may affect your case.
read articles
HB49’s Deadly Challenge Against the Supreme Court
Alabama’s HB49 challenges Supreme Court precedent by proposing the death penalty for child rape. Learn how this controversial bill could reshape capital punishment law nationwide.
read articles
Default Judgment Divorce in Alabama: How Can You Avoid It?
Learn how a default judgment in divorce can leave you with nothing if you don’t respond to legal filings. Discover how one Alabama court reversed such a judgment—and why immediate legal action is critical to protect your rights.
read articles
Appellate Courts: Arbiters of Justice
Explore how the justice system safeguards fairness through appellate review in United States v. Gregory, a federal drug trafficking case that reveals key protections for defendants and the power of appeals in correcting trial court errors.
read articles
David Eugene Files and the Interplay of Ethics and Jurisdiction
In a case that made its way to the highest level of the state court system, the Alabama Supreme Court recently presided over an appeal beginning in Walker County. This case, Ex parte David Eugene Files, centers around a Rule 32 petition for postconviction relief. Files’ petition was dismissed by the Walker circuit court, with the dismissal being affirmed by the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals.
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Sufficiency of Evidence: Reviewing the Admissibility and Application of Evidence Through US v. Mapson
In a decision that affirms the admissibility and sufficiency of several distinct types of evidence, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit recently presided over an appeal that found its roots in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama.
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Are Courts Always Free to Divide Property in a Divorce?
How courts divide real property in a divorce. Learn more from Ingram Law, LLC.
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Till Death Do Us Part: Marital Property Division on Behalf of an Estate
In a case that demonstrates the limits of alimony awards, the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals recently heard the case of Larry Shearry v. Christy Spivey, as personal representative of the Estate of Charlotte Shearry.
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Fultondale Alabama Municipal Courts: Charges, Penalties, and Why You Should Seek an Attorney
You are driving home late between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m. You get pulled over because the police officer states you are driving over the line, driving too slow, have a head light out or you have a taillight out.
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The Crime of Stalking in Alabama
Another category of criminal offense in Alabama is stalking. Covered by Article 5, stalking includes offenses for stalking in the first and second degree, aggravated stalking in the first and second degree, and electronic stalking in the first and second degree.
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Navigating the Division of Marital Property: Lessons from Barbara Brown v. Ernest Brown
In a case that demonstrates the intricacies of equitable division of marital property, the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals recently presided over an appeal from the Jefferson Circuit Court in Jefferson County. The case of Barbara Brown v. Ernest Brown illustrates the importance of maintaining a clear record on appeal and emphasizes the necessity of full disclosure when dividing marital assets.
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Navigating Legal Challenges; Brett Yeiter’s Fight Against a Death Sentence
In a case illustrating the tumultuous and complicated proceedings for challenging a death sentence, the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals recently heard the appeal of Brett Richard Yeiter v. State of Alabama, stemming from Escambia County. Yeiter’s case underscores the critical need to adhere to procedural requirements, especially in cases involving severe sentences.
read articlesTrademark Infringement: Causes of Action Under the Lanham Act
Federal trademark law is primarily governed by the Lanham Trademark Act, also referred to as the Trademark Act of 1946. The Lanham Act, codified in 15 U.S.C. §§1051 to 1127, covers a wide range of trademark issues including registration, maintenance, protection, and the creation of a federal cause of action for trademark infringement.
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Navigating the Complexities of Marital Property Division: Catherine S. Cauthen v. Carey Lee Cauthen, Jr.
In a case that highlights the complex issues of marital property division during divorce proceedings, the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals recently heard the appeal of Catherine S. Cauthen v. Carey Lee Cauthen, Jr. Arising from Baldwin County, this case addresses the appeals of both the husband and the wife, demonstrating the intricate nature of property classification and division through six main points of contention. If you need a Divorce Lawyer, Please contact us about your case.
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The Battle for Exoneration: Charles McCrory and the Fight Against Outdated Scientific Evidence
In a case that highlights broader systemic issues in the American justice system, the United States Supreme Court recently declined to review a controversial Alabama murder conviction. At this stage, the case of McCrory v. Alabama has been tumultuous for a man who continues to maintain his innocence. The increasing public attention directed towards the challenges defendants face when seeking exonerations is creating legislative pressure for reform, offering hope for a more just future.
read articlesPretrial Matters in Federal Court: How to Make Bond, Detention Hearings, and other Pretrial Functions
18 U.S.C. §3154 describes the functions and powers relating to pretrial services. The statute includes 14 particular functions, and a broader clause allowing the performance of any other functions specified under the chapter.
read articlesThe Interplay Between Lesser-Included Offenses and Double Jeopardy: The Case of R.E.F. v. State of Alabama
In a case that provides important clarification about double jeopardy when certain charges were reduced to their lesser-included offenses, the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals recently presided over the appeal of R.E.F. v. State of Alabama.
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The Time Limit of Jurisdiction: Insights from Ex Parte State of Alabama
In a case that clarifies the bounds of jurisdiction for mandamus petitions, the Alabama Court of Appeals recently heard an appeal arising from Mobile County. This case, Ex Parte State of Alabama, explores trial court jurisdiction time limits without a stay, defining when new judgments can be issued, and orders enforced.
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The Child’s Best Interest: The Two-Prong Test for Parental Termination
In a case that illustrates the high bar for terminating parental rights in child custody matters, the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals recently presided over an appeal arising from Baldwin County. This case, W.C.M. v. M.P., addresses a mother’s efforts to terminate the father’s parental rights, highlighting the complex and sensitive nature of proceedings seeking extreme legal remedies.
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180 Years: Analyzing the Appeal of Travis Eugene Wolfe
In a case addressing multiple facets of criminal procedure, the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals recently presided over an appeal from DeKalb County. This case, Travis Eugene Wolfe v. State of Alabama, demonstrates the breadth of trial court discretion when compounding consecutive sentences, while exploring the procedural and evidentiary requirements forming the basis for Wolfe’s conviction.
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Drug Crimes in Alabama Both State and Federal Charges
In Alabama, drugs are everywhere, both recreational and illegal. Drug charges carry significant jail time for distribution and trafficking, Alabama also criminalizes a wide array of drug offenses. Drug possession and sale offenses are covered by §13A-12-210 to §13A-12-219 of the Alabama Code.
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Evidence of Prejudice: Joseph Michael Wilson and the Importance of Supporting Both Prongs of the Strickland Test
In a case highlighting the extensive requirements to succeed under a Rule 32 petition, the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals recently presided over an appeal arising from Madison County. This case, Joseph Michael Wilson v. State of Alabama, illustrates the high evidentiary bar that criminal defendants must meet when alleging prejudice arising from ineffective assistance of counsel, demonstrating the high level of deference courts give to attorneys when determining trial strategy.
read articlesMens Rea: The Importance of Proving Intent In a Criminal Case
If you have a Federal Criminal case, a State Criminal case, a Municipal Case or a Family Law case, contact Joe Ingram or Ingram Law LLC at 205-335-2640.
read articlesRape And Sex Crimes in Alabama
Alabama law criminalizes a variety of sexual offenses, the most severe charges being for rape and sodomy. Charges for rape and sodomy in Alabama are classified based on the degree of the offense. Rape in the first degree and sodomy in the first degree, governed by §13A-6-61 and §13A-6-63 respectively, are both classified as Class A felonies.
read articlesFraud In a Divorce: Ex parte Gage Bruce Roberts
In a case that clarifies the court’s power to address acts of fraud, the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals recently presided over an appeal originating in Mobile County. This case, Ex parte Gage Bruce Roberts, addresses fraud in the context of a divorce judgment, emphasizing the court’s authority to handle such scenarios.
read articlesConstitutional Standing and Proof of Intent: The Case of Johnnie Leeanozg DavisConstitutional Standing and Proof of Intent: The Case of Johnnie Leeanozg Davis
In a case that clarifies several principles of criminal procedure, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals recently presided over an appeal arising from the United States District Court for the Middle District of Alabama.
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Double Jeopardy in a Single Trial: The Case of Altonio Spencer
In a case that illustrates the interplay of Alabama’s sentencing laws, the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals recently heard an appeal originating in Mobile County. This case, Altonio Spencer v. State of Alabama, explores the proper application of the Habitual Felony Offenders Act and clarifies the Double Jeopardy Clause’s applicability when one conviction is included within another.
read articlesFederal Sex Crimes: Offenses, Penalties, and SORNA
18 U.S.C. Pt I, Ch. 109A covers federal sexual abuse crimes. Sexual abuse, codified in §2242, criminalizes three types of conduct. First, the section criminalizes using threats or fear to coerce another person to engage in a sexual act.
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Definitions: Exploring the Effect of Statutory Language on Protection Orders
In a case that dives into evidentiary standards and proper applications of the law, a case arising from Lee County recently made its way to the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals. In the case of P.T.S. III v. S.S., the Court reviewed an elder-abuse protection order, clarifying evidentiary requirements and addressing the relevance and applicability of the Elder Abuse Protection Order and Enforcement Act.
read articlesSex Crimes And Computer Crimes in Alabama
Sexual Offenses are also recognized based on their relationship to technology. §13A-6-111 criminalizes transmitting obscene materials to a child by computer, classifying the crime as a Class B felony.
read articlesConcurrent Split Sentences: Interpreting Sentencing Guidelines in Alabama Criminal Cases
In a case that clarifies the permissibility of concurrent split sentences, the Supreme Court of Alabama recently presided over the case of Ex parte Courtney Rayshun Elston.
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Revocation Procedure: The Delicate Relationship Between Criminal Procedure and Due Process
The Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals recently presided over an appeal from Marion County, affirming the enduring significance of procedural rights in revocation proceedings. This case, Brandon Colby Hayes v. State of Alabama, clarifies the procedural necessity of a formal revocation hearing for community-corrections placements, thereby extending the policy for probation revocation in this area.
read articlesTHCA: The Unaddressed Cannabinoid in Federal Hemp Legislation
Six years ago, the Hemp Farming Act of 2018 went into effect as federal law, legalizing certain marijuana derivatives as “hemp.”
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FaceTime Testimony: The Procedural Limits of Audiovisual Technology
In a case exploring the procedural side of child custody, the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals recently presided over an appeal that began in the Cullman Juvenile Court in Cullman County. The case of T.S. v. Cullman County Department of Human Resources and D.W. delves into the admissibility of remote testimony under relevant Alabama law, which permits such testimony only under specific compelling circumstances.
read articlesMurder, Manslaughter And Criminally Negligent Homicide in Alabama
In Alabama, there are three major criminal charges associated with homicide. The first and most severe is murder, governed by §13A-6-2 of the Alabama Code. Unlike some other jurisdictions, Alabama does not recognize varying degrees of murder.
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Calls for Reform: Background Checks in the Case of Chrisopher Bauer
Alabama law enforcement is facing calls for reform in their hiring process. The public response was inspired when FBI agent Christopher Bauer was convicted last month for sexually assaulting a minor while employed as a state trooper. Bauer’s sentencing, potentially facing life imprisonment, is set for the beginning of August. Bauer began working for the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency in 2019, after state police conducted “a full and thorough” background check. However, Bauer had been fired from the FBI in New Orlean’s the previous year due to allegations of sexual assault, harassment, and several other policy violations, with his victims providing harrowing testimony detailing the encounters. In spite of this record, Bauer was still able to gain employment with the Alabama state police, raising questions about the system of background checks and inter-agency communication practices currently in place.
read articlesDefinition of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that manifests in various forms, affecting individuals regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic status.
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Demystifying the Burden of Proof: Lessons from Duarel Kelly’s Probation Revocation
In a case emphasizing the importance of meeting the evidentiary burden in all criminal proceedings, the Alabama Court of Criminal appeals recently heard the appeal of Daurel Eugene Kelly v. State of Alabama, arising from Baldwin County. Kelly’s appeal underscores the high standard of proof required in probation revocation hearings, following the same principles as other criminal proceedings.
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Domestic Violence Charges in Alabama
The Alabama Code also criminalizes specific violent offenses within the home and family. Alabama recognizes three degrees of domestic violence, criminalizing actions against current and former spouses, relatives, household members, and former and current romantic partners, with all three degrees covering different crimes against this same group.
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