Baldwin County, Alabama

Gulf Shores Attorneys

Over a Century of Legal Excellence in Alabama

Established 1907

Our History

The Powell Law Firm, P.C. was established in Andalusia, Alabama by Abner Riley Powell, Sr. in 1907. Abner Riley Powell, Jr. joined the law firm in 1937. Abner (Ab) Riley Powell, III joined the firm in 1967. Both Abner & Ab were judges at different points in their careers. Abner Riley (Riley) Powell, IV joined the firm in 1993. All four generations graduated from the University of Alabama School of Law. To this day, Abner Riley Powell, Jr is the youngest person to ever graduate from the University of Alabama School of Law in the standard seven year law school curriculum at just 20 years old.

Litigation & Jury Trials

The Powell Law Firm has focused primarily on litigation issues and jury trials within the legal system. Through the years representative clients have included State Farm Insurance, Alfa Insurance, Auto Owner's Insurance, various banks, school boards, municipal governments, to name a few. With a diverse array of practice areas we have represented many individual clients for criminal charges, divorces, personal injuries, and much more.

Gulf Shores Office

In 2004, The Powell Law Firm, P.C. established a full time office in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Attorney Riley Powell lives full time in Baldwin County and his practice focuses on all types of litigation cases and jury trials in all areas including personal injury, car wrecks, criminal cases (everything from DUI – murder), domestic cases such as divorce, child custody, child support, and all other types of business litigation.

Trial Experience

The Powell Law Firm has been involved in over 500 jury trials all over the state of Alabama. During his career, Riley Powell has personally handled over 200 jury trials and countless non-jury trials in both civil and criminal cases.

Gulf Shores & Baldwin County

Serving Gulf Shores & Baldwin County: Our Local Legal Focus

Navigating the court system in Baldwin County requires an attorney who understands local court procedures and judges. Whether you are a full-time resident of Gulf Shores or visiting the Gulf Coast, The Powell Law Firm, P.C. provides experienced representation across a broad range of legal matters.

Criminal Defense & Traffic Violations

From DUI and drug possession to serious felony charges, we defend local residents and out-of-state visitors cited along coastal highways or in Gulf Shores municipal jurisdiction.

Personal Injury & Vehicle Accidents

High tourist traffic on Highway 59 and Beach Boulevard often leads to severe auto and pedestrian accidents. We hold negligent drivers and insurance companies accountable.

Family Law & Divorce

Comprehensive guidance through child custody, property division, and contested or uncontested divorces under Alabama domestic law.

Business & Civil Litigation

Protecting local business owners, contractors, and real estate holders in breach of contract and property disputes.

Local Court Insight

Misdemeanor and traffic offenses occurring within city limits are generally handled in Gulf Shores Municipal Court, while felony charges, personal injury lawsuits, and family law matters are filed in the Baldwin County Circuit Court in Bay Minette.

Legal Representation

Your Trusted Orange Beach Attorney

The Powell Law Firm is your trusted Orange Beach Attorney. If you’re looking for a civil litigation, criminal defense, or family law attorney, contact us today.

Gulf Shores Legal Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often from residents and visitors facing legal matters in Gulf Shores and Baldwin County.

What should I do if I am an out-of-state visitor arrested or injured in Gulf Shores, AL?

If you live out of state and face a legal issue in Gulf Shores, hire a local attorney immediately. The Powell Law Firm, P.C. can often represent you in local court hearings without requiring you to travel back to Baldwin County for every appearance.

What court handles criminal and civil cases in Gulf Shores, Alabama?

Minor criminal charges and traffic citations are handled by the Gulf Shores Municipal Court. Serious felony cases, civil lawsuits exceeding $10,000, and family law matters are heard in the 28th Judicial Circuit Court of Baldwin County (Bay Minette).

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Gulf Shores, AL?

Under Alabama Code § 6-2-38, the statute of limitations for personal injury and car accident claims in Alabama is generally two years from the date of the injury. Failing to file within this window permanently bars recovery.

Does The Powell Law Firm offer free initial consultations in Gulf Shores?

Yes. The Powell Law Firm, P.C. provides free, confidential consultations for criminal defense, personal injury, and general civil litigation matters at our Gulf Shores office (7107 Gulf Shores Pkwy) or by phone at (251) 968-2320.

What is the difference between a jury trial and a bench trial in Alabama?

A jury trial is decided by a panel of 12 local citizens, whereas a bench trial is decided solely by the presiding judge. Attorney Riley Powell has personally tried over 200 jury trials and hundreds of bench trials across Alabama, ensuring your case is tailored to whichever legal forum you enter.

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