SWS
Stephen Wesley Shaw
Attorney · Admitted 1980
Four decades defending clients in federal and state matters, including public officials, witnesses, and families. Recognized by Super Lawyers since 2009.
Full profile
Birmingham, Alabama
Forty years of experience. A family's care.
Stephen Shaw Law Firm represents individuals, families, businesses, candidates, and public officials across Alabama. We handle divorce and custody matters, white collar criminal defense, campaign and election law, and disputes in state and federal court.
- Years of experience
- 40+
- Admitted to Alabama Bar
- 1980
- Courts served
- Federal & State
How we help
Practice areas
Whether you're navigating a family change, responding to an investigation, running for office, or facing a lawsuit, we explain your options and help you decide what comes next. Our work includes advice, negotiation, and courtroom representation.
Family Law
Divorce, custody, support, and agreements — handled with steady care.
Family matters are personal. We help you understand your options, protect what matters most, and move forward with as little conflict as possible.
- A clear, honest first conversation about where you stand
- Negotiation and mediation to settle fairly when possible
- Strong courtroom representation when settlement isn't possible
- Help modifying orders when life changes
White Collar Crime
Defense in federal and state investigations, from first contact to trial.
Being contacted by investigators is frightening. We have decades of experience in federal and state matters and know how to protect your rights from the very first call.
- Immediate guidance on speaking with agents
- Responding to subpoenas and document requests
- Negotiating with prosecutors to limit exposure
- Experienced trial defense in federal and state courts
Campaign & Election Law
Practical advice for candidates, officials, and campaigns.
Election rules are detailed and the stakes are public. We help candidates, campaigns, and public officials stay compliant and respond calmly when questions arise.
- Guidance on Alabama campaign finance rules
- Reviewing filings and reporting obligations
- Ethics advice for public officials
- Representation in complaints and investigations
General Litigation
Experienced advocacy for disputes in state and federal court.
When a dispute can't be resolved informally, you need someone who knows the courtroom. We prepare thoroughly and keep you informed at every step.
- An honest assessment of your case's strengths
- Early resolution when it serves you
- Careful preparation for hearings and trial
- Appeals and post-judgment help
Meet your attorneys
A family firm, by design
CLS
Christy Lynn Shaw
Attorney
Christy works alongside Steve, bringing a thoughtful, client-first approach to every matter the firm handles.
Full profileTrusted by Birmingham for over forty years
Our attorneys are members of the Alabama State Bar, American Bar Association, Birmingham Bar Association, and National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Our story- Alabama & Mid-South Super Lawyers® since 2009
- Omicron Delta Kappa Frances Summersell Award (2015)
- Former law clerk to U.S. District Judge E.B. Haltom, Jr.
- Admitted in U.S. District Courts, N.D. & M.D. Alabama
Let's talk about what you're facing.
A confidential conversation is the first step. We'll listen, then explain your options in plain English.