Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Charlotte

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Charlotte, North Carolina?

  When seeking Non-Emergency Police Services, citizens may dial 311 to reach the local police station in Charlotte.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Charlotte, North Carolina?

  You can obtain Incident Reports (also known as Crime Reports) at no cost through various methods, such as visiting CMPD.org, clicking on Crime Reports, and following the website instructions. You may also obtain these reports at the Records Division in the Police Headquarters lobby at 601 E. Trade Street or at any of the police department's Division Offices.

• What should you do if you're facing criminal charges in Charlotte?

  If you're facing criminal charges in Charlotte, it's important to seek legal help from an experienced criminal defense attorney. They can review your case, explain your legal rights, and work with you to develop a defense strategy. Avoid speaking with the police or prosecutors without your attorney present.

• What types of criminal cases can a defense attorney handle in Charlotte?

  A criminal defense attorney in Charlotte can handle a wide range of cases, including DWI/DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, white-collar crimes, and more. No matter what type of criminal charge a person is facing, it is essential to have a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney by their side to protect their rights and mount a strong defense on their behalf.

• Where do criminal cases in Charlotte and surrounding counties go to court?

  Depending on the severity of the case, criminal cases in Charlotte and surrounding counties may be heard in either District Court or Superior Court. District Court is where traffic matters and misdemeanor cases are heard. On the other hand, Superior Court is the highest trial court level, where felonies must be resolved.

• What types of cases do federal courts in Charlotte handle?

  Federal courts in Charlotte only hear matters where a federal crime has been committed, such as federal tax evasion or crimes that occurred on federal land or on Indian reservations. Some crimes can be prosecuted either by state governments or by federal governments, such as drug and gun offenses.

• What is the benefit of hiring a Charlotte criminal defense attorney who is a former prosecutor?

  Criminal defense attorneys who are former prosecutors have experience from both sides of the courtroom, which can help them identify opportunities for a solid defense. They may have insights into the prosecution's strategies and tactics, which can inform their own defense strategies. A Charlotte criminal defense attorney who is a former prosecutor can bring a unique perspective and skills to their client's cases.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.