Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in High Point, NC

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in High Point is (336) 883-3224.

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

  There are three ways to get a police report in High Point:

  1. Through the accident and report database here: https://p2c.highpointnc.gov/Home
  2. By going to the police department at 1009 Leonard Avenue
  3. By sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope with the details of the report to the police department

• Is there a need to file for an expungement for non-violent criminal convictions in High Point?

  In certain misdemeanors and felonies that are dismissed or in cases where the defendant in High Point is found not guilty, he/she shall be expunged automatically. Those who were arrested or charged with a misdemeanor or Class H or I felony prior to December 1, 2019 while they were 16 or 17 years old can file for a petition for expungement of that arrest or conviction. And for those involved in multiple non-violent misdemeanor convictions, he/she can petition for expungement after 7 years of good behavior.

• Will you be criminally charged for bringing a weapon to a school in High Point?

  In High Point, it is against the law to bring a gun to school or to an extracurricular event that the school is sponsoring. A person who brings weapons into a school or on school grounds may be charged with a Class I felony. He/she is facing 3 to 12 months in prison. The charge may be raised to a Class F felony if the firearm is discharged. The punishment for a Class F felony includes spending 10 to 41 months in prison.

• Will you face criminal charges for transmitting nude images in High Point?

  Sexting, or the act of sending sexually explicit messages, images, or videos via text messages or other mobile apps, if done consensually between two adults, is legal. However, if there are minors involved in the act, sexting becomes a crime. In High Point, sexting may fall under the child pornography or revenge porn statutes. Penalties include prison time, payment of fines, probation, and the need to register as a sex offender.

• Can you be criminally charged in High Point even if you just acted in self-defense?

  Yes, you can be criminally charged with assault, manslaughter, or murder in High Point if you use force against someone, even if they are an attacker. But if you are charged, you can say that you hurt someone because you were trying to protect yourself or other people from that person. This is called an affirmative defense. North Carolina follows the "stand your ground" law. This allows individuals under the threat of imminent danger or those who believe somebody will cause great harm to them to defend themselves using deadly force in their homes, motor vehicles, or workplaces.

• What happens if you assault a law enforcement official in High Point?

  If you assault a law enforcement official in High Point, you are facing a felony offense. It is a Class F felony to use a gun or other deadly weapon to attack a law enforcement officer. Assaulting or harassing certain government officials in a way that hurts them physically is a Class I felony. Convicted individuals who assaulted a law enforcement official will also face prison time.

• 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.