Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Greensboro

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the local police station in Greensboro is 336-373-2222.

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

  If you were involved in an accident, you can obtain a copy of a police report by sending an email to gpdaccidentrequests@greensboro-nc.gov. If you are not involved in an accident but want to get a copy, you can go to the police headquarters located at 100 Police Plaza, Greensboro, or any of the sub-stations during office hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.

• What are the consequences of a criminal conviction in Greensboro?

  Being convicted of a criminal offense in Greensboro can have a significant impact on your life. Penalties can include imprisonment, fines, restitution, and community service. The repercussions of a criminal conviction can extend to as far as your ability to secure employment, obtain housing, attend college, or purchase firearms.

• Is there a death penalty in Greensboro?

  Yes, the state of North Carolina, which covers Greensboro, is one of the 35 states that have the death penalty. It is applicable to crimes such as first-degree murder and felony murder. However, there has been no execution since 2006 after a series of lawsuits were filed, questioning the legal process for death row inmates. The last known execution was Samuel Flippen, who was convicted of murder.

• What is the process for conducting a criminal background check on an individual in Greensboro?

  You can have a background check on someone in Greensboro in two locations. You can go to the Records Division of the Greensboro Police Department at 320 Federal Place, bring an ID with your picture, and provide details such as name, birth date, and address of the individual. Alternatively, you can go to the Room U-10 of the Guilford County Courthouse and pay a fee of $25 for the service.

• What should you do if you are being detained by a law enforcement officer in Greensboro?

  Remain silent if you are being detained or arrested, as it is a right protected under the Fifth Amendment. You can exercise calmness and be cooperative and respectful to the officer, minimizing the risk of further escalating the situation. You should call a Greensboro lawyer as soon as possible, especially if you are not familiar with the process.

• What are the most common criminal defense strategies in Greensboro?

  There are three common defense strategies in Greensboro. First is that you have proof you were not present at the place and time of the crime. Second, there is not enough evidence against you that can warrant a conviction beyond a reasonable doubt. Lastly, you acted in self-defense and had to take appropriate measures to preserve your life or the lives of your loved ones.

• 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.