Charlotte Criminal Defense Lawyer

With The Know How To Litigate Complex Criminal Cases

Home |  Charlotte Criminal Defense Lawyer

Why Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

The moment you are charged with a criminal offense and arrested, your life is going to start moving in a very complicated and unpredictable direction. You may not know what’s going to happen next. Having a good lawyer by your side can at least provide you with reassurance that your case is being handled the right way. Criminal charges are very serious. If convicted, you could spend a lot of time behind bars or have to pay hefty fines, depending on the offense.

The last thing you want is to be caught unprepared and without representation. Whether you are being charged with a felony and/or misdemeanor offense or trying to challenge a DWI arrest, you are going to want a seasoned legal professional on your side. Having someone who understands what’s at stake for you and is ready to provide much-needed assistance can really prove critical to securing a favorable resolution. Here are two ways an experienced defense lawyer can improve your case:

  • Protecting your rights. A defense lawyer’s primary job is to defend and protect your civil rights. You are always innocent until proven guilty, regardless of the crime you are being charged with. Your lawyer can advocate for your innocence throughout your case. Your lawyer won’t judge your guilt or innocence. They are simply here to make sure you are given a strong defense and are treated with respect, dignity, and humanity.
  • Formulating a defense strategy. The most important thing a defense lawyer can do for you is develop a strong defense strategy to win your case. If you cannot get your charges dismissed or are not offered a plea bargain, mounting a strong defense is your only option left. A strong defense lawyer can gather evidence that supports your case, find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and vigorously defend your position.

Getting Arrested in Charlotte

Depending on how and where it happens, getting arrested can be humiliating. When the handcuffs are put on your wrists, it can feel like you’ve already lost. It’s important not to lose hope. Instead, contact a defense lawyer as soon as you can. Never forget that you are afforded a number of certain constitutional rights that cannot be infringed upon. These include your right to retain legal counsel and your right to remain silent. You should exercise both of these rights.

If you are worried about facing criminal charges, you may want to consider avoiding certain areas of Charlotte that have higher crime rates than others. Some neighborhoods, such as Pinecrest, Lincoln Heights, Lakewood, and Tryon Hills, may be considered dangerous. Your chances of being involved in or accused of a crime may increase in some areas of Charlotte.

In 2024, the number of violent crimes reported in Charlotte was over 7,400, an increase from the violent crimes count reported in 2023. The number of homicides increased from 89 to 111, and the amount of aggravated assaults increased from 5,542 to 5,679. With certain crimes being reported more frequently, you may be concerned about getting falsely accused. If that happens, you should seek out a defense lawyer immediately.

FAQs

Q: How Much Is a Defense Attorney in North Carolina?

A: How much a defense attorney might cost in North Carolina will vary. Every criminal defense case is different, with each one having its own factors and details that make every individual situation a unique experience. Your lawyer’s fee is going to depend heavily on the details of your case as well as their own experience, education, and resources.

Q: What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Lawyer and a Defense Attorney?

A: There isn’t really a substantial difference between a criminal lawyer and a defense attorney. Both titles are often used interchangeably. The primary difference would be that a criminal lawyer is a broader term that may encompass various lawyers who work in law, including prosecutors and defense lawyers alike. A defense attorney focuses entirely on defending people accused of crimes.

Q: What’s the Ideal Way to Find a Criminal Defense Attorney?

A: There are many different ways you can find a criminal defense attorney to represent your case. You may see a commercial for one in your area. You can search for one online. One of the most ideal ways is to get a recommendation from a family member or close friend. If someone recommends a lawyer to you, you already know they are effective and trustworthy.

Q: Do You Really Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

A: While you are technically not required to hire a criminal defense lawyer, it is highly recommended that you hire one anyway. The last thing you want to do is go up against a seasoned prosecutor while defending yourself. There’s a good chance you’ll lose. Having someone in your corner who understands the complexities of the law can be vital for securing your freedom.

Reach Out to an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

Facing criminal charges can be a truly frightening and complex situation. You shouldn’t have to face it alone. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can put together a strong case for your defense. They can then work tirelessly to make sure you are given a proper defense and a chance to fight the charges being made against you.

The legal team at Plumides, Romano & Johnson, PC, can help you build your defense, gather the evidence you need, and make sure your interests are protected throughout your case. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today.

Criminal Defense

Articles and Information

North Carolina

Counties We Serve

Mecklenburg

832 E. Fourth St.
Charlotte, NC 28202 (704) 686-0400

Gaston

325 M.L.K. Jr. Way
Gastonia, NC 28052 (704) 852-3100

Iredell

226 Stockton St,
Statesville, NC 28677 (704) 832-6600

Cabarrus

77 Union St. South,
Concord, NC 28025 (704) 262-5500

Lincoln

120 Justice Drive,
Lincolnton, NC 28093 (704) 742-7800

General Rules To Follow When Going To Any Courthouse

  • In order to prevent firearms, knives, and other weapons from being brought into the building, anyone entering a courthouse must walk through a metal detector.
  • You cannot have any metals on your person when walking through the metal detector or an alarm will sound. If metal is detected, you will be asked to remove any metallic items and walk through again.
  • Removing all metal objects from your person, including change, belts and steel-toed shoes, will speed up this process.
  • You may also be scanned with a wand by a deputy to pinpoint the location of metals.
  • You must place all items you are carrying in a basket to be viewed through a live-scan.
  • The metal detectors and live-scan will not pose a health risk to you; this includes pregnant or nursing mothers. If you have a special need or disability, or you wear an implanted device, please inform the deputies.
  • Laptop computers, iPads/tablets, e-readers and cell phones are allowed into the courthouse. You will be asked to turn on laptops and other electronic devices before being allowed to enter the building.

The following items are prohibited by courthouse security:

  • Glass Container
  • Guns (ALL)
  • Handcuff Key
  • Knitting/Sewing Items
  • Knives (ALL)
  • Kubatons
  • Large Safety Pin
  • Laser Light
  • Leatherman
  • Letter Opener
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Metal Pick
  • Nails/Screws
  • Paint
  • Paint Scraper
  • Painters Hook
  • Pepper Spray
  • Putty Knife
  • Razor Blade
  • Scissors
  • Tasers/Stun Guns
  • Tools (ALL)
  • Wire Hangers

The following items are only allowed with prior written approval.*

  • Photography *
  • Filming *
  • Audio Recording *
Find My Local Courthouse

Locate your local courthouse
by city or zip code.

Find My Local Courthouse

Find My Court Date

Search the NC courthouse calendars to see when you need to appear in court.

Find My Court Date

Prepare for Jury Service

Find out what to expect when you arrive, how to conduct yourself, and what you need to do when you serve as a juror.

Learn About Jury Service

Testimonials

5.0

Reviews

Contact Us

"*" indicates required fields

Can we email you at this email?
Can we call/text you at this number?
I Have Read The Disclaimer*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Copyright ©2025 Plumides, Romano & Johnson PC • All rights reserved

Digital Marketing By: rizeup media logo

This website is intended to provide general information only. Nothing contained in this website is intended to provide legal advice. By using this website you acknowledge and agree that you have not formed an attorney-client relationship with Plumides, Romano & Johnson PC and will not rely on any information contained on this website.