Best Charlotte, NC Criminal Defense Lawyers

Facing criminal charges in Charlotte? These top criminal lawyers can protect your rights. Skilled defense attorneys are ready to handle your case and fight for the best outcome.

Our Top 3 Picks:

1

Tin Fulton, Walker & Owen, PLLC

tinfulton.com
  • Specializes in criminal defense with a focus on white-collar crimes, drug offenses, and appeals
  • Attorneys are members of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL)
  • Extensive experience in federal and state courts
  • Recognized for their appellate work in criminal cases
  • Provides legal services in Charlotte, NC
2

Minick Law, P.C.

minicklaw.com
  • Highly experienced in DWI/DUI defense, traffic violations, and criminal defense
  • Attorneys are members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice (NCAJ)
  • Known for aggressive defense strategies
  • Offers free consultations for potential clients
  • Serves clients in Charlotte, NC
3

Arnold & Smith, PLLC

arnoldsmithlaw.com
  • Comprehensive criminal defense services including DWI, drug crimes, and violent crimes
  • Attorneys are members of the Mecklenburg County Bar
  • Notable for their client-focused approach and personalized legal strategies
  • Provides 24/7 legal support
  • Located in Charlotte, NC

Find Top Charlotte Criminal Attorneys Near Me

x

List of the Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Charlotte, North Carolina

Screenshot of the Arnold & Smith PLLC Website
The Historic John Price Carr House, 200 N McDowell St, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA

Arnold & Smith, PLLC is a full-service legal firm in Charlotte, North Carolina. They handle cases in divorce, family law, criminal defense, and personal injury. The legal counsel serves clients in state and federal courts across North Carolina. Their criminal defense attorneys tackle various cases, from drug crimes to traffic violations.

more
Screenshot of the Powers Law Firm PA Website
2412 Arty Ave, Charlotte, NC 28208, USA

Powers Law Firm PA defends clients in Charlotte against DWI, drug charges, and domestic violence cases. They serve six counties across North Carolina, led by award-winning attorney Bill Powers. With 25 years of experience, they handle traffic violations and personal injury claims. Free consultations and payment plans are available.

more
Screenshot of the DeCurtins Law Office Website
130 N McDowell St # A, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA

DeCurtins Law Office is a trusted legal counsel in Charlotte, NC. The firm offers strategic criminal defense and personal injury solutions. They handle cases from assault to drug crimes and DWI defense. DeCurtins provides no-cost consultations and 24/7 availability to clients.

more
Screenshot of the Randall & Stump, Criminal Defense Attorneys Website

Randall & Stump, Criminal Defense Attorneys, serve Charlotte with exceptional legal counsel. The firm handles a wide range of felony cases and DWI/DUI charges. They offer complimentary consultations and deliver aggressive defense strategies. Their lawyers have a strong track record in state and federal courts. The firm's expertise in trial law helps clients facing criminal charges protect their rights. Randall & Stump's attorneys are also co-authors of a book on North Carolina criminal procedure.

more
Screenshot of the Icard Bradford F Website
524 W 10th St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA

The Icard Law Firm provides criminal defense in Charlotte, NC. Attorney Brad Icard brings 30+ years of experience and handles all cases personally. He specializes in DWI defense, felonies, misdemeanors, and traffic violations throughout Mecklenburg County.

more
Screenshot of the William M. Willis IV P.C. Website
616 Carpenter Ave, Mooresville, NC 28115, USA

William Willis Certified Specialist offers skilled advocacy in criminal defense. The firm handles DWI cases, drug offenses, and traffic violations. They also assist with bond motions and expunctions. William Willis is board-certified in North Carolina criminal law. The firm provides aggressive representation at reasonable fees. They offer gratis initial phone consultations.

more
Screenshot of the Roseman Law Firm PLLC Website
101 N McDowell St #206, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA

For criminal defense representation, choose Roseman Law Firm. This Charlotte-based practice delivers strong defense in criminal and traffic cases. They handle DWI/DUI, underage alcohol charges, and expungements. The firm also takes on personal injury claims.

more
Screenshot of the Law Offices of Banks Huntley, PLLC Website
2300 E 7th St suite 101-a, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA

Banks Huntley offers skilled legal defense in Charlotte, North Carolina. The firm handles a wide range of criminal charges, from DWI to violent crimes. The firm offers free consultations and flexible payment options.

Screenshot of the Butler, Quinn & Hochman, PLLC Website
4801 E Independence Blvd # 700, Charlotte, NC 28212, USA

Your advocates for immigration and criminal defense matters. The firm offers tailored legal strategies for personal injury and workers' compensation cases. They provide zero-cost initial consultations. Butler, Quinn & Hochman serves Charlotte with exceptional legal counsel in various practice areas.

more

Latest Blog Posts

Screenshot of the Gilles Law Website
725 E Trade St UNIT 215, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA

Gilles Law defends North and South Carolina clients from their Charlotte office. They handle everything from traffic tickets to serious felonies. Their attorneys create personalized defense strategies for each case. Known for aggressive advocacy, they protect client rights in both state and federal courts.

more
Screenshot of the The Emory Law Firm, P.C. Website
11020 David Taylor Dr #102, Charlotte, NC 28262, USA

The Emory Law in Charlotte offers personal injury, criminal law, and workers' compensation representation. They provide high-quality legal work and personal client service.

Screenshot of the Tin Fulton Walker & Owen, PLLC Website
301 E Park Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203, USA

Tin Fulton Walker & Owen handles a wide range of cases, from personal injury to criminal defense. They excel in federal court and have a strong record in criminal appeals. Their attorneys are skilled in practicing criminal law and civil rights cases.

more
Screenshot of the Hall & Dixon, PLLC Website
725 E Trade St UNIT 115, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA

Hall & Dixon takes on personal injury, criminal defense, and business law for Charlotte clients. The firm handles cases from slip and fall accidents to federal criminal appeals. Free consultations and flexible payment plans are available. Their services extend to business formation, contracts, and employment issues.

more
Screenshot of the Knox Law Center Website
905 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA

Knox Law Center specializes in personal injury and criminal defense law. This counsel offers expert legal services in felony cases, workers' compensation, and estate planning. Knox Law Center serves clients across the Carolinas with offices in Charlotte and Denver, NC. The firm's 60-year history reflects its commitment to quality representation in various legal matters.

more

Latest Blog Posts

Screenshot of the Minick Law, P.C. Website
5940 Monroe Rd Ste. 203, Charlotte, NC 28212, USA

Expert legal guidance from Minick Law, P.C. The firm serves clients in North Carolina and South Carolina. They focus on DWI/DUI defense and criminal defense cases. Their trial lawyers handle traffic violations, underage drinking, and drug crimes. Minick Law offers free consultations and Spanish-speaking services. The defense team works to reduce the impact of criminal charges. They help clients facing criminal charges get their lives back on track.

more

Latest Blog Posts

Screenshot of the The Law Offices of Andrew L. Gordon, PLLC Website

This firm handles criminal defense, traffic cases, personal injury claims, and landlord-tenant disputes. They offer no-cost consultations to discuss clients' legal needs. The experienced and skilled team works to protect rights and achieve favorable outcomes. Contact them for dedicated legal representation in Charlotte, NC.

more
Screenshot of the Rawls, Scheer, Clary, & Mingo Law Firm Website
2333 Randolph Rd #100, Charlotte, NC 28207, USA

Experienced criminal defense counsel at Rawls, Scheer, Clary & Mingo. This Charlotte firm handles state and federal cases in criminal defense and personal injury. Their team includes board-certified specialists who provide free consultations. The firm has received an "AV-Preeminent" rating from Martindale-Hubbell. U.S. News & World Report recognizes them as one of the best law firms in the country.

more
Screenshot of the Trivino Law PLLC Website
1811 Sardis Rd N # 207, Charlotte, NC 28270, USA

Experienced criminal defense attorneys at Trivino Law PLLC in Charlotte, NC, offer a range of legal services. They handle cases involving traffic tickets, domestic violence, and protective orders. The firm also assists with expungement, license restoration, and uncontested divorce. For estate planning, they provide wills, trusts, and power of attorney services. Trivino offers free 15-minute consultations. They serve clients in Spanish and Portuguese.

more
Screenshot of the Kimberly Saxton & Associates, PLLC Website
101 N McDowell St Suite 126 Suite 126, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA

These Charlotte lawyers offer strong defense in criminal, juvenile, and civil cases. With over 20 years of experience, they've achieved notable client wins. The firm provides free criminal law consultations and serves multiple counties. Their convenient location and Spanish-speaking staff ensure accessible legal support. Kimberly Saxton & Associates, PLLC is recognized as a Top 10 Attorney in the state.

more
Screenshot of the The Hatcher Law Office, PLLC Website
130 N McDowell St STE D, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA

The Hatcher Office is a top legal counsel in Charlotte, North Carolina. This criminal defense firm protects clients' constitutional rights. They handle first-time offenses and provide thorough investigations. The firm develops a strong defense strategy for those charged with criminal offenses. If trial is necessary, they offer aggressive representation to safeguard clients' interests.

more
Screenshot of the Law Offices Of Harold Cogdell, Jr., P.L.L.C. Website

Harold Cogdell, Jr. is a Charlotte criminal defense attorney with 25+ years of experience. He handles federal and state cases, focusing on both criminal defense and corporate law. As a Super Lawyers honoree, Cogdell provides accessible legal support across multiple states. His firm offers free consultations and maintains direct client communication throughout each case.

more
Screenshot of the Fialko Law PLLC Website
529 W Summit Ave #1b, Charlotte, NC 28203, USA

Fialko Law in Charlotte, NC, offers experienced criminal defense services. The firm handles cases ranging from white-collar crime to drug charges and sex offenses. With over 25 years of experience, Fialko fights for individuals against the government. They provide free initial consultations and focus on thorough case preparation. The firm's founder, Chris Fialko, has received multiple awards for his work in criminal defense.

more
Screenshot of the Johnson & Nicholson, PLLC Website
5806 Monroe Road, Ste. 102, Charlotte, NC 28212

Johnson & Nicholson, PLLC: Tailored legal strategies for immigration and criminal defense issues. Based in Charlotte, this firm offers bilingual attorneys for immigration cases. They respond to clients within 24 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Charlotte?

When selecting a criminal defense attorney in Charlotte, focus on their experience with North Carolina criminal law, track record of success, expertise in your specific type of case, and their standing with the North Carolina State Bar. Look for lawyers who offer free initial consultations and have experience in both state and federal courts.

How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Charlotte?

Criminal defense attorney fees in Charlotte typically range from $2,500 to $15,000+ depending on case complexity. Factors affecting cost include:

  • Type of criminal charges (misdemeanor vs. felony)
  • Attorney's experience level and reputation
  • Complexity of your case and required court appearances
  • Whether the case goes to trial or settles through plea bargaining

What are common criminal charges handled by Charlotte defense attorneys?

MisdemeanorsFelonies
DWI/DUIDrug Trafficking
Simple AssaultViolent Crimes
ShopliftingWhite Collar Crimes
TrespassingFederal Offenses

How long do criminal cases typically take in Charlotte?

The duration of criminal cases in Charlotte varies significantly. Misdemeanors might resolve in 2-6 months, while felony cases can take 6-18 months or longer. Factors affecting timeline include court scheduling, case complexity, and whether you go to trial.

What should I do immediately after being charged with a crime in Charlotte?

  • Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney
  • Document everything you remember about the incident and gather any relevant evidence
  • Contact a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible
  • Keep all court dates and follow any pretrial release conditions strictly

Can a criminal record be expunged in North Carolina?

Yes, certain criminal records can be expunged in North Carolina under specific conditions. First-time nonviolent offenses, charges resulting in dismissal or acquittal, and some juvenile records may be eligible. A Charlotte criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case for expungement eligibility.

What makes Charlotte criminal defense attorneys different from general practice lawyers?

Criminal defense specialists in Charlotte have deep knowledge of North Carolina criminal statutes, local court procedures, and relationships with prosecutors. They understand Mecklenburg County's specific judicial practices and can navigate both state and federal courts in the Charlotte area effectively.

What are my rights if arrested in Charlotte?

Your fundamental rights include: the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, and the right to due process. A Charlotte criminal defense attorney can help ensure these rights are protected throughout your case.