Is there a charge for a consultation?
Can I represent myself?
When do I need a lawyer?
Should I talk with the police?
Do you handle cases out of county?
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Am I eligible for an expungement?
Is there any way to reopen my case after the appeals are done?
Is there a charge for a consultation?
No. Initial consultations in criminal cases are free.
Can I represent myself?
You should never represent yourself in a criminal matter.
When do I need a lawyer?
You need to talk with a lawyer as soon as you think you may be implicated in a crime.
Should I talk with the police?
If there is ANY possibility you may be implicated in a crime, you should NEVER talk with the police without first consulting with a lawyer.
Do you handle cases out of county?
It depends. Our firm has handled criminal cases from Wake, Durham, Orange, Bladen, Cumberland, Hoke and Halifax Counties. In many cases, we will travel out of county. For minor offenses, or in cases where frequent court appearances are required we may refer you to a lawyer practicing in the county where your case arose. There is no charge for a referral.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Criminal offenses are generally divided into two categories – felonies and misdemeanors. Felony offenses include, for example, murder, burglary, sexual assault, other more serious assaults, and more serious property crimes. A felony conviction can result in serious punishment, including probation and prison.
Misdemeanor charges are generally less serious and carry less severe penalties. Misdemeanor offenses include, for example, writing bad checks, disorderly conduct and public intoxication. Conviction can result in fines, probation or a short time in jail.
Am I eligible for an expungement?
Under limited circumstances, people charged with or convicted of crimes may have those charges or convictions removed from their records.
Is there any way to reopen my case after the appeals are done?
Maybe. If there are new or additional aspects of your case that a court should consider, you have a right to file a motion for appropriate relief (MAR). Your lawyer may file an MAR to bring to the court’s attention evidence that should have been brought to the court’s attention but wasn’t, newly discovered evidence, or legal matters that could not have been raised on appeal, for example. In death penalty cases, and in some other circumstances, the time to file an MAR may be limited, so you should contact a lawyer immediately.