Yes, you need a defense attorney if you committed a crime. Hiring legal counsel is not a useless effort, even if you did break the law. It is still the responsibility of the prosecution to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. It is possible for your defense attorney to prevent them from meeting this high standard of proof. Your attorney could also be essential for negotiating a plea deal with the prosecution or arguing in favor of lighter sentencing.
We Tackle Even The Most Difficult Cases
Wilmington Criminal Defense Lawyers
More than 30 combined years of legal experience
About the firm
Welcome to the Shotwell Law Group
Located in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, we represent individuals charged with any type of criminal or traffic offense.
We accept cases in New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties. No-nonsense criminal defense attorneys.
Local, Experienced Attorneys Who Work For You
Call For A Consultation 910-762-1672
Located in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, we represent individuals who have been charged with any type of criminal or traffic offense. We take cases that occurred in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties.
Attorneys at Shotwell Law Group have represented and tried before a jury many serious criminal cases including first-degree murder, rape and drug trafficking. We handle everything from these incredibly serious offenses to simple traffic tickets.
Do not take a chance with you or your loved one’s freedom. Contact us today for a free consultation. Come see, hear and feel the difference that the Shotwell Law Group can make in your case.
Call For A Consultation 910-762-1672
Story & History
We are an experienced, aggressive criminal defense law firm. If you want a tough and knowledgeable team of trial lawyers who will fight relentlessly for you in court, contact the Shotwell Law Group.
Mission & Services
Our promise to all our clients is to offer the very best legal advice and to consistently exceed your expectations.
Counties Served
Every day, our attorneys and team work with local law enforcement, parole and judicial professionals across most of Southeastern North Carolina. We represent clients facing criminal charges in New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties.
Practice Areas
Types Of Cases We Handle
As The TOP DWI LAWYERS In Wilmington, NC, We Have Successfully Applied The Triple-P Strategy To Help Clients Charged With Driving While Impaired Offenses.
Driving while impaired (DWI) is a serious charge that requires careful attention to detail. The consequences can be costly and burdensome. We have successfully represented countless clients who have been charged with DWIs in both district and superior court. Our formula for success is simple.
Preparation
All DWI cases start with a thorough interview. Next, we gather all of the information we can about your specific case. This often includes interviewing the officer, subpoenaing records and videos, copying and reviewing the entire court file, collecting pictures from the scene and interviewing witnesses.
Planning
After gathering all necessary information, we develop and pursue a strategy that is specific to your situation. Years of experience and countless hours keeping current on North Carolina statutes and case law are used to develop an approach to maximize success for each individual case.
Persistence
We persistently and aggressively implement your strategy. This involves everything from filing pretrial motions, and negotiating with the district attorney to vigorously defending you at trial in front of a judge or jury.
FAQs About Wilmington, NC Criminal Defense Laws
Case Results
Dismissed
1st Degree Arson
Dismissed
Indecent Liberties with a Child
Not Guilty
Discharge Weapon into Occupied Dwelling
Dismissed
Discharge Weapon into Occupied Dwelling, Assault with Deadly Weapon
Not Guilty
Assault with a Deadly Weapon on Government Official, Habitual Felon
scroll
Our Attorneys
Testimonials
Client Testimonials
Amazing work!!! Shotwell has helped both my father and my husband. He is an excellent lawyer. Very professional and a great personality. So glad we chose him!!!!
- Alison Jackson
Lawrence is THE BEST. He is professional and extremely dedicated to you. If I got a speeding ticket I would call him, or of I was accused…
- Callie Johnson
Josh Lopez is an amazing person and lawyer. Extremely professional and timely with all communication. Advocated for my family. Demonstrated compassion and understanding for our situation. Can’t…
- Jasper Tran
Lawerence Shotwell was a great attorney. He treated me and my case like it was the only one he had. He helped me with two separate cases…
- Shawn Sears
I had Blake for a attorney for a speeding ticket. He did what he needed to do, and return my calls promptly. I definitely recommend him, and…
- Lisa McAllister
Best law firm on the east coast, Mr. Shotwell is one of the most intelligent attorney's you'll find anywhere. Insightful and astute as they come. And he…
- Jon Harvey
I would highly recommend The Shotwell Law Group to anyone who is looking for an attorney in Wilmington, NC. Mr. Blake Spale was very easy to work…
- Kayla Walker
Great place! Mr. Shotwell is a great attorney. He has helped me in the past! Lucy is also great, she is a gem to the Shotwell Law…
- Thebtafamily
Shotwell and his associates are by far the best law group in town. He keeps you informed 24-7 about every detail of your case. 100% reliable always.…
- Kalen Rae
I hired Blake for my DWI case that I got when I was visiting the beach. Everyone at Shotwell was professional, kind, helpful and knowledgeable. My case…
- Trena Ruth
Blake by far is the best attorney I have ever dealt with. He was able to achieve results I honestly did not think were possible. He is…
- Michael Macchiaroli
Cannot say enough good things about Shotwell & his staff. He and his staff are kind & compassionate and go above and beyond to resolve your issues.…
- MC Santos
Blake Spale is incredible. The term “miracle worker” truly applies to him. He’s passionate about his clients, fair, honest and trustworthy. Blake is a Fighter. He’s savvy…
- C
Blake Shale is the best attorney by far. It didn't matter what time I would text him, he would call me immediately. He was very helpful during…
- Doris Baker
Jose Lopez was awesome. Same day service… got the DUI dismissed. Highly recommend him to help you with you legal services. Thank you Josue
- Louis Gonzo (Tidal Man Lou)
Josue Lopez is the best attorney in Wilmington NC. I recommend him to friends and family we been using this law firm for years.
- Jacqueline M
Blake a damm outstanding lawyer I compare him Houdini he can make your stuff disappear :joy: he a excellent lawyer
- Clifton Jenkins
Josh Lopez is amazing, hands down. He is so easy to talk to, he makes you feel comfortable, and he’s not going to beat around the bush…
- Carly Raynor
I got my speeding ticket dismissed with Blake Spale. Overall good experience and easy communication.
- Keely Rios Sanchez
Blake Spale is an INCREDIBLE attorney and I highly recommend him to anyone seeking counsel. During my situation, he showed me kindness, empathy, was always very quick…
- Jessica Amendola
From the day we met Josh Lopez from The Shotwell Law group we knew we had gotten lucky - He is the best, I mean the best…
- Janet Rushing
Josh Lopez is by far the best attorney I’ve ever dealt with. He took care of my case which was a huge relief. He was so prompt…
- William Goad
Blake Spale showed up early and helped me throughout the whole process as it was my first time going to court. He was very kind, honest and…
- Forest Crespo
We were in Wilmington, NC for a family matter and my husband got a speeding ticket. The Shotwell Law Group was recommended to us by a friend…
- Brandy Gagliano
Josh Lopez is very professional and easy to guide you definitely will reference him to others! He’s that guy!
- Juan Rubio
The Shotwell Law Group was excellent in getting my traffic ticket dismissed. I strongly recommend this firm and would definitely use them again if needed.
- Clifton McFadden
My experience with the Shotwell Law Group was great. The group was very helpful in taking care of my traffic violations. I highly recommend.
- Christopher George
Josh Lopez is by far the best attorney I’ve ever dealt with. He took care of my case which was a huge relief. He was so prompt…
- William Goad
News/Media
Home of the “Shotwell Motion”
The “Shotwell Motion,” created by founding attorney H. Lawrence Shotwell, has made news all over the state.
State DWI Cases Dropped
Magistrates’ Mistakes … Dismissed DWIs
State DWI Cases Dropped
Magistrates’ Mistakes … Dismissed DWIs
DWI Dismissals Appealed
DWI Suspects Get Relief
DWI Dismissals Appealed
DWI Suspects Get Relief
Welcome to the Shotwell Law Group
Need legal help? Request a Free Consultation.
During your free consultation, one of our attorneys will review the details of your case, as well as discuss your options and the best legal strategy moving forward.
Copyright © 2026 The Shotwell Law Group PLLC All Rights Reserved.
*Images are obtained under license from Canva and other third-party stock image providers, with attribution included where required.
Digital Marketing By: 
ES