How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in North Carolina?

If you’re facing criminal charges in North Carolina, you have a lot to figure out as you prepare for the ensuing legal proceedings. A criminal defense attorney can offer invaluable legal knowledge to strengthen your defense and secure a fair outcome. This all may sound great, but you’re probably asking yourself, “How much does a criminal lawyer cost in North Carolina?”

Cost Factors for Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer in North Carolina

There is no standard answer to this question, but you can look at certain factors to learn more about the cost of seeking legal representation for your case. For one, the experience level and reputation of the law firm can impact how much they charge.

While it can be tempting to go with the cheapest option you find, it’s important to remember that their rates can be indicative of their skill level. A law firm’s fee structure is also important. North Carolina criminal defense lawyers typically charge flat fees, an hourly rate, or retainer fees.

The complexity of your case and the services you require can also affect how much you pay. Simpler cases that settle through negotiations or arbitration typically cost less to handle than complicated cases that go to court.

Working with a criminal defense attorney is going to add to your overall costs, but it’s ultimately a beneficial move. Your lawyer can secure a fair verdict for your case. That way, you have a better chance of moving forward with your life.

Common Defenses for Criminal Cases in North Carolina

The key to beating criminal charges is having a strong enough defense that establishes your innocence. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution in criminal cases, which means they must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were at fault for an incident. Your attorney’s job is to provide that doubt to maintain your innocence.

The type of defense you use for your case ultimately hinges on the details of the incident. The most comprehensive defense is to have an alibi. If you have evidence proving that you were somewhere else when the crime was committed, it can be nearly impossible for the court to find you guilty.

Some other common defenses your criminal defense lawyer may use include:

• Coercion or duress
• Defense of others
• Entrapment
• False accusations
• Insanity
• Lack of intent
• Mistaken identity
• Mistake of fact
• Self-defense

Local North Carolina Criminal Lawyers Near You

Our team at The Shotwell Law Group has over 30 years of combined experience in navigating all types of criminal cases. We’re comfortable working through every part of the process and can take on any number of tasks, including:

• Building your alibi
• Drafting legal paperwork
• Gathering and analyzing evidence
• Interviewing witnesses
• Investigating the prosecution
• Evaluating your case
• Negotiating plea deals
• Preparing your defense
• Protecting your rights
• Providing legal advice and guidance
• Representing you in court

Every criminal case is different, which is why it’s important to do your research before choosing your legal representation. You want to work with an attorney who has experience in cases like yours.

Both property crime and violent crime had higher rates than the national average. Property crime in North Carolina was 7.7 percent higher, and violent crime was 4.5 percent higher. The crime rate in North Carolina rose by 2.3 percent between 2022 and 2023, with property crime contributing to the majority of the increase. In recent years, over 500,000 criminal incidents were reported throughout the state.

At The Shotwell Law Group, we have represented clients in all types of criminal cases, including property crimes and violent crimes. Whether you’re facing a minor misdemeanor or a serious felony, you can rely on our team to defend you.

FAQs

Q: What Is Included in a North Carolina Criminal Lawyer’s Fees?

A: When you pay to work with a criminal defense attorney, you’re investing in legal representation through every stage of your case. A lawyer’s fees aim to cover all the costs associated with representing you. These include:

• Investigating your case
• Conducting legal research
• Drafting legal documents
• Negotiating plea deals
• Preparing you for trial
• Representing you in court

Q: How Can a North Carolina Criminal Lawyer Help My Case?

A: A criminal lawyer can evaluate your case and launch independent investigations into the opposing party, where they can find weaknesses in their claims against you. Your attorney can use their experience to navigate your case and secure you the fairest outcome possible. At The Shotwell Law Group, we aim to have your case dropped if possible. If not, we can work to reduce the charges. Ideally, you can recover from this incident and go on to live a normal life.

Q: How Do Criminal Lawyers in North Carolina Typically Charge for Their Services?

A: Different criminal defense attorneys use different fee structures, but you can typically expect to be charged a flat fee, an hourly rate, or a retainer. The overall cost of seeking legal representation depends on the details of your case. For example, a simple and straightforward case that’s negotiated and settled out of court is likely going to be less expensive than one involving complex criminal charges that enters litigation.

Q: How Can I Afford a Criminal Defense Lawyer in North Carolina?

A: There’s no way around the fact that working with a criminal defense lawyer can be costly. If you’re facing charges, you may find yourself worrying about how to afford legal representation. In many cases, you can discuss your situation with your attorney and formulate some sort of payment plan. That way, you can get the representation you deserve without having to stress about how to afford it.

Reach Out to a North Carolina Criminal Lawyer to Discuss Your Case in More Detail Today

Navigating criminal charges is a serious ordeal that can impact your life forever. A North Carolina criminal defense attorney can work to have your charges reduced or dropped. They can also make sure you’re being treated fairly throughout the legal proceedings.

The Shotwell Law Group has represented many clients in criminal cases, ranging from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. If you’re ready to discuss your situation in more detail, get in touch with our team to set up a consultation today.