Wilmington Misdemeanor Lawyer

Wilmington Misdemeanor Attorney

If you are facing charges for a misdemeanor in Wilmington, this can lead to a myriad of personal, professional, and legal consequences. Although misdemeanors are not as severe as felony convictions, they can still lead to community service, probation, fines, and potential for jail time. Therefore, it’s crucial to work with an experienced Wilmington misdemeanor lawyer from The Shotwell Law Group who can protect your rights and interests.

At The Shotwell Law Group PLLC, our compassionate team of criminal defense attorneys understands how overwhelming it can be to face misdemeanor charges, in addition to all that is on the line – from your reputation to your future. Therefore, we are here for you to mount an aggressive criminal defense strategy that clearly reflects your unique situation. Together, we can safeguard your rights and interests and push towards getting your charges reduced or dismissed.

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Common Misdemeanor Charges Seen in Wilmington, North Carolina

The dedicated legal team at The Shotwell Law Group has years of combined experience successfully defending clients in Wilmington and surrounding areas who are facing misdemeanor charges. Misdemeanors in the state are classified into four categories, ranging from class 3 to class A1, with class A1 being the most severe. We have helped clients achieve optimal case outcomes across a variety of misdemeanor charges, including the following:

• Driving under the influence. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can result in a driver’s license suspension, hefty fines, and required attendance of alcohol education programs. Drug possession. Possessing small amounts of drugs, such as marijuana or other controlled substances, can result in a criminal conviction.
• Simple assault. Any alterations of a physical nature that do not seriously harm another individual can still lead to a criminal conviction.
• Theft and shoplifting. Petty theft, such as taking property worth less than a certain amount, can result in charges for larceny.
• Disorderly conduct. Any disturbances in the public, such as loud noises, obstructing law enforcement, resisting arrest, or fighting, could lead to charges for a misdemeanor.

Penalties for misdemeanors are dependent on various factors, including the classification of the charge and the offender’s criminal history. Individuals who are found guilty of repeat offenses could receive more severe sentencing measures.

How our Team Can Help

Although it may feel overwhelming to face misdemeanor charges in Wilmington and surrounding areas, we are here for you during this challenging time to help you mount a strong defense. We can launch an initial case investigation to understand the charges and evidence against you and help you understand your legal options moving forward. We can help negotiate with the prosecution to get your charges reduced or the case dismissed.

If your case ends up going to court, a skilled litigator from our team can fiercely represent you in the courtroom, ensuring that your legal processes abide by protocol and that you do not receive excessive penalties. We can also work to get alternative sentencing options for your case, such as diversion programs, community service, or probation. If you are eligible to have your record cleared, we can also support you with the expungement process.

From start to finish of your criminal defense process, we are here to protect your interests and fight for your freedom and future.

FAQs

What Are the Penalties for a Misdemeanor Conviction in North Carolina?

The penalties for misdemeanor conviction in North Carolina are dependent on various factors, including the criminal record of the defendant and the severity and nature of the charges. Offenders could be facing fines, time in jail, and probation if found guilty. By working with an experienced criminal defense attorney, you can understand the potential penalties you may be facing for your misdemeanor charges and work to fight them accordingly.

Will a Misdemeanor Conviction Stay on My Record?

Yes, unless your misdemeanor conviction is ultimately expunged, it will stay on your criminal record. After a waiting period has passed, some misdemeanors may be eligible for expungement, depending on factors like whether you have a criminal history and the severity of the offense. A detail-oriented attorney can assist you with navigating the expungement process to help clean your record.

Can a Lawyer Help Get My Misdemeanor Charges Dismissed?

By working with an experienced criminal defense attorney, you can work to get your misdemeanor charges dismissed. They can leverage tactics such as negotiating with prosecutors to get your charges reduced or your case dismissed. Alternatively, they can advocate for alternative sentencing measures, such as probation or community service, in lieu of having to go to jail.

Should I Hire a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor?

While it is not required by law to have an attorney represent you if you’re facing charges for a misdemeanor, it is highly recommended to have experienced legal representation in your corner. Although misdemeanors are less serious than felony charges, convictions can still negatively affect your access to various opportunities, ranging from housing to employment. A skilled attorney can work to protect your rights and interests each step of the way.

What Should I Do If I Am Arrested for a Misdemeanor?

If you’ve been arrested for a misdemeanor, it is crucial to exercise your right to remain silent and not undergo any form of questioning without your criminal defense attorney present. Additionally, do not plead guilty to the crime you are being accused of without first speaking to a skilled defense attorney. As soon as possible, get in contact with a Wilmington misdemeanor lawyer so that you can start developing and mounting your defense.

Contact Our Wilmington Misdemeanor Lawyer Team to Discuss Your Case

Whether you are facing charges for minor possession, shoplifting, or other misdemeanor charges, it’s impertinent to have skilled and aggressive legal representation on your side who can help defend your rights and interests. A detail-oriented Wilmington misdemeanor lawyer from The Shotwell Law Group, PLLC, can help safeguard your interests and help you fight to maintain your reputation and future. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.