Lincoln Criminal Defense Lawyer

Lincoln NC Criminal Defense Attorney

Being accused of a crime can be devastating. While the thought of facing time in jail and hefty fines is enough to cause worry, these fears can be compounded by fears of social isolation, difficulty finding employment or residence, and much more. However, a criminal charge is not the same as a conviction, and when faced with a charge, you deserve a Lincoln criminal defense lawyer who understands the circumstances of your case and how to build a defense for it.

Our team at the Schweppe Law Firm, P.A. is dedicated to providing our clients with the unique defense that they need to defend their charges. Our knowledge and experience have allowed us to refine our practice into developing defense strategies based on the case and not a one-size-fits-all defense model. We know that the criminal accusations can be life-changing for you and your family. Our team works tirelessly and represents you in every step of the process.

Criminal Defense Attorneys

When seeking to hire a criminal defense attorney, the knowledge and experience they bring can be invaluable to your defense. While there are many attorneys who may say they are able to help, there are certain characteristics that you should look for when identifying a criminal defense attorney.  Attorneys with experience in a variety of criminal cases can be utilized for their unique perspective in defending a variety of charges. The types of cases we handle include:

• Violent crimes. These types of crimes encompass a spectrum of criminal charges. Amongst these charges include murder, assault, battery, child abuse, and many more. Often facing some of the harshest penalties, violent crimes are among the most aggressively prosecuted.
• White collar crimes. Most commonly thought of as financial crimes, white collar crimes are those filed against business owners, corporations, and others who may be accused of crimes such as embezzlement, falsifying information to obtain real estate, and other types of fraudulent activity.
• Sex crimes. These are crimes that prosecutors will prosecute to the fullest extent possible. Whether you are accused of a sex crime against a minor, against an adult, or for any other reason, a conviction will cost you significantly. Beyond jail time and penalties, you may be required to register as a sex offender.
• Drug crimes. Even as drug laws around the country begin to lax, North Carolina laws still mean drug crime convictions lead to harsh penalties. Prosecution could be at either the state or federal level, depending on the circumstances of the charge. Knowledge of these laws is beneficial for any attorney that you hire.
• Driving under the influence. While penalties for DUIs can vary, those convicted could face hardships in commuting to and from work as their license may be restricted or suspended. Even for first-time offenders, the financial and criminal costs of a DUI can mean a lifetime of difficulties.

While this list is just a few of the types of cases we can handle, know that with the help of The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., you can defend yourself against a variety of criminal charges beyond these. Our team has the knowledge and experience you need to face any criminal accusations.

Accusations of a Crime

If you are accused of criminal action, it is imperative that you follow key steps in order to ensure that your rights are protected. From the moment the accusation is presented, you should:

• Remember that you are innocent until proven guilty.
• Adhere to the Miranda Warning, which includes your right to remain silent and to have an attorney present with you at questioning.
• Be sure that an attorney is with you whenever you are providing statements to the police.
• Remind yourself that not answering law enforcement questions without an attorney does not mean you are guilty.
• Be cooperative and polite in requesting that your rights be upheld.

Just because you are accused of a crime in Lincoln County does not mean your rights are taken from you. Our team knows that mistakes happen and that the facts of the case aren’t always what they appear to be on the surface. We take time to protect your rights and investigate your case to ensure we know all the circumstances.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in North Carolina?

A: The cost of a criminal lawyer in North Carolina will depend on several factors. There are no standard fees for a criminal defense. The experience of your attorney, the type of criminal case you are facing, and the time that it takes to defend your case, including any time in court, all factor into the costs you could incur. It is recommended to speak to a potential attorney upfront about the types of costs you could have.

Q: What Is the Strongest Type of Defense to a Criminal Charge?

A: There is not a standard defense for any criminal charge which means there are multiple types of defenses that could be used in any criminal case. Reviewing the facts of your case and completing an independent investigation will help to determine a course of action that is right for you and the circumstances that you are facing. To build a defense, having a strong and trusting rapport with your attorney can ensure that all the details are evaluated.

Q: Does the Defense Have the Burden of Proof in a Criminal Case?

A: In any criminal case, the defense does not carry the burden of proof. The defense is responsible for creating reasonable doubt in the facts presented by the prosecution who has the burden of proof. They are responsible for showing the facts and evidence in the case point to the person whom they are accusing. The defense presents facts to rebut that.

Q: What Is the First Step in a Criminal Trial in NC?

A: The first step in a criminal trial in North Carolina is to face a judge to hear the formal reading of the accusations against you. This will occur after your arrest. With your attorney, you will decide before this whether you wish to enter a guilty or not guilty plea. This may be followed by negotiations with a prosecutor in order to avoid a trial. Your criminal defense attorney will guide you step by step through the process.

Lincoln County Criminal Defense Lawyer

No matter what type of criminal charge you are facing, the outcome of the case can have significant impacts on you and your family. From jail time and fines to difficulties in gaining employment and residence, the outcome of your case matters. At The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., our Lincolnton attorneys are ready to fight for you. Contact our offices today, and let us put our knowledge and skills to work for you.