Stay informed about criminal defense law, your constitutional rights, and the criminal justice system. Our experienced attorneys provide crucial insights about DUI/DWI charges, drug crimes, white collar offenses, violent crimes, and protecting your freedom. Learn how to navigate arrests, court proceedings, and defend against criminal accusations in North Carolina and Florida.
Being charged with a crime is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face. The consequences of a criminal conviction can impact every aspect of your life, from your freedom and employment opportunities to your relationships and reputation. At Vasquez Law Firm, we believe everyone deserves a strong defense and access to information about their constitutional rights.
Criminal defense encompasses a broad spectrum of charges in North Carolina, ranging from misdemeanors like simple assault, petty theft, and traffic-related offenses to serious felonies including drug trafficking, violent crimes, sexual offenses, and white-collar crimes. Each category of offense carries different potential penalties, from fines and probation to lengthy prison sentences, and requires specific defense strategies tailored to the circumstances.
Understanding the criminal justice process is essential for anyone facing charges. From the initial arrest and arraignment through preliminary hearings, plea negotiations, trial, and potential appeals, each stage presents critical decisions that can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Your constitutional rights—including the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, protection against unreasonable searches, and the presumption of innocence—are fundamental protections that must be vigorously defended.
DWI/DUI charges are among the most common criminal matters in North Carolina, carrying serious consequences including license suspension, mandatory alcohol education, ignition interlock requirements, and potential jail time. Drug offenses range from simple possession to trafficking charges that carry mandatory minimum sentences. Understanding the differences between state and federal charges, potential defenses, and alternative sentencing options like drug court can make a crucial difference.
Our criminal defense resources cover topics such as what to expect when arrested, how to find a criminal defense attorney, understanding bail and bond, the differences between misdemeanors and felonies, expungement of criminal records, and how criminal charges can affect immigration status. We are committed to providing clear, practical information to help individuals navigate the criminal justice system.
Discover how the 2025 Defending Sexual Assault Cases Training Seminar empowers Vasquez Law Firm to offer cutting-edge defense strategies in North Carolina. Learn how our commitment to ongoing education benefits our clients facing charges of DUI, assault, drug crimes, and more. Se Habla Español.
Learn about drug possession charges in Greensboro, NC, including laws, penalties, and how a criminal defense lawyer from Vasquez Law Firm can help protect your rights.
Know your rights when facing criminal charges and how to build a strong defense.
Facing a DUI charge in North Carolina can have serious implications, including hefty fines, loss of driving privileges, and incarceration. Vasquez Law Firm offers comprehensive legal support to navigate DUI laws, ensuring clients' rights are protected. With expertise in DUI, assault, and drug crimes, we're committed to delivering client-focused, actionable defense strategies.
Expert legal guidance on assault vs battery in north carolina: understanding the difference. Serving Greensboro and all of North Carolina with experienced criminal defense representation.
Learn everything you need to know about criminal defense law in NC.
Remain calm and do not resist arrest. Clearly state that you wish to remain silent and that you want an attorney. Do not answer questions or make statements without your lawyer present—anything you say can be used against you. Do not consent to searches. Remember the officer's badge number and patrol car number. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
In North Carolina, misdemeanors are less serious offenses typically punishable by up to 150 days in jail (for Class 1 misdemeanors) and fines. Felonies are more serious crimes ranging from Class I (least serious) to Class A (most serious, including first-degree murder). Felony convictions can result in years or decades in prison, loss of voting rights, and inability to possess firearms. The classification affects sentencing guidelines significantly.
North Carolina allows expungement of certain criminal records, including dismissed charges, not guilty verdicts, and some first-time offenses after waiting periods. Recent law changes have expanded eligibility to include certain nonviolent felonies and misdemeanors. The process involves filing a petition with the court. An attorney can evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the expungement process.
A first-time DWI in NC is typically a Level 5 misdemeanor (lowest level), but can be elevated based on aggravating factors like high BAC or accidents. Penalties may include 24 hours to 60 days in jail (or community service), fines up to $200, one-year license revocation, substance abuse assessment, and possible ignition interlock device. Aggravating factors can increase penalties significantly.
Criminal charges can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation, denial of naturalization, visa revocation, and inadmissibility. Crimes involving moral turpitude, aggravated felonies, drug offenses, and domestic violence are particularly serious. Even misdemeanors can trigger immigration consequences. If you are not a U.S. citizen and face criminal charges, it is critical to work with an attorney who understands both criminal and immigration law.
A plea bargain is an agreement where you plead guilty to a lesser charge or receive a reduced sentence in exchange for avoiding trial. Whether to accept depends on the strength of the evidence, potential trial outcomes, and the specific offer. An experienced defense attorney can evaluate the prosecution's case, advise you on the likelihood of success at trial, and negotiate for the best possible terms if a plea is in your interest.
Don't wait - your freedom and future are at stake. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are available 24/7 to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.