Criminal Defense Lawyer in Raleigh, NC
Facing criminal charges? Protect your freedom and future with aggressive legal defense. Serving Raleigh, Wake County, and the Research Triangle with experienced criminal representation.
Raleigh Office
Serving Wake County
24/7 Availability
Emergency calls
Se Habla Español
Bilingual representation
15+ Years Experience
Thousands defended
On This Page
Criminal Charges We Defend in Raleigh
DUI & Traffic Offenses
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Driving While Impaired (DWI)
- Reckless driving
- Hit and run accidents
- Driving with suspended license
Drug Crimes
- Drug possession
- Drug trafficking
- Manufacturing controlled substances
- Prescription drug crimes
- Federal drug charges
Violent Crimes
- Assault and battery
- Domestic violence
- Armed robbery
- Homicide and manslaughter
- Weapons charges
Property Crimes
- Theft and larceny
- Breaking and entering
- Vandalism and property damage
- Identity theft
- Financial fraud
DUI Defense Strategies in Raleigh
North Carolina has some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation. A conviction can result in license suspension, jail time, and thousands in fines. Our experienced DUI attorneys know how to challenge every aspect of your case.
Traffic Stop Challenges
- • Lack of reasonable suspicion for stop
- • Improper checkpoint procedures
- • Constitutional violations during arrest
- • Miranda rights violations
- • Illegal search and seizure
- • Chain of custody issues
Field Sobriety Test Defense
- • Improper test administration
- • Medical conditions affecting performance
- • Weather and road conditions
- • Officer training and certification issues
- • Physical disabilities or limitations
- • Prescription medication effects
Breathalyzer Defense
- • Machine calibration and maintenance
- • Operator certification issues
- • Mouth alcohol contamination
- • Medical conditions affecting results
- • 15-minute observation period violations
- • Rising blood alcohol defense
Blood Test Challenges
- • Warrant requirements for blood draws
- • Medical professional qualifications
- • Sample storage and contamination
- • Lab testing procedures
- • Chain of custody documentation
- • Fermentation and coagulation issues
Our Criminal Defense Process
Emergency Response
Available 24/7 for arrests and emergencies. We provide immediate guidance on exercising your rights and securing release from custody through bail or bond arrangements.
Case Investigation
Thorough review of police reports, witness statements, and evidence. We investigate the circumstances of your arrest and identify potential defenses and constitutional violations.
Legal Strategy Development
Develop a customized defense strategy based on the specific facts of your case, applicable laws, and prosecutorial practices in Wake County courts.
Pre-Trial Motions
File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, dismiss charges based on procedural violations, and challenge the prosecution's case before trial.
Negotiation & Trial
Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissed cases. When necessary, provide aggressive trial representation to fight for your innocence and freedom.
Wake County Criminal Courts
District Court
- Location:
316 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601 - Jurisdiction:
Misdemeanor cases, traffic violations, preliminary hearings for felonies - Typical Cases:
DUI, simple assault, theft under $1,000, drug possession
Superior Court
- Location:
316 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601 - Jurisdiction:
Felony cases, serious misdemeanor appeals - Typical Cases:
Drug trafficking, armed robbery, homicide, federal crimes
Federal Court
310 New Bern Ave, Raleigh, NC 27601
Criminal Penalties in North Carolina
Misdemeanor Classes
Up to 150 days jail, fines
Up to 120 days jail, fines
Up to 60 days jail, fines
Up to 20 days jail, fines
Felony Classes
Life without parole or death penalty
12-50+ years imprisonment
5-20+ years imprisonment
Community service to 10+ years
Additional Consequences
- • Loss of driving privileges
- • Professional license suspension
- • Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- • Difficulty finding employment
- • Loss of voting rights (felonies)
- • Firearm ownership restrictions
Your Constitutional Rights
During Police Contact
- Right to remain silent
- Right to refuse searches (without warrant)
- Right to ask if you're free to leave
- Right to request an attorney
During Criminal Proceedings
- Right to legal representation
- Right to a speedy trial
- Right to confront witnesses
- Right to presumption of innocence
Important Reminders
- • Never waive your rights without consulting an attorney
- • Police can lie to you during questioning
- • Anything you say can be used against you in court
- • Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest
Criminal Record Expungement in North Carolina
North Carolina has expanded expungement opportunities, allowing many people to clear their criminal records. An expunged record can improve employment prospects, housing applications, and professional licensing.
Eligible for Expungement
- • Dismissals and not guilty verdicts
- • First-time non-violent misdemeanors
- • Certain felony convictions after waiting period
- • Underage drinking convictions
- • Some drug possession convictions
- • Identity theft victim records
Expungement Process
- • File petition in county of conviction
- • Serve notice on District Attorney
- • Background check and waiting periods
- • Court hearing (if contested)
- • Judge's order for expungement
- • Records destruction by agencies
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I'm arrested in Raleigh?
Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Don't answer questions or sign anything without legal representation. Contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
What happens at my first court appearance in Wake County?
Your first court appearance is typically an arraignment where charges are read and you enter a plea. The judge may set bail conditions. Having an attorney present ensures your rights are protected from the start.
Can I get a DUI dismissed in Raleigh?
DUI dismissals are possible through various defense strategies including challenging breathalyzer accuracy, field sobriety tests, traffic stop validity, and procedural violations. An experienced DUI attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
What are the penalties for drug possession in North Carolina?
Drug possession penalties in NC vary by drug type and amount. Simple possession may result in probation, while trafficking charges carry mandatory minimums. First-time offenders may qualify for treatment programs instead of jail time.
How long does a criminal case take in Wake County Superior Court?
Criminal cases in Wake County can take 3-18 months depending on complexity and court schedules. Felony cases generally take longer than misdemeanors. Plea negotiations may resolve cases faster than trials.
Can I expunge my criminal record in North Carolina?
NC allows expunction of certain charges including dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and some convictions after waiting periods. Recent law changes expanded expunction eligibility for many non-violent offenses.
What is the difference between federal and state criminal charges?
Federal charges involve crimes crossing state lines, federal property, or federal agencies. They're prosecuted in federal court with different procedures and typically harsher penalties than state charges in Wake County Superior Court.
Should I take a plea deal for my criminal case?
Plea deals should be carefully evaluated with your attorney. Consider the strength of the prosecution's case, potential trial penalties versus plea terms, and long-term consequences. An experienced lawyer can advise whether to accept or negotiate better terms.
What happens if I violate probation in Wake County?
Probation violations can result in additional penalties, extended probation, or activation of suspended jail time. Quick legal intervention may help minimize consequences and negotiate alternatives with your probation officer and the court.
Protect Your Rights and Freedom
Don't face criminal charges alone. Our experienced defense attorneys are ready to fight for you 24/7. Every moment counts in criminal defense.
Vasquez Law Firm, PLLC - Raleigh
4426 Louisburg Rd
Raleigh, NC 27616
(919) 533-7000
24/7 Emergency
raleigh@vasquezlawfirm.com
Se Habla Español
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