Criminal Defense in North Carolina Courtrooms

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Being charged with a crime is a life-changing experience. Regardless of the specific charges or circumstances, an individual will benefit most from hiring a reputable defense attorney. Even the most straightforward-seeming trial can have multiple outcomes. Each case is unique, making it difficult to determine the best course of action. However, a strong criminal defense can go a long way toward improving the outcome.

Statistics on Criminal Charges in North Carolina

The North Carolina Department of Justice publishes an annual report on crime across the state. Overall the 2012 report shows a slight decline in index and property crimes when compared to 2011. However, the rate of violent crimes remained the same.

The most notable numbers were as follows. All figures are per 100,000 people.

• Pocket picking increased by seven percent, from 591 to 630 incidents.
• Aggravated assault increased by four percent, from 21,437 to 22,233 incidents.
• Burglary decreased by seven percent overall, from 104,628 to 97,596 incidents.

Types of Criminal Charges

A crime may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. There are four classes of misdemeanors and ten classes of felonies. The laws and penalties are unique to each crime. They may include jail time, fines, and restriction of activities.

In North Carolina, not all felonies result in jail time. The penalty may be served under house arrest, in a specialized treatment facility, or through community service work.

Criminal Defense Strategies

A good defense strategy relies on the truth. An individual should be honest with his or her attorney to create a picture that shows the accused in the best light possible. An attorney will work with the defendant to tell his or her version of the incident and earn sympathy from the judge and jury.

Witness testimony, police reports, and evidence will be necessary to convict the defendant of a crime. An attorney may work to show that these elements do not have strength.

In cases when the defendant confesses to the crime, his or her story is particularly important. He or she may relay details that can result in a lesser charge or reduced sentence. For first-time offenders, a lack of criminal record often works in his or her favor.

An individual can seek legal advice before charges have been filed. In some circumstances, this can lead to a lesser charge from the beginning. During a pre-trial hearing, an attorney may have evidence omitted if it is not legally acquired. This can result in all charges being dropped.

Raleigh Criminal Defense Attorney

For individuals facing criminal charges, contacting a criminal defense attorney should be the first step. The prosecution will begin immediately gathering information on the case. A good defense relies on building a strong case, which can take time.

Contact a qualified attorney to discuss your options. An attorney is required to keep your information confidential, so you can seek help without worry.Call DeMent Askew at 919-833-5555 or complete the contact form with your name and contact information.