Kings Mountain, NC, Violent Crime Lawyer

Kings Mountain Violent Crime Attorney

Facing violent crime charges can be daunting. As a defendant, a person can often feel like the cards are stacked against them. The severity of charges, the potential penalties attending them, and the financial ruin that fines can bring can be intimidating. During such times, it is important to have a skilled Kings Mountain, NC, violent crime lawyer by your side to help ensure you receive the advocacy you deserve.

About Us

Brent D. Ratchford has been working on behalf of clients in “The Historical City” and across North Carolina for years to ensure that their interests are represented before the court of law. He understands that every case is unique and that the needs of the client come first. With Brent D. Ratchford, clients will find a ready guide to help them navigate the complexities of litigation to find resolution and peace of mind.

Violent Crime in Kings Mountain

Ranking within the 10th percentile of safety nationwide, violent crime in Kings Mountain is not uncommon. In places like the Midpine neighborhood, police engagement with violent crime tends to be higher. Overall, there were 72 violent crimes reported in Kings Mountain in 2023. While police serve a vital role in keeping communities safe, it is an unfortunate fact that many arrests are made due to misunderstandings, mistakes of fact, or a lack of context.

Common Violent Crimes

Kings Mountain, NC, violent crime laws align with state definitions and regulations. In North Carolina, a violent crime is any criminal act that uses weapons or violence. Besides the physical act of violence, the threat of violence may also be considered a violent crime. Because of this, violent crime as a legal subject covers a broad area. Some common violent crime charges in North Carolina include:

• Assault. Like violent crime, assault covers a broad range of activities. Under North Carolina General Statute 14-33, these charges can include lesser crimes like simple assault, which can constitute a simple threat, or more serious charges such as assault with a deadly weapon. On average, assault charges make up over 70% of violent crime charges in North Carolina.
• Gun crimes. In North Carolina, crimes involving guns are always considered serious. In 2022, 60% of domestic violence-related homicides involved firearms. Under North Carolina General Statute 14-34, simply pointing a firearm at someone is sufficient to prove a criminal act.Often, the presence of a gun in assault allegations accompanies a felony charge. It is critical when facing a violent criminal allegation involving a firearm to contact legal counsel immediately.
• Vehicular manslaughter. Under North Carolina General Statute 20-141.4, when a car crash allegedly due to unlawful operation leads to the death of another person, the charges are treated seriously and considered a form of homicide. With over 1,565 fatal crashes in 2023 alone, North Carolina courts take the charges seriously and often pursue harsh penalties.

How The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford Can Help You

When it’s time to hire a violent crime lawyer, it is essential to find someone with experience who has an understanding of the complexities of the law governing the case and who knows how to advocate for their clients. Violent crime penalties can be extremely harsh in North Carolina, and it is critical that your representation has a proven track record of successful litigation.

Brent D. Ratchford has litigated across a broad range of legal matters, including assault and other forms of violent charges. He understands that each case is unique and shaped by the context of its facts. An experienced counselor, he has experience navigating the 39th Prosecutorial District, which serves Cleveland County at 100 Justice Place, Shelby, NC. With him by your side, you can have peace of mind knowing you are receiving experienced and knowledgeable counsel.

FAQs About Kings Mountain, NC, Violent Crime Law

What Is Considered a Violent Crime in North Carolina?

Violent crime in North Carolina covers an extremely broad range of criminal behaviors, including any criminal act in which weapons are used, as well as any violence or threat of violence displayed. Common forms of violent crime often come in the form of assault, crimes involving firearms, and vehicular manslaughter. Because of the diversity of violent crime, it is critical to have a talented crime attorney with experience across a broad range of litigation.

How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in North Carolina?

How much a criminal lawyer costs in North Carolina is highly dependent on several things. In North Carolina, attorneys are entitled to charge whatever they deem appropriate for their services. The lawyer’s experience, the circumstances of the case, the length of litigation, and a host of other issues can affect cost. Make sure you discuss costs with any lawyer before you sign a contract with them.

What Is the Most Common Violent Felony Crime?

In North Carolina, the most common violent felony crime is aggravated assault. Assault charges in themselves cover a broad array of criminal acts, and make up around 70% of all violent crime in the state. Because of the broad scope that aggravated assault covers, the charge may be highly dependent on the context of the allegation and the circumstances leading up to charges being filed.

What Makes a Person a Violent Offender?

In North Carolina, a person is considered a violent offender if they have a conviction for charges that involve violent crime. Typically, these include convictions that involve the use of a weapon, the enactment of violence on another person, or the threat of violence. These convictions can have long-lasting effects on a person’s life, including their personal and financial opportunities.

Hire a Violent Crime Lawyer

If you are facing violent crime charges, it is important to remember that you are not alone. In North Carolina in 2024, for every 100K people, there were 376 violent crimes per 100,000 people reported.

When you hire an assault lawyer from The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford, you will find an experienced counselor ready to stand with you to ensure your rights are protected and you are defended against unfounded allegations. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.