Kings Mountain, NC Criminal Defense Lawyer

Kings Mountain, NC Criminal Defense Attorney

If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges, it can be scary. You have a better chance, though, of minimizing your penalties or avoiding conviction by employing the help of a professional legal team to defend you. A Kings Mountain, NC, criminal defense lawyer can provide crucial criminal defense strategies for your case. Having knowledgeable legal representation to help you navigate the judicial system can be an invaluable resource.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer With Passion

The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford understands that good people make mistakes. Regardless of your situation, you deserve an aggressive legal team to protect your rights. Legal integrity is the backbone of our law firm. Our first job is to listen to your story in order to understand it. Then, we proceed with a defense strategy that fits your case. Since 1997, we have treated every client who walks through our door with respect, and we’ll do the same for you.

Criminal Sentencing in NC

In 2024, a total of 1,415 sentences were handed down in North Carolina. The most common charges were drug trafficking, firearms charges, and white-collar crimes. In 97% of drug trafficking cases and 93% of firearms cases, defendants were sentenced to prison only. Less than 4% were sentenced to prison plus alternative sentences or probation plus alternative sentences.

Misdemeanors

The stakes are high, and it’s not a good idea to leave your fate to any other lawyer but one with a proven, successful track record in criminal defense cases. Misdemeanor convictions bring penalties that range from 1 to 60 days of community, intermediate, or active punishment for defendants with no prior convictions.

One to four prior convictions could result in up to 75 days of punishment, and up to 150 days for five or more convictions. A Class 3 misdemeanor is the least serious of the four levels and would result in up to 20 days, depending on prior convictions.

Felonies

Felony convictions span across 10 classes, with Class A being the most serious and yielding a sentence of death or life without parole, regardless of prior convictions. Class A felonies in North Carolina include first-degree murder, use of a weapon of mass destruction causing injuries, and arson.

Class B1 felonies, such as second-degree murder and forcible sexual offense, are the second most severe crimes. They can result in a sentence of life without parole or up to 483 months in prison. Class B2 felonies include voluntary manslaughter and certain trafficking crimes and can result in up to 393 months in prison.

The NC schedule for sentencing is complicated and serious. A Kings Mountain criminal defense attorney who is well-versed in North Carolina criminal defense laws can review your case and potentially mitigate your charges and/or sentencing. We can’t stress how important it is to have a private lawyer fighting for you.

Whether you are facing misdemeanor charges in the Cleveland County District Court or felony charges in the Cleveland County Superior Court, a good lawyer can only help your case. Both the Cleveland County Court and the Cleveland County Superior Court are held at the Cleveland County Courthouse, located at 100 Justice Place in Shelby.

Why Choose Us?

If you are going to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Kings Mountain, you need a good one. The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford can provide the appropriate legal support you need for your case. We believe in innocence until proven guilty. Our confident and championed approach is what it takes to prevail over criminal charges in the harsh criminal courts of North Carolina.

FAQs About Kings Mountain, NC Criminal Defense Law

What Convictions Cannot Be Expunged in North Carolina?

Convictions that cannot be expunged in North Carolina include violent felonies, such as assault crimes, hate crimes, and other serious crimes like kidnapping. Most sex crimes, especially those that warrant registration as a sex offender, DWIs, and some controlled substance charges, are also not eligible for expunction. There are some crimes that can be expunged in North Carolina, namely nonviolent felonies and misdemeanors.

What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Lawyer and a Defense Attorney?

The terms criminal lawyer and defense attorney are often used interchangeably. However, they could be used to describe different areas of focus. For instance, a criminal lawyer could refer to any lawyer who practices criminal law, including a prosecutor or a defense attorney. On the other hand, a defense attorney is specifically used to describe a lawyer who defends anyone accused of a crime, advocating on behalf of their defense against the prosecution.

What Is the Main Role of a Criminal Defense Attorney?

The main role of a criminal defense attorney is to defend their client, advocating on behalf of their defense, and protecting their rights. A closer look at the role of a defense attorney defines their duties as analyzing their client’s case, including the evidence against them, formulating a defense strategy, negotiating plea deals, and litigating for their clients in the event of a trial.

Should I Tell My Defense Attorney Everything?

It is recommended that you tell your defense attorney everything. It is crucial that a defendant be honest with their defense attorney regarding their current case and charges, even admitting guilt. This can allow the attorney to build a strong defense for the case. Due to the attorney-client privilege, whatever you say to your attorney is held in confidence. For a more detailed answer to this question, consult with your attorney.

Connect With a Kings Mountain, NC, Criminal Defense Lawyer

The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford wants to hear your story and discuss your case. Whether you were falsely accused, made a bad decision, or were in the wrong place at the wrong time, you deserve a law firm committed to defending you. We refuse to give up on anyone. In fact, we value our clients’ trust in us and take our responsibility to defend them seriously. Contact us online to schedule a meeting with a member of our legal team.