Criminal Defense
Criminal Defense in North Carolina:
Protecting Your Rights, Your Record, and Your Future
Being charged with a crime--whether it's a misdemeanor or a felony--can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. In North Carolina, criminal charges carry serious legal consequences that can follow you long after your case is resolved. At The Law Office of Bryan A. Corbett, PLLC, we understand what's at stake and are here to provide skilled, aggressive defense to protect your rights and fight for your future.
The Lasting Impact of a Criminal Conviction
A criminal conviction in North Carolina can affect nearly every aspect of your life:
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Employment opportunities may be lost or limited due to a criminal record.
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Housing applications can be denied based on background checks.
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Educational goals can be impacted by the loss of scholarships or school admissions.
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Driver's licenses can be suspended or revoked in traffic-related cases.
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Child custody and family law matters may be influenced by your criminal history.
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Firearm rights and voting privileges can be lost depending on the severity of the charge.
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That's why it's critical to take any criminal charge seriously--regardless of whether it's a misdemeanor or felony.
Understanding Misdemeanors and Felonies
in North Carolina
In North Carolina, criminal offenses are divided into two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The key differences between the two lie in the severity of the offense, the potential penalties, and the long-term impact on your life.
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Misdemeanors
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Misdemeanors are considered less serious offenses but can still carry significant consequences. They are typically punishable by fines, community service, probation, or short-term jail time (usually less than one year), often served in a county jail.
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North Carolina classifies misdemeanors into four categories:
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Class A1: Most serious misdemeanor (e.g., assault on a female) - up to 150 days in jail.
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Class 1: (e.g., larceny under $1,000, possession of drug paraphernalia) - up to 120 days in jail.
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Class 2: (e.g., simple assault, disorderly conduct) - up to 60 days in jail.
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Class 3: Least serious (e.g., shoplifting, possession of less than 1/2 ounce of marijuana) - up to 20 days in jail.
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Sentences may be reduced or suspended depending on prior convictions, and many misdemeanors are eligible for expungement under certain conditions.
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Felonies
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Felonies are more serious crimes and carry much harsher penalties, including long-term imprisonment (typically over one year), heavy fines, and the loss of certain civil rights, such as voting or owning firearms.
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North Carolina divides felonies into ten classes:
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Class A: Most serious (e.g., first-degree murder) - punishable by life in prison without parole or the death penalty.
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Class B1 through Class I: Cover a wide range of offenses, from armed robbery and rape to drug trafficking and embezzlement.
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Felony convictions can result in:
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Long-term imprisonment in state prison
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Permanent criminal records that affect job prospects, housing, and more.
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Loss of civil rights, including the right to vote or own a firearm.
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Difficulty in obtaining professional licenses or government benefits.
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Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
When you're charged with a crime in North Carolina, you're up against prosecutors and a legal system that can be difficult to navigate on your own. An experienced criminal defense attorney can make all the difference by:
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Protecting your rights from the moment you're charged.
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Investigating your case thoroughly and challenging weak or unlawfully obtained evidence.
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Negotiating plea deals or alternative sentencing to avoid or minimize jail time.
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Arguing for reduced charges or dismissal where possible.
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Providing guidance and clarity every step of the way.
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We take the time to understand your unique situation and build a defense strategy tailored to your case. We're not just defending you--we're fighting for your freedom, your reputation, and your future!
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